Rappahannock River - Fredericksburg - Virginia
Fly Fishing River Report & Conditions

Water Flow Chart | Weather Charts | Hatch Chart | Access Points | Fishing Spots | Local Fish | About River

Rappahannock River – Fredericksburg - Water Flow Chart

Rappahannock River – Fredericksburg - Weather report & radar

Rappahannock River – Fredericksburg - General hatch chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams
February Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams
Stones Mid-Day 12-16 Prince Nymph
March Blue Quill Afternoon 16-18 Blue Quill
Midges Mid-Day 20-24 Griffith’s Gnat
April Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midge
May Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams
Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Griffith’s Gnat
June Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midge
July Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Griffith’s Gnat
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams
August Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Hopper Patterns
Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midge
September Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams
Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Hopper Patterns
October Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Zebra Midge
November Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams
Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Griffith’s Gnat
December Midges Mid-Day 18-22 Griffith’s Gnat
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams

Rappahannock River – Fredericksburg Access Points

Fredericksburg offers excellent access points to fly fish on the scenic Rappahannock River. These points are:
  • City Dock Park: Located in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg, allows you to cast your line right from the banks.
  • Old Mills Park: Also provides good river bank fishing opportunities. It’s a great place to target shad and smallmouth bass.
  • Motts Run Reservoir: A tranquil spot ideal for slower-paced fly fishing.
For those seeking a boating experience, launching and fly fishing points include:
  1. Fall Hill Avenue Canoe Launch: A popular area located upstream of Fredericksburg.
  2. Rappahannock River Heritage Trail Canoe/Kayak Launch: A convenient spot located downstream near the city center.
Remember to check local fishing regulations and secure necessary permits before you go.

Rappahannock River – Fredericksburg Fishing Spots

The Rappahannock River in Fredericksburg provides a gem of opportunity for fly fishing enthusiasts. Here are the best recommendations:
  • Motts Run Reservoir: A relaxing spot perfect for trout and smallmouth bass fishing. Has boat facilities too.
  • Celebrate Virginia South: Rich in several species including the sought-after carp and snakehead.
  • City Dock Park: An urban fishing place where you can catch Shad during spring. Offers a beautiful view of the city’s historic district.
  • Old Mill Park: This spot is ideal for catching smallmouth bass and Panfish. Also features stunning nature trails and picnic spots.
  • Alum Spring Park: Offers a peaceful environment with a small stream perfect for fly fishing.
Remember, a proper fishing license is required to fly fish on the Rappahannock River.
Note: Seasonal changes may affect fish species availability.

Rappahannock River – Fredericksburg Local Fish Species

  • Smallmouth Bass: Known for their strong fighting abilities, smallmouth bass are a popular target for many fly fishers on the Rappahannock River.
  • Largemouth Bass: While not as commonly found as their smallmouth counterparts, those who can locate a largemouth bass are likely in for a challenging, exciting catch.
  • Shad: Both American and hickory shad can be found in the Rappahannock, often attracting fly fishers with their leaps and fast runs when hooked.
  • Striped Bass: Also known as “rockfish,” these are another top target for fly fishers on the Rappahannock, especially when they head upriver to spawn in the spring.
  • Catfish: Particularly the large, powerful blue catfish are popular among local fly fishers for their sporting quality.
  • Walleye: This hard-hitting, predatory fish is another local favourite, presenting a fun challenge for fly fishers.
  • Sunfish: This group includes bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish, both of which are commonly targeted by fly fishers on the Rappahannock for their looks and fight.
  • Crappie: This panfish is a popular target for its delicious taste and relatively easy catch, ideal for beginner fly fishers.

About the Rappahannock River – Fredericksburg

Delve into the fascinating history of the Rappahannock River – Fredericksburg, a captivating site brimming with stories from the past. Born from the mighty Blue Ridge Mountains, the river courses swiftly through pristine landscapes, stretching over 195 miles before generously feeding the Chesapeake Bay.

A treasure trove in the heart of Virginia, the river has been a witness to several significant historical events. The English settlement on its banks in the 17th century. Notably,

  • The 1656 Act of Assembly that led to the creation of Rappahannock County.
  • The Battle of Fredericksburg in 1862 was one of the largest and deadliest of the American Civil War, unfolding on the fringes of the river.

Today, the river continually offers a haven for nature lovers, and stands as a poignant reminder of the region’s vibrant past, telling tales of the nation’s journey through colonization, revolution, and civil war.

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