Half and Full Day Guided Fly Fishing Trips in Virginia
Our Prices
$300 per group for 4 hours up to 4 people
$450 per group for 8 hours up to 4 people
2 person max for float trips
Fly Fishing in Virginia
Nestled in the heart of Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley offers a picturesque setting for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking a tranquil and rewarding experience. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny Mountains, the valley is home to an array of pristine rivers and streams teeming with a variety of species, including brook, brown, and rainbow trout. The region's diverse aquatic ecosystems provide a perfect environment for anglers of all skill levels to indulge in their favorite pastime.
The South Fork of the Shenandoah River, a meandering waterway that spans over 96 miles, is one of the most popular fly fishing destinations in the valley. Renowned for its smallmouth bass population, the South Fork also hosts an abundance of other species, such as largemouth bass, sunfish, and muskellunge. Anglers can enjoy wading or floating down the river, casting their lines in hopes of landing a trophy catch.
Another notable spot is Mossy Creek, a spring-fed limestone stream that harbors a healthy population of wild brown trout. Regarded as one of Virginia's finest public trout fisheries, Mossy Creek offers a technical and challenging experience for seasoned fly fishers. The creek's clear waters require stealthy approaches and accurate casts to entice the wary and well-educated trout.
In addition to the South Fork and Mossy Creek, the Valley boasts a plethora of other exceptional fly fishing locations, such as the North Fork of the Shenandoah River, Stoney Creek, and Skidmore Fork. These waterways offer a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from peaceful mountain brook trout streams to fast-flowing rivers filled with feisty smallmouth.
Fly fishing is not only about the thrill of the catch but also the opportunity to immerse oneself in the region's stunning natural beauty. With breathtaking views of rolling hills, dense forests, and fertile farmlands, the valley serves as a serene backdrop for a memorable angling adventure. Whether you're a seasoned fly fisher or a beginner eager to learn the ropes, the Valley is a paradise that will leave you longing for your next visit.
VA Float Trips for Smallmouth Bass
Float trips for smallmouth bass are an exciting and unique way for anglers to access remote fishing spots while enjoying a leisurely day on the water. These trips combine the thrill of fishing for the hard-fighting and acrobatic smallmouth with the pleasure of floating down scenic rivers and streams. Such trips provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape while also increasing the chances of landing a memorable catch.
Our float trips are conducted using specialized inflatable boats. These watercraft are designed for stability and ease of maneuvering, allowing us to navigate the waterways safely and efficiently. Our skilled guides offer expert advice on where to cast, what flies or lures to use, and how to handle the boat in various water conditions. We also share valuable insights about the local ecosystem, ensuring that our clients have a deeper understanding and appreciation of their fishing environment.
Smallmouth bass are known for their aggressive feeding habits and fierce determination once hooked, making them a sought-after target. The preferred habitat of smallmouth includes rocky or gravelly bottoms, submerged boulders, and areas with underwater structures like fallen trees or submerged vegetation. These fish are often found in swift currents and eddies, where they lie in wait for their prey, which includes insects, crayfish, and smaller fish.
Float trips provide us with the advantage of covering more water than wading or bank fishing, increasing the likelihood of encountering a larger number of fish. Additionally, floating allows us to approach fish from a more stealthy angle, making it easier to cast without spooking their quarry.
VA Trout Trips
Wade trips for trout in Virginia provide anglers with an intimate and immersive fishing experience, allowing them to connect with nature while pursuing the state's prized trout species. Virginia boasts miles of wild trout streams, ranging from serene mountain brooks to larger, faster-flowing rivers. These waterways are home to native brook trout, as well as brown and rainbow trout, offering a diverse and rewarding angling experience.
Wade fishing involves entering the water, often wearing chest waders or hip waders to keep dry, and carefully moving through the stream or river to reach prime fishing spots.
This method allows anglers to access areas that may be challenging to reach from the bank or via boat, and it provides a stealthy approach to avoid spooking wary trout. Wading also offers a heightened sense of connection to the environment, enabling anglers to feel the water's flow, observe aquatic insects and wildlife, and better understand the ecosystem in which they're fishing.
Virginia's trout waters range from the renowned Mossy Creek, a limestone spring creek with a healthy population of wild brown trout, to the picturesque streams of Shenandoah National Park, where native brook trout thrive amidst lush forests and mountain landscapes. Other popular destinations for wade trips include the Jackson River, the North and South Forks of the Shenandoah River, and the Rapidan River. Each of these waterways offers unique fishing opportunities and challenges, catering to anglers of all skill levels. Catching native brook trout is one of our favorite fly fishing experiences.
Stocked private water available for additional fee.
$300 per group for 4 hours up to 4 people
$450 per group for 8 hours up to 4 people
2 person max for float trips
"Best Trout Fly Fishing Guide Trip I've Ever Taken!"
Kyle from Richmond
FAQs about Virginia Fly Fishing Guided Day Trips
Whats your Cancellation Policy?
A 50% non-refundable deposit must be paid at the time of booking. The guide may cancel due to inclement weather in which case you will receive a full refund.
Do you provide gear for each angler?
Yes, we provide everything you'll need from fly rods to waders and of course, great teachers.
Do I need a Virginia fishing license?
In most cases, yes. You'll need a Virginia freshwater fishing license to fish without penalty.
Will we go on public waters or private waters?
Either one! Virginia offers miles of public mountain streams for catch and release fly fishing adventures. Alternatively, head to one of our private, stocked streams with abundant fish to be caught.
Can I target smallmouth bass?
Yes. Summer is the best and we fish from a boat on the Shenandoah River.
What's brook trout fly fishing like?
Amazing. Get out on the water on some blue ribbon trout streams with a rod in your hand and experience fly fishing like you never have before.
Can I fish in Shenandoah National Park?
Absolutely! The park is particularly well-known for its native brook trout population, which thrives in the cool, clear waters of the mountain streams, perfect for spending a day fly fishing. Some of the common species found in park include brook trout, rainbow and brown trout, small mouth bass, and largemouth bass.
Do you fish on the Jackson river?
Yes, we are one of the few authorized guide services for the river.
Why should I choose a guided fly fishing trip?
We do everything for you from building you a customized itinerary based on the kind of fishing you'd like to do to showing you the best fly fishing in Virginia. Our full-day fly fishing trips include lunch (dietary restrictions are no problem for us- just tell us your dietary needs in advance!), snacks, even cigars if you're so inclined. Our guided fishing trips include education on entomology, how to read the water, and of course instruction on casting.
How do I know what the fishing conditions are for my trip?
You can text us anytime before your trip and we can let you know about water levels, weather, and general river conditions.
Why choose Virginia fly fishing for my next guided trip?
It's warmer than the Poconos and Catskills with unlimited fishing options around the valley floor and excellent guide services for half day and full day trips.
How far are you from South River fly shop?
We are located in Staunton, VA about 30 minutes south of Harrisonburg, 45 minutes west of Charlottesville, and 20 minutes west of Waynesboro.
Fly Fishing Guides
Justin Fischbach
Founder and Head Guide Justin was introduced to the sport of fly fishing through a non-profit organization focused on teaching youth and conservation projects. Over the past 20 years, he has worked as a guide and currently dedicates his time as president of the Virginia chapter of the aforementioned nonprofit.
Originally hailing from Shepherdstown, West Virginia, Justin has fished extensively throughout the Potomac, Shenandoah, Savage, and New River. Justin is a graduate of the Sweetwater Travel Company Guide School, an Orvis endorsed guide, and an instructor for the master’s class of BOJC in Maryland.
Dave Sisson
Justin's longtime friend, Dave, is also available to take beginners out for a day of fishing. Dave is an angler who enjoys fishing in the Jefferson National and George Washington National Forests. A lifetime member of Trout Unlimited, Dave particularly enjoys musky and bass fishing along the tributaries of the James River.
Ready To Book?
Call or text us anytime
540. 280.3815
Email us at
justin@middleriveroutfittersva.com
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