All Day Smallmouth Pursuit: A Guided Float on the Potomac and Shenandoah
For all ages! • All Day • 2 People
The raft drops into the river like a slow heartbeat — a soft, deliberate push that sets the day in motion. Mist lifts from the current, revealing carved rock, fallen sycamores and the ribbon of an old towpath. Captain Bryan checks the line, nods toward a seam where the water tucks behind a submerged ledge, and you feel that quick, private thrill: this is where smallmouth live. For 8.5 hours you move through a changing riverscape — riffles that chatter, lazy pools that hold secrets, and narrow channels that dare you to thread the cast. Nature is never just a backdrop here; the water moves with intent, coaxing fish into the light and asking you to respond.
Trail Wisdom
Bring polarized glasses
Polarized lenses reduce surface glare so you can spot structure and fish holding in seams.
Wear layered clothing
Morning chill and afternoon sun can create big temperature swings on the water—layers keep you comfortable.
Pack a valid fishing license
A state freshwater fishing license is required; keep it accessible for inspection.
Practice quick, careful releases
Bring a rubber-net and wet hands for catch-and-release to preserve smallmouth populations.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Upper Shenandoah pockets near private riffles accessible only by boat
- •Secluded Potomac seams below rocky ledges that hold late-afternoon fish
Wildlife
Osprey, River otter
Conservation Note
Practice catch-and-release for smallmouth, use decontamination steps between waterways to prevent spread of invasive species, and pack out all waste to protect riparian habitats.
The confluence area near Harpers Ferry has long been a strategic crossing and was the site of John Brown’s 1859 raid; the rivers shaped transport and settlement in the region.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Active smallmouth feeding, Higher flows and accessible runs
Challenges: Cooler mornings, Variable high water after rain
Spring brings strong smallmouth activity during pre- and post-spawn windows, with higher flows that open more structure for fishing.
summer
Best for: Warm-water topwater action, Extended daylight
Challenges: Low, clear water in drought, Heat and afternoon storms
Summer can offer aggressive surface action early and late, but low water requires finesse and careful approach.
fall
Best for: Stable medium flows, Feeding fish as temperatures cool
Challenges: Shorter days, Colder mornings
Fall is a prime time for heavy-feeding smallmouth as they bulk up before winter—cooler temps make fish active through the day.
winter
Best for: Fewer anglers, Clear, cold-water sight fishing in mild spells
Challenges: Cold temperatures, Icy launch points and very slow metabolism in fish
Winter trips are quieter but require solid cold-weather gear and an understanding that fish are less active.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Helps you read water and spot fish under glare.
Lightweight dry layers/wind shellEssential
Keeps you warm on cool mornings and protects from wind on exposed runs.
Wading shoes or river boots
Useful for shore casts or getting on/off the raft; choose grippy soles.
Small tackle kit (flies/lures)
You can use the guide’s tackle, but bringing a few preferred flies or lures is helpful.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes — you must carry a valid state fishing license for the river you fish; your guide will confirm requirements before launch.
Is this trip suitable for beginners?
Yes — Captain Bryan offers instruction for novice anglers and supplies tackle if needed, but a basic comfort with casting helps.
What species will we target?
The primary target is smallmouth bass, though the rivers also hold other species; the trip focuses on smallmouth-specific structure and tactics.
How physically demanding is the day?
It’s an all-day float with intermittent whitewater; expect long periods of standing and casting but not extreme exertion.
Is food provided?
Yes — the trip includes a breakfast snack, a full lunch, water and soft drinks on the water.
What happens in bad weather?
The guide monitors conditions and will reschedule or adjust the itinerary for safety in heavy storms or unsafe river conditions.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses, layered wind shell, sunscreen and a valid fishing license — for visibility, temperature control, sun protection and legal compliance
Did You Know
Harpers Ferry sits at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers and was the site of the 1859 John Brown raid — the town’s strategic river position influenced Civil War movements.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book early for spring and fall; 2) Bring cash or card for local tips; 3) Expect limited cell service on the river; 4) Verify state fishing license requirements beforehand
Local Flavor
After a day on the water, head to nearby Harpers Ferry or Shepherdstown for a craft beer or a hearty sandwich. Historic Harpers Ferry has cozy cafes and a handful of taverns, while Shepherdstown’s small downtown offers bakeries, local coffee shops and riverside patios—perfect for swapping stories and checking the day’s photos.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Washington Dulles (IAD) ~45–60 minutes; Typical meeting/launch near Harpers Ferry; Driving distance from Harpers Ferry downtown: 10–30 minutes depending on put-in; Cell service: patchy on the river; Permits: state fishing license required; Shuttle provided.
Sustainability Note
These river systems are sensitive—pack out everything, use barbless or crimped hooks for easier releases, and decontaminate gear between waterways to prevent invasive species transfer.