The Trough section is popular because of its canyon-like setting, but locals prefer the 10 miles from the end of the Trough to Romney, tossing soft plastic lures. Public access sites are scattered along the length of the South Branch, making float trips popular and convenient. Use noisy, plopping topwater lures. Night fishing for channel and flathead catfish on Bluestone Lake is another cool change of pace. Bait up with chicken liver or large minnows.
New River is so nice, let's float it twice.
This big river has a better water flow than most in late summer. Remember the July words of caution. There's big water up north, too. The Hannibal lock and dam tailwater on the Ohio River at New Martinsville provides good September fishing, as do other locks and dams on the Ohio and Kanawha rivers. Use minnows, crayfish or jigs, and expect to catch freshwater drum, catfish, sauger, or walleyes.