Musky Fishing with Virginia Trophy Guides in Roanoke
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required—casting and trolling can be physically demanding.
Overview
Discover the thrill of musky fishing on Virginia’s renowned rivers with Virginia Trophy Guides. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler, these half- or full-day trips deliver an unforgettable experience and a chance at landing the fish of a lifetime.
Musky (Half Day or Full Day)
All ages • 5 - 10 Hours • Experience Best-In-Class Fly Fishing • From $371
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of Musky fishing in Virginia's renowned James and New Rivers! Choose from half or full-day charters, utilizing top-notch gear for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, our expert guides will help you navigate this challenging pursuit, promising a chance at the fish of a lifetime.
Once You Book A Guide Will Be In Touch With You To Discuss Start Times!
Duration
Half Day Charters - Approximatley 5 Hours - $371 (Price includes 2 people)
Full Day Charters - 8 to 10 Hours - $503,50 (Price includes 1 person, 2nd person additional $50)
About
Much like the Smallmouth Bass offerings, both the James River and New River are world-renowned Musky fisheries. Both offer the opportunity at density-rich Musky fisheries, and sometimes exceptionally large Musky for the region. We offer predominantly Fly Fishing trips for Musky, but Conventional Gear trips are also available. Musky fishing is not for the faint of heart, they aren’t called the fish of 10,000 casts for no reason. If you’ve never Musky fished before, it doesn’t mean it’s not for you, but we recommend reaching out to discuss the finer details beforehand, we’re always happy to answer any questions. We utilize the best flies, lures, and gear in the industry to ensure you have the best opportunity at landing the fish of a lifetime!
Seasonal Information To Consider
Musky Fishing is very seasonal in Virginia. Primarily it centers around safe water temperatures to fish for them here in Virginia, and we DO NOT target them in unsafe water temperatures due to their high rates of delayed mortality.
Late September-November is early season/fall fishing for Musky. The water is typically lower from summer, and it can make for some really good fly fishing opportunities for Musky here in Virginia! This is also a great time of year for those that want to try their hand at topwater Musky fishing!
December-Mid March is the prime season for Musky in Virginia. They’ve settled into their winter lies, and they’re putting the feed bag on. As you creep closer into the later part of this season, you have the opportunity at a very large Musky, as they’re preparing for an arduous spawn period and eating large forage species!
May-Mid June is the post-spawn period, and it makes for some really incredible Musky action! There are some days in which it’s not uncommon to boat a high number of Musky as they put the feed bag on again ahead of summer! We often utilize flashy flies stripped very fast or blades on conventional gear to trigger savage eats. This is another time of year for those looking to get a Musky on topwater flies and lures!
What To Bring
Weather appropriate clothing/rain gear(waders and boots WITHOUT studs are optional), polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, valid Virginia fishing license.
Whats Provided
We provide clients with top of the line fishing equipment and tackle that is tried and true in our region. Coolers with cold water is provided on guide trips, clients are welcome to bring lunches for the day.
Adventure Tips
Use the right gear for musky fishing
Heavy action rods and large lures increase your chances of successfully hooking a musky.
Best times to fish
Early morning and late evening are optimal for spotting active muskies feeding near the surface or among cover.
Weather considerations
Windy days can make casting more challenging but often activate feeding behaviors in muskies.
Practice proper casting technique
Accurate casts into shallow coves or around submerged structures are key to enticing bites.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles soaring overhead
- Ospreys diving for fish
History
The James and New Rivers have been vital waterways for Virginia’s fishing and transportation since the 18th century, supporting local communities and outdoor traditions.
Conservation
Virginia Trophy Guides actively promote catch-and-release practices to preserve musky populations and the health of the river systems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Roanoke
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Heavy-duty fishing rod
Designed to handle large, powerful muskies and cast heavy lures effectively.
Strong braided line
Offers the strength and abrasion resistance needed to fight large fish.
Guided fishing tackle
Pre-rigged lures and leaders provided by guides ensure you’re equipped for this species.
Polarized sunglasses
Helps spot muskies lurking below the water’s surface, especially on bright days.
summer|fall specific