Getting Tough on the Rappahonock

[TOXIC]

I think we are dealing with a few issues that are affecting the fishing on the Rapp.  Our part of Virginia is currently either in drought status going so far as both voluntary and mandatory water restrictions.  A lot of the rivers have slowed to a trickle including the upper reaches of the Susquehanna, Potomac, Juniata and Rapp.  Luckily the Rappahonock where we fish it is tidal and not as affected.  Further downstream I’m sure the salt line from the bay is creeping upstream more than normal but for us it’s just lowered flow.  Water is still extremely warm, 80 degrees plus and that doesn’t help.  This last trip, we managed a few bass, a couple dink smallmouth and some snakeheads.  Bite turned on more in the afternoon on the outgoing tide.  

[Junger]

I just fished the Piankatank, and the salt has come way up the river. Crab pots and redfish way up near the Dragon. No signs of snakehead, and fishing was slow for this time of year.