Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Greenbrier River - Durbin - West Virginia

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midges
February Midges, Stoneflies Afternoon 16-20 Zebra Midges, Wooly Buggers
March Blue Quill, Stoneflies Mid Day 14-18 Quill Gordon Nymph, Pheasant Tail Nymph
April Blue Quill, Hendrickson Afternoon 12-16 Quill Gordon Nymph, Comparadun Mayflies
May Sulphurs, Pale Evening Dun Dusk 14-18 Comparadun Sulphur, Light Cahill
June Sulphurs, Brown Drakes Evening 10-14 Sulphur Dun, Adams Dry Fly
July Terrestrials, Caddisfly Morning and Evening 12-16 Elk Hair Caddis, Dave's Hopper
August Tricos, Terrestrials Morning and Evening 18-22 Trico Spinner, Black Ant
September Isonychia, Caddisfly Evening 12-16 Pheasant Tail Nymph, Elk Hair Caddis
October Blue-winged Olive, Caddisfly Afternoon 16-20 Blue-winged Parachute, Elk Hair Caddis
November Blue-winged Olive, Midges Afternoon 18-22 Blue-winged Parachute, Zebra Midges
December Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midges

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Greenbrier River in Durbin boasts some of the most magnificent spots for aficionados of fly-fishing. Numerous selections of fish such as Bass, Trout, or Catfish can easily be found. The best spots for fly fishing on the Greenbrier River in Durbin are:
  • Seebert Lane: Easily accessible and home to ample Smallmouth Bass, it’s an ideal spot for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
  • Buckeye / Island Lick: Filled with both Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout. An excellent access point from the river road.
  • Talcott: A favored spot highly renowned for its Catfish.
  • Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: Besides offering historic trains and beautiful forested areas, this park provides extensive prospects for catching Trout.
  • Upper Greenbrier River: Known for excellent Smallmouth Bass fishing, this stretch runs through a remote, mountainous region.
Remember, the route to these spots offers stunning scenic beauty, so pack your gear and enjoy fly-fishing in this perfect wilderness.

Best Access Points

The Greenbrier River is a popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts in Durbin. Here are some of the best access points:

  • Bartow: Situated near the headwaters of the Greenbrier River, it offers quiet settings with abundant Trout.
  • Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: Provides access to a long stretch of the river known for its Trout, Muskie, and Smallmouth Bass.
  • Seebert Lane: The Greenbrier River Trail crosses the river here, providing ample opportunity for fishing.
  • Durbin: The iconic Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad offers one of the most noted fly fishing spots.
  • Marlinton: This area known for being a White Sulphur Springs water supply offers both access and remarkable fishing.

These access points offer fly fishers diverse fishing experiences and the opportunity to catch a variety of fish.

Local Fish

  • Brown Trout: Brown Trout are common in the Greenbrier River and highly sought by fly fishers due to their beautiful coloration and fighting spirit.
  • Rainbow Trout: Known for their vibrant colors Rainbow Trout can often be found in deeper, clear parts of the river. Fly fishers often use wet flies for these types of fish.
  • Brook Trout: Though smaller than the Brown and Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout are highly prized by fly fishers for their beautiful markings.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Abundant in the Greenbrier River, Smallmouth Bass present a challenge for fly fishers due to their aggressive fighting abilities.
  • Largemouth Bass: Less common than Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass are larger and offer a bigger challenge to fly fishers.
  • Rock Bass: Also known as the ‘redeye bass’, the Rock Bass is a smaller species, but well known for its sport fishing value.
  • Catfish: Though not traditionally targeted by fly fishers, fly fishing for Catfish is gaining popularity due to their large size and strength.
  • Walleye: A popular gamefish, Walleye can be slightly more difficult to catch making them a prized catch for any fly fisher.

About The River

Originating in the northern slopes of the Allegheny Highlands, Greenbrier River is steeped in history and natural beauty. A vital part of Durbin’s locales, the river follows a path that was once travelled by Native Americans and early European settlers before becoming a crucial commercial route.

  • In the 18th century, fur trappers utilized the river’s resources.
  • By the 19th century, the river had become a significant transportation route supporting lumber and coal industries.
  • The Greenbrier River Trail, a former railroad turned 78-mile-long trail, impresses visitors with breathtaking natural scenery and vintage railway architecture.

Looking at the river flowing gently today, it’s hard to imagine it once bustled with flat-bottomed boats carrying goods. The legacy of the Greenbrier River is interwoven into the fabric of Durbin’s community, holding a mirror to a bygone era while still playing a pivotal role in the town’s recreation today.

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