It was really strange typing September. Where did the summer go? It has been a very strange summer with regard to fishing. The spadefish never really materialized and many fish were late in showing up. With the heat this week things are likely to be slow but the fish are still out there.

Rappahannock River
Catfishing at the river slowed noticeably this week. However, nightcrawlers and fresh cut perch are still good choices. Bream fishing in the small tribs picked up though and bass are way in the back of the tribs on wood.

Potomac River

Shady Lane Seafood (804-224-7878) reported that croaker and spot were hitting on nightcrawlers around Swan Point. Catfish up to 10 pounds are available. Shrimp was a good bait for them.
Some smaller rockfish just under legal size were hitting near Swan Point. Some keepers are mixed in. Look for a few bluefish in the area too.
Ken’s Tackle in Fredericksburg reported that bucktails that are trolled in shallow water in low light conditions are taking nice stripers. The lighthouse at Fairview Beach also was a favored spot for rockfish.

Inland waters
It’s been a slow week for anglers at Motts (540-786-8989) A few largemouth were caught, but not that many and none were very big. The water temperature was 86 degrees on Sunday.  

Saltwater
Capt. Rogers from the Midnight Sun reports that big red drum are in the area and he is putting clients on some nice fish. The larger class of bluefish up to 5 pounds are also being caught. Capt. Ryan has seen some nice rockfish from time to time over the past few months and October is a great time to get them in Virginia waters. Book a spot now to get in on the action for beautiful rockfish this fall — (804) 580-0245.