Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Moormans River - Free Union - 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 Winter Stoneflies Afternoon #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
Midges Mid Day #20-26 Zebra Midge
February Winter Stoneflies Afternoon #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph
Midges When Sunlight Hits Water #20-26 Griffith's Gnat
March Blue Quills & Quill Gordons Afternoon #14-16 Parachute Adams
Little Black Stoneflies Warm, Sunny Afternoons #16-18 Black Fly Larva
April Hendricksons & Blue-winged Olives Afternoon #14-18 Light Hendrickson
Caddis Flies All Day #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis
May Sulphurs Afternoon & Evening #14-16 Sulphur Parachute
Light Cahills Afternoon & Evening #10-14 Light Cahill
June Little Yellow Stoneflies Evening #14-18 Yellow Sally
Green Drakes Afternoon & Evening #10-12 Green Drake Cripple
July Tricos Morning #20-24 Trico Spinner
Terrestrials All Day #12-18 Beetle & Ant Patterns
August Terrestrials All Day #12-18 Beetle & Ant Patterns
White Flies Evening #14-16 White Miller
September Terrestrials All Day #12-18 Hopper Patterns
Blue Winged Olives Overcast/Rainy Days #18-20 BWO Sparkle Dun
October Blue Winged Olives Overcast/Rainy Days #18-20 BWO Sparkle Dun
Terrestrials All Day #12-18 Beetle & Ant Patterns
October Caddis Evening #8-10 October Caddis Pupa
November Blue Winged Olives Overcast/Rainy Days #18-20 BWO Sparkle Dun
Midges Mid Day #20-26 Zebra Midge
December Midges Mid Day #20-26 Zebra Midge
Winter Stoneflies Afternoon #16-20 Black Stonefly Nymph

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 Moormans River near Free Union, Virginia, provides several excellent spots for fly fishing, promising a satisfying experience in serene surroundings.

Here are the suggestions:

  • Big Branch Intersection: This spot offers diverse fish species from trout to smallmouth bass.
  • Moormans River Overlook: Located near the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s perfect for fly fishing while enjoying the picturesque view.
  • Sugar Hollow Dam: This section is easily accessible and teems with brook trout.

The following tips will help you optimize this adventure:

  1. Time: An optimal time for fly fishing is early morning or late evening.
  2. Approach: Stealthy wading is recommended as trout easily get spooked.
  3. Equipment: Lighter rods (3-5wt) and small dry flies yield great results.

Best Access Points

The Moormans River in Free Union is a well-known spot for avid fly fishermen. Here are some of the best access points to fly fish:

  • Upper Moormans: Accessible via the parking lot at the head of Sugar Hollow Reservoir. This offers excellent opportunities for catch-and-release brook trout fishing.
  • Sugar Hollow Dam: Reached from the dam up to the start of the upper section. Mainly stream-bred brown trout and rainbow trout are found in this section.
  • Lower Moormans: Accessed from the reservoir downstream. Includes a put-and-take fishery and delayed harvest area.
  • White Hall: A guide is recommended for this area to navigate private property and access points for the best potential catches.

Remember to always respect private property rights around the Moormans River and make sure you have your valid fishing licenses and permits.

Local Fish

  • Brook Trout: This local fish is a favorite amongst fly fishermen, it can be found in the cold and clean waters of the Moormans River.
  • Brown Trout: Known for their elusive nature, these trout are a challenging and rewarding catch for any fly fisherman.
  • Rainbow Trout: This multi-colored species is an excellent choice for fly fishermen because of their fight and striking appearance.
  • Smallmouth Bass: With its aggressive behavior and willingness to hit a fly, the Smallmouth Bass is a fantastic target for the fly fisherman.
  • Bluegill Sunfish: These little fighters are tons of fun on the fly rod and a key species of the Moormans River ecosystem.
  • Largemouth Bass: Although not as common in the Moormans River, Largemouth Bass can still provide a serious challenge for the fly angler.
  • Redeye Bass: Also known as the Coosa Bass, these small but aggressive fish are a favorite amongst local anglers in the Moormans River.
  • Chain Pickerel: While not traditionally a target for fly fishing, the pickerel’s aggressive strikes and speedy runs make them an exciting quarry.

About The River

Allow me to allure you to the history of the amazing Moormans River – Free Union, an impeccable gem of Virginia. Historically rich and naturally winsome, it rambles pleasantly through the Albemarle County, intertwined with idyllic landscapes.

Our journey begins in the early 18th century when it was named after an illustrious English immigrant family, the Moormans. The river soon became lifeblood for local industries, especially milling, and even sparked a minor gold rush in the mid 19th century.

One can’t overlook the characteristic landmarks dotted along its course, including:

  • The Reservoirs: Providing an important water source to nearby towns.
  • The Blue Ridge Mountains: Offering breathtaking views from the river’s locale.
  • The Sugar Hollow Dam: A perfect backdrop for leisure activities.

Today’s Moormans River – Free Union is a prized destination for hiking, fly fishing and photography, preserving its historic charm for future generations to relish.

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