Smith river Bassett Virginia 1/18/21:

[tautog]

Heard the access stinks below Martinsville which is probably why there are bigger fish. Not that much forage in the Smith to feed large browns. Back in the 70s there were shad and monster browns up to 15lbs. Guess it is sort of like what happened to Round Valley. But you can't beat relatively easy access with lots small wild trout.

[Pondhopper8]

Pretty brown and river 👍👍

[AndyS]

Originally Posted by tautog

Heard the access stinks below Martinsville which is probably why there are bigger fish. Not that much forage in the Smith to feed large browns. Back in the 70s there were shad and monster browns up to 15lbs. Guess it is sort of like what happened to Round Valley. But you can't beat relatively easy access with lots small wild trout.

They changed the regs, stringers and worm containers now.

[bigfishy]

Haha!! A few trips and you already have "old" spots...
Nice work!! Good luck in Tennessee...

[DRiverRat]

Andy, looks like Southern life suits you.
Since you're accustomed to tailwater fisheries now,
I've got 2 places within an hour of my home that may be worth the trip for you.

First spot is below Dale Hollow Dam.
Alot of fish, mostly on the smaller side, with browns predominant.
Bigger fish are present but I've had no luck.
National fish hatchery is located 1/2 mile before dam.

Second spot is Center Hill Dam. (Caney Fork)
Bigger fish to be had. I've brought browns, brookies and bows to hand with
14" being more common than not and I've seen much bigger fish landed.
Caney Fork dumps right into the Cumberland River below Cordell Hull.
This makes for great striper fishing if you launch just below Carthage.

Both spots are primary launches for drift, kayak and canoe with no shortage of guides in the area.

I've shore fished both places on same day excursions with about an hour travel between spots.

Tight lines brother.