Days two through five, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday we will be fishing the New River and James River targeting Musky. Our lodging is centrally located between the two and we'll be fishing whatever presents the best opportunities and conditions. Hopefully, each angler will get to see both rivers? Guests will fish one day each with Blane, Josh Laferty, Braden Miller, and Austin Conrad in groups of two per boat/guide.
All tackle and flies can be provided although you are welcome to bring your own. An equipment listing will be provided upon registration and can also be downloaded on the sign-up page of our website.
A piece from the Virginia Trophy Guides Website:
"The New River is the second oldest river in the world. Floating it feels like stepping back in time."
As you float through the breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll be met with some of the finest fishing in the state. The New River starts in North Carolina and moves through the Southwest corridor of Virginia and into West Virginia before flowing into the Kanawha River. Virginia Trophy guides, as well as Blane himself, guide nearly every stretch of the New River in Virginia, but some areas are better for certain species than others.
"Home to Colonial history, the State Capital, and miles of scenic beauty, the James River is a gem that receives year-round attention."
The James River begins its 348-mile journey through Virginia in the Appalachians and winds its way to the Chesapeake Bay. Formed by the Jackson and Cowpasture rivers just outside of Iron Gate, Virginia, the James provides ample opportunities for the fly angler.
Virginia Trophy Guides operate from the headwaters downstream approximately 60 miles, where they target musky and smallmouth bass. Home to vibrant populations of both gamefish due to the river’s diverse habitat and high density of forage species, the James checks all the boxes for a day well spent. Expect flows from 800-2000 cfs, fishing over ancient granite ledges, cobble runs and bars, and long expansive pools full of both wood and rock structure. Truly, a fly anglers paradise.
You are going to be targeting Musky in two of the best locations in the country and with the areas most experienced guides, and one of the best Big Game Anglers and Fly Tyers alive today. Mad River Outfitters is honored to be working with this group and thrilled to offer this unique and exclusive experience to our friends and clients.
We will organize fishing times and locations the evening before each day. Boat launches will be under 50 minutes or so from the Brookwood House. Breakfast items will be available each morning for you to choose from and lunches will be provided by the guides while out on the water. We like like to get as much fishing time in as possible for these species so a quick, hearty sandwich and a bag of chips is the norm.
At the end of each day, we'll meet back at the Brookwood House to share stories from the day and enjoy dinner together. Blane will join us on the evening of the last day of fishing (Wednesday, January 7th) to have dinner and a few drinks with the group. He'll be happy to sign some books as well of course!
Breakfast items will be available for guests on the morning of Thursday the 8th before we check out at 10 a.m.