Now that the sf new is finally below 500 cfs (498 to be exact) more rain is on the way n!n
The Ararat and Fisher are garbage. The Mitchell is ok if you get off the beaten path but they are dinky. Yadkin has those stupid canoe only launches so you can't get a raft in there to fish it properly. Plus it's nearly always yoo-hoo.
QuoteSmallmouth fishing is screwed all over in our part of the world
To your point, I talked to a guide in VA that said he and others are actively lobbying VA fish and game to take a more active (ie, stocking) role in Virginia's ailing smallmouth fisheries. Squeaky wheel gets the grease. Here's to hoping they are successful.
Roanoke River (aka Staunton), appears to be the best choice for brown bass at this time.
https://dwr.virginia.gov/fishing/forecasts-and-reports/river-fishing-report/#region-2