Virginia Smallmouth Forecast

Summary of key points from the February 2006 issue of Virginia Fish and Game....

2005 fish kill on the South Fork of the Shenandoah wiped out 80% of the smallmouth population.  Right now it's cause is still unknown - but not attributed to water quality.

Philpott and Smith Mountain Lakes are ok - plenty of fish as a result of the 14 inch, 2 fish regulation.

The Rapp had a great year class of fish in 2004 - we will start to enjoy the results of that in 2006 and beyond.

Lake Moomaw will be outstanding this year - numerous 13 to 19 inchers

Maury River - "produce smallmouth bass like they are going out of style"

Look for good 16 to 18 inch fish in the North Fork of the Holston

Clinch river still needs time to grow trophy fish from the 2004 year class.

New River - "best smallmouth bass fishery in Virginia"

 Unless stated otherwise, this article was authored by Steve Moore

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Finally, access points may be different or restricted based on changes in property ownership since posting the original article.  It is up to you to make sure you are fishing where it is legal.