If you need help on access, stop by the fly shop or see National Geographic Map 792

Recommended flies for this week:

• Murray's Tungsten Cone Head Marauder size 4
• Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, Black size 4
• Murray's Road Kill Nymph, Skunk size 6
• Murray's Madtom Sculpin, black size 4

Fish these low and slow on a Murray's Fluorocarbon 6ft 2X leader.

Summer 2026 Fly Fishing Courses

Full Day Fly Fishing Schools include a classroom presentation with on-the-stream instruction for a full day of learning.  Fly Rod & Reel Outfits are included for the school. We have openings on June 5, 19 and August 22, 28.  Spaces are filling up so Register Your Spot Today!

Half Day Fly Fishing Lessons include a basic 4-hour lesson on the water. Fly Rod & Reel Outfits are included for the lesson. Find out more at>>

Recommended Flies:

• Blue Quill Mr. Rapidan Dry size 16
• Mr. Rapidan Delta Wing Caddis, size 16
• Mr. Rapidan Parachute Dry size 16
• Murray's Little Yellow Stonefly Dry size 16
• Murray's Yellow Stonefly Nymph size 16
• Murray's Caddis Pupa, Tan or Olive size 16
• Fish on a Murray's Mountain 6ft 5X Leader

 4/13/26 Fire ban in effect

Date Posted: 4/13/2026  Due to high fire danger and dry conditions, Shenandoah National Park has issued a parkwide fire ban which prohibits all open-air fires. Only gas and or propane stoves are permitted at this time.

We have a few openings in our Mountain Trout Fly Fishing School on April 22, 2026 meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA at 9am. For more information and to register, CLICK HERE.

Want to learn more about Fly Fishing Leaders? Read our latest blog

Stocked Trout Streams -

The local stocked trout streams are low and clear. Anglers are still landing a few trout. Again I cannot stress enough--use a stealthy approach.  To see the latest streams recently stocked, visit the VA DWR website.

Recommended flies for stocked trout streams:

• Casual Dress Nymph size 8
• Murray's Crayfish, Olive size 10
• Mr. Rapidan Dry size 14
• Murray's Hellgrammite Black size 10
• Perdigon Nymph size 14

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Magnum Darter size 4
• Murray's Marauder Brown, size 6
• Murray's Madtom Sculpin, black size 4
• Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, black size 4
• Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4
• Murray's Marauder, Chartreuse size 6

A 9ft 7-weight 4pc fly rod with a sinking tip fly line or sinking leader is recommended with these flies. The Scott Centric 9ft 7-weight, Orvis Clearwater 9ft 7-weight or St. Croix Imperial 9ft 7-weight are some that we recommend and promote in our Summer Fly Fishing Schools.

Learn to Fly Fish--Summer 2026 Fly Fishing Schools

These full day fly fishing schools start with a classroom presentation at our fly shop in Edinburg, VA and then continue on the Shenandoah River for hands on instruction. Fly Rod & Reels are provided for the day.  Open Dates: June 5, 13, 19 or August 22, 28

Basic Fly Fishing Lesson--Summer 2026 Half Day Fly Fishing Lessons

The half day lessons offer possible future anglers a basic lesson on fly fishing on the Shenandoah River. Each day begins with a meet/greet with the instruction at our fly shop then continues to the Shenandoah River for a casting and basic instruction lesson. About 4 hours.  Fly Rod & Reels are provided for the lesson.  Click Here for Open Dates and More info 

Recommended flies:

• Mr. Rapidan Parachute Dry size 14
• Blue Quill Mr. Rapidan Dry size 16
• Quill Gordon Dry size 14
• Murray's Near Nuff Mayfly size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Delta Wing Caddis, Tan or Olive size 14
• Murray's Caddis Pupa, Tan size 16
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle Nymph, Brown size 16

Most anglers are doing well by fishing a dry fly with a dropper on a Murray's Mountain 6ft 5X Leader.

Recommended Equipment:  6.5ft to 7.5ft fly rod in a 3-weight with a Murray's Mountain Leader 6ft 5X.  The Murray's Mountain Trout Fly Rod 6'10 #3 3pc. and St. Croix Imperial 7ft #3 4pc fly rod are good outfits that we promote in our Spring Fly Fishing Schools.

The road into Little Stoney is open and anglers are doing well by using the same flies listed above.  We have a few openings in our Fly Fishing Schools in the George Washington National Forest on April 13, 20 & 27.  Learn more about fishing on the small native brook trout streams.  Fly Rod & Reels are provided for the school.

Now let's move onto the Stocked Trout Streams. The VA DWR stocked many streams within the last week and anglers are taking advantage. The water levels are holding steady, are clear and fishable.  Big Stoney Creek west of Edinburg, Passage Creek in Fort Valley, and Hawksbill in Luray are some that I recommend.  To see the latest streams stocked, visit the DWR website. 

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Marauder size 10 in black, brown or olive
• Casual Dress Nymph size 10
• Mr. Rapidan Dry size 14
• Blue Wing Olive Dry size 16
• Copper John, Green size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Emerger size 12
• Murray's Crayfish, Brown size 10

Recommended flies for this week:

• Murray's Madtom Sculpin, black size 4
• Tungsten Cone Head Marauder, black, olive or pearl size 4
• Murray's Magnum HogSucker size 4
• Murray's Road Kill Nymph, black or olive size 6

Recommended Fly Rod and Leader:

To fish the larger flies, a 9ft fly rod in a 7-8 weight is ideal. The Orvis Clearwater 907 and St. Croix Imperial 907 fly rod outfits are some that we promote in our Fly Fishing Schools. At this time of year a sinking tip III fly line or Fluorocarbon Leaders are recommended. 

Learn to Fly Fish--Summer 2026 Fly Fishing Schools

These full day fly fishing schools start with a classroom presentation at our fly shop in Edinburg, VA and then continue on the Shenandoah River for hands on instruction. Fly Rod & Reels are provided for the day.  Open Dates: June 5, 13, 19 or August 22, 28

Basic Fly Fishing Lesson--Summer 2026 Half Day Fly Fishing Lessons

The half day lessons offer possible future anglers a basic lesson on fly fishing on the Shenandoah River. Each day begins with a meet/greet with the instruction at our fly shop then continues to the Shenandoah River for a casting and basic instruction lesson. About 4 hours.  Fly Rod & Reels are provided for the lesson.  Click Here for Open Dates and More info 

Recommended Flies:

• Mr. Rapidan Parachute Dry size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Delta Wing Caddis, Tan size 14
• Murray's Caddis Pupa, Tan size 14
• Copper John Nymph, Green size 14
• Blue Quill Dry size 16

Recommended Equipment:  6.5ft to 7.5ft fly rod in a 3-weight with a Murray's Mountain Leader 6ft 5X.  The Murray's Mountain Trout Fly Rod 6'10 #3 3pc. and St. Croix Imperial 7ft #3 4pc fly rod are good outfits that we promote in our Spring Fly Fishing Schools.

The Park is conducting a prescribed burn today April 1 so some areas are closed. Weather permitting, fire personnel plan to conduct a prescribed fire Wednesday, April 1, in Big Meadows (mile 51). Visitors should slow their speeds and turn their headlights on when driving through smoke. Access to Rapidan Road and areas of Big Meadows west of Rapidan Road will be restricted during the prescribed fire. Areas of Big Meadows west of Rapidan Road will be closed during the operation through Thursday, April 2.  For more updates, visit their website.

I've had customers asking about Little Stoney.  The FR92 into the top of Little Stoney is planned to be open sometime today. Use the same flies, techniques, and equipment listed above on this stream.  Want to learn more about the native brook trout fishing on this stream?  We have a few openings left in our Fly Fishing Schools on April 13, 20, 27 and May 4.  Fly Rod and Reel Outfits are provided for the school.  

Now let's move onto the stocked trout streams.  Saturday April 4 is Heritage Day on several streams. Passage Creek in Fort Valley around the Elizabeth Furnace Campground and Hawksbill in Luray are two of the local streams that participate in Heritage Day. These streams are closed to fishing on Friday April 3 and open for fishing at 9am on Heritage Day.  For a complete list of the Heritage Day Waters, visit the DWR website.

For a list of the latest streams just stocked, visit the DWR website.

All of the local stocked trout steams are clear and fishable.  Water levels are holding steady.

Recommended flies for stocked trout streams:

• Murray's Marauder, Olive or Black size 10
• Murray's Crayfish, Brown size 10
• Bead Head Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail Nymph size 14
• Olsen's Blowtorch size 16
• Perdigon Nymph, Olive size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Dry size 14

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Tungsten Cone Head Marauder, black or olive size 4
• Murray's Magnum Darter size 4
• Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4
• Murray's Marauder, Chartreuse size 6
• Bass Stonefly Nymph size 4

Fish down and across stream. A sink tip line is recommended but you can also use the Scientific Angler Sonar Leaders to get your flies down.

Fly Fishing Schools--Summer 2026

We offer Full Day Fly Fishing Schools and Half Day Lesson on the Shenandoah River throughout the summer.  A great opportunity for anglers to learn the art of fly fishing on open water. Fly Rod and Reel Outfit are provided for the day. Click on the links for more information and available dates.

Recommended flies for this week:

• Mr. Rapidan Parachute Dry size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Delta Wing Caddis, Black size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Emerger size 14
• Copper John, Zebra or Green size 14
• Murray's Caddis Pupa, size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle Nymph, Olive size 14

The book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park is a great reference for access to streams, hatch charts, and reading the water.

We had a few cancellation in our Mountain Trout Fly Fishing School on April 1, 2026 meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA for classroom presentation and then proceeding to a native brook trout in the Shenandoah National Park.  Click for more info and to register.

Stocked Trout Streams

The local stocked trout streams are in beautiful shape.  Water levels are ideal. The VA DWR will continue to stock streams throughout the State over the next month. Check out their website for the latest stocking schedule.  Anglers are doing well on Passage Creek in Fort Valley, VA and Big Stoney Creek west of Edinburg.

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Marauder, Olive or Black size 10 (Top fly for this week)
• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 12
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle Nymph, Olive size 10
• Murray's Hellgrammite, Black size 8 or 10
• Murray's Crayfish, olive or brown size 10

The South Fork of the Shenandoah River is currently to high for good fishing.

Water temperature is in the 40's so plan on going in the afternoons after the temperatures have had time to warm a little. Use big flies as slowly as you can across the stream bottom. A Sink Tip line and Sonar Sink leaders are recommended.  Read more about Sinking Fly Lines and their application in our "Understanding Sinking Fly Lines" blog post.

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4
• Murray's Magnum Darter size 4
• Galloups Dungeon Fly size 2
• Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, black, brown or olive size 4

Fly Fishing Schools--Summer 2026

We offer Full Day Fly Fishing Schools and Half Day Lesson on the Shenandoah River throughout the summer.  A great opportunity for anglers to learn the art of fly fishing on open water. Fly Rod and Reel Outfit are provided for the day. Click on the links for more information and available dates.

Many of the Quill Gordon mayfly nymphs are reaching their full size and moving to the lower sections of the riffles to develop their wings and swim to the surface of the stream as the emerger. A very effective technique is to fish the Mr. Rapidan Emerger size 14 upstream tight to the base of the above riffles. A gentle rod lifting motion usually prompts a strike from the trout. Some anglers prefer using a Mr. Rapidan Parachute Dry size 14 with a Mr. Rapidan Emerger size 14 as a dropper. 

Other recommended flies this week:

• Murray's Purple Dun Dry size 14
• Murray's Near Nuff Mayfly Dry size 14
• Quill Gordon Dry size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Delta Wing Caddis, Tan size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle Nymph, Olive size 14
• Murray's Caddis Pupa, Tan size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14

Fish all of these on a Murray's Mountain Leader 6ft 5X or Murray's Classic 7.5ft 5X Leader.  For more information on the native brook trout streams in the Shenandoah National Park, read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park. 

Fly Fishing Schools--Spring 2026

We still have some openings in our Mountain Trout Fly Fishing Schools in the George Washington National Forest.  Open Dates: April 13, 20, 27 and May 4

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Stocked Trout Streams

All of the local stocked trout streams are clear and fishable. Anglers are doing well with heavier nymphs and streamers.  With the extra water from last week, the trout were able to spread out. Passage Creek in Fort Valley was stocked last week. The VADWR will continue to stock streams over the next month, so check their website for updates. 

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, black or brown size 8
• Murray's Marauder, black or brown size 8
• Olsen's Blowtorch Barbless, size 16
• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 12
• Bead Head Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail Nymph size 14

 Large flies on a sink tip fly line with a 9ft 7 or 8-weight fly rod was the key to success.  The Sonar Sink Leaders are highly recommended by our guides. 

Recommended flies:

• Articulated Daddys Money size 4
• Bass Stonefly Nymph size 4
• Murray's Magnum Darter size 4
• Murray's Magnum Hog Sucker size 4
• Brigs Rippin Rooster size 1
• Murray's Crayfish, Olive size 4

On The Stream Fly Fishing School on the Shenandoah River--Summer 2026

These fly fishing schools are held on bigger water allowing beginners and intermediate students to expand on their casting skills, learn more about the natural foods the bass feed upon and reading the water. Each school starts at our fly shop in Edinburg, VA at 9am for a classroom presentation, then continues on the stream until 5pm for a full day of learning. Fly Rod and Reel outfits are provided.  

Summer 2026 Dates

• May 30
• June 5
• June 13
• June 19
• August 22
• August 28

Click here for more info and to register.

Recommended flies for this week:

• Mr. Rapidan Dry size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Delta Wing Caddis, Tan size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14
• Murray's Olive Caddis Pupa, size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle Nymph, Olive size 14
• Perdigon Nymph, Olive size 14

A dry fly/dropper rig is recommended if you are familiar with it. Use a Murray's Mountain 6ft 5X Leader with the flies above.  Fly rods that are 6.5ft to 7.5ft long that handle a 3-weight fly line are recommended for the small native brook trout streams. Check out our Fly Rod/Reel Combos

Want to Learn More About Fly Fishing on the Native Brook Trout Streams?

• Take a Fly Fishing School--We have openings in our On The Stream Mountain Trout Schools in the George Washington National Forest on April 13, 20, 27 and May 4.  Fly Rod & Reel Outfits are provided for the school. 
• Or book a Guided Fly Fishing Trip with one of our guides.

Now let's talk about the stocked trout streams. The local stocked trout streams are clear and at excellent water levels. Big Stoney Creek west of Edinburg was stocked last week and I expect Passage Creek in Fort Valley to be stocked within the next week. 

Anglers are having success with these flies.

• Perdigon Nymph size 12
• Holo Point Jig, Barbless in size 14
• Newburys Pale Morning Dun size 14
• Casual Dress Nymph size 8 or 10
• Murray's Tungsten Marauder olive or black size 10

Check out the VA DWR website for the latest streams to be stocked.

• Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, black or brown size 6 or 8
• Murray's Roadkill Nymph, skunk or olive size 6 or 8
• Jigged Squirmy Wormie
• Olive Dragonfly Nymph size 6

To see the latest streams stocked, visit DWR website.

********************************************************************

Now let's move onto the native brook trout streams.  The warmer temperatures later this week will get every angler in the mood to be on the small streams.  The first hatch occurs this month. The Quill Gordon nymphs are growing rapidly and some are moving to the lower part of the riffles. A few of these are washed into the main stream and the trout are ready to take them quickly. A very effective technique is to fish a Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14 upstream dead drift, landing it right at the lower edge of the riffle.

Other recommended flies for the native brook trout streams:

• Perdigon Nymph, Olive size 14 or 16
  
• Bead Head Prince Nymph size 12 or 14
• Olsen's Barbless Blowtorch size 16
• Jigged Tungsten Hare's Ear Nymph size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Parachute Dry size 14

For better water levels, I would come into the streams from the Skyline Drive. For more information on access to the streams, see the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park.

Prime Time to fish the native brook trout streams is April and May. While the hatches and water levels are ideal. 

Spring 2026 Mountain Trout Fly Fishing Schools in the George Washington National Forest.  These schools offer a full day of learning.  Each school starts at 9am at our fly shop in Edinburg, VA on scheduled dates for a classroom introduction on tactics, equipment, reading the stream and knots. Then continue on a native brook trout stream west of our fly shop for hands-on instruction until about 5pm. Fly Rod & Reel Outfits are provided for the school.  CLICK To Learn More and Register, 

Prefer more one on one guidance?  Consider taking a Trout Guided Fly Fishing Trip with us on the native brook trout streams. CLICK FOR MORE INFO 

• Murray's Tungsten Bead Marauder, black or olive in size 10
• Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, black or olive size 8
• Jigged Tungsten Hares Ear Nymph size 12
• Jigged Tungsten Pheasant Tail Nymph size 14
• Barbless French Bomb size 14

Bring your hippers and wade carefully.  Visit the DWR website for the latest stocking schedule.

The native brook trout streams in the Shenandoah National Park still have some snow and icy conditions so there is not much action.  The Skyline Drive does close during icy conditions and for updates you can check their website or social media. These streams will start warming up and improving over the next month.  The first hatch to occur--Quill Gordon usually starts mid to late March. A Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14 is ideal.  For more information on the hatches, read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park.

Prime Time to fish the native brook trout streams is April and May.  Our Mountain Trout Fly Fishing Schools for Spring 2026 are filling up.  Reserve your spot today!

Click links below for more information. Some dates are close to being full so don't delay on signing up.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

Interested in a Guided Trip?? Learn more and call us to book....540-984-4212

Our first Smallmouth Bass Fishing Report of 2026 brings with it good news in the form of rain.  The North Fork Shenandoah River and South Fork Shenandoah River are now almost completely ice free and rising with the recent rains. While flows are coming up nicely, water temperatures remain cold in the 33–40°F range. As expected for late February conditions, smallmouth bass fishing is slow.

Focus your efforts on classic winter holding water — deep pools, slow current seams, and areas with soft structure near ledges and submerged timber. Fish are lethargic and holding tight to the bottom, so getting your fly down is critical.

Recommended tactics:

• Use a Scientific Anglers Sink Tip III Fly Line to reach bottom quickly with your streamers.
• Streamer Fishing: Slowly strip a #2 Olive Galloup's Dungeon with long pauses to trigger cold-water reaction strikes.
  
• Nymph Fishing: Drift twonymphs #4 Black Heavy Eyed Hellgrammite as the anchor fly and a #8 Brown Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle 12" above.  Place all of this under an Oros Screw On Floating Strike Indicator and slowly drift your flies through the slow deep pools (>5' deep).
  

Patience is key right now — slow your presentation more than you think is necessary. As water temperatures begin to rise consistently into the low 40s, activity should gradually improve as the days get a little longer coming into March.

posted 2/17/26  Passage Creek in Fort Valley is a good stream to fish as it has two sections--Delayed Harvest (cannot take fish out) and a put and take area. It is easily accessible and there is plenty of parking along Rt. 678. There are many streams getting stocked throughout Virginia, so check the stocking schedule before heading out.

Recommended Flies for this week:

• Tungsten Bead Marauder size 10 in black
• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 12
• Tungsten Jigged Hares Ear Nymph size 14
• Perdigon Nymph in Olive size 14
• Jigged Squirmie Wormie

Shop Newest Products

The native brook trout streams in the Shenandoah National Park still have snow around them making it hard to hike/walk into the streams.  I recommend giving them a little more time to thaw out. 

We are currently booking for Spring 2026 Mountain Trout Fly Fishing Schools and Guided Trips. 

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information. Some dates are close to being full so don't delay on signing up.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

Interested in a Guided Trip?? Learn more and call us to book....540-984-4212

Recommended flies for this week:

• Murray's Dark Stonefly Nymph size 12
• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 12
• Cress Bug size 14
• Olsens Blowtorch Barbless size 16

I would put the native brook trout fishing on hold for another few weeks as most of the streams are still covered with ice and dangerous to get into.  

We are currently booking for Spring 2026 Mountain Trout Fly Fishing Schools and Guided Trips. 

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information. Some dates are close to being full so don't delay on signing up.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

Interested in a Guided Trip?? Learn more and call us to book....540-984-4212

• dress in layers including warm hats and gloves
• wear heavy waders
• take a change of clothes
• take breaks to warm up in the vehicle

A wading staff is recommended and the Fishpond Burrito Bag is an excellent asset to have in the vehicle to keep your wader mess contained to one area.

All of the local stocked trout streams are clear and fishable.  Passage Creek in Fort Valley was stocked last week in the delayed harvest area and the put and take area. For the latest report, visit the DWR website.

It's Nymph Season!!  Enjoy 15% off NYMPHS on online orders through midnight 1/22/26

Recommended flies for the stocked trout streams:

• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14
• Cress Bug size 14 or 16
• Murray's Dark Stonefly Nymph size 14
• Copper John, Zebra size 14
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle, Brown size 14
• Olsen's Blowtorch Barbless size 16

I don't expect much action on the native brook trout streams because of the frigid temperatures.  The Skyline Drive in the Shenandoah National Park closes periodically in the winter during bad weather.  Keep updated by visiting their website.

We are currently booking for Spring 2026 Mountain Trout Fly Fishing Schools and Guided Trips. 

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information. Some dates are close to being full so don't delay on signing up.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

Interested in a Guided Trip?? Learn more and call us to book....540-984-4212

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Marauder, Black or Olive size 10
• Murray's Strymph, Black or Olive size 10
• Olsen's Blowtorch Barbless, Peacock size 16
• Mr. Rapidan Emerger size 12
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle Nymph, Brown size 12
• Murray's Dark Stonefly Nymph, size 12
• Cress Bug size 14

The native brook trout fishing is slow but we are picking up a few on nymphs in the mountain streams.  Water temperature is still cold and it is still early to be on these streams but who can resist a day hiking in the mountains. Keep in mind the Shenandoah National Park does close some throughout the winter if the weather is bad.  Check their website or social media for updates on trail/road closures. 

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Little Dark Stonefly Dry size 18
• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14
• Copper John, Zebra size 18
• Perdigon Nymph, French size 16

We are currently booking for Spring 2026 Mountain Trout Fly Fishing Schools and Guided Trips. 

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information. Some dates are close to being full so don't delay on signing up.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

Interested in a Guided Trip?? Learn more and call us to book....540-984-4212

• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14
• Murray's Dark Stonefly Nymph size 14
• Olsen's Blowtorch Barbless, Peacock size 16
• Casual Dress Nymph, size 12
• Betsy Streamer size 12
• Murray's Marauder, Black or Olive size 10

Fish these on a Murray's Classic 9ft 4X or 5X leader or use Murray's Trout Nymph Leader which has built in strike indicators.

Now let's talk about the native brook trout streams. With this warmer weather, I would be tempted to explore more streams in the Shenandoah National Park. Plan to fish in the afternoon once the water temperatures have had time to increase slightly. Nymphs will be the best option. Use the nymphs listed above on a Murray's Mountain Leader 6ft 5X leader. For better water levels, I would recommend coming in from the lower boundaries of the streams. 

We are currently booking for Spring 2026 Mountain Trout Fly Fishing Schools and Guided Trips. 

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information. Some dates are close to being full so don't delay on signing up.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

Interested in a Guided Trip?? Learn more and call us to book....540-984-4212

NEW PRODUCT ALERT--Korkers Greenback boots

The stocked trout streams are doing well.  The DWR continues to stock rainbows, browns and some tiger trout in streams throughout Virginia. Our local streams are low and clear but definitely fishable. Passage Creek in Fort Valley off of Rt. 678 near the Elizabeth Furnace Campground was just stocked last week. Big Stoney Creek west of Edinburg was stocked about two weeks ago.  For the latest schedule visit the DWR website.

Nymphs and small streamers seem to be working best. My recommendations for this week include:

• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14
• Murray's Dark Stonefly Nymph size 12
• Olsen's Blowtorch Barbless Nymph size 16 (Peacock)
• Cress Bug size 14
• Casual Dress Nymph size 12
• Murray's Marauder size 12 (olive, black or brown)

The native brook trout streams are low and cold so there is not much action occurring on them. If you are so inclined to try your luck on these streams, use small nymphs.  The Skyline Drive going through the Shenandoah National Park closes during bad weather, so check their website or social media pages for updates on closures.

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information. Some dates are close to being full so don't delay on signing up.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

If you want to learn more about the native brook trout streams before next Spring here are some options.

• read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park

Nymphs are working well on these streams with a Murray's Classic 9ft 5X leader or Murray's Trout Nymph Leader 9ft 5X..

• Perdigon Nymph in olive or french, size 14
• Olsen's Blowtorch Barbless Nymph in Peacock
• Bead Head Prince Nymph size 14
• Murray's Dark Stonefly Nymph size 14
• Cress Bug size 14
• Squirmy Wormie size 10

Holiday Hours: 
December 12/24 closing at noon
December 12/25 to 12/30 closed for vacation (online orders will be fulfilled) 

The Skyline Drive has been closed in the Shenandoah National Park due to inclement weather so if you are planning a trip to the Park, check their website or social media post for updates on road closures. As of this report, mile post 0-65 has reopened. The native brook trout streams are cold so don't expect alot of action.  

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

If you want to learn more about the native brook trout streams before next Spring here are some options.

• read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park

• Mr. Rapidan Bead Head Nymph size 14
• Bead Head Soft Hackle Pheasant Tail Nymph size 16
• Copper John, Zebra size 18
• Perdigon Nymph, French size 14, 16
• Cress Bug size 14, 16
• Murray's Heavy Hellgrammite, Black or Olive size 8
• Murray's Marauder, Black or Brown size 10

If you plan to try your hand at the native brook trout streams in the Shenandoah National Park, BE SMART about planning your trip. This time of year the weather can change unexpectedly in the Park, so be prepared for snow/ice/and cold temperatures. The Park service does close roads when bad weather is approaching. Check their website or social media posts for updates on road closures. 

Fly Fishing Schools

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

If you want to learn more about the native brook trout streams before next Spring here are some options.

• read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park

Fly Tying Classes

Recommended flies:

• Murray's Tungsten Cone Head Marauder, Black or Olive size 4
• Murray's Madtom Sculpin, black size 4
• CJ Sluggo size 1/0
• Galloups Dungeon size 2

Fish these as deeply and slowly as you can. A 9ft, 7 or 8-weight fly rod is recommended for the bigger flies.

Fly Fishing Schools for Smallmouth Bass--June 2026--Registration is Open!!!

Recommended flies:

• Mr. Rapidan Dry size 18
• Murray's Dark Stonefly Dry size 18
• Blue Wing Olive Baetis size 16, 18
• Murray's Dark Stonefly Nymph size 14
• Copper John, Zebra size 16, 18
• Perdigon Nymph, French size 14, 16
• Rubber Leg Nymph, Brown size 8

For a complete list of the streams being stocked in Virginia, visit the VA DWR website. It is updated daily around 3pm.

I still prefer to leave the native brook trout alone for a few more weeks as I have seen spawning beds in early December.  We are on the tail edge of it so I recommend waiting until the first of the year before fishing the streams in the Shenandoah National Park. With winter weather approaching the Shenandoah National Park does close occasionally so check their website or social media pages. 

Prime Time to Fish for the Native Brook Trout is April & May when the hatches and water levels are ideal. Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

If you want to learn more about the native brook trout streams before next Spring here are some options.

• read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park

Orvis Clearwater 7'6" 3-weight 4pc. Fly Rod and Reel Outfit for $456.90

If you see rising trout, put on a Mr. Rapidan Dry size 16 or 18, Blue Wing Olive size 16 or 18 or Mr. Rapidan Midge size 18.

Hawksbill Creek in Page County was just recently stocked and Passage Creek in Shenandoah County was stocked last week.  To see the complete list of recently stocked streams, visit the DWR website.

Our Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals are live!!!  On Online Orders save 15% on FLIES through 12/01/25.  Gift Certificates are available in the fly shop and online.

Up Coming Events at Murray's Fly Shop

If you want to learn more about the native brook trout streams before next Spring here are some options.

• read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park
• attend our Workshop--Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park 101 presentation at the fly shop in Edinburg, VA on December 6, 2025 at 10am

Attendees of the December 6, 2025 workshop get 10% off in-store purchases the day of the workshop. Cannot be used with any other discounts. Register your spot today!

Recommended flies for this week:

• Rubber Leg Nymph, Brown size 8
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle, Brown size 14 (can be used as a dropper below the rubber leg nymph above)
• Blue Wing Olive Dry size 16 or 18 (use when you see rising trout)
  
• Mr. Rapidan Dry size 16 or 18 (use when you see rising trout)
• Copper John, Zebra size 16
• Perdigon Nymph, French size 16

Fish these on a Murray's Classic 9ft Leader. 

If you need help with access, stop by the fly shop or check the VA DWR website for their map.

The wild brook trout are still spawning so I don't usually go to these streams until after the first of the year. 

April and May are prime time to fish the native brook trout streams for water levels and hatches.  Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

If you want to learn more about the native brook trout streams before next Spring here are some options.

• read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park
• attend our Workshop--Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park 101 presentation at the fly shop in Edinburg, VA on December 6, 2025 at 10am

Attendees of the December 6, 2025 workshop get 10% off in-store purchases the day of the workshop. Cannot be used with any other discounts. Register your spot today!

Recommended flies:

• CJ Sluggo size 1/0
• Galloups Dungeon Fly size 2
• Murray's Magnum Creek Chub size 4
• Murray's Magnum Bluegill size 4

CJ Sluggo

Both the North Fork and South Fork of the Shenandoah River are low, clear and fishable. Wade carefully (with chest high waders) so that you are not spooking the bass.  If you need help with access, stop by the fly shop or see our book Fly Fishing the Shenandoah River for Smallmouth Bass

Murray's Fly Shop Beanies are in stock--just in time for the cold days ahead!

Recommended flies for this week:

• Blue Wing Olive Dry size 16, 18
• Mr. Rapidan Dry size 16, 18
• Copper John, Zebra size 16, 18
• Mr. Rapidan Soft Hackle Nymph Olive size 16
• Rubber Leg Nymph, Brown size 8
• Murray's Marauder, Olive size 10

Want to learn more? Listen to our latest podcast for November (2nd part covers trout)

The brook trout are spawning, therefore I do not recommend fishing the native brook trout streams in the Shenandoah National Park at this time. 

April and May are prime time to fish the native brook trout streams for water levels and hatches.  Which is why we conduct our fly fishing schools during April and May.  Spring 2026 Dates are open for registration! Click links below for more information.

• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the Shenandoah National Park --meeting at Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA
• Mountain Trout Schools conducted in the George Washington National Forest--meeting at Murray's Fly Shop in Edinburg, VA

If you want to learn more about the native brook trout streams before next Spring here are some options.

• read the book Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park
• attend our Workshop--Trout Fishing in the Shenandoah National Park 101 presentation at the fly shop in Edinburg, VA on December 6, 2025 at 10am