Virginia Smallies

On a trip to Virginia and Delaware last weekend I was lucky enough to try for Smallies on the Shenondoah for a day.  My Father, Brother, and self  alike all used to fish the 'Doah and the Potomac  for bass, Smallmouth in particular.  What used to be an awesome fishery 15 to 20 years ago has experienced a decline in fish and water quality over this time putting what few guides there were out of business for seasons at a time.  Here and there would be a decent season but more often that not you could fish a whole day and get blanked.  You could imagine my excitement upon receiving a call from my dad to tell me of recent success on the Shenandoah.  On the day before I left Virginia we floated with A friend of my Father, "thanks Dave!", and tore it up.  An 8 mile section of the river with action the whole way; if I caught 1 I caught 100.  Fish were eager to eat clouser minnows and flashy baitfish patterns; as well as some local favorites, again, "thanks Dave". Most of the fish were smaller, but if the water quality holds up next year should be fabulous.  These rivers in Virginia may be rebounding from years of runoff from the many chicken farms scattered around the mountains.  already booked my trip for next year.

Salmonflies are showing themselves this week around the state.  The Colorado and the North Platte are both seeing hatches while the nymphs are crawling around the Gunny.  With cooler temps these rivers are clearing and fishing can be HOT during these windows.  Salmonflies on top is about as much fun as a guy can have and if you are lucky enough to fish the hatch you will chase it the rest of your life.I have friends going to Byers Canyon, and the North Platte this weekend so I should have an accurate report by Monday.