Suggested Drop in/out?

[dpitt]

I've never fished the James, planning a trip floating in a raft and flinging flies for Smallies. Any suggestions where folks like to drop in at?   Also open to any suggested streamer patterns.   Thanks in advance. 

[vonreed]

17 hours ago, dpitt said:

I've never fished the James, planning a trip floating in a raft and flinging flies for Smallies. Any suggestions where folks like to drop in at?   Also open to any suggested streamer patterns.   Thanks in advance. 

You'd probably be best off floating from horse creek down to galena.

[Flysmallie]

Horse Creek to Galena is good but it’s really chugging along right now. It will be better once the water goes down. 
 

Lots of good options. When are you going? Is it just a day float? 

[dpitt]

Yes, just a day float, going last part of June sometime.   Thanks, David

[Flysmallie]

Depending on water levels and the day you choose to go some sections may be covered up by outfitter boats. Kerr to Galena and Shelvin Rock to Hootentown will be packed on the weekends. The crowds don't bother the fish but they can disturb your sanity. There are sections above and below that offer the same fishing opportunities. 

[dpitt]

Thanks that's good info... will try and avoid the "canoe hatch"