Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass fishing around New Market, Virginia, centers on the numerous smaller lakes, ponds, and rivers found throughout the Shenandoah Valley. While there isn't one single standout location, exploring the South Fork Shenandoah River and its connected impoundments can be rewarding. Spring and fall are the peak seasons, with pre-spawn and post-spawn bass being particularly active. Focus on areas with structure like fallen trees, weed beds, and rocky shorelines. A local tip: because many of these waters are smaller, a stealthy approach can be crucial. Try using lighter line and making longer casts to avoid spooking the fish. Also, be aware that water levels in the river can fluctuate depending on rainfall, so check conditions before you go. The bass in this region tend to be scrappy fighters, and while trophy-sized fish aren't as common as in some other areas, there's a good population of fish in the 1-3 pound range.