Episode Details

On this episode of Fishing the DMV, we sit down with Capt. Sam Scott of Blue Ridge Muskies to discuss a serious and growing concern on the Jackson River and Upper James River: pollution concerns connected to the Smurfit Westrock paper mill in Covington, Virginia.

Sam breaks down what he has seen firsthand on his home waters, including dramatic water discoloration, sludge-like buildup on the river bottom, major dark-water events, poor fishing conditions after discharge events, and concerns over dissolved oxygen, water temperature, aquatic vegetation, spawning success, and the long-term health of the James River muskie and smallmouth bass fisheries.

We also discuss why this issue matters beyond fishing. The Jackson River feeds the Upper James, one of Virginia’s most important recreational river systems for anglers, guides, kayakers, tubers, and outdoor tourism. Sam explains why he believes more transparency, public awareness, and expanded water testing are urgently needed — including testing for more than just dissolved oxygen.

This conversation also touches on a national report that identified the Covington Smurfit Westrock facility as one of the most concerning paper mills in the country for pollution, emissions, odor complaints, and its impact on the Jackson River.

This is an important developing story for anyone who cares about Virginia rivers, the Upper James fishery, muskie fishing, smallmouth bass, clean water, and the future of outdoor recreation in the Mid-Atlantic.

There’s a link to the environmental article talking about the papermill: 

https://environmentalintegrity.org/news/pollution-from-the-u-s-paper-industry-is-vastly-under-reported-new-study-reveals/?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

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Link below to Blue Ridge Musky Websites and Social Media Email Sam at: blueridgemusky@gmail.com

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 BlueRidgeMuskey.com: https://blueridgemusky.com/guided-trips/ 

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Link to Tactical Fishing Company: https://tacticalfishingco.com/
 
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Email: lin@fishingprotech.us

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