Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

South River - Waynesboro - 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 Afternoon 20 - 26 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18 - 22 Dun Variant, Olive Comparadun
February Midge Afternoon 20 - 26 Cream Midge Larva, Disco Midge
Blue Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18 - 22 Tilt Wing Dun, CDC Dun
March Brown Stonefly Warmest part of day 14 - 18 Kaufmann Stone, Beadhead Brown Stone
Blue Quill Midday 16 - 18 Blue Quill Parachute, Compara-dun Blue Quill
April Hendrickson Afternoon 12 - 14 Red Quill, Hendrickson Nymph
Blue Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18 - 22 Blue-Winged Olive Emerger, RS2
May Sulphur Evening 16 - 18 Sulphur Dry Fly, Comparadun Sulphur
Light Cahill Evening 14 - 16 Light Cahill Classic Fly Pattern, Snowshoe Rabbit Fly
June Yellow Sally Evening 14 - 16 Yellow Sally stonefly, Cut-Wing Yellow Sally
Green Drake Evening 10 - 12 Green Drake Paradrake, Green Drake Coffin Fly Spinner
July Trico Morning 20 - 26 Trico Dun, Trico Spinner
Terrestrials All Day Various Hopper Patterns, Beetle Patterns
August Trico Morning 20 - 26 Trico Spinner, CDC Trico Dun
Terrestrials All Day Various Ant Patterns, Cricket Patterns
September Blue Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18 - 22 Pheasant Tail Nymph, RS2
Terrestrials All Day Various Foam Beetle, Hopper Patterns
October Blue Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18 - 22 Barr's Emerger, Micro Mayfly
Terrestrials All Day Various Chernobyl Ant, Foam Beetle
November Midge Afternoon 20 - 26 Towe's Miracle Midge, Palomino Midge
Blue Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18 - 22 RS2, WD40
December Midge Afternoon 20 - 26 Griffith's Gnat, Mosquito
Blue Winged Olive Late Afternoon 18 - 22 Olive Scud, Olive Shrimp

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 South River in Waynesboro is renowned for its incredible fly fishing spots. Some of the notable locales include:
  • South River Fly Shop: Located at the heart of downtown, this area is stocked with fish year-round, making it an ideal and convenient spot to cast your line.
  • Ridgeview Park: Offering easy access to the river, a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of trout.
  • The Springdale Water Treatment Plant: The Plant is a high-inflow stretch, providing an excellent habitat for trout and translating into wonderful fishing opportunities.
  • Constitution Park: This spot has deep pools and long runs, perfect for fly fishing.
  • Phoenix Park: A newly developed spot with a high fish population.
Make sure to follow the proper license regulations and catch-and-release etiquette at these locations, ensuring that these fantastic fishing opportunities can be enjoyed by future generations.

Best Access Points

<body> The South River in Waynesboro is renowned for its excellent fly fishing. For a fruitful experience, consider the following top access points: <ul> <li><b>Waynesboro City Park</b> – Rich with aquatic life, this area is the top spot for catching rainbow trout.</li> <li><b>Loth Springs</b> – Access the river from this outflow of the spring. It’s particularly popular due to the abundance of various fish species such as brown trout and brook trout.</li> <li><b>Twin Oaks Tavern</b> – This is a private area but allows public fishing. It’s well known for the impressive size of rainbow trout.</li> <li><b>Constitution Park</b> – Offers a handicapped accessible fishing platform and is known for holding larger fish.</li> <li><b>North Park</b> – Allows anglers a chance to catch brown trout after a short walk from parking.</li> </ul> </body>

Local Fish

  • Trout: South River is renowned for its top-notch trout fishing. Fly fishers target both rainbow and brown trout in this river.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Though not as abundant as trout, smallmouth bass can also be found in South River. Their hard-hitting fights make them a popular target for fly fishers.
  • Largemouth Bass: Similar to their smallmouth cousins, largemouth bass are another popular target for anglers on South River.
  • Catfish: These bottom-dwellers provide a unique challenge for fly fishers. Channel catfish and bullhead catfish are the most common species in South River.
  • Panfish: These smaller game fish, including species such as Bluegill and Pumpkinseed, are great for beginner fly fishers to practice their skills on.
  • Carp: Carp can be found in many sections of South River. They’re an excellent species for honing fly fishing skills due to their wariness and powerful fights.
  • Walleye: Although not a common catch, walleyes are targeted for their size and battle – bringing in a walleye on a fly rod is a memorable accomplishment.
  • Muskellunge (Musky): Muskies are the apex predators of South River. Landing one of these on a fly rod is a major achievement that requires dedication and patience.

About The River

The South River in Waynesboro is a historic natural gem that’s played a crucial part in the city’s evolution. The river begins at the base of the captivating Blue Ridge Mountains before meandering through the city center. Over the centuries, it served multiple roles for the indigenous people and the settlers.

Key touchpoints in the South River’s history include:

  • Use by Native American tribes for fishing and transportation.
  • Recognition as a major transportation hub during the early European colonization period.
  • Establishment of settlements like Waynesboro and subsequent transformation into industrial powerhouses.

The South River’s beauty and history continue to captivate locals and tourists alike. Recent improvements, including riverside parks and trails, invite everyone to explore its serene pathways and bountiful fishing spots to appreciate this cherished part of Waynesboro’s heritage.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Recent Articles

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons
Gear ReviewsFly Fishing

Hip Waders vs. Chest Waders: The Pros & Cons

April 20, 2024

Hip Waders or Chest Waders? Choosing the right gear for fly fishing can make all the difference in…

Read More
Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions
Fly TyingFly Fishing

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024

Welcome to fly tying: How to tie a Pheasant Tail Nymph! If you’re new here or a seasoned…

Read More

Fly Tying Articles

Tying a Pheasant Tail Nymph: Step-by-Step Fly Tying Instructions

April 18, 2024