Summer was unreal and thing are about to get a whole lot better.
Brook Trout:
Fall brookie fishing is picking up at higher elevations. Water temperatures have been consistently in their safety and comfort zone at higher elevations. Use caddis dries until first frost. Steep streams will drain quicker after massive amounts of water left behind by hurricane Helene, this will turn on the fishing. After first frost, favor classic nymphs.
Rainbows and Browns:
We're days away from DWRs trout stocking season. Keep an eye out on the DWR website for the stocking schedule. Trash flies work great on stockers - mop flies, squirmies, and patt's rubber legs are my go to. Wild trout streams will be fishing great after this shot of water. Streamer fishing is hot as the streams are on their way down: Peanut Envy and other Galloup patterns would be my first choice.
Smallmouth Bass:
Sadly, bug season is coming to a close but streamer season is upon us. Murdich minnows and Finesse Changers, are two awesome suspending patterns that would be at the top of my list. These fish are fattening up for winter, baitfish will be moving towards creek mouths as it gets cooler - use larger flies and fish near warmer, shallower spots.
Largemouth Bass:
Largemouth are moving shallower and feeding on baitfish. 4 to 5 inch Murdich Minnows, Jerk Changers, Chromatic Peanuts are all phenomenal choices.
Gar:
Fish are moving away from the surface. Use 3 inch baitfish to sight-cast at the fish.
Redfish:
High numbers on the lower Chesapeake Bay. Through the fall, these fish will begin feeding more on mullet and other bait. Favor moving tides. When sight-casting, choose 12' to 14' leaders and EP Baitfish, Lil Muddy Baitfish, and other 3" baitfish are the choice.
Speckled Trout:
Slow swinging suspended baitfish over grass. Lots of consistency around the middle peninsula.
Striped Bass:
Schoolies will move on structure and on lights. Clousers and sinking lines on hard structure.