How to go fish the Rapidan River

The months we list for the Rapidan River are April, May, June, September, October. August is outside that window, so this brief is written for September, the next month we list.

September

No USGS gauge is mapped to this river.

Flies to tie — September

Caddis#16-18
CDC Caddis

Access

Milam Gap Trailhead (Skyline Drive)
38.379, -78.323parking
Camp Hoover Historic Site
38.342, -78.301
Graves Mill Road Access (Below Park)
38.316, -78.282parking
Rapidan WMA Access
38.298, -78.263parking

Regs — check current rules before you go

Shenandoah National Park requires a Virginia fishing license. The park sections are managed for wild trout with catch-and-release for brook trout encouraged. Daily creel and size limits apply; check current Virginia DWR regulations and NPS park rules. No live bait permitted within the park. Some sections may have artificial lures only rules. Camp Hoover area access via Big Meadows or Milam Gap trailheads.

Pack list

A current state fishing licence
Waders and boots you have already leak-tested
Net, nippers, forceps
Floatant and desiccant
Tippet in the sizes the chart asks for
Water, sun cover, polarised glasses

Generic gear. Anything specific to this water is above.

Full hatch chart, access map and live gauge on the Rapidan River page →