Don't let the post-spawn transition end your fishing season. Discover expert strategies for targeting trophy blue catfish on the James River. From drifting and anchoring techniques to the power of night fishing, learn how Goober Time Guide Service keeps the lines tight when the bite turns back on. Whether you are hunting a personal best or planning a day on the water, these proven tactics will help you master the post-spawn recovery phase.

As the James River warms, a major shift happens beneath the surface. While "the spawn" brings excitement, it also brings a responsibility to protect our trophy fishery. Learn about the biology of the Blue Catfish spawn, our "Conservation First" philosophy, and why mid-May to June is the perfect time to pivot toward high-action Flathead trips in the rapids and multi-species adventures. Discover how we balance the pursuit of a tight line with the stewardship of the river we cal

Persistence is the name of the game on the James River! Join Goober Time Guide Service as we recap an 8-hour marathon with Tim and Mark from Ohio. From the heartbreak of losing a 30 lb monster in the motor to the shock of landing a trophy 5 lb Largemouth Bass, this trip had it all. Witness how we navigated the mud flats and utilized suspend drifting to help our guests land multiple personal bests and complete the "James River Trifecta"—tagging a Blue, Channel, and Flathead ca

Three anglers, three Personal Bests! From fresh hickory shad bait to high-speed action in the upriver currents, Jerry, Shawn, and George joined Goober Time Guide Service for an unforgettable day on the James River. Read the full report to see how we landed 86.5 lbs of fish—including a trophy 25.5 lb Blue Catfish and a rare 14.2 lb Flathead—plus our go-to tactics for drifting channel ledges.

Spring on the James River is a world-class experience, but catching a "blue donkey," a trophy flathead, or a hard-hitting striped bass starts with the right bait. In this guide, Goober Time Guide Service breaks down the top three baits for each species this season—from fresh hickory shad to live bluegill—and exactly how to catch your own bait to keep the lines tight.