Fishing Report, Week of July 13, 2020
COVID-19 UPDATE
As Virginia transitions through Phase three of reopening, guided trips are returning to some sense of normalcy. With that being said, the health and safety of our guides and clients continue to be our number one priority. Old Dominion Outfitter and Guide Service will continue to follow CDC guidelines as it relates to social distancing and other precautions. All equipment and gear including rafts, rods, reels, etc that's used during trips will be sanitized after each use according to CDC guidelines. Also, if you have a trip booked and you have been exposed or 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 your trip.
Smallmouth Season
Smallmouth have completed the spawn and have moved off of their beds. The larger fish (15" - 20") are in transition to their summer spots and are somewhat elusive right now. The smaller fish in the (10" - 15") range can be found in shallow water, sitting on structure, along the banks in shaded spots, as well as along seams of riffles which create backwater eddies. As we move further into summer and the temperatures continue to rise water temperatures will rise also which will increase the top water action. Most trips are producing 30-60 fish on average and these numbers will increase as we move through summer. 2020 is shaping up to be another incredible year for smallmouth fishing. Contact us today to book your trip before prime dates are taken.
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.