Shenandoah River - Luray - Virginia
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions
Shenandoah River – Luray - Water Flow Chart
Shenandoah River – Luray - Weather report & radar
Shenandoah River – Luray - General hatch chart
| Month | Hatch | Time of Day | Recommended Fly Sizes | Popular Fly Patterns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Midge | Morning/Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| Winter Stonefly | All Day | 14-16 | Black Stonefly Nymph | |
| February | Midge | Afternoon | 18-22 | Disco Midge, Black Beauty |
| Winter Stonefly | All Day | 14-16 | Black Stonefly Nymph | |
| March | Early Brown Stonefly | All Day | 12-14 | Early Brown Stone, Beadhead Hares Ear |
| Quill Gordon | Afternoon | 12-14 | Quill Gordon Dry Fly | |
| Midge | All Day | 18-22 | Buzzer Midge, CDC Midge Emerger | |
| April | Hendrickson | All Day | 12-16 | Classic Hendrickson, Parachute Hendrickson |
| Blue Quill | Afternoon | 16-18 | Blue Quill Dun, Blue Quill Nymph | |
| Midge | All Day | 18-22 | Buzzer Midge | |
| Caddis | All Day | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, Caddis Pupa | |
| May | Sulphurs | Evening | 14-18 | Sulphur Dun, Sulphur Emerger |
| Grey Fox | Afternoon | 14-16 | Grey Fox Dun | |
| Light Cahill | All Day | 12-14 | Light Cahill Nymph, Light Cahill Dry Fly | |
| Lunar Midge | Evening/Night | 18-22 | Blue Dun | |
| Caddis | All Day | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| June | Yellow Drake | Evening | 10-12 | Yellow Drake Spinner, Yellow Drake Emerger |
| Sulphurs | Evening | 14-18 | Sulphur Dun, Sulphur Emerger | |
| Caddis | All Day | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis, Caddis Pupa | |
| Midges | All Day | 18-22 | Buzzer Midge, CDC Midge Emerger | |
| July | Terrestrials | All Day | 10-16 | Hopper patterns, Ant patterns, Beetle patterns |
| Caddis | All Day | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| August | Terrestrials | All Day | 10-16 | Hopper patterns, Ant patterns, Beetle patterns |
| Caddis | All Day | 14-18 | Elk Hair Caddis | |
| September | Terrestrials | All Day | 10-16 | Hopper patterns, Ant patterns, Beetle patterns |
| October | Blue Wing Olive | Afternoon/Evening | 18-24 | BWO Nymph, BWO Dry Fly |
| October Caddis | All Day | 10-12 | October Caddis Pupa, October Caddis Adult | |
| November | Midge | Morning/Afternoon | 18-22 | Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat |
| Winter Stonefly | All Day | 14-16 | Black Stonefly Nymph | |
| December | Midge | Afternoon | 18-22 | Disco Midge, Black Beauty |
| Winter Stonefly | All Day | 14-16 | Black Stonefly Nymph |
Shenandoah River – Luray Access Points
Fly fishing at the Shenandoah River – Luray offers a unique and sporting experience for both seasoned and newbie anglers. Here are some of the best access points:
- Page Valley Road: This public access point provides plenty of river bank for fly fishing.
- Shenandoah River State Park: Located a few miles upstream of Luray, this State Park provides excellent fishing opportunities with more than 5 miles of shoreline.
- Bixler’s Ferry: This historic ferry point is a fantastic spot for landing smallmouth bass and sunfish.
- Foster’s Landing: Located downstream of Luray, this spot is a great choice for catching shad during their spawning run.
- Bealer’s Ferry: Bealer’s is another historic ferry crossing that offers a combination of shallow riffles and deeper runs for anglers to explore.
Remember to have the proper fishing license and abide by all local fishing regulations when enjoying Shenandoah’s waters.
Shenandoah River – Luray Fishing Spots
If you’re a fan of fly fishing, the Shenandoah River in Luray, Virginia is a location you shouldn’t miss. This spot is teeming with a variety of fish and offers a spectacular view of nature’s beauty. Here are few places along the Shenandoah to cast your line:
- South Fork Shenandoah River: One of the best fly fishing spots with abundant smallmouth bass.
- Page Valley: Known for its slow-moving deep waters, making it an ideal spot for largemouth and smallmouth bass.
- Off Route 340 Bridge: Located a few miles south of Luray, this area is perfect for catching a wide variety of fish.
- Newport: Popular for its catch and release fly fishing areas.
You’ll need a valid Virginia fishing license to fish in these spots, and be sure to follow all local regulations.
Shenandoah River – Luray Local Fish Species
- Smallmouth Bass: One of the most targeted fish by fly fishermen in the Shenandoah River – Luray region due to their robust populations and vigorous fight.
- Shenandoah Bluegill: Considered one of the best sunfish to catch in Shenandoah River – Luray due to their size and resistance.
- Mountain Redbelly Dace: A northern minnow species that makes for fast and exciting fly fishing due to its swift, darting movements.
- Eastern Brook Trout: The only trout species native to Virginia and a popular choice among fly fishermen for their beautiful coloration and feisty nature.
- Channel Catfish: Known for their large size, these hard-fighting fish attract serious anglers looking for a challenge.
- Muskellunge: An elusive and hard-fighting species that offers an adrenaline-pumping experience for experienced fly fishermen.
- Rainbow Trout: An introduced species that has thrived in the Shenandoah River, providing good opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.
- Northern Pike: Though not as commonly found, these aggressive predators can be a thrilling catch for those lucky enough to hook one.
About the Shenandoah River – Luray
Immerse yourself in the rich history and striking beauty of the Shenandoah River in Luray. This gem of the Virginia landscape plays host to countless tales dating back to the 1700s. Originally a critical water route for Native American tribes, it became a key strategic link during the Revolutionary and Civil wars.
Modern visitors relish the river’s picturesque panorama and a treasure trove of recreational opportunities. Living testament to Luray’s exciting past include:
- Luray Caverns: Discover the largest cavern system in the eastern USA, a striking natural wonder formed over millions of years.
- George Washington National Forest: A breathtakingly expansive forest that has long served as a sanctuary for wildlife and plant species.
- Historic homes: Tours of preserved 18th and 19th century dwellings are sure to transport you to a different epoch.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, the Shenandoah River in Luray promises a captivating journey through time!
Community Contributions
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