Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

James River - Eagle Rock - 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 Warmer parts of the day #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
February Midges Warmer parts of the day #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
March Midges Warmer parts of the day #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
April Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
Caddis Afternoon to early evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Pupa patterns
Hendricksons Afternoon #12-14 Hendrickson Emerger, Dry
May Caddis Afternoon to early evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Pupa patterns
March Browns Afternoon #10-12 March Brown Dry, Nymph
Sulphurs Late afternoon to dusk #14-18 Sulphur Dun, Emerger
Green Drakes Afternoon to dusk #8-10 Green Drake Dun, Nymph
June Caddis Afternoon to early evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Pupa patterns
Sulphurs Late afternoon to dusk #14-18 Sulphur Dun, Emerger
Light Cahills Afternoon to dusk #12-14 Light Cahill Dry, Nymph
July Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Tricos Early morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Dun
August Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Tricos Early morning #20-24 Trico Spinner, Dun
September Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
October Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
Terrestrials All day #10-16 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
November Blue-Winged Olives Cloudy days, afternoon #16-20 BWO Emerger, BWO Dry
December Midges Warmer parts of the day #20-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge

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 James River in Eagle Rock is a popular destination renowned for its exceptional fly fishing spots. Whether you’re an avid angler or a beginner, this river offers a unique fishing experience featuring a diverse range of fish species.

  • Horseshoe Bend: It’s a deep pool providing ample opportunities for anglers to catch notable sizes of both smallmouth bass and catfish.
  • Springwood Bridge: A renowned site for large rainbow and brown trout. It’s an excellent area for fly fishing, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
  • Iron Gate: A hotspot for large smallmouth bass and flathead catfish. Fishing on the still water behind the dam can be very rewarding.
  • Glen Wilton: Another bend offering the chance for trophy smallmouth bass and walleye, particularly during spring and fall seasons.

Best Access Points

Providing an incredible adventure, the James River around Eagle Rock, Virginia, is an excellent fly fishing venue. Several access points make the river easily accessible:

  • Buchanan: Located upstream, this access point is just below a dam, renowned for excellent springtime Smallmouth Bass catch.
  • Springwood: This access point is midway downstream. It’s perfect for catching seasonal trout and smallmouth bass. Wade fishing from here is particularly rewarding.
  • Eagle Rock: The fishing site near Eagle Rock Bridge offers excellent fly fishing opportunities, particularly for Musky and Smallmouth Bass.
  • Horseshoe Bend: Found downstream, this access point allows more space for wade fishing and boasts a great catch rate.
  • Iron Gate: Upstream of Eagle Rock, this site offers an abundance of largemouth and smallmouth bass.

Always remember each area has different fish populations and patterns that may require different strategies and techniques.

Local Fish

  • Smallmouth Bass: This species is a popular target for anglers due to its aggressive feeding habits and fighting spirit. They are typically found in shallow, rocky areas with strong current.
  • Rainbow Trout: Renowned for their beauty and sport value, Rainbow Trout are regularly stocked in the James River in order to provide excellent fly fishing opportunities.
  • Brook Trout: Virginia’s official state fish, the Brook trout, is another common target for fly fishers on the James river.
  • Channel Catfish: This species thrives in the James River and is known for its voracious appetite, making it a fun and rewarding catch.
  • Bluegill: Although smaller than many other game species, Bluegill can be fun to catch on a fly rod, as they are numerous and readily take flies.
  • Musky: Though these are more difficult to catch, the James River has one of the strongest populations of Musky in Virginia, making it a top destination for serious fly fishermen.
  • Carp: While often overlooked, many skilled fly fishermen target Carp as they are one of the largest and most challenging species to catch in the river.
  • Rock Bass: Known locally as “redeyes”, Rock Bass are a favorite of many James River anglers due to their unusual appearance and fighting spirit.

About The River

The James River – Eagle Rock has a rich history, painting a vibrant picture of Virginia’s medieval past. Step back in time, envisioning the Native Americans, who first discovered this virgin land, catching fish on the riverbanks, a backdrop to their peaceful life. This place got dubbed as ‘Eagle Rock’ since it became a popular haven for eagles.

  • Throughout the 18th century, industry started to blossom with mills and furnaces alongside the James River playing pivotal roles. Eagle Rock became synonymous with thriving business.
  • The iconic Chesapeake and Ohio Railway established in 1869, skimmed the outskirts of Eagle Rock, marking the shifts to modern times.

Today, James River – Eagle Rock is a beloved outdoor paradise, famous for its majestic eagle sightings, fishing, canoeing, and breathtaking views. A place where the echoes of the past blend perfectly with the currents of the present!

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