Winter Fishing Report - 2025/2026

As of writing in mid January, we are getting streaky weather which is not unusual for this area. We get some warmer days, which make for more pleasant days on the water, mixed in with some cold streaks like we are in currently. On the warmer days, we have been seeing some dry fly activity, while the colder periods favor sub surface fishing. We have compiled the latest from our guides and what we are all doing on the water.

Unfortunately, we continue to be in a period of low water in central Virginia with many rivers more than 50% below normal in terms of levels and CFS (cubic feet per second). While there is good fishing to be had, we are still using low water tactics. One positive of low water fishing is that you can see a river bottom better, as well as where the fish are—which is good recon for future trips when its harder to see, and you can get a better sense for how fish react to your fly. On the flip side, “if you can see the fish, they can probably see you.”

Low water tactics often start with how you approach your target areas. Standing close to the bank and looking for fish can spook them, as can down river approaches. So, try to look for fish back from the bank and use cover if you can. Walk below the areas you are going to target and fish up river. Try to avoid multiple false casts and lining fish. Cold and low water favors smaller nymphs in the 16-22 range (as well as for dry flies if you see fish rising). If you are fishing a dropper, be mindful of your depth. Don’t be afraid to change flies and give fish new things to see.

For flies, midges work well this time of year—Zebras in any color, rainbow warriors and WD-40s. The nymphs we are using are Perdigons, Soft hackle pheasant tail, hairs ears, red copper johns and RS2s. Worms, Mop flies and eggs generally work well too. For streamers, Woolly Buggers, Kreelex and occasionally clawdads are effective. We have all of these flies at the Albemarle Angler.

A note on trout variations. The spring season is around the corner and is some of the best trout fishing of the year in Central Virginia. Rainbows and browns will continue to represent the most numbers and are consistent stocked by the state and in our private water through the spring, For native Brook trout, early March through May is typically the best bet in small water fishing, which is often rain dependent. Pre spawn smallmouth fishing starts in february and lasts through mid April. We book guide trips for all of these species throughout the spring!