You could read several books about catching smallmouth bass on the fly and still get it wrong. I have. You think you have your favorite stream or river pegged, and then you take a good fish from an unexpected place, or on an unexpected fly. It can be frustrating, but also the very point of the sport that keeps bringing us back; a very simple problem of catching fish that compounds over time.

I like to break down fly choice into small categories that make it easier to know when to … Read More »

BAY – Rockfish are still available inside the bay for catch and release anglers. Most are focusing on the Cape Charles/ CBBT area with good results. Mojos, stretch baits, and tandem rigs are quite popular. For those seeking to stay well within bay waters, the Speckled Trout are quite active inside the Elizabeth River. Mirro lures are probably your best bet right now. Trolled jerkbaits are also working to locate fish quickly.

OCEAN – The ocean is the focus of most that are after Rockfish, as impressive catches are still being … Read More »

  BAY – The Bay Rockfish season is closed, but many fish are available to catch and release anglers. The lower bay structures seem to be holding more big fish. The concrete ships, the CBBT, and Plantation Light are all good. Speckled Trout anglers are still having fun with big fish inside the Elizabeth River. As usual, Mirrorlures are taking the bigger fish on average, along with live bait.  

OCEAN – Cape Henry to Rudee has been very good this week. Numerous fish over 40 inches have been caught this … Read More »

Coldwater: With the cold temperatures, the best trout fishing is on the
stocked waters.  South River, Beaver Creek, and the Jackson River are all
good options. Get deep with nymphs is essential for these fish. Our best
fish have come on the Jigged PT and Prince nymphs. Buggers, Hare’s Ear
nymphs, and Green Weenies have also been good.

Warmwater: Chain pickerel fishing just gets better with the cold
temperatures. Flash flies, Krystal Buggers and Todd’s Wiggle Minnows have
all been taking fish. Good local fisheries for these feisty pike include
the Chickahominy and Swift Creek Lake.

Saltwater: The abundance … Read More »