2008 Smallmouth Bass River Forecast

New River, Lower (Below Claytor Lake):

Anglers visiting the New River below Claytor Lake in 2008 will catch numerous 7 to 14 inch smallmouth bass. The 2004 and 2005 smallmouth bass spawns were the best spawns in electrofishing sampling since 1996 and the 2007 smallmouth bass spawn was above average. With these spawns contributing to angler catches now and the potential for these fish to be future trophies, the outlook for New River smallmouth bass fishing is bright. The large spawns of 2004 and 2005 were reflected in electrofishing samples in fall 2007, with 80% of the adult (over 7 inches long) smallmouth bass catch consisting of bass between 7 and 14 inches. About 19% of the adult smallmouth bass collected in fall 2006 electrofishing on the New River were in the 14 to 20 inch range, so anglers will find good numbers of smallmouth bass within the current restricted slot limit. The New River offers the potential for trophy smallmouth bass fishing, with smallmouth bass from the above average spawns of 1996 and 1997 now over 20 inches long. Top locations for smallmouth bass include the Radford to McCoy Falls section of Montgomery County and the Pembroke to Pearisburg section of Giles County.

Angler catches of redbreast sunfish and rock bass in recent years were low, due to poor spawns. Fall 2007 electrofishing catches for these species were higher than electrofishing catches in fall 1999, indicating that both of these species spawned well in the past 3 years. Anglers seeking panfish action in the New River should enjoy success in 2007. Good areas for panfish action include the Radford to McCoy Falls section of Montgomery County and the Pembroke to Glen Lyn section of Giles County.

New River, Upper (Above Claytor Lake):

Fishing for smallmouth bass should be good in 2008 but if the river has low flows getting around can be difficult. The 2006 year class of smallmouth bass is coming on strong and should result in an increase in the catch. There are still good numbers of fish in the 12-18 inch range and several larger fish are swimming around. Catch rates of walleye from sampling in 2006-2007 are the best on record and this should hold for fishing catch rates also. Some walleye anglers catch in 2008 may have a tag in them as part of a study being done by fish biologist with the Game Department. If you catch a walleye with a tag send it in with the information required and you may receive a reward. Rock bass and redbreast sunfish continue to be abundant and will provide fun fishing opportunities. Anglers may also encounter an occasional channel or flathead catfish and maybe even a muskie. Overall there should be good fishing on the upper New River in 2008.

James River, Upper (Iron Gate to Scottsville):

The upper James River experienced fish kills in 2007, similar in nature to those seen on the Shenandoah system over the past few years. The cause(s) of these kills is still unknown. In spite of this problem, there are still fish in the upper James. In 2008, anglers can expect to find good numbers of smallmouth bass. Preliminary indications suggest that the number of larger smallmouth bass (those over 14 inches) may be down a little bit, but overall numbers of fish (all sizes) are nearly identical to 2007. Additionally, 2007 was a very good spawning year for smallmouth bass, which should provide excellent fishing through at least 2010. We observed high numbers of smallies in the 10-12 inch range in late 2007. These are fish from the excellent spawning year of 2004, and should be 11-14 inches long through 2008. There should also be lots of small fish in the river this year (6-8 inches), so catch rates should be pretty good.

Since no cause has been identified, and (as far as we know) nothing has changed, we expect fish kills and fish with lesions to again show up in the James River in the spring of 2008. Based on the kills in the Shenandoah system, we cannot predict the extent or severity of any problems in 2008. Assuming these problems follow a similar pattern, the 2008 kills may be less or more than those we saw in 2007. We continue to work on this problem, but haven't confirmed the source of them yet.

In addition to smallmouth bass, the upper James River contains many other species that should provide good angling in 2008. Rock bass should be large and numerous this year, as we saw more in late 2007 than in the previous 15 years. Redbreast sunfish are a little more numerous than they've been in the recent past, although they are still not as abundant as they were 20-25 years ago. Both fallfish and musky numbers have been increasing over the past 5 years, and could provide some exciting action. Numbers of catfish (both channels and flatheads) should be similar to those seen in the past couple of years. Overall, the upper James should provide good fishing for multiple species of fish, in spite of the fish kill problems.

James River, Middle (Scottsville to Richmond):

Fish in the middle James displayed similar symptoms as fish in the upper James but the fish kill from Scottsville to Richmond was negligible overall. As in the upper portion of the river, anglers will find good numbers of small fish to keep them busy in 2008. It appeared that larger fish (those 12 inches and above) were more heavily impacted by the kill and that was apparent in fall sampling. Fish in VDGIF samples were dominated by smallmouth less than 12 inches and 62% of the sample was fish spawned in the spring of 2007. The 2007 year class is extremely strong with catch rates of almost 50 smallmouth bass per hour (average catch of young is usually about 25-30 fish per hour). Fish from the 2004 and 2005 year class that were not impacted by the fish kill will reach 13-14 inches this spring and those larger fish combined with a strong year class entering the fishery from last year will provide anglers ample fishing opportunities. Personnel with VDGIF and DEQ have made finding the cause of this fish kill a top priority but as yet have not pinpointed a cause.

The bream fishery seems to be holding steady in this stretch of the James with redbreast sunfish up to 8 inches and bluegill up to 9 inches. Flathead and channel catfish numbers also remained stable in 2007. Channel catfish up to 27 inches were sampled and flathead catfish over 33 inches were also observed. Flathead distribution is very spotty in the fall but if anglers can find one of their holes, many big flatheads can be caught.

Rappahannock River:

Recent studies conducted by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries suggest a bright future for smallmouth bass angling on the Rappahannock River. The population continues to grow and experience improved size structure due to two excellent year classes (2004 and 2005) followed by an average spawn in 2006 and an apparently average spawn in 2007. Fisheries Biologist John Odenkirk stated that this four-year string links together the strongest consecutive year class grouping documented to-date in this river system. Fish should be getting more abundant and larger. Near perfect environmental conditions (primarily rainfall during the month of June) occurred in 2004 which resulted in record production (numbers of juvenile bass) providing sample young-of-year electrofishing catch rates of 43 per hour (the previous record was in 1997 when 28 per hour were sampled, and that year class persisted for years providing excellent angling). Electrofishing catch rate of age-1 and age-2 smallmouth bass during fall 2006 samples was predictably high after record catch rates of juveniles previous years. This resulted in the highest ratio of large fish in the population documented to-date. These fish should be very noticeable this spring and summer. Average spawns through the late 1990s and early 2000s resulted in modest numbers and size structure during past years. Forage increases due to shad migration above Embrey Dam should result in increased growth and higher biomass at upstream sites. For more information, contact Fisheries Division, 540-899-4169.

Shenandoah River (North Fork, South Fork, and Mainstem):

Over the past four years fish kills have plagued the majority of the Shenandoah River system. The location, distance of river affected, and severity of these kills has not been consistent from year to year. The most recent kill episode (spring 2007) occurred throughout the North Fork, South Fork, and Main stem Shenandoah River. These kills have mainly affected the adults of three fish species (Smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish, and northern hogsucker). Measurable impacts to additional species appear to be minimal. The cause of these fish kills is currently unknown. The Shenandoah River Fish Kill Task Force is working diligently toward determining what may have caused these fish kills and preventing future kills. For updated information regarding the ongoing fish kill investigation visit the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality's (DEQ) Web site.

South Fork and Main stem Shenandoah:

While the overall relative abundance of smallmouth bass remains near the 11-year average, densities of larger/older smallmouth bass have been reduced due to these fish kills. On the positive side, spawning success for smallmouth bass has been excellent the past few years. In addition, juvenile smallmouth bass growth rates have almost doubled since the start of the kills. This above-average spawning success and increased growth is helping to minimize the effects of the fish kills. The redbreast sunfish population has also been changed by the fish kills. Density of sunfish varies by location, and the size structure of the population has shifted toward smaller fish. However, biologists are also seeing a stabilization of the sunfish population throughout most of the river system. While the Shenandoah River continues to experience chronic fish kills, 2008 should still be a favorable year for anglers. Catch rates of 25-50+ fish per day should be in order this year on most sections of the South Fork and Main stem Shenandoah. While anglers can expect to encounter a few smallmouth > 13" in most areas, the majority of the bass caught will be 9-13". With the best growth rates occurring further downstream, anglers should see more smallmouth > 13" on the Main stem Shenandoah. Intensive sampling with multiple electrofishing boats in 2007 revealed a growing muskie population in the South Fork Shenandoah. Biologists have not documented any natural reproduction by muskie; therefore, they are stocked annually throughout the Shenandoah River. Fishing deeper pools on the South Fork and Main stem offer the best opportunity to catch one of these "toothy" critters. Overall, in 2008 anglers should experience a similar fishery in most of the South Fork and Main stem as compared to the past two years.

North Fork Shenandoah:

Unfortunately, biologists were not able to sample the North Fork Shenandoah in fall 2008 due to extreme-low flow conditions. While lack of electrofishing information makes it difficult to provide an accurate fishing forecast for 2008, DGIF did receive some positive reports from anglers in 2007. Fish kills have hampered the North Fork since 2004 and the lower reaches of the river (downstream of Woodstock) have suffered the greatest impacts. Smallmouth bass spawning success was above average 2004-2006 and those fish should make up the bulk of the angler's catch in 2008. Smallmouth bass should range from 9-12 "with fish > 12" being scarce. Fallfish are plentiful in some sections of the North Fork, can reach 14+ inches, and should not be overlooked by anglers.

Maury River:

Although fish kills affected the Shenandoah, Cowpasture, and upper James River in 2007, the Maury River has been largely unaffected by poor fish health. Rock bass and white suckers exhibited some lesions at specific locations in the spring, but none led to widespread mortality. Fisheries biologists examined the Maury River at four locations in fall, 2007, as part of a routine monitoring program. Generally, smallmouth bass were abundant and healthy, but most specimens were undersized (< 12 inches long). The Maury River has a reputation as a river where 100 fish days are not uncommon, so anglers can expect lots of action again in 2008. Very strong year classes in 2005 and 2006 will continue to support a thriving smallmouth population in the Maury. Bass growth is slow, but many survive to provide ample trophy fishing in this scenic river. A strong year class from 1999 should continue to provide 17-19 inch fish. Musky and flathead catfish provide variety to anglers in the Glasgow area. Along with the excellent rock bass and sunfish angling, the Maury River continues to be a popular destination for those seeking stunning scenery, swift rapids, and plenty of sport fishing action on light tackle.

Staunton River (Below Leesville Dam):

Staunton River smallmouth anglers should expect great numbers of young smallmouth bass in 2008. The 2005 and 2007 year classes were exceptional providing anglers with god numbers of smallmouth less than 14 inches. Growth rates of smallmouth bass are above average which certainly helps the Staunton produce some larger fish as well. The Stanton River has excellent smallmouth bass habitat; anglers new to the river should concentrate on the abundant rocky habitat as well as submerged trees extending from the river bank. The Staunton River also holds a number of spotted bass and the chance to catch a spot over 12 inches are high. In addition to black bass, anglers in the Staunton River will find fishing for channel catfish and flathead catfish to be excellent. Catfish are well distributed throughout the river and should be available to anglers fishing from the shore and from boats. Walleye are also present in the Staunton River. While many anglers have their greatest success with walleye in the winter and early spring, they can be caught year round. The area immediately below Leesville dam provides great fishing. The DGIF stocks walleye each year and for the past two years, VDGIF has stocked smallmouth bass experimentally to try and smooth out the erratic spawning production. Access is fairly good, and anglers can visit: http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/fishing for more information.

North Fork Holston River:

Anglers will find good numbers of smallmouth between 14 and 18 inches in the North Fork Holston River. About 30 percent of adult smallmouth exceed 15 inches in length, and 10 percent measure more than 17 inches long. The abundance of fish in this size range appears to be the result of high annual survival (79%) rather than strong year classes or fast growth. Smallmouth over 20 inches are not as common (less than one percent of the sample), but many are landed each year. Catch rates for rock bass were also good in recent samples, so fishing should be good again for "redeyes" this year.

Middle Fork Holston River:

The Middle Fork Holston River should offer a variety of good fishing opportunities in 2008. The river has good numbers of smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish, rock bass, and bluegill located throughout the 32-mile navigable sections in Smyth and Washington Counties. Smallmouth bass are abundant and can grow to decent size, up to 18-20 inches. Anglers may also catch a few largemouth bass, black crappie, channel catfish and pumpkinseed sunfish. The upper portions of the Middle Fork Holston in the town of Marion and Atkins provide excellent trout fishing opportunities, as these sections are part of the departments stocked trout program. Remember when fishing stocked trout waters a trout license is required in addition to a freshwater fishing license.

Clinch River:

The Clinch River will offer good smallmouth fishing this year. Low water hampered sampling efforts in 2007, but 2006 yielded higher sampling catch rates than in previous years. Most of the smallmouth collected were less than 15 inches in length, but some larger fish are available. About 10 percent of adult smallmouth exceeded 15 inches in length, 4 percent measured more than 17 inches and less than 1 percent was over 20 inches in length. Rock bass size and numbers were up in the most recent samples, so they might fill in some of the time between smallmouth bites. Channel catfish abundance increased somewhat at several sites. Walleye, sauger, and musky are present, but in lower densities.

Powell River:

The Powell River will provide a variety of good fishing opportunities in 2008. However, if flows are low travel by boat may be difficult. The river has good numbers of redbreast sunfish, rock bass, and smallmouth bass. Anglers may also catch a few spotted bass, channel catfish, and muskie. There are no public access points on the Powell River so anglers are encouraged to obtain landowner permission when accessing the river from private lands.

Jackson River:

The Jackson River between Covington and Iron Gate supports high numbers of 8 - 12 inch smallmouth bass, yet collection of "baby" bass continued its low trend in 2007. How is the high density of adult bass supported by low catch rates of young-of-year fish? That question has yet to be answered by fisheries biologists, but one theory is that tributaries such as Dunlap Creek and Potts Creek provide much of the recruitment to the fishery. Occasional trophies are reported from its stained waters, but it is the exception rather than the rule. Smallmouth bass growth is normal up to 3 years of age, but fish length "hits the wall" as they grow older. This, again, is perplexing, because most smallmouth in this reach are heavy and healthy for their size. Speaking of fish health, a new sample location was added in 2007 and some smallmouth with lesions and fungus appeared in the catch. These fish may have migrated into the Jackson from the Cowpasture or James, but it is important to note that this is the exception, rather than the rule. A close eye will be kept on the fishery in 2008, but angling should be consistent with past years. Improved access to the river can be found at the Island Ford Transfer Station and near Clifton Middle School. Day-long or evening float trips should provide hours of great smallmouth bass and rock bass angling, with an occasional rainbow or brown trout added to the stringer.

Nottoway River:

Largemouth bass fishing in the Nottoway River should be good in 2008. Data collected showed great spawning success in 2003 & 2004. The river should be full of fish spawned in those years averaging 15 to 17 inches. Fish spawned in 2005 & 2006 should "fill in the gaps" nicely as those fish should average 10 to 12 inches and should be numerous throughout the river. A few slightly larger (18 inch) bass can be found. Larger fish (primarily from the 1998 year class) will be less numerous this year than last year as most of those fish are waning in numbers. Most of the largest fish in the river would have come from the 1999-2001 year classes; however, poor spawning success in those years has limited their number. 2007 was marked with one of the worst droughts in recent history and will be reflected in the fish population. Few, if any, young of the year survived this past summer's low waters. Anglers won't notice this loss unless the next couple of years experience poor spawning success also.

Smallmouth bass fishing should mimic largemouth bass fishing as summertime water levels and flows determine smallmouth recruitment. Currently there is not enough data to specifically forecast fishing success. However, expect similar numbers and sizes of smallmouth in the upper river this year.

Fishing for other species will provide great opportunities for anglers. An expanding blue catfish population will provide anglers with an additional species to target. Blue catfish are not only increasing in numbers in the river, but also in size as fish over 20 lbs are becoming more abundant. Sunfish (redbreasts, shellcrackers, bluegill and pumpkinseeds) fishing should be good again this year. Bowfin angling should be good as always. Good numbers of the 2000, 2001 & 2003 year classes should be abundant throughout the river. Bowfin from those year classes should average 22-25 inches in length.

Biologists have collected data showing most shad return to the rivers to spawn at age 3. Few, if any, fish reach the age of six. Even though few return each year, shad fishing this spring should still be better than average for American shad and average for hickory shad. Average spawning success in 2000 & 2001 along with excellent spawns of American shad in 2002 & 2003 will provide numerous fish 16-20 inches with a few fish over the 20 inch mark. Hickory shad had average spawning success from 2000 through 2002 and excellent spawning success in 2003. Many 12 - 16 inch hickory shad should be available to anglers with good numbers of larger fish available.

For more information contact the fisheries division as follows:

  • James and Staunton rivers: (434) 525-7522
  • New, North and Middle Fork Holston, Clinch, and Powell rivers: (276) 783-4860
  • Shenandoah, Maury, and Jackson rivers: (540) 248-9360
  • Rappahannock River: (540) 899-4976