Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Smith River - Bassett - 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 Smith River, Bassett is a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts. Here are the top spots for your next fly-fishing trip:

  • Trophy Trout Section: Known for an abundance of large trout, this south-side stretch of the river is a perfect fly fishing location.
  • Jasperwood Riverfront Property: This is a top-notch spot located amidst the picturesque landscapes and teeming with brown and rainbow trout.
  • Miracle Mile: Renowned for its roaring rapids and abundant fly hatches, it’s an excellent place for adventurous anglers.
  • White House Bridge: This quiet locale offers great opportunities for hooking brook and brown trout.
  • Kendrick’s Bridge: This public fishing area offers crystal-clear waters loaded with rainbow trout and various other species.

Each of these spots offer unique fly fishing experiences, so make sure to explore each one on your visit to the Smith River, Bassett.

Best Access Points

Fly fishing in the Smith River located in Bassett allows a unique experience amidst serene nature. Below are highlighted some of the best access points for a memorable fishing expedition:

  • Philpott Dam: Start at the bottom, a well-renowned point, the area below Philpott Dam is an excellent spot teeming with Brown and Rainbow Trout.
  • Smith River Trail: Covering approximately 5 miles, this trail offers several easy access points to the river.
  • Hamlet Road: Offering public river access, the stretch of river adjacent to Hamlet Road is a good choice for anglers.
  • Fishing Pier at Marrowbone Creek: Well maintained, this pier is not only accessible but also offers a promising fishing spot.
  • Smith River Sports Complex: Along with recreational activities, this complex has excellent river access for fishing.

The best seasons for fly fishing in these areas are the Spring and Fall, when the water levels are moderate.

Local Fish

  • Smallmouth Bass: Known for their fierce fights and acrobatics, the Smallmouth Bass is a favorite among local anglers.
  • Largemouth Bass: While not as abundant as their smallmouth cousins, Largemouth Bass can be targeted on the Smith River – Bassett.
  • Rainbow Trout: Locally stocked, the Rainbow Trout in the Smith River are known for their fighting spirit and vibrant colors.
  • Brown Trout: Brown Trout can be challenging to catch, making them a much sought after species among fly fishermen.
  • Brook Trout: Known as the best tasting Trout, anglers often target them for both their beauty and culinary value.
  • Channel Catfish: While not a typical fly fishing target, innovative anglers can get successful catches of Channel Catfish on the Smith River – Bassett.
  • Walleye: Walleye are elusive and vulnerable to fly fishing, particularly in the early morning and late evening.
  • Muskellunge (Muskie): Known as the ‘fish of thousand casts’, they are the prize catch for any ambitious fly fisherman on the Smith River – Bassett.

About The River

Situated in Virginia, the Smith River flows through the cozy town of Bassett. The river’s history is as captivating as its current charm. Native American communities originally inhabited this rich land, using the river for fishing. In the 1800s, European settlers arrived and Bassett became a bustling hub of tobacco trade, with goods transported along the river.

Today, the Smith River is a beloved recreational hotspot. Here are some of its features:

  • Fishing: Renowned for its wild brown trout.
  • Kayaking: Paddling along the river provides breathtaking views.
  • Hiking: Exploration space abound with incredible wildlife.

Besides being a recreational delight, the Smith River fuels Bassett’s economy and has been integral to its growth and prosperity. The captivating beauty and deep-seated history make the Smith River in Bassett a worthwhile destination, enriching every visitor’s journey.

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