Virginia Fly Fishing Report March 2025

Spring has arrived here in the Shenandoah Valley and with water levels in great shape, it's a great time to hit the water.

The brook trout streams are all in great condition. There have been caddis hatching almost every afternoon and the mayflies won't be far behind. With the warmer temperatures, the brook trout have already started venturing away from their winter holes and can be found in shallower water as well as the pools. The fish have been pretty willing to rise to dry flies, but a dropper nymph (especially in the morning) is a good idea. Your favorite fly in size 14-16 should do the trick.

The stocked trout streams have all been stocked a number of times, but the end of hunting season and the nice weather have broght out the crowds. If the river is busy don't be afraid to slow down and work the likely water thoroughly. Some of the fish have been in the rivers for six months by now. Although the recently stocked trout will be more than willing to eat attractor fly patterns, the "resident" fish will key in on more natural presentations.

This is an exciting time of year to start targeting smallmouth bass. It generally won't be a numbers game, but often the largest fish of the year can be caught during the prespawn months. Large streamers and crawfish patterns fished above and below the deeper holes should produce.

After a prolonged drought and low water levels, the Jackson River tailwater is finally at ideal flows. If you've never had the opportunity to float a true wild trout river in a drift boat, now is the time to get a trip booked with Blue Ridge Fishing Adventures!