Float Trip?

[BuckTales02]

A few buddies and I have a weekend set aside in August to do a fishing weekend. Our plan right now is to hit my buddy's place and camp out on the Juniata in PA.

However, my buddy and I were talking about doing a float trip somewhere instead. Basically, we are looking for a place within a few hour drive (i live in Odenton), where we can put in our kayaks/canoes and have someone take our vehicles down river. Primitive riverside camping would be great. Just need to have our trucks when we finish up. I've heard some places on the Shanendoa (sp?) do this but haven't been able to find any online.

[Kayakist]

Well I've floated the South Fork of the Shenandoah quite a bit and it used to be a great float until the recent fish kill this spring. However, at Bentonville (below Front Royal VA) you can float down to Gooney Creek (about 7 mile trip) or take out at Guest State Park (about 2-3 mile float). There is a campground riverside at Bentonville which costs about $20 per night. If you're really interested let me know and I can provide additional info and possibly join you.

[JoshKaptur]

I'd do the potomac if I were you. Google potomac river canoe trips and you will get some good info.

[Kayakist]

Agree, the Potomac is a much better fishery. In fact, I'm hitting it tomorrow morning!

[Capt.Nick]

I'm getting ready to leave now for some night fishing up there.I'll be outa there by morning.

[Bonefish79]

You might want to look at the James, also. About three hours away, below Charlottesville, VA. We camp on mid river islands, lots of good access. Here's two, courtesy of the Virginia Dept. of Inland Fisheries:

James River WMA to Howardsville
Distance: 8.6 miles

There is a good concrete ramp at James Rive WMA. The concrete ramp at Howardsville is located off of Rt. 626 at the mouth of the Rockfish River. This location means that this ramp is frequently covered with sand, and the launch area is quite shallow. This float is characterized by long shallow pools and short riffles. Several islands dot the river on this trip. Fishing is best for smallmouth bass and redbreast sunfish, although longnose gar and channel catfish can add to the excitement. Paddle through the mid section, but fish the lower third hard. We do this float in one long day. The 2 or so miles above Howardsville is beautiful water.

Howardsville to Scottsville
Distance: 9.8 miles

The ramp at Howardsville provide the starting point for this relatively long trip. A concrete ramp at Scottsville (reached by following the signs from Rt. 6) in located downstream of the Rt. 20 bridge, and is suitable for most boats. The river is generally wide and shallow throughout this section with many small islands. This is an easy float, but will take some time when the river is low. Smallmouth bass, redbreast sunfish, channel catfish, and longnose gar will provide most of the fishing action. Midway down is a fall line (easy to negotiate), great place to camp. We do this trip in two days.

[classicrider]

Hey guys, I am very new to this forum and even newer to kayaking. I am also interested in a mountain float trip. I have done the canoe float trips in most all the listed places. I am hearing that the best fishing is Rappahannock and Rapidan. However, the water level is way to low to consider it right now. I am in the learning stages and I am very anxious to get out there and float somewhere fishing.

[Kayakist]

If you're close or interested in the Potomac let me know as I can help with that.