Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Tye River - Lovingston - 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 Morning / Evening 20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Blue Wing Olive Morning / Afternoon 18-22 Blue Wing Olive nymph
February Midges Morning / Evening 20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Blue Wing Olive Morning / Afternoon 18-22 Blue Wing Olive nymph
March Blue Quill Afternoon 16-18 Adams, Parachute Adams
Early Brown Stonefly All Day 12-14 Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail Nymph
April Blue Quill Afternoon 16-18 Adams, Parachute Adams
Early Brown Stonefly All Day 12-14 Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail Nymph
May Caddis All Day 12-14 Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis
Sulphurs Evening 12-14 Sulphur Dun, Sulphur Nymph
June Light Cahill Afternoon / Evening 12-14 Light Cahill Dry Fly, Light Cahill Nymph
Green Drake All Day 10-12 Green Drake Parachute, Green Drake nymph
July Trico Morning 20-22 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Ant, Grasshopper
August Trico Morning 20-22 Trico Spinner, Trico Dun
Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Ant, Grasshopper
September Blue Wing Olive Morning / Afternoon 18-22 Blue Wing Olive nymph
Terrestrials All Day 10-14 Ant, Grasshopper
October Blue Wing Olive Morning / Afternoon 18-22 Blue Wing Olive nymph
October Caddis All Day 10-12 October Caddis Nymph, October Caddis Dry
November Blue Wing Olive Morning / Afternoon 18-22 Blue Wing Olive nymph
Midges Morning / Evening 20-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
December Blue Wing Olive Morning / Afternoon 18-22 Blue Wing Olive nymph
Midges Morning / Evening 20-22 Zebra Midge, 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

The Tye River in Lovingston is renowned among anglers for its incredible fly fishing opportunities. Among the best spots are:

  • Crabtree Falls: Known for its beautiful waterfalls, it also boasts plenty of trout, making the fly fishing experience here magnificent.
  • Montebello: Flanked by mountains, its clear flowing water is home to a large variety of trout. The peaceful surroundings add to the fly fishing experience.
  • Tye River Overlook: Easily accessible and filled with trout. A mix of shallow and deeper areas offer a good variety for fly fishing.
  • Swinging Bridge Area: An opportunity to fish under a historic location. The fast-flowing water holds plenty of trout ready for the taking.

Always remember to respect local regulations and consider the preservation of the Tye River‘s native species by practicing catch and release fishing.

Best Access Points

The Tye River, located in Lovingston, Virginia, offers abundant opportunities for fly fishing. Here are some of the best access points:

  • Arrington Depot Bridge: This access area allows for ample shoreline fishing and wading for catching rainbow and brown trout.
  • Tye River Overlook: Located off Blue Ridge Parkway, it provides both a picturesque view and a haven for Brook and Brown trout.
  • Rockfish Valley Bridge: An accessible location from Nelson County’s highway 56, it’s a favorite spot for fishing native brook trout.
  • Crabtree Falls Campground: An excellent fishing spot at the base of the falls that requires a permit for the stocked trout.
  • Tye River Gap: Found on Crabtree Falls Hwy with fishing access to the river’s South Fork, this area teems with mountain trout.

Local Fish

  • Smallmouth Bass: Known as the “pound-for-pound the hardest fighting fish”, Smallmouth Bass is often the top targeted species for fly fishing in the Tye River.
  • Brook Trout: As the official state fish of Virginia, the Brook Trout is a favorite for many anglers in the area, prized for its beautiful coloration and vigorous fight.
  • Rainbow Trout: Introduced from the West Coast, the Rainbow Trout flourishes in the Tye River and offers a rewarding challenge for fly fishers.
  • Brown Trout: An introduced species from Europe, Brown Trout are elusive and can grow to substantial sizes in the Tye River.
  • Channel Catfish: Although not a traditional target for fly fishing, the Channel Catfish is abundant in the Tye River and can provide a unique angling experience.
  • Rock Bass: The Tye River contains a healthy population of Rock Bass which are entertaining to catch on light fly gear.
  • Bluegill: As a staple of freshwater ecosystems, Bluegill are present in great numbers in the Tye River and can be a lot of fun to catch on a fly rod.
  • Carp: With their large size and strong fight, Carp provide an exciting challenge for fly anglers looking for a different angling opportunity in the Tye River.

About The River

There is something engagingly magical about the Tye River in Lovingston. It isn’t just a river; it’s a witness to history and a testament to the spirit of Virginia.

The Tye River flows elegantly through the heart of Lovingston, defining the landscape and enhancing the town’s natural beauty.

  • Its journey began millions of years ago, sculpting and molding the terrain and datum.
  • The river is known for its clear, pristine water flowing from the Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • Native Americans once lived along its banks, utilizing the river’s resources.
  • It later supported the early settlements and industries of the colonial and post-colonial periods.
  • During the Civil War, it was a strategic landmark for both the Confederacy and Union armies.

In every ripple, the Tye River – Lovingston narrates tales of endurance, resilience and survival, inviting everyone to appreciate its historical significance.

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