I’m going out on the limb here and predicting this will be the best weekend so far this year to catch a smallmouth bass in Virginia’s rivers. The reason I say this is because fishing in a flood zone is usually not productive, and that’s what we’ve had to endure for the last two months. This week should be a good one. Smallmouth will be hungry and sight feeding for the first time. They will be banging topwater baits and grubs, Gitzits and jigs. It should be a super weekend to be on a Virginia river. But be cautious, though levels are falling, rivers like the James, especially, can be treacherous. Even if you’re a good swimmer, wear a life jacket, just in case.
The Lakes
Virginia lakes will be a zoo this weekend with all the pleasure boats and jet skis on the water. The best and possibly only fishing opportunities will take place very early in the morning and then after dark. Smith Mountain Lake has always been an excellent night fishery, probably because the water is so clear that fish go deep in the day, but can see well enough to feed at night. Lake Anna gives up a fee big bass after dark, but few stripers.
Buggs Island is a terrific lake for big catfish after dark.
Trout Streams
Believe it or not, trout streams are highly fishable during this – the week of the Fourth of July. A few bugs are still hatching but the ants and beetles are out and about, and those flies should be productive. Good reports are coming from the valley spring creeks as the water finally clears and settles in at normal levels.
A good lake to try is Sherando in Augusta. Stocking is complete but there should be plenty of holdover fish hanging in 8 to 12 feet of water.