Last week of summer.
With temperatures climbing back into the 80’s and little to no rain, it seems summer does not want to leave without a fight. Not exactly what we like to hear when we are trying to get our trout waters open, but great for smallmouth.
Speaking of smallmouth. WOW, this has been a summer that will be talked about for years to come. More and bigger fish then we have seen in over a decade. It’s not over yet. We should have a couple more weeks of outstanding top water action. The Shenandoah and James river are both running very low and clear which is creating heart-pounding sight fishing. Long, accurate casts are paramount in these conditions.
Most brookie streams are extremely low. We are keeping our fingers crossed that we get rain soon. These fish will really think about spawning starting next month and need more water to spread out. If you are getting the trout itch, I’d recommend the Hidden Valley stretch of the Jackson, floating the tailwater of the Jackson or the South River.
Big Bend Farm was stock last week and is now open and fishing great. Water levels are low and the water is very clear. Larger caddis and terrestrials should keep your net wet. Give us a call if you’d like to get out and experience this beautiful fishery.
The Shenandoah and James River musky have been amazing the last couple weeks. Just about all of our clients that have targeted them have and plenty of follows and takes. Landing them is a different story. The number of fish we are seeing is very promising and exciting. If you haven’t chased this amazing predator I recommend giving it a try.
For those of you that head up to the Salmon River this time of year, reports are sounding very good.