Luray, Virginia: Effective immediately, Shenandoah National Park’s streams and rivers are closed to fishing due to low stream flows and high water temperatures. This closure is being implemented to ensure the long term health of the fish populations in the park.
Dry conditions have led to extremely low stream flows throughout the Park, including some river sections that are completely dry. Under low-flow conditions, high water temperatures occur with hot weather and dissolved oxygen levels go down, which are stressful and potentially fatal for fish.
Angling during these conditions could harm the native brook trout populations. This closure is for all streams including both open-to-harvest and catch-and-release waters. The closure will be lifted when stream conditions improve. Stream flows are expected to remain low until significant precipitation occurs across the area.
For the last three weeks, I’ve seen this message countless times. Between my internet browsing, various email lists I’m subscribed to, and scant social media use I’ve been reminded that something rotten is in the state of Virginia.
Shenandoah National Park was where I first experienced native brook trout. It was the first place I experienced small stream fly fishing. It was the first place I experienced a long drive on secondary roads, followed by a long drive on a dirt road, followed by a long hike before getting to water.
Needless to say, it holds a special place in my heart.
I am not one for significant levels of magisterial oversight. Consequently, I usually bristle when I’m told what I can and can’t do when it comes to some of the inalienable rights outlined in the constitution (and, more pertinently, bestowed by God). But even someone with my political leanings ought to appreciate when Caesar needs to slam down his scepter.
And with all the management that the Department of the Interior has executed in restoring and protecting native brook trout fishing within the boundaries of the Shenandoah National Park? The work that goes into preserving some truly remarkable angling for some wonderfully special fish populations within an hour of the nation’s capitol?
I’m okay with some well-intentioned rules.
In brief, here’s why:
- Small stream trout become vulnerable at numerous levels in these events.
- While these weather patterns come and go, the abnormally severe periods undo prolonged stretches of ecological stability.
- People are dumb.
And that last one includes me. I’d like to think that I’d head downstream for bass or over to a cold, full spring creek. But I might not. This is a helpful and legitimate reminder.
All that to say, give the fish a break if you’re in VA or in an area with a similar situation… regardless of if the man has rules or not.
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