Hooked on Virginia: Smallmouth Battles on the James and New Rivers
All ages • 5 or 10 Hours • Experience Best-In-Class Fly Fishing • From $371
You push off from a gravel ramp as morning light slants through sycamore limbs and the river answers with a cool, steady whisper. The guide trims the outboard, slides the boat into a quiet drift and points to a seam where current bends around a submerged ledge. That’s where the water thinks, where smallmouth bass tuck in and wait. For five hours or an entire day, you’ll be reading currents and feeling the punchy, sideways fights that made these rivers famous.
Trail Wisdom
Start early or late
Fish are most active in low-light windows—plan morning or evening launches to maximize topwater and streamer action.
Bring a valid license
Virginia requires a freshwater fishing license; purchase in advance to avoid delays.
Use polarized sunglasses
Polarizers cut surface glare so you can read seams, ledges and rising fish.
Dress in layers
Rivers are cooler than the road—bring a breathable shell and a warm mid-layer for early mornings.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Undercut ledges below certain rock spires on the New River that hold larger smallies
- •Quiet backwater bends on the James where post-spawn fish tuck in during spring
Wildlife
Great blue heron, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Practice catch-and-release where advised, avoid wading in sensitive spawning areas in spring, and pack out all waste—local guides help minimize angler impact.
These rivers threaded early colonial settlement and powered mills and transport routes; vestiges of old millworks and railroad grades remain along many banks.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Citation-sized smallmouth, Streamer fishing, Cool morning bites
Challenges: Cold water and chilly mornings, Unpredictable weather
Mid-March to late April is prime for large pre-spawn smallmouth—expect big fish on streamers and jerkbaits, but bring warm layers.
summer
Best for: High-number days, Topwater action at dawn/dusk, Easy access floats
Challenges: Heat and lower water levels, Cicada-driven spikes can be localized
June through early August gives abundant action; mornings and evenings are best for topwater and surface plugs.
fall
Best for: Topwater late-season pops, Baitfish pattern fishing, Firm, clear water conditions
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Cooling temperatures require extra layers
August to mid-October is beloved for explosive topwater bites and larger fish moving on baitfish.
winter
Best for: Quiet river access, Targeting big, slow fish on nymphs/streamers
Challenges: Cold water, potential ice, Reduced bite windows
Late fall into November and winter tightens the bite window but can produce trophy fish—dress for cold and short days.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Helps you pick out seams, structure and rising fish while protecting eyes from glare.
Waterproof jacket/layersEssential
Wind and early-morning chill are common—bring breathable waterproof layers for comfort.
Fishing license (Virginia)Essential
A valid freshwater fishing license is required to fish legally in Virginia waters.
Comfortable river shoes or wading bootsEssential
Non-studded waders or grippy river shoes provide traction on wet ramps and boat decks.
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. All anglers age 16 and older need a Virginia freshwater fishing license—purchase online before your trip.
What’s the difference between a half day and full day charter?
A half day is approximately five hours and focuses on a concentrated stretch of water; full days run 8–10 hours, allowing guides to move between hotspots and cover more river.
Is equipment provided?
Yes—guides supply rods, reels and region-tested tackle; bring personal items like polarized glasses, snacks and a license.
Are trips family-friendly?
Yes—half-day trips are a popular choice for families and beginners; guides can accommodate mixed experience levels.
What species will I catch?
Smallmouth bass are the primary target; you may also encounter rock bass, sunfish and occasional largemouth in certain stretches.
How do I choose between the James and New River?
The James offers pastoral riffles and accessible floats; the New features tighter ledges, spires and technical structure—ask your guide about current conditions and goals.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses (see fish and reduce glare), Waterproof layer (wind/rain protection), Valid Virginia fishing license (required), Snacks and water (full-day energy)
Did You Know
The James River is the longest river entirely within Virginia at about 348 miles and played a central role in colonial transportation and industry.
Quick Travel Tips
Book spring and fall in advance for best dates; Download offline maps—cell service is spotty; Fly into Roanoke (ROA) for the shortest drive; Bring cash or card for local services and tips.
Local Flavor
After a day on the water head to Radford or nearby Blacksburg for hearty local fare—think wood-fired pizza, barbecue, and craft brews at small local taprooms; these college-town spots are great for post-fish meals and swapping stories.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) ~45–60 minutes; Typical drive from Radford river access: 10–40 minutes depending on river section; Cell service: patchy on river—coordinate pickup points; Permits: Virginia freshwater fishing license required.
Sustainability Note
These rivers host sensitive spawning habitat—avoid wading in shallows during pre-spawn windows, use barbless hooks if practicing catch-and-release, and pack out all trash.