{Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders} Re: Harpers Ferry?

I've been phishing Harpers Ferry pretty regularly this summer. After a few years of being a strictly trout binge, I caved and bought a warmwater rod. It was a great choice. DC/potomac is a great fishery, with lots of options. One thing I've learned about fishing for smallies is that they feed and act way different than trout, so it def took me some time and adjustment. 

This summer I've had better luck on the SF of the Shenandoah, but Harpers Ferry is great too. Things I've noticed up there lately: fish long leaders. Since the water is low, the bass are pretty spooky when they see large disturbances where they are hanging. Longer leaders will also be easier to cast. Fish poppers. If you are new to fly fishing it will  be easier to see your fly and dictate you casts with a popper. Cast it up stream and let it dead drift. As it gets to the end of the pool/cast retrieve it slowly. Colors - Blue, white, last week I used black with yellow legs. The big runs and pools middle river are attractive, and hold lots of fish, but above town hammer the water near the weed/grass beds. If it's low and hot, they move to where they can find cover. There are fish in the middle of the river, but with all the tubers, kayaks ect they tend to be much more spooked and hesitant to feed. I've had my best luck near dusk, 5-dark. They will hit flies all day, but these rivers have the tendency to be very hot and cold. 10 mins of lots of action 30 mins with nothing. 

 Harpers is certainly worth your time, but can take some adjustment. Good luck. 

On Wednesday, September 27, 2017 at 9:14:39 AM UTC-4, Kevin B wrote:

I'm a beginner (and not very good) fly fisherman.  I've been fishing on the Potomac above DC several times this summer with little (= small sunfish) success.  I've heard that Harpers Ferry is mecca for smallmouth wade fishing.  Went up Sunday afternoon with no luck but am thinking about taking off Friday afternoon for one more try at wet wading before the weather cools too much.  

Will it be worth my time?  Any advice?  A guy at White Fly outfitters up there said clousers are their go-to fly.

Any help would be much appreciated.

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