Chris Ellis: Getting rattled while enjoying some summer fishing

Chris Ellis’ summer fishing account highlights time on West Virginia waters, centered on smallmouth bass and a recent surprise encounter on the New River. After the first day of summer, Ellis describes a range of local options including lakes, creeks, mountain streams, rivers, and ponds, and focuses on deciding which species to target. He explains how younger anglers have brought renewed momentum to raft and oar-frame floats on the New River, emphasizing safer navigation of whitewater and comfortable riding. Ellis says the float, when done well, pairs rapids and scenery—such as the Gorge—with shoreline lunches and opportunities to catch and release smallmouth bass. During a recent trip, he witnessed a snake swimming across a wide pool: not a typical water snake, but a rattlesnake. He describes watching it move calmly, then wiggle up the bank to continue.