Fresh Hopewell Fishing Reports

The upper James continues to produce the most consistent bite of Catfish. Clients continue to be in disbelief of the number of fish they caught at the end of the trips. The clients would arrive with empty coolers and leave with full coolers and fish still in the live wells. Very blessed to live here and have access to this fishery. The key is finding fishable structure and moving water.

The James River, Continues to make smiles. Granted the abundance of catfish here is a bit unique than other fisheries as in here, it is a safe bet to say were going catch a catfish. Some are still coming over the rail as trophy fish; however, great eating sizers are being produced for the most part. We have yet to have a trip, that has produced nothing since we started to keep track back in 2021. If you can find the structure and moving water, you'll find the fish. Plus, the river kept us on our toes as we caught more carp.

2 trophy catfish on the James River

Fishing the Upper James, The river has all sort of surprises, the carp were really active and gave the catfish a run for their money, and the fact that they fight so well, is just an added bonus. With school being out we highly encourage everyone to take a kid fishing. The action is on fire and they will be gainfully employed.

Fishing the upper James River, Heading into the skinnier parts of the river to hide from the wind was the ticket on those windy spring / summer days. Finding deep holes, moving water, and structure was still proving to be the best pattern thus far. Catches have continued to be consistent in the producing fish. Most clients are leaving with at least 1 x cooler full and thoroughly satisfied. If only all days were like these.

Fishing on the Upper James River, The fishing has started to pick up fairly consistently. The healthy population of blues, flatheads, and channels are keeping our clients happy and actively engaged. Many trips are coming back with average weight over 5 pounds, with some trophies pushing 60 pounds plus. The key has been the same, find the structure and moving water and you'll find the fish.