South Fork Fly Fishing Tournament
Date and time
Friday, September 11, 2026 · 7:00 PM
Location
884 Indian Hollow Road, Bentonville, VA
Date and time
Friday, September 11, 2026 · 7:00 PM
Location
884 Indian Hollow Road, Bentonville, VA
Date and time
Friday, September 11, 2026 · 7:00 PM
Location
884 Indian Hollow Road, Bentonville, VA
South Fork Fly Fishing Tournament
This event has been rescheduled from the original date of May 30 to September 12 because of unfavorable river conditions.
Join us for a day of competitive fly fishing on one of Virginia's most scenic waterways! This tournament combines the thrill of angling with the beauty of Shenandoah River State Park, all while supporting vital conservation efforts.
What's Included in Your Entry Fee:
Tournament entry and parking Discounted boat or bike rentals for river access Official tournament t-shirt Event sticker
Supporting Our River Community
Your participation directly benefits two critical organizations: Friends of Shenandoah River State Park and Shenandoah Riverkeepers. A portion of proceeds goes to Friends of the Park, with remaining funds supporting the Riverkeepers' conservation mission. Our generous sponsors contribute to an impressive prize fund that rewards skill, luck, and a sense of humor.
The South Fork Fly Fishing Tournament is a smallmouth-only fly fishing competition. Other species may still be entered, but they will be recognized within the Small Fry and Bottom Feeder award categories.
Tournament Day Schedule
6:30 AM – Check-in opens at Downriver with hot coffee; receive your tokens and scorecards 7:30 AM – Shotgun start—lines in the water! 2:30 PM – Lines out (mandatory) 3:00 PM – Final deadline for check-in and photo submissions 3:30–4:00 PM – Awards ceremony celebrating our champions 4:30 PM – Event wraps up
Competition Guidelines
Open to anglers ages 10 and up. Standard Virginia fishing regulations apply. This is a rain-or-shine event, though high river levels may require adjustments. Competitors must use park-designated access points only.
Photo Documentation Requirements:
All catches must be photographed with the official ruler provided, with geo-stamps and timestamps enabled. Screenshots will not be accepted. Submit all photos and scorecards by 3:00 PM at Downriver headquarters.
Facility Policies
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed (6 feet maximum). Alcohol is prohibited at all tournament venues.
Prize Categories (smallmouth-only)
Grand Champion – Longest combined length of your top 5 fish
Trophy + sponsor fly rod or premium gear + 2-night cabin stay + Downriver rental/shuttle package
The Lunker – Longest single fish overall
Trophy + sponsor tackle box or fly shop gift card
Lady Lunker – Longest fish caught by a female angler
Trophy + sponsor tackle box or fly shop gift card
Youth Lunker – Longest fish by an angler ages 10–15
Trophy + sponsor tackle box or gift card + sticker
The Small Fry – Smallest fish of the day (Any species)
Gift card to Virginia State Parks or Downriver
The Bottom Feeder – Weirdest fish (judges' choice) (Any species)
Gift card to Virginia State Parks
Whether you're chasing the Grand Champion title or hoping to land the most unusual catch of the day, this tournament offers something for every angler. Cast your line, enjoy the river, and help protect this incredible natural resource for generations to come.