Start of the RVA Shad Run

Things were off to a slower than usual start but it is starting to get good on the James River in Richmond.  After two blanked trips, I went on a trip with Wayne Tu after work on Wednesday.  

We took the kayaks out of Ancarrow's Landing and Wayne started getting into a few Hickories on a large gold spoon.  I stuck with the 6wt. fly rod and got a few as well with the two biggest going 1lb 14oz.  Light faded quickly and we soaked a few chunks and caught a couple of blue cats (neither of which were worth measuring).  

Photo Credits:  Wayne Tu

Remember to check river levels and predictions before heading down there.  When the water is running over 10,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), line/depth control will be very difficult and paddling against that kind of current can be strenuous. 

Best of luck.  The shad are definitely here.