South River Fly Shop reports that the fishing is great on the South River. Water levels are above normal, but clear. There are lots of big rainbows and even bigger browns being caught on nymphs and streamers. Jwal’s Rubber Legs Tung-stone, Reed’s Micro-mop, Taleteller’s Frenchie’s, Arlie’s Gnarlie Caddis, and Tyler’s Mini-truders have been go-to patterns. Several back-to-back high water events have changed some of the pools on the river. Anglers should be prepared for looser cobble and depth changes in the old familiar spots.
The South River is fast becoming one of Virginia’s top trout streams. The river flows through downtown Waynesboro and provides the opportunity to catch trophy-size rainbow and brown trout. There is private stocking, state stocking, lots of holdover fish and some stream-bred trout available. The best fly-fishing is in the catch and release section downtown. This area extends from Wayne Avenue bridge downstream to Second Street bridge and is easily accessible from the South River Greenway, a paved walking path along the river. If you are looking for a put-and-take section, head to Ridgeview Park.
In spite of the fact that this is an urban fishery, the South River gets tremendous hatches all year. Of special note is the Sulphur mayfly hatch that begins in the evening from April to June. There is also a terrific Trico hatch from May through July. Midges and BWOs keep the fish rising throughout the winter.
For more information, contact the South River Fly Shop, 323 W. Main St. in Waynesboro at 540-942-5566, or go to