Cast into the Blue Ridge: Private Fly-Fishing with Tim Lewis at Graves Mountain
Starting at $100 • Mon-Sun • 1–8 hrs • Up to 4 people
The morning arrives like a held breath. Mist sits low over the private pond at Graves Mountain Farm, a gray sheet that parts when the sun finds the ridge. You step out of the car in long-sleeved layers, the earth underfoot still cool, and a guide—Tim Lewis—greets you with a short nod and the kind of quiet confidence that comes from years spent reading water. In minutes he’s fitting a rod to your hand, not as an instructor giving orders, but as someone tuning a conversation between you and the river.
Trail Wisdom
Book a morning slot
Fish are most active at first light—choose early starts for better hatches and cooler conditions.
Borrow gear if you’re new
Rods, reels, flies, and waders are available—arrive in comfortable clothing and let the guide outfit you.
Mind the footing
Bank and stream access can be slippery—wear grippy boots and use a walking stick if balance is a concern.
Practice catch-and-release
Use barbless hooks and quick handling to protect fish and local populations.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Private pond edges where rising fish concentrate early in the morning
- •Short scenic pullouts on the Old Blue Ridge Turnpike for quick photo stops
Wildlife
Brook trout (in nearby streams), Great blue heron along pond margins
Conservation Note
Guides promote catch-and-release and minimal-impact access; respect posted private-property boundaries and pack out all trash.
Graves Mountain Farm sits in the rural foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains—an area historically shaped by agriculture and small-scale farming communities.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Nymphing techniques, Active hatches, Learning currents
Challenges: High, cold flows after rain, Unpredictable weather
Spring brings robust early-season hatches and lively feeding—great for learning nymphing and reading currents, but expect variable flows after storms.
summer
Best for: Dry-fly action, Terrestrial patterns, Longer daylight sessions
Challenges: Heat and low water in late summer, Daytime insect pressure can be sporadic
Warm days spotlight dry-fly opportunities and terrestrials near shore; plan on mornings and evenings to avoid heat and sluggish mid-day water.
fall
Best for: Cooler water activity, Scenic conditions, Extended casting practice
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Colder mornings
Fall cools the water and sharpens fish activity—excellent for technique work and enjoying the Blue Ridge colors, but layer up for chilly starts.
winter
Best for: Solitude, Focused casting drills, Nimble short-session practice
Challenges: Cold conditions, Lower fish activity
Winter rewards persistence with quiet water and uninterrupted instruction; expect slower feeding and dress for cold weather.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waders or wading bootsEssential
Keeps you dry and offers traction when accessing ponds and stream banks; available to borrow if needed.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduce glare to see structure and rising fish; also protect eyes from errant flies.
Layered clothingEssential
Quick layers let you adapt to shifting morning temperatures and shaded river corridors.
Small dry bag or pack
Carry snacks, sunscreen, and a phone in a waterproof pocket during longer outings.
Common Questions
Do I need my own gear?
No—Rods, reels, flies, and boots/waders are available to borrow; bring personal sunglasses and layered clothing for comfort.
What experience level is required?
Lessons are for all levels—beginners receive focused casting instruction while advanced anglers can refine technique and local strategies.
How long are sessions and what do they cost?
Sessions run 1–8 hours; prices start at $100 for a one-hour session for one angler, with incremental costs for additional people—longer lessons include meals on full-day options.
Is this walk-in access or private water?
Access is private through Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges; booking a guided session grants access to private ponds and river stretches.
Are kids allowed?
Yes—families are welcome; lessons for younger anglers are tailored for safety and learning pace, with private instruction for up to four people.
What is the catch policy?
Guides emphasize conservation and typically recommend catch-and-release practices and the use of barbless hooks to protect fish populations.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses, layered clothing, grippy boots, small dry bag—see details above for weather and comfort
Did You Know
Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges is on the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers private water access within a short drive of Shenandoah National Park.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning or late-afternoon slots; borrow gear if traveling light; expect limited cell service in hollow areas; bring cash or card for Syria Mercantile snacks
Local Flavor
After a lesson, grab a sandwich or coffee at Syria Mercantile and chat with locals; for dinner, head toward nearby Madison or Charlottesville for farm-to-table restaurants and local breweries.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Charlottesville Albemarle (CHO) ~45–60 minutes; Driving distance from Syria town center: under 10 minutes; Cell service: spotty in low-lying hollows; Permits: private access included with booking.
Sustainability Note
Practice catch-and-release, use barbless hooks, pack out all waste, and avoid bank-side trampling to protect local riparian habitat.