Chasing Giants: Musky on Virginia’s James and New Rivers
All ages • 5 - 10 Hours • Experience Best-In-Class Fly Fishing • From $371
The river comes at you with a slow insistence—glass-green in the shallows, quickening into a dark current where it eats the sunlight. On a low-angled morning near Radford, the guide eases the drift boat into a seam and the world shrinks to rod tip and line, to the taut whisper of the backing as it rolls off the reel. Musky fishing in Virginia is theater on a river stage: long casts, patient searches, and the errant, explosive strike that rewrites the plan for the day.
Trail Wisdom
Book by season
Choose late fall, winter, or late spring for the best musky action and avoid targeting them in warm water to limit fish stress.
Bring polarized sunglasses
Polarizers cut glare and help you spot structure, current seams, and floaters where muskies lie.
Layer for variable temps
Rivers can feel 10–20°F colder than the air; pack windproof and waterproof layers for full days.
Know handling etiquette
Listen to your guide on de-hooking and keep fish in water when possible to improve survival rates.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tight riffle runs on the New River that concentrate forage
- •Backwater pockets on the James where muskies ambush
Wildlife
Bald eagle, White-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Guides follow water-temperature rules and promote catch-and-release to minimize mortality; packing out tackle and trash protects fish habitat.
These rivers supported indigenous peoples and colonial industry; the New River is geologically ancient and shaped regional settlement patterns.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Post-spawn aggression, Topwater fishing, Sharper weather windows
Challenges: Higher flows after rains, Variable water temperatures
May to mid-June sees hungry post-spawn muskies—fast, flashy presentations work well, but expect variable flows after spring rains.
summer
Best for: Selective deep-water tactics, Quiet early-morning sessions
Challenges: Warmer water shuts down targeting, Higher delayed-mortality risk
Summer heat usually limits musky targeting; guides avoid risky temperatures and focus on deep or shaded water if fishing.
fall
Best for: Topwater opportunities, Lower, clearer water, Stable weather windows
Challenges: Cooling nights require quick clothing changes, Shorter daylight
Late September through November provides excellent fly and topwater fishing as water levels drop and fish feed aggressively.
winter
Best for: Prime winter lies, Big fish potential, Low angling pressure
Challenges: Cold, short days, Icy conditions on ramps
December through mid-March is prime: muskies hold winter lies and feed well—dress warmly and plan shorter, efficient sessions.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduce glare to read water and protect eyes from large, aggressive flies and lures.
Insulated waterproof jacketEssential
Keeps you warm on cold mornings and protects against river spray and wind.
Heavy-duty gloves
Help with leader handling and improve grip when landing big, slippery fish.
Valid Virginia fishing licenseEssential
Required by law for all anglers; guides will check licenses before departure.
Common Questions
Do I need prior musky experience to book?
No—guides work with beginners and experienced anglers. They supply tackle and instruction, but be prepared for physically demanding fights.
What months are best for musky fishing in Virginia?
Prime windows are late September–November, December–mid-March, and May–mid-June depending on water temperature and river system.
Are trips catch-and-release?
Most trips practice catch-and-release with careful handling; discuss specifics with the guide when booking.
What’s included in the charter price?
Guides supply rods, reels, flies/lures, tackle, and coolers with water; clients bring food, license, and appropriate clothing.
Can I fish on conventional gear instead of fly?
Yes—while many trips emphasize fly fishing, conventional gear trips are available; ask the guide when booking.
How cold is too cold to target muskies?
Guides avoid targeting muskies in unsafe water temperatures to prevent delayed mortality; exact thresholds vary, so consult your guide.
What to Pack
Layered waterproof jacket, polarized sunglasses, warm hat and gloves, valid Virginia fishing license — for comfort, sighting, warmth, and legality
Did You Know
The New River is one of the oldest rivers in North America geologically, flowing in a northward direction contrary to many regional rivers.
Quick Travel Tips
Fly into Roanoke (ROA) for the shortest drive, confirm ramp and launch with your guide, expect limited cell service on some river stretches, purchase a Virginia fishing license ahead of arrival
Local Flavor
After a day on the water, head to downtown Radford for local cafés, a casual tavern or brewery, and riverside patios—plan for simple, hearty fare and regional craft beers to refuel.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Roanoke–Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) ~35 miles; Typical drive from Radford area launch: under 30 minutes; Cell service: intermittent along remote river stretches; Permits: Valid Virginia fishing license required.
Sustainability Note
Guides avoid targeting muskies in unsafe water temperatures and practice careful catch-and-release; pack out all trash and minimize bank-side disturbance to protect riverine habitat.