Fishing the DMV
Fishing the DMV Podcast is the #1 Fishing Podcast for all things fishing in D.C, MD, VA, PA and NC ! Join Thomas every week as he talks to local guides, State biologists, and local tournament winners. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcast or Spotify, and so much more
Virginia’s Best Smallmouth River?! New River Fishing Report with Biologist Kristen Chestnut-Faull
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we dive deep into the 2025 Fish Sampling Survey results with Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Biologist Kristen Chestnut-Faull
Join us as we break down the health, trends, and trophy potential of the New River System which is known for producing giant muskie and world class Smallmouth bass.
Link to the Biologist Reports to all of the rivers we talked about in the episode down below: https://dwr.virginia.gov/fishing/forecasts-and-reports/non-tidal-river-fishing-forecast/
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Summer smallmouth fishing!!! Upper Potomac Fishing Report Local Stick Charlie Russler
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we sit down with one of the area’s most versatile anglers—Charlie Russler! Whether he’s in a kayak or a bass boat, Charlie knows how to find and catch fish, and he’s made a name for himself winning big from both platforms.
We dive deep into:
· Upper Potomac River Smallmouth tactics
· Tidal Potomac strategies and seasonal patterns
· The mindset it takes to dominate from both kayak and boat
· Tournament experiences and tips for success on local...
How NOT to Die While Kayak Fishing the Shenandoah River! Feat. NVKBA Champ James Coleman
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we’re going live this Monday night to break down all the action from the NVKBA tournament on the Shenandoah River! I’ll be sharing my personal adventures (and near disasters) navigating the river during this wild event — aka: How NOT to Die While Kayak Fishing! I’ll will be joined by tournament champion James Coleman, who’s going to walk us through his winning strategy and what it takes to conquer a river tournament like a pro.
Whether you’re here for the fishing tips or the...
July Lake Anna Bass Fishing Report with Tyler Heuple
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by expert angler Tyler Heuple as he delivers an in-depth July Bass Fishing Report for Lake Anna, Virginia! Tyler breaks down current conditions, top techniques, and where you need to be throwing your line to find success this month. Whether you're targeting largemouth in the main lake or hunting post-spawn bass in the creeks, this episode is packed with tips, patterns, and insight to help you catch more fish this summer.
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Secrets revealed !!! with Potomac River BFL Champion Rick McFaul
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we break down how Rick McFaul of Phoenix, Maryland battled brutal conditions to claim victory at the Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine on the Potomac River, hosted by Charles County Recreation, Parks, and Tourism.
With flooding rains, high winds, and debris-choked water threatening to derail his tournament strategy, McFaul was forced to scrap both his Plan A and B. But his Plan C—a small patch of cleaner water on the Virginia side—turned into a game-winning decision. Locking down on a 50-yard grass stretch with...
Top 3 Summer Bass Fishing Destinations in Fredericksburg VA (July Report)
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by Shane Flint of Shane Flint Outdoors—leader of one of the largest online tournament groups in the world! Shane brings his deep knowledge and passion for fishing to deliver an action-packed July fishing report focused on the Fredericksburg, Virginia area.
We break down what’s biting and where across some of the region’s hottest fisheries, including:
• Lake Mooney
• Abel Lake
• Motts Run Reservoir
• Hunting Run Reservoir
• Ni Reservoir
• Smith Lake
• Lunga
Check out the link below to the 2003 Ranger 195V...
James River Bass Fishing Breakdown: Chaz Carrington Crushes 13th Place at MLF Invitational
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I sit down with Chaz Carrington fresh off a stellar performance at the MLF5 Tackle Warehouse Invitational on the James River! Chaz weighed in an impressive 43-1 over three days, securing a strong 13th place finish in a field stacked with some of the best anglers in the world.
While it wasn't the win he set out for, Chaz shares what it means to cash a check at this level and how the unwavering support of his family and friends helped fuel his success. We dive into the highs...
Record-Breaking Upper Potomac River Smallmouth Bag with Shane Crawford
On this jaw-dropping episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by local hammer Shane Crawford, who just made history on the Upper Potomac River! Shane smashed records by winning both the Mid-Atlantic Kayak Bass Fishing Series and the USA BASSIN - Jackson Kayak Trails Maryland Division event with a mind-blowing bag of 100+ inches of smallmouth bass!
To put that in perspective — that’s an average of 21 inches per fish in his five-fish limit! And get this — he lost two fish that would’ve pushed him over 105 inches. This kind of bag rivals even the legendary Susquehanna River and would’...
James River Summer Bass Fishing Report !!! Local TELLS ALL!!!
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by James River local Blake Miles as he delivers an in-depth bass fishing report for both the James River and the Chickahominy River! Whether you’re gearing up for a tournament or planning your next weekend trip, Blake breaks down current conditions, bait trends, and key patterns that are producing bites right now on these two iconic tidal systems. Don't miss this boots-on-the-ground insight from one of the area’s most knowledgeable anglers!
Link to tou...
James River Summer Bass Fishing Predictions: Tackle Warehouse Invitational with Jared Williams!
On this exciting Monday Night Live, I’m joined by James River local Jared Williams for a breakdown of what to expect during this week’s Tackle Warehouse Invitational!
Jared shares his insights on current river conditions, key patterns, and where he thinks the big bites will happen as some of the region’s best anglers prepare to battle it out. If you're following the tournament or planning to fish the James, this insider preview is a must-watch!
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James River Bass Fishing Secrets Revealed! | Biologist Reveals Big Bass Data
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we dive deep into the 2025 Fish Sampling Survey results with Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Biologist Margaret Whitmore!
Join us as we break down the health, trends, and trophy potential of the Tidal James River system, including its two major tributaries—the Appomattox River and the Chickahominy River—both known for producing giant bass and excellent year-round fishing opportunities.
But that’s not all—we also spotlight a hidden gem tidal river system that often flies under the rada...
Monocacy River Maryland’s best kept Smallmouth Fishing Secret
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, I talk with Local Stick Larry Tressler. Larry has spent many years exploring Maryland’s most underrated smallmouth fisheries — the Monocacy River! Flowing from Frederick all the way to its confluence with the Potomac, this scenic river offers prime smallmouth bass action, with plenty of fish in the 10–16” range and the chance at a true 18”+ trophy.
Whether you're a kayak angler or prefer to wade, the Monocacy’s shallow, clear waters and easy access points make it a dream destination. We’ll break down the...
Early Summer Smallmouth Tactics Revealed! | Shenandoah River Breakdown with VA BASS Nation Kayak Champ
On this exciting Monday Night Live episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by Daniel Litwin, the champion of the latest VA B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series event on the legendary Shenandoah River! Daniel racked up an impressive 90.75 inches to take the win — and tonight, he’s breaking down the exact tactics, strategies, and adjustments that led to his success.
Whether you’re a kayak angler, river rat, or just looking to sharpen your game, this is a masterclass in targeting big river bass...
The Best Coastal Bass Fishing in America ?! Virginia Beach & The Albemarle Sound
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by Rodney French for an in-depth look at the incredible freshwater fishing opportunities around the Norfolk and Virginia Beach area! From his early fishing roots to his passion for exploring untapped waters, Rodney shares his journey and breaks down some of the best fisheries in the region.
We cover a wide range of hotspots including the Chowan River, Albemarle Sound, Back Bay, James River, Western Branch Reservoir, Lake Burnt Mills, Lake Lawson, Lake Smith, and more! Whether you’re a local angler or planning a trip...
Early Summer Smallmouth Tactics Revealed! | Shenandoah River Breakdown w/ King Fisher Guide
Live from Jake’s Bait & Tackle! On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we’re joined by Travis from Kingfisher Guide Services for an in-depth conversation about the Shenandoah River and the ins and outs of smallmouth bass fishing in river systems. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, Travis shares expert tips, seasonal strategies, and local insight you won’t want to miss!
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If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at...
Upper Chesapeake Bay Bass Fishing Breakdown: History, Tournaments & Youth Fishing with Jerry Hodge
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we’re joined by tournament hammer and youth fishing advocate Jerry Hodge! Fresh off a big win on the Upper Chesapeake Bay with the Chester County Bassmasters, Jerry breaks down what went into his tournament success and shares the untold history of the Upper Bay fishery.
As the President of the Upper Bay Bassin Youth Program and the Maryland State High School/Jr. Bass Tournament Director, Jerry also dives deep into the explosive growth of yo...
Shenandoah River Smallmouth Fishing Forecast with Virginia Biologist Jason Hallacher
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we dive into the 2025 fish sampling survey results for the entire Shenandoah River system with Jason Hallacher of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. From the North Fork’s slow but steady rebound to the explosive sunfish bite and the Main Stem’s improving smallmouth population, we cover it all.
Discover how stocking efforts, habitat changes, and natural spawning success are shaping the future of smallmouth bass, largemouth, walleye, musky, and panfish across the North Fork, Sout...
2025 Shenandoah River Fishing Report with VA DWR Biologist Jason Hallacher
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we dive into the 2025 fish sampling survey results for the entire Shenandoah River system with Jason Hallacher of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. From the North Fork’s slow but steady rebound to the explosive sunfish bite and the Main Stem’s improving smallmouth population, we cover it all.
Discover how stocking efforts, habitat changes, and natural spawning success are shaping the future of smallmouth bass, largemouth, walleye, musky, and panfish across the North Fork, Sout...
355 | Win Cash Just by Fishing?! Spring Bass Bash Tournament Update
On this exciting live stream of Fishing the DMV, I’m giving you the full tournament update for the Spring Bass Bash, proudly presented by The Bass Cast!
Right now, only 13 anglers are signed up, and I’m giving away 13 cash prizes — which means your odds of cashing are HUGE!
This epic month-long tournament kicks off Saturday, April 26th at 6:00 AM and runs through Sunday, June 15th at midnight. You’ve got over a month to hunt down your 8 biggest bass! Whether you’re fishing from the bank, a kayak, canoe, or boat, this event is wide open...
How to Get Paid in Every Bass Tournament – The Blueprint for Success!
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by Blake Miles — a rising force on the Elite 70 Circuit! Blake gives us an inside look at his 2025 season so far, the highs and challenges of competing at a high level, and breaks some big news: he’s launching a brand-new Tournament of Champions event featuring a guaranteed $10,000 cash prize!
Link to tournament of Champions Down Below: https://vatournamentofchampions.weebly.com/
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MNL 59 | Summer Time River Smallmouth Fishing Secret Revealed !
On this exciting Monday Night Live edition of Fishing the DMV, we return to the legendary New River with veteran guide Ethan Stone of the New River Outdoor Company! Ethan shares his incredible journey as a lifelong river guide and gives us an up-to-date look at how the New is fishing right now. From water conditions to lure choices, he breaks down what you need to know to target early summer smallmouth bass. If you’re planning a river trip or just want to sharpen your warm-weather Smallie game, this is the episode for you!
Pl...
354 | Potomac River Bass Fishing with Local Anglers Rob Grike
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by local hammer Rob Grike, a seasoned tournament angler with over $50,000 in career earnings from the Major League Fishing organization alone. Rob shares his unfiltered thoughts on the current state of Bassmaster, the evolving role of Forward Facing Sonar, and gives us a deep dive into the health of the Potomac River bass fishery. Whether you're a tournament junkie or just love talking bass, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
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353 | Susquehanna River Fishing Report with Jake Housman
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by Jake Housman for an in-depth breakdown of the late spring smallmouth bite on the legendary Susquehanna River. Although this episode was recorded just days before the recent massive flooding hit the region, Jake shares a ton of timely insights on how to locate active fish and dial in your presentation during this critical transitional period. If you're planning to fish the Susky this spring or just want to understand how the river sets up before and after major weather events, this is one episode you won't want to...
Susquehanna River Fishing Report with Jake Housman
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by Jake Housman for an in-depth breakdown of the late spring smallmouth bite on the legendary Susquehanna River. Although this episode was recorded just days before the recent massive flooding hit the region, Jake shares a ton of timely insights on how to locate active fish and dial in your presentation during this critical transitional period. If you're planning to fish the Susky this spring or just want to understand how the river sets up before and after major weather events, this is one episode you won't want to...
352 | Kerr Lake (Buggs Island) & Lake Gaston Fishing Report with Tournament Champ Ben Dalton
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we’re joined by local tournament hammer Ben Dalton for an in-depth fishing report from Buggs Island (Kerr Lake) and Lake Gaston! With over 28 tournaments under his belt this year and cashing checks in 21 of them—including an ABA win and a 3rd place finish in the Shenandoah Division—Ben brings serious insight to the table. We dive into how the season has unfolded, the current patterns on both lakes, and what anglers should be looking for as...
MNL 58 | Potomac River Bass Fishing Winning Secrets with BFL Champ Joshua McGeary
On this exciting Monday Night Live edition of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by Potomac River BFL Champion Joshua McGeary! Josh claimed victory with a winning bag of 18 pounds, 4 ounces—edging out Ryan Lachniet by just two ounces in a nail-biting finish. Tune in as we break down how it all went down on the water!
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Fishing the DMV now has a website: https://www.fishingthedmv.com/
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351 | From Beekeeper to Bait Maker: The MX Plugs Story
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, I sit down with the owner of MX Plugs—a custom lure maker with an incredible backstory and a serious passion for innovation. It all started with a broken plug he found lakeside. No hooks, no hardware—just potential. After cutting it in half, reshaping it, adding rattles and new hardware, he crafted a plug that actually caught fish. That spark of creativity launched a journey that took him from offshore shark and tuna charters to the creeks and bays of Long Island, chasing striped bass. Over the years, he’s honed his cr...
350 | Upper Potomac Fishing Report and Smallmouth Tagging Program with Clark Hile
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we're diving into the latest smallmouth action on the Upper Potomac River with special guest Clark Hile! Fresh off a second-place finish at the recent Jackson Kayak event, Clark gives us an in-depth fishing report from the water—covering what’s working, where the bite is heating up, and what anglers need to know right now. Plus, we take a closer look at the Smallmouth Tagging Program that Clark is participating in this year, shedding light on how it helps protect and understand this incredible fish...
MNL 57 | Potomac River Bass Fishing 101 with two Champs!
On the super exciting Monday Night Live. Join us as we open the phone lines and dive into all things Tidal Potomac River fishing with two Champions from this past weekend!!!
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Mid-Atlantic Kayak Bass Fishign Series: https://www.facebook.com/MAKBFS/
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349 | North Fork of the Holston River: Virginia’s Best Smallmouth Secret 2025 Biologist Report
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we uncover the secrets of the North Fork of the Holston River with Virginia DWR Biologist Justin Helflin. Justin breaks down his 2025 fish sampling survey and offers a fascinating look into the history and ecology of this often-overlooked fishery. Known among local insiders as a hidden gem, the North Fork has quietly built a reputation for producing trophy-sized smallmouth bass. If you're looking to explore one of Virginia's most under appreciated bass rivers, this is an episode you won't want to miss!
North Fork Holston River Water level Gauge: h...
The Early 2000s Shenandoah River Fish Kill with Riverkeeper Jeff Kelble
On this Throwback Friday episode of Fishing the DMV, we revisit an impactful conversation with Jeff Kelble and John Odenkirk. Together, we dive into the challenges facing the Shenandoah River and explore the often-overlooked work that happens behind the scenes when a fishery begins to decline.
Jeff Kelble brings a wealth of experience to the table. After guiding on the Shenandoah for over six years, he became the Shenandoah Riverkeeper in 2006 when he noticed the river’s health deteriorating. In this role, Jeff built strong coalitions of river users, local businesses, go...
348 | James River Bass Fishing with B.A.S.S. Nation Champion Ryan Lachniet
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we sit down with Ryan Lachniet, the champion of the B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier at the James River! Hailing from Gum Spring, Virginia, Ryan dominated his home waters with a massive three-day total of 53 pounds, 6 ounces—including an impressive 20-pound, 4-ounce bag on the final day to seal the win. We dive into his tournament strategy, how he tackled changing river conditions, and what it means to take home the victory on such familiar ground. Don’t miss this in-depth breakdown with one of Virginia’s rising bass fishing stars...
MNL 56 (WARNING Strong Language) Late Spring Smallmouth Bass Fishing Report! Susquehanna River Hot Spots Revealed
(Warning: This episode contains strong language and may not be suitable for children)
On this rowdy episode of Monday Night Live! we delve into "Susquehanna River Smallmouth Fishing Tips for May Fishing Success." Join us as seasoned kayak angler and Susquehanna River Guide Jake Harshman shares his insights on early spring smallmouth bass fishing. Jake discusses effective techniques, optimal locations, and the transition from kayak fishing to operating a jet boat guide service.
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347 | Upper James River!!! Exploring Virginia’s Best Smallmouth Bass Fishing Hotspot
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we return to the beautiful Upper James River with Upper James River local Dalton Karnes!
The James River is Virginia’s largest, and begins where the Cowpasture and Jackson Rivers meet in Botetourt County, carving its way through the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains before reaching Lynchburg. From there, it flows through Richmond and ultimately into the Chesapeake Bay.
Today, we focus on the Non-tidal Upper James, a prime stretch for anglers from its mountain origins to the 14th Street bridge in Richmond. Known for its scenic be...
346 | Snakehead Fishing with Virginia Kayak Anglers Elite Champion Will Anderson
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we’re joined by none other than Will Anderson — the champion of the Virginia Kayak Anglers Elite’s first event of the season out of Aquia Creek! Will crushed the competition with a jaw-dropping 83 inches of Snakehead, and he’s here to break it all down. From strategy and tackle to the conditions on the water that day, we dive deep into what it takes to dominate in competitive kayak fishing. Don’t miss this epic breakdown of one of the most intense fisheries in the DMV!
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345 | Smith Mountain Lake and the ABA with JJ Stowers
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV I talk with James J. Stowers he is the ABA American Fishing Tour Tournament Director for Virginia West – 7. We talk about the history of the ABA and Smith Mountain Lake.
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343 | May Potomac River Bass Fishing Report with Captain Kris Johnson
On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we’re bringing you an Late April Fishing Report for the Tidal Potomac River with Captain Kris Johnson! As the water warms up, prespawn bass start staging, making this one of the best times to catch big largemouth bass. We’ll cover the best spring bass fishing techniques, the top lures for Potomac River bass fishing in April, and key areas where fish are starting to move.
If you’re looking for Potomac River fishing tips, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you get on more fish this s...
MNL 55 | After Deadly Crashes Should Bass Tournaments Enforce Speed Limits?
On the super exciting Monday Night Live. Join us as we open the phone lines and dive into the hottest topics in the world of fishing! We’ll break down the Virginia DWR’s 2025 rankings of the top small impoundments for bass fishing — find out where you should be launching next weekend!
A deep dive into the future of the fishing economy heading into 2026 — what trends, challenges, and opportunities are on the horizon?
Plus, we’ll discuss the recent bass boat crashes on Lake Norman and Smith Lake, the lawsuits now in motion...
342 | Conowingo Reservoir | Maryland’s Most Underrated Bass Fishery with 2X Champ Mickey Pfortsch
On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we’re diving into one of Maryland’s most underrated yet powerhouse fisheries—the Conowingo Reservoir—with none other than MAKBF Champion Mickey Pfortsch. Last year, Mickey took the title with over 95 inches of fish, and this year, he did it again with 89.75 inches—proving this place is no fluke!
Now, ask most anglers what the largest freshwater impoundment in Maryland is, and they’ll probably say Deep Creek Lake. But here’s a fun fact: Conowingo Reservoir actually sp...
Spring Bass Bash 2025!!!! with $1,500+ in Cash & Prizes!
I am excited to officially announce our next major fishing tournament — the Spring Bass Bash, proudly presented by The Bass Cast!
This epic tournament kicks off Saturday, April 26th at 6:00 AM and runs all the way through Sunday, June 15th at midnight — giving you over a month to chase down giants!
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Entry is just $45, but here's the catch:
You must be an active Fishing the DMV Patreon Weekend Warrior Member to compete. Once you're signed up, on Patreon!!! https://patreon.com/Fishin...
