Fishing the DMV

Thomas Arens
  • 4.9 (65)
  • WILDERNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Fishing the DMV Podcast is a leading bass fishing podcast delivering the most up-to-date fishing reports, bass fishing tips, bass fishing techniques, and tournament bass fishing strategies for anglers across the Mid-Atlantic and beyond. Covering Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., and North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, this podcast is your go-to source for largemouth bass fishing, smallmouth bass fishing, tidal river fishing, lakes or the Chesapeake Bay we are the go to source for all things fishing in the area.  Hosted by Thomas Arens, Fishing the DMV features expert interviews with professional anglers, fishing guides, tournament anglers, fisheries biologists, and fishing industry experts, breaking down bass fishing patterns, seasonal fishing strategies, pre-spawn fishing, spawn fishing, post-spawn fishing, summer bass fishing, fall bass fishing, and winter bass fishing. Every episode is packed with actionable advice on best bass fishing lures, fishing tackle, rod and reel setups, bass fishing gear, sonar and fish finders, forward-facing sonar, electronics, kayak fishing, bank fishing, and offshore fishing techniques. Get detailed fishing reports and bass fishing intel for top fisheries including the Potomac River, Chesapeake Bay, Lake Anna, Smith Mountain Lake, Chickahominy River, James River, Susquehanna River, Shenandoah River, Claytor Lake, Lake Gaston, Kerr Lake (Buggs Island), and more. Learn proven tournament fishing strategies, how to catch big bass, how to find bass, and how to catch more fish with real-world insights from anglers who fish these waters every day. Whether you're searching for the best bass fishing podcast, daily fishing reports, bass fishing tips and tricks, or advanced bass fishing techniques, Fishing the DMV Podcast delivers everything you need to improve your fishing, stay on top of current conditions, and dominate on the water. Subscribe now for the latest bass fishing reports, fishing tips, and tournament strategies to help you catch more bass and become a better angler.

  1. 15H AGO

    River Smallmouth Fishing Secrets REVEALED! Shenandoah River is on 🔥🔥

    On this action-packed episode of Fishing the DMV, I’m joined by NVKBA angler Nathan Updike, fresh off an incredible victory at the 2026 NVKBA Shenandoah River kayak bass fishing tournament! Nathan broke down an absolutely dominant performance, putting together an impressive 89.50-inch limit against one of the most stacked fields we’ve ever seen on the Shenandoah River.   NVKBA’s first river event of the 2026 trail season proved once again why the Shenandoah River is considered one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries on the East Coast for kayak fishing, river fishing, and tournament bass fishing. With mostly overcast skies and late-day rain showers keeping conditions perfect, 65 anglers combined to catch an incredible 262 smallmouth bass throughout the day. Even more impressive, anglers recorded 5 Virginia citation smallmouth bass during the event, showcasing just how healthy and productive the Shenandoah River fishery continues to be. Along with giant bronzebacks, competitors also reported catching walleye, largemouth bass, and catfish while covering miles of moving water in search of winning fish. In this episode, we break down: Shenandoah River smallmouth bass fishing patternsKayak bass fishing tournament strategyRiver fishing techniques for pressured smallmouthBest baits and lures for Shenandoah River bass fishingCurrent conditions and seasonal river fishing trendsHow Nathan located and caught nearly 90 inches of river smallmouth bassWhy the Shenandoah River continues to dominate as a premier kayak fishing destinationPlease support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/  NVKBA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/nvkba  Jake’s bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/  Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/  Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech   Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168  Click the link below to get free shipping off any Super Blue Stuff roll-ons when you use the code FISHING! Click the link below right here:  https://bit.ly/4buUMb5  Support the show

    39 min

  2. 2D AGO

    Largemouth Bass Fishing Secrets Revealed | Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Report

    On this episode of Fishing the DMV, I sit down with Billy Kohls of Smith Mountain Lake Guide Service to break down a can’t-miss Smith Mountain Lake fishing report and a masterclass on spring to early summer bass fishing transitions. We dive deep into one of the most important—and often misunderstood—patterns in bass fishing: the shad spawn. Billy explains exactly how to identify a shad spawn, when it happens during the late spring to early summer window (May–June transition), and how to turn it into a tournament-winning pattern whether you’re fishing Smith Mountain Lake, the Potomac River, or any bass fishery across the country. If you’re into Bassmaster-style tournament fishing, this episode is loaded with actionable insight. We cover shad spawn patterns, key bait selections, how to locate active fish during low-light feeding windows, and how to adjust once the bite shuts off. Billy also breaks down how to approach a lake strategically during this seasonal shift—giving you a blueprint for consistent summertime bass fishing success. Topics covered include: Smith Mountain Lake spring bass fishing report Shad spawn patterns and timing Tournament bass fishing strategies (Bassmaster-level insight) Late spring to early summer bass fishing transitions How to locate and catch bass during the shad spawn Summer bass fishing patterns that work on any lake Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon!!!       Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com Check out Billy Kohls website at:  Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Guide https://www.smithmountainlakefishing.com/about Check Billy out on Instagram down below: https://www.instagram.com/billy_kohlsfishing/ Check out Billy Kohls YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@billykohlsfishing3697 LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/  Jake’s bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/  Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/  Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech   Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168  Support the show

    1h 5m

  3. 3D AGO

    Big Prizes!!! First EVER Shenandoah River Fly Fishing Tournament: Smallmouth & warm-water species

    On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, I sit down with Megan Goin, Mark Harris, and Dustin Haymaker to break down the first-ever fly-fishing tournament for warm water species on the Shenandoah River! Hosted at Shenandoah River State Park in partnership with Downriver Canoe Company, along with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and Shenandoah Riverkeeper, this event is bringing something completely new to the region—competitive fly fishing for smallmouth bass, sunfish, carp, and other warm-water species on one of Virginia’s most iconic fisheries. We dive into everything you need to know about this unique event—from how it’s opening the door for more anglers to get involved in fly fishing, to how it directly supports conservation efforts protecting the Shenandoah River. If you’re into smallmouth bass fishing, river fishing, kayak fishing, or fly fishing tournaments, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Tournament Details: 📍 Program Location: 884 Indian Hollow Rd, Bentonville, VA 📍 Main Park Address: 350 Daughter of Stars Dr, Bentonville, VA 🗓 Date: May 30, 2026 ⏰ Time: 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM This is a rain-or-shine event (weather and river conditions permitting) open to anglers ages 10 and up. Anglers 16+ must have a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license. Competitors will fish using park-designated access points only, and all catches must be photographed on an official ruler with geo-stamp and timestamp enabled—no screenshots allowed. All submissions must be turned in by 3:00 PM at Downriver headquarters.   Event link: South Fork Fly Fishing Tournament   Link to Register: https://runsignup.com/Race/VA/Bentonville/ShenandoahRiverFlyFishingTournament  lease support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/  Jake’s bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/  Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/  Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech   Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168      Support the show

    32 min

  4. APR 30

    May Bass Fishing Secret 🤫 | Chickahominy River Fishing Report + Tournament Secrets with Hunter Smith

    On this exciting episode of Fishing the DMV, we sit down with Hunter Smith, fresh off a dominant victory at the Virginia B.A.S.S. Nation Region 1 tournament on the Chickahominy River, where he brought in an impressive 18 lbs 5 oz with a 5 lb 6 oz lunker to seal the win! In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about tidal river bass fishing in Virginia, including tournament-winning strategy, bait selection, and how to pattern fish on one of the most consistent largemouth bass fisheries on the East Coast. The Chickahominy River continues to be one of the top destinations for tournament bass anglers, producing strong catch rates and consistent 4–5 lb fish with the potential for true giants pushing 6–8 lbs or more . Known for having some of the highest largemouth catch rates of any Virginia tidal river, it’s a must-learn system for anyone serious about competitive bass fishing . We also tie in current seasonal patterns from the nearby James River, one of the premier fisheries in the country, where May through June is prime time for both largemouth and smallmouth bass as fish transition into post-spawn feeding patterns . Tournament data and recent reports show that 20+ pound bags are often needed to win on Virginia tidal systems, highlighting just how competitive and productive these waters are . Hunter dives into: How he located and patterned bass in changing tidal conditions Key areas like grass lines, cypress trees, and backwater creeks Tournament-winning lure selection (frogs, Senkos, spinnerbaits, and more) Adjustments throughout the day based on tide, pressure, and fishing pressure How to replicate his strategy on both the Chickahominy and James River We also break down top-producing baits seen in major tournaments like Bassmaster and MLF events, where power fishing techniques like frogs, chatterbaits, buzzbaits, and shallow crankbaits consistently dominate on the James River . If you're looking for a Virginia bass fishing report, James River fishing report, or Chickahominy River tournament breakdown, this episode is packed with real-world insight to help you catch bigger bass and compete at a higher level. Follow Hunter on his social media accounts below:  Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/hpsfishing/  Hunters Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...  Hunters YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcYT38BxL_yFHkbb977e_Hw  Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast  If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com Jake’s bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/  Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/  Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech  LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/  Support the show

    44 min

  5. APR 28

    Virginia Fishing Crisis? DWR Budget Cuts Threaten the future of Bass, Trout, Cat Fishing & Hunting

    On this eye-opening episode of Fishing the DMV, we break down the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) budget crisis and what it means for anglers across Virginia, Maryland, Washington DC, and the entire DMV fishing region. Ryan Brown and Mike Bednarski dive deep into the budget cuts, conservation funding issues, and declining fishing license sales that are putting serious pressure on fishery management. If you care about bass fishing, trout fishing, striped bass, or freshwater fishing in Virginia, this is a must-listen conversation that connects the dots between policy, conservation, and your time on the water. We also break down the bigger picture—why the traditional “user-funded conservation model” (hunters and anglers funding wildlife management) is starting to fail, and what a new funding system could look like in Virginia. From fish stocking cuts to habitat management challenges, this episode gives you the real story behind what’s happening and how it could impact your next fishing trip. If you’re serious about Virginia fishing reports, bass fishing tips, fisheries management, conservation, and the future of fishing in the DMV, this episode delivers critical insight you won’t hear anywhere else. If you want to get involved you can email Mike at mike.bednarski@dwr.virginia.gov and his phone is 804 432-7244.  Please get in touch with him if you want to weigh in on what’s going on in Virginia!!  Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com LMD Enterprises: http://lmdoil.com/  Jake’s bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/  Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/  Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech   Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168  Support the show

    50 min

  6. APR 23

    Springtime bass fishing secrets!!! Occoquan Reservoir | 2026 NVKBA Kayak Bass Tournament Secrets (88” Limit)

    On this action-packed episode of Fishing the DMV, we break down the 2026 NVKBA Trail Stop II – “Battle of Five Lakes I”, where anglers spread out across five of Northern Virginia’s top fisheries: the Occoquan Reservoir, Lake Frederick, Sleeter Lake, Germantown Lake, and Burke Lake. Fishing conditions were a little slower than expected, but steady enough for anglers to grind it out and put together solid limits across all five lakes. When it was all said and done, it was Jonathon Mehus, the 2022 Angler of the Year, who separated himself from the field with an impressive 88.00 inches to take home the win. The key decision? Jonathon committed to the 2,100-acre Occoquan Reservoir, a highly technical fishery known for its standing timber, dock lines, creek channel swings, and bluff walls—and it paid off in a big way. In this episode, Jonathon gives a full, in-depth Occoquan Reservoir fishing report, breaking down: How he located and patterned bass in tough conditions  Key areas that produced (including timber and bluff wall structure)  Lure selection, adjustments, and decision-making throughout the day  Why Occoquan stood out compared to the other four lakes in the tournament  Tournament strategy tips that helped him close out the win  If you’re looking to unlock the secrets of one of Northern Virginia’s most consistent bass fisheries, this is a must-listen breakdown packed with real tournament-winning insight. Whether you're a kayak angler, tournament fisherman, or just love learning new water, this episode delivers the exact strategy and mindset needed to compete at a high level. Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com NVKBA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/nvkba  Jake’s bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/  Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/  Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech   Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168  Click the link below to get free shipping off any Super Blue Stuff roll-ons when you use the code FISHING! Click the link below right here:  https://bit.ly/4buUMb5  Support the show

    35 min

  7. APR 22

    Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report with Dillon Waters from The Waters Edge

    On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we break down everything you need to know about Chesapeake Bay fishing with Dillon Waters from The Waters Edge YouTube Channel! This is a must-watch Chesapeake Bay fishing report packed with real-time insight, proven tactics, and on-the-water experience from one of Maryland’s most dedicated outdoorsmen. We dive deep into striped bass fishing (rockfish), redfish (red drum), saltwater fishing tactics, and tidal fishing strategies across the Chesapeake Bay and surrounding Maryland waters. Dillon shares what’s working right now—from best lures for striped bass, topwater fishing, jigging techniques, trolling setups, live bait fishing, and artificial lure selection—to help you catch more fish immediately. This episode covers:  • Current Chesapeake Bay fishing report and conditions • Maryland fishing report and seasonal patterns • Striped bass fishing tips (rockfish tactics that produce) • Redfish / red drum fishing in the Chesapeake Bay • Saltwater fishing techniques for tidal rivers and inshore waters • Best fishing spots in Maryland & Chesapeake Bay hotspots • How tides, water temperature, and bait movement impact fishing success • Conservation, fishery management, and protecting the Chesapeake Bay Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com The Waters Edge on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@watersedgetv  The Waters Edge on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamWaters  The Waters Edge on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watersedgetv/  FishTalk Magazine: https://www.fishtalkmag.com/fishing-reports  Jake’s bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/  Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/  Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech   Phone Number: (757) 566-1278 Email: lin@fishingprotech.us Fishing Pro Tech Address: 7812-A Richmond Road, Toano, VA, United States, 23168  Click the link below to get free shipping off any Super Blue Stuff roll-ons when you use the code FISHING! Click the link below right here:  https://bit.ly/4buUMb5  #ChesapeakeBay #fishingtheDMV #fishingtips  Support the show

    56 min

  8. APR 20

    Susquehanna River Biology Report Official Data Breakdown w/ PA Biologist Geoffrey Smith

    On this data-driven episode of Fishing the DMV, I have on PA Biologist Geoffrey Smith as we break down the Susquehanna River smallmouth bass fishery using real insights from biologists and the latest 2025 survey data to give you a true Susquehanna River fishing report heading into 2026. If you’re serious about river smallmouth fishing, tournament kayak fishing, or preparing for your next Bassmaster kayak tournament, this is the episode you can’t afford to miss. We dive deep into the Middle Susquehanna, Lower Susquehanna, North Branch, and Juniata River systems, explaining how each section fishes differently and what that means for kayak bass fishing strategy, smallmouth bass patterns, and tournament success. Using electrofishing data and population metrics, we analyze catch rates (CPUE), size structure, and age class distribution to show you exactly where the fishery stands today and how it impacts your time on the water. According to the latest fisheries management data, all major sections of the river are currently meeting their biological objectives—meaning the Susquehanna River smallmouth population is stable, healthy, and producing strong year classes . We break down what that actually means for anglers, including why the river continues to be one of the best destinations on the East Coast for smallmouth bass fishing, kayak fishing tournaments, and multi-fish limit events. Beyond bass, we touch on emerging opportunities in the Susquehanna system, including: A growing concern over flathead catfish expanding upstream The return of walleye stocking programs Ongoing evaluation of muskellunge stocking and growth rates If you’re into smallmouth bass fishing, kayak bass tournaments, river bass fishing techniques, fishing reports, and tournament strategy, this is one of the most important breakdowns we’ve ever done.  Please support Fishing the DMV on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FishingtheDMVPodcast If you are interested in being on the show or a sponsorship opportunity, please reach out to me at fishingtheDMV@gmail.com Pennsylvania Wildlife & Games Commission Website: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/fishandboat/fishing/where-to-fish/biologist-reports  Contact Geoffrey Smith at: geofsmith@pa.gov  PA Fish and Boat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pafishandboat/  PA Fish and Boat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaFishandBoat/  PA main Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pennsylvania_wild?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==  Jake’s bait & Tackle Website: http://www.jakesbaitandtackle.com/  Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/  Fishing Pro Tech: https://www.facebook.com/FishingProTech  Support the show

    1h 29m
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4.9
out of 5
65 Ratings

About

Fishing the DMV Podcast is a leading bass fishing podcast delivering the most up-to-date fishing reports, bass fishing tips, bass fishing techniques, and tournament bass fishing strategies for anglers across the Mid-Atlantic and beyond. Covering Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., and North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, this podcast is your go-to source for largemouth bass fishing, smallmouth bass fishing, tidal river fishing, lakes or the Chesapeake Bay we are the go to source for all things fishing in the area.  Hosted by Thomas Arens, Fishing the DMV features expert interviews with professional anglers, fishing guides, tournament anglers, fisheries biologists, and fishing industry experts, breaking down bass fishing patterns, seasonal fishing strategies, pre-spawn fishing, spawn fishing, post-spawn fishing, summer bass fishing, fall bass fishing, and winter bass fishing. Every episode is packed with actionable advice on best bass fishing lures, fishing tackle, rod and reel setups, bass fishing gear, sonar and fish finders, forward-facing sonar, electronics, kayak fishing, bank fishing, and offshore fishing techniques. Get detailed fishing reports and bass fishing intel for top fisheries including the Potomac River, Chesapeake Bay, Lake Anna, Smith Mountain Lake, Chickahominy River, James River, Susquehanna River, Shenandoah River, Claytor Lake, Lake Gaston, Kerr Lake (Buggs Island), and more. Learn proven tournament fishing strategies, how to catch big bass, how to find bass, and how to catch more fish with real-world insights from anglers who fish these waters every day. Whether you're searching for the best bass fishing podcast, daily fishing reports, bass fishing tips and tricks, or advanced bass fishing techniques, Fishing the DMV Podcast delivers everything you need to improve your fishing, stay on top of current conditions, and dominate on the water. Subscribe now for the latest bass fishing reports, fishing tips, and tournament strategies to help you catch more bass and become a better angler.

Information

  • Creator
    Thomas Arens
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    563
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Fishing the DMV
  • Show Website
    Fishing the DMV

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