MUSKY

In some of the same waters finned by our beloved smallmouth bass sulks one of North

America's most prized and elusive game fish. "The fish of 10,000 casts," Virginia's apex

predator fish--the mighty musky. 

 

Virginia is home to a robust population of southern musky, and though the Potomac,

Shenandoah, James, New, and Clinch Rivers all hold viable populations, the New River

is home to the largest musky fishery, and this is where the majority of our musky floats

are run. Formed before the Appalachian Mountains, themselves, the New River is the

grandfather of Virginia's warmwater fishery and produces more musky over 40 inches

than any other river in the state, including the state record, which weighed over 45

pounds. The incredibly scenic New River flows over 160 miles through southwest

Virginia and is one of our most scenic rivers.

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We target musky from November through March, and then again in May and June, after

the spawn period and before the water temperatures get dangerously high for these fish.

Float trips are conducted out of a 15-foot NRS Expedition raft outfitted with an NRS

fishing frame. 

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Musky fishing is not for the faint of heart, but can be enjoyed by almost anyone. They

will test the angler both physically and mentally, and success is often measured in fish

seen rather than numbers caught. We typically pursue musky with 10- to 12-wt. rods, full sinking lines, and large streamers, and they are renowned for lazily following lures and flies to the boat only to disappear at the last second. However, when everything comes together, the reward is often an incredibly visual, intense experience that will leave you babbling and weak kneed. 

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But you don't have to make 10,000 casts to catch a Virginia musky. Allow us to cut the learning curve for you.

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Rates:

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Full day float trip for 1 or 2 anglers - $450/$500

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Rods, reels, flies, and other tackle are included. Lunch, drinks,

and photos from the day are also provided. Several days prior to

your booked date, we'll work out a meeting time and location,

and discuss lunch options.

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What to Bring:

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• Waders (in cold water months--no studs)

• Appropriate clothing

• Rain gear

• Polarized sunglasses

• Fishing license

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License Requirements:

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A Virginia freshwater fishing license is required. You can

purchase yours here.

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Payment:

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A $100 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of

booking, and can be paid by check or Venmo towards the total

cost of the trip. The remainder is to be paid on the day of the

trip by check or cash. In order to better serve you, in the event

of inclement weather or poor water conditions, as determined

by Matt Reilly, deposits can be put towards a rescheduled date

within a year's time. Cancellations made by the client within 48

hours of a scheduled trip forfeit the total cost of the trip.

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- Note: Listed rate does not include gratuity.

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Gratuity:

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Choosing what to tip can be confusing. Generally, throughout

the service industry, 20% of the trip rate is standard given you

enjoyed your time on the water and your guide. We give 110%

to our clients on the water every day in order to ensure that

you have a memorable, relaxing, and educational adventure that

will stick with you forever. It's our passion and why we do what

we do. 

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