When on a guided trip with New River Fly Fishing, be prepared to fish hard for the day.  Please note that there is a huge learning curve involved in going from small stream fly fishing to the open water tactics required on the New River and Claytor Lake.  Many anglers new to river fishing may find casting to be difficult at first, but we will show you the necessary techniques for success.  Trip duration varies depending upon conditions and angler stamina.  One person/two person daily rates: 

     Smallmouth Bass ($325/$400)

Ironically, the New River is considered by many experts to be one of the oldest rivers in the world. While that may be debatable,  the New is without a doubt a renowned world-class bronzeback fishery.  Our fishing techniques and presentations may change throughout the season as needed to target trophy specimens, but our general fishing window is April through October.  For casting to and fighting big smallies we recommend 9'-7/8 wt rods with a 7.5' tapered leader (1x). Our New River float trips are run aboard rafts or drift boats and vary in length from 5-8 miles.  For video click here.

Striped Bass ($350/$450)

Stripers run on a seasonal basis and provide some drag-screaming action.  We offer trips at Claytor and Smith Mtn. Lake(s) in the spring and fall as well the Staunton River in April and May. For fighting stripers,  we recommend a 9'- 9wt rod with an 8'  taper leader (0x). We fish for stripers from our 17' center console Grizzly and Hyde drift boat.

Muskie ($350/$450)

We guide for muskie year round from rafts and drift boats on both the New and James River(s).  Muskie fight hard and often provide anglers with awesome aerial displays.  At least 9/10 wt. rods and shock tippet or wire leaders are required.  This trip is recommended for experienced anglers only. 

Trout ($275/$400)

Our private trout stream offers an exclusive experience for those anglers who want to catch trophy trout in seclusion amidst pristine surroundings.  The stream is stocked  with 16-22" rainbows from November through April. For battling these bruisers, we recommend a 8 1/2'- 5 wt rod with a 9' tapered leader (3x).  All trout trips are wade fishing only.   For video click here.

What to Bring

We provide lunch, drinks, snacks, rods, and flies for all trips.  A Virginia Freshwater Fishing License is required.  We carry digital cameras, but you may want to bring your own as well as rain gear, waders, polarized sunglasses, and a hat. Please advise us of any dietary needs or medical issues in advance.  

Reservation Policy

All bookings require a 50% deposit.  In case of cancellation due to severe weather or river conditions, the trip must be rescheduled within a 12 month period or the deposit will be forfeited.  We accept check and credit card payments.  You can make a reservation by calling (540) 789-7811. Gift certificates are also available and are valid for 1 year from date of purchase.  A 15-20% tip is customary for guided fishing trips.