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Top Highlights for Fishing The James in Howardsville
Fishing The James in Howardsville
Howardsville stands out on the non-tidal upper-middle James River for its pristine floats through shallow pools and riffles teeming with smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish, longnose gar, and channel catfish. Concrete ramps at the Howardsville Boat Landing provide easy access for canoes, kayaks, and small jon boats, unlike busier downstream sections. This stretch delivers wild, uncrowded angling amid islands and woodlands, distinct from tidal lower James fisheries.
Top pursuits include the 8.6-mile James River WMA to Howardsville float for gar and catfish excitement, the 9.8-mile run to Scottsville for steady smallmouth action, and the Hatton Ferry paddle proven for limits over 100 bass. Bank fishing thrives near Rt. 626, while fly anglers deploy Clouser minnows and poppers along structure. Combine trips with wildlife spotting for herons, wood ducks, and dragonflies.
Fish May to October in low, clear conditions with water at 60°F, slowing presentations with baitfish and crayfish flies. Prepare for shallow launches prone to sand and uneven river bottoms by wearing PFDs and floating feet-first if swept. Size down tippets to 8-12 lb for wary fish.
Local anglers share shuttle tips and hot spots at Howardsville's wooded landing, fostering a tight-knit community of paddlefishers. Virginia DWR maintains free access, blending historic river heritage with modern citation rules protecting 11-22" smallmouth bass. Insiders hit cloudy summer days for topwater blasts.
How to Do It Right
Mastering James River Bass Floats
Plan floats from James River WMA to Howardsville or downstream to Scottsville, booking shuttle services through local outfitters like Riverside Outfitters. Target May through October when water temps hit 60°F for peak smallmouth activity. Check USGS gauges for levels above 2.5 feet to avoid scraping.
Pack a Virginia fishing license, displayed at all times, and wear PFDs on paddlecraft. Bring polarized sunglasses for spotting fish in clear shallows and quick-dry clothing for wading. Secure permits for James River Park sections if extending downstream.