i have never fished the James. Would i be able to launch my boat (Gheenoe) with 9.9 at the Watkins ramp ? Is the smallmouth fishing good in that stretch?

Thanks!

Yes. Nice ramp now that VDG&IF upgraded it a few years ago.

You go up river and about a mile or two down river for smallies and down river for largemouth.

Smallmouth fishing is great in this area. You can catch a lot of small ones and now and then a nice one.

If you go upriver watch for the rocks. The rocks may stop you from going further west so just back off and head east.

Have fun and don't forget your PFD and needle nose pliers.

Thanks

What is the optimal water level I have been watching noaa james river at Richmond?

Don't worry about it.

Water will be shallow in the Watkins area and get deeper as you head downstream to Bosher's Dam.

Since the dam backs up the water the water levels stay somewhat the same other than for the current flood conditions we have on the Upper James River. The Upper James will go back to normal pool by this weekend when the rain water upriver passes through the area.

Did you know there is a GMCO map of the Upper James River? Try your luck at Green Top and BPS for a copy. Great map of the Upper James and you need to study it before venturing out.

Have fun and have your license with you. Sometimes the VDG&IF conversation officers check Watkins for your fishing license and the total number of teeth of the Powhatan people using the ramp.

Would you like to fish a Wednesday night tournament out of Watkins?

If so, send me a PM and I will send you the details.

I don't recall the entry fee, although it is not much. I do recall you have to bring one canned goods item if possible.

Starts around 4 and ends in the evening but don't hold me to that.

Largemouth have limitations to even the playing field with the smallmouth guys.

I have not fished it in years but it was fun and I think you would have a good time and get to discuss fishing the Upper James with the guys.