Fishing Report, Week of May 25, 2020
COVID-19 UPDATE
On Monday March 30, 2020 the Governor of Virginia issued a mandatory stay at home order through Executive Order. However, fishing along with other activities are allowed as a recreational activity so long as the proper social distancing rules are observed. This includes proper spacing and no more then 10 people at one location. With that being said, the health and safety of our guides and clients is our number one priority. Effective immediately, Old Dominion Outfitter and Guide Service is taking necessary precautions as it relates to our guide trips. First, if you have a trip booked and you have experienced symptoms associated with COVID-19 such as a cough, fever, difficulty breathing, sore throat, etc, within 14 days of your scheduled trip we ask that you contact us to advise and we can work with you to reschedule or cancel the trip. Second, all equipment and gear including rafts, rods, reels, etc, that's used during trips is sanitized according to CDC guidelines after each use. Third, shore lunches for our float trips are being suspended until further notice. If you have a float trip scheduled you will need to bring snacks or a sandwich for the day. A cooler with ice and bottled water will still be provided. All back country trips are still available as long as the trails and streams are open to the public. If you have questions and/or concerns regarding your trip please contact us and we can discuss the current situation and the waters we fish.
Smallmouth Season
Old Dominion Outfitter and Guide Service kicked off the 2020 smallmouth season mid March. Early season fishing (March/April) was incredible, producing 30-40 fish per trip with multiple prespawn fish in the 15" - 20" range. However, during late April, early May the area started receiving spring rainfall which raised water levels to unsafe levels and float trips were temporarily suspended. Overall, 2020 is shaping up to be another awesome season and we look forward to fishing with all of our repeat clients and meeting new ones. Give us a call today or email to book your float trip before the prime dates are filled.
Back Country/ Mountain Fishing Report. Spring 2020 back country fishing was some of the best in recent memory. Above average rainfall and cooler then normal temperatures provided for a very exciting spring season. As we transition into summer the fishing should remain good as long as the water levels stay at current levels. Local spring creek fishing remains strong with full streams slightly off color. If you're planning a back country trip or a spring creek trip load heavy on dry flies fished in combination with a 50" Cutthroat leader and approximately 4' of 5x or 6x tippet for smooth presentation. If fish are not feeding on top you can always fish nymphs under 5x fluro. Give us a call or email today and book your trip before the prime dates are filled.