North River Biologist Report 2022
On May 25th, 2022 department biologists and technicians conducted spring sampling using raft electrofishing gear. One permanent reach was sampled (Bridgewater to Mount Crawford). A second reach was not able to be completed due to low water. This was the first attempt at sampling using the raft. Biologists plan to sample North River every 2-3 years. Our sample sites are located within two floats, Bridgewater to Mount Crawford and Cross Keys Road to Port Republic. In total, 349 fish were collected during the sample, representing 5 gamefish species (Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill Sunfish, Rock Bass, and Redbreast Sunfish). Anglers should try an early spring float targeting Smallmouth Bass, Rockbass, and Fallfish. Within the larger pools you can expect to find quality largemouth bass, white suckers, and numerous common carp.
Smallmouth Bass
The Smallmouth population was better than expected. A total of 262 bass were netted at a catch rate of 131 fish per hour. This catch rate is fantastic for such a small river and was double the catch rate when compared with South River. During the 2022 sample the bass’ sizes ranged from 2-17″ in length, with a majority of the catchable sized bass measuring 5-11 inches. 61% of the bass captured were considered adults or stock sized fish (>7”), within that group 28% are considered quality sized smallmouth (>11”), 4% were >14″, and 1% were >17″. The North River has a stockpile of young fish. Hopefully in the coming years we will see a few more fish break through into larger size classes. The one negative biologists observed were lesions on the Smallmouth. 12% of the bass sampled exhibited signs of stress in the form of open lesions, fungus or fin rot. A small number of dead bass were also observed. Biologists continue to study the causes associated with this phenomenon. Anglers are recommended to contact the Department of Environmental Quality if they observe a fish kill.
The Largemouth can be challenging to sample with the raft, but we did capture a handful of quality individuals. Target the deepest pools during the float to have the best chance for encountering a quality Largemouth.
Sunfish
Rockbass and Redbreast Sunfish are the two dominant sunfish species in North River. We encountered 75 individuals at a catch rate of 75 fish per hour. Their average sizes measured 6.1″.
Anglers should target this float if they are interested in high catch rates. This section of North River runs a little cooler, so anglers may hook into a stocked trout within one of the riffles.
