S6, Ep 56: Road Warrior: Matt Reilly on Cicadas, Smallmouth and Fishing the Rain

Join host Marvin Cash on The Articulate Fly for another engaging "Southwest Virginia Fishing Report" with Matt Reilly. In this episode, Matt shares his latest adventures, from chasing cicadas in East Tennessee and North Carolina to navigating the unpredictable waters of Southwest Virginia. Despite the hectic schedule, Matt remains upbeat, offering valuable insights into the current fishing conditions and what anglers can expect in the coming weeks. Matt delves into the periodic cicada emergence, explaining the patchy distribution and the challenges of finding the best fishing spots. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the bugs' specific ranges and how to adapt when certain areas don't yield the expected results. As the conversation shifts to fishing tactics, Matt discusses the nuances of keeping fish interested as they become satiated with cicadas, offering tips on how to adjust your approach to maintain successful catches. The discussion also covers the impact of recent heavy rains on local rivers, with Matt noting the high water levels and the need for patience as conditions improve. He provides advice for targeting smallmouth bass, highlighting the transition from spawning to more aggressive feeding behaviors and the continued viability of streamer fishing through the early summer months. Matt's practical tips and firsthand experiences make this episode a must-listen for any angler looking to navigate the complexities of seasonal fishing in Southwest Virginia. Whether you're dealing with cicadas, high water or transitioning fish, this episode is packed with actionable advice to enhance your fishing adventures. To learn more about Matt, check out our full length interview. All Things Social Media Follow Matt on Instagram. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. Support the Show Shop on Amazon Become a Patreon Patron Subscribe to the Podcast Subscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your choice. Advertise on the Podcast Is our community a good fit for your brand? Advertise with us. In the Industry and Need Help Getting Unstuck? Check out our consulting options!