Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

New River - Pembroke - 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 Midge All Day 18-22 Zebra Midge, Black Fly Larva
Black Stonefly Morning, Afternoon 14 Darth Vader, Montana Stone
February Midge All Day 18-22 Zebra Midge, Black Fly Larva
Black Stonefly Morning, Afternoon 14 Darth Vader, Montana Stone
March Blue Quill, Quill Gordon Afternoon 16-18 Blue Quill, Quill Gordon
April Blue Quill, Quill Gordon Afternoon 16-18 Blue Quill, Quill Gordon
Caddis All Day 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
May Sulphur Afternoon, Evening 14-16 Sparkle Dun, Comparadun
Caddis All Day 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
June Sulphur Afternoon, Evening 14-16 Sparkle Dun, Comparadun
July Terrestrials All Day 12-14 Ants, Hoppers, Beetles
August Terrestrials All Day 12-14 Ants, Hoppers, Beetles
September Terrestrials All Day 12-14 Ants, Hoppers, Beetles
October Blue Winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 BWO Emerger, WD-40
November Blue Winged Olive Afternoon 18-20 BWO Emerger, WD-40
December Midge All Day 18-22 Zebra Midge, Black Fly Larva

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 New River in Pembroke provides several excellent spots for avid fly fishers. Here are the top spots to consider:

  • New River Junction: Known for its gentle flow and plenty of trout to catch. Provides easy public access for fly fishers.
  • Claytor Lake State Park: While technically a lake, it is directly fed by the New River providing an excellent habitat for various river species.
  • Bisset Park: Positioned right on the banks of the river in Radford, it makes for a great fly fishing spot with its easy access and diverse species.
  • Eggleston Springs: It is a favourite spot due to the high fish population. The spring-fed waters keep the temperature ideal for an excellent fish environment.
  • Pete Dye River Course: Though it’s a golf course, the river stretch bordering the course presents a great fly fishing opportunity.

Best Access Points

The New River in Pembroke is a spectacular spot for fly fishing, with several key points of access:

  • Eggleston Bridge: Riversides at both ends provide clear casting areas. Accessible from Rt. 730.
  • Whitethorne: A deep, calm stretch of the river ideal for large trout. Reachable via Rt. 643.
  • Bluff City: Access point from McCoy Road with plenty of parking space. A wade-and-walk location with scenic views.
  • Palisade Cliffs: Accessible from Rt. 460. Known for its diverse fish population.
  • Bisset Park: This Radford city public park offers access to several prime fishing areas.

Please remember to pay attention to private property signs, check local fishing regulations, and respect nature while enjoying your fishing trip.

Local Fish

  • Smallmouth Bass: Known for their aggressive fight, Smallmouth Bass is one of the most targeted fish species in the New River and a great choice for fly-fishing.
  • Musky: Musky, also known as the fish of ten thousand casts due to their elusive nature, offers a rewarding experience for patient anglers.
  • Striped Bass: Although less populous in the river than other species, the Striped Bass’s size makes it a satisfying catch for any fly fisherman.
  • Walleye: With a keen sense of sight, catching a Walleye can be quite challenging, making it a well-appreciated bonus for fly-fishing in the New River.
  • Sunfish: Sunfish, including Bluegill and Redbreast, are abundant in the New River making them an ideal target for beginners.
  • Channel Catfish: Although not the typical target for fly fisherman, Channel Catfish offers an interesting shift from the usual species caught in the river.
  • Rainbow trout: The freshly stocked rainbow trout are a favorite among fly-fishermen in the New River.
  • Brown trout: Although more elusive than the rainbow trout, the locals cherish these fish as they add to the variety of species in the river.

About The River

The New River in Pembroke is not really new at all! In fact, it’s ancient. The waterway, commonly known as the New River – Pembroke, winds through the beautiful Pembroke countryside for about 20 miles. This makes it one of the longest and most significant waterways in the region.

Here are a few quick facts that make this river truly special:

  • It’s man-made! Believed to be one of the earliest canal systems, it dates all the way back to Roman times.
  • It was initially constructed for industrial purposes, like transporting coal and limestone across Wales.
  • Today, it serves as a popular spot for boating, fishing, and simply soaking up the stunning Welsh scenery.

Rich with history and surrounded by natural beauty, the New River – Pembroke serves as both an important local resource and a delightful point of interest for visitors.

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