Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

James River - Scottsville - 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 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Midges Afternoon #18-22 Zebra, Griffith's Gnat
February Midges Afternoon #18-22 Zebra, Griffith's Gnat
Blue Winged Olive Overcast Days #16-20 Adams, Parachute Adams
March Blue Winged Olive Overcast Days #16-20 Adams, Parachute Adams
Caddis Afternoon #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Brown Caddis
April Caddis Afternoon #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Brown Caddis
Mayfly Morning/Evening #12-16 Parachute Adams, Grey Wulff
May Mayfly Morning/Evening #12-16 Parachute Adams, Grey Wulff
Stonefly Morning/Evening #8-12 Golden Stone, Black Stone
June Stonefly Morning/Evening #8-12 Golden Stone, Black Stone
Terrestrials Afternoon #10-14 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
July Terrestrials Afternoon #10-14 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Trico Mayfly Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner
August Trico Mayfly Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner
Terrestrials Afternoon #10-14 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
September Terrestrials Afternoon #10-14 Ants, Beetles, Hoppers
Blue Winged Olive Overcast Days #16-20 Adams, Parachute Adams
October Blue Winged Olive Overcast Days #16-20 Adams, Parachute Adams
Midges Afternoon #18-22 Zebra, Griffith's Gnat
November Midges Afternoon #18-22 Zebra, Griffith's Gnat
December Midges Afternoon #18-22 Zebra, Griffith's Gnat

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

Scottsville on the James River is a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts, featuring a variety of hotspot areas. Here are some top spots to make your fishing trip a memorable experience:

  • Scottsville Lake: This 19-acre lake is abundantly stocked with fish species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and channel catfish making it perfect for fly fishing.

  • Scottsville Dam: An incredible spot where the most fish are caught due to the confluence of currents.

  • Hardware River: A great tributary of the James River, known for quality smallmouth and largemouth bass.

  • Totier Creek: A picturesque spot with excellent fishing for bass and sunfish as well.

  • Hatton Ferry: Another excellent spot with a variety of fish species and terrific scenery.

Please note: some areas require a fishing license and following appropriate local and state regulations is highly recommended.

Best Access Points

Fly fishing in the James River, Scottsville, offers a great outdoor experience. Here are some of the best access points for this activity:

  • Scottsville Fishing Access: This spot is a popular starting point for anglers. It provides ample shore space and boat launch facilities.
  • Swan’s Boat Landing: Situated six miles downstream from Scottsville, Swan’s is a quiet location, perfect for peaceful fishing outings. However, there’s no boat ramp access here.
  • James River Reeling and Rafting: They offer boat services, making this a versatile spot whether you’re on shore, wading, or in a kayak.
  • Hatton Ferry: Thirteen miles down from Scottsville, Hatton Ferry provides boat and shore fishing access with abundant smallmouth bass.
  • Hardware River WMA: Hardware River Wildlife Management Area sits at the confluence of the James and Hardware rivers, providing excellent fishing opportunities.

Note that Virginia fishing regulations apply at all locations.

Local Fish

  • Smallmouth Bass: Known for its aggressive feeding habits, smallmouth bass is a popular choice for fly fishing enthusiasts on the James River.
  • Rock Bass: Another species in the bass genus, rock bass are a fond catch of anglers due to their tendency to bite shiny things, making them a little easier to catch with fly fishing techniques.
  • Flathead Catfish: A widely known sportfish, flathead catfish can grow up to impressive sizes and provide a challenging catch.
  • Bluegill: Bluegill are fun to catch on the fly and since they reproduce rapidly, are often a readily available gamefish on the James River.
  • Muskellunge: Often known simply as muskie, this large, relatively rare fish is an exciting catch for an angler given its size and power.
  • Freshwater Drum: Though not as popular as some other species, freshwater drum is often a target for fly fishing due to its size and the fight it often puts up when being reeled in.
  • Shad: During certain seasons, the James River sees significant runs of shad, making them an excellent target for fly fishing.
  • Carp: Though many view carp as a “trash fish,” they can grow to large sizes and are often overlooked as a target for fly fishing, providing a fun and unexpected challenge.

About The River

Explore the captivating history of the James River – Scottsville. A centerpiece of Virginia, the river played an essential role in early American life. It was historically significant for Native Americans as a fishing and trade route that was later adopted by European settlers. Trade along Scottsville became even more enriched in the mid-18th century when batteau boats shipped tobacco and other goods.

Furthermore, Scottsville’s prosperity is directly linked to the James River and Kanawha Canal project which enhanced trade and transportation.

  • The canal operated from 1785 to 1880 and had a prolific 95 years.
  • In the 19th century, it immensely contributed to westward expansion.

Today, the James River Scottsville is a prized historical and recreational site, offering picturesque views and a variety of outdoor activities. Soak up the atmosphere and revel in its rich history!

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