Kimsley Lake Virginia

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Top 10 Fishing Destinations in Virginia

On the East Coast, Virginia offers one of the best fishing experiences for those who love the sport! Whether you are looking to wrangle some monster catfish or explore 2,800 miles worth of trout streams, there’s something for all the anglers out there. We are going to cover our top fishing destinations in Virginia to give you an incredible experience.

Virginia ranks fishing as one of the top-rated activities because the state has so many freshwater lakes and rivers, along with an abundance of saltwater options which make the state fit for fishing. We roll out some of the best options for you regardless of the fact whether you are into fly fishing or shore casting. Try your luck at the spots we have mentioned along with some of the best catches that the place has to offer to you.

Types of Catch Available

Freshwater

raindbow trout

Rainbow Trout

brown trout

Brown Trout

brook trout

Brook Trout

White Bass

White Bass

Striped Bass

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass

smallmouth bass

Smallmouth Bass

spotted bass

Spotted Bass

Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish

Bluegill

Bluegill

northern pike

Muskie

walleye

Walleye

Carp

yellow perch

Yellow Perch

Crappie

Crappie

State Fishing Records

Top 10 Fishing Spots Across Virginia

Bear Creek Lake

Bear Creek Lake

The spot is only an hour away from Richmond and has some of the most spectacular and amazing views with serene waters in the Old Dominion. The 40- acre lake is known for boat launches, fishing pier, and boat rentals as well. The species that the lake offers include largemouth bass, bluegill, Redear sunfish, black crappie, and channel catfish.


Lake Anna

Lake Anna

This is a beautiful lake which is known to be the largest inland lake in Virginia. It covers about 20 square miles across three counties. The lake is famous for the unique fish species that it brings for the enthusiastic anglers. It includes largemouth bass, striper, and crappie, among others. If you are looking for some picnic areas so that the whole family can enjoy the trip, then also it’s an ideal spot for the surrounding park offers picnic areas along with boat launching ramps. Before hitting the waterway, drop by Fish Tales, and they will have you covered for all the fishing equipment that you will need.


James River

James River

The River cuts its course directly through the heart of the urban downtown Richmond area. It is nestled between steel buildings and concrete, and the river oasis which provides for a welcome burst of natural beauty, history, and excellent fishing, all at the same time. This is one reason why this fishing spot bags the limelight of being a favorite picnic spot. When it comes to naming the preferred species of the spot, smallmouth bass gets the position. At the same time, flathead, blue and channel catfish are also a part of the variety that the waterway brings for anglers! It is interesting that nine fishing spots exist along the river and have various access points with slightly different fish present.


Lake Moomaw

Lake Moomaw

It is a man-made lake which covers 2,530 acres and is an excellent spot for winter fishing. Located in Western Virginia, the lake is stocked with a number of options such as warm-water fish, like bass, sunfish, crappie, and catfish, and cold-water fish, such as trout. The great news for more casual anglers is that trout fishing at Moomaw does not require a license or a National Forest Stamp, but you have to be careful of the various regulations that exist for different sizes of fish. Do check out the destination page before taking any home just to stay on the safe side.


Mossy Creek

Mossy Creek

The creek is popularly renowned to all for its incredible fly fishing! Expert fly fishers might also find this limestone creek challenging as fish are supposed to be caught from the banks rather than the water itself. The creek is regularly stocked with brown trout that are as big as 25 inches. Anglers need to have a Virginia Fishing license and a signed permit card with them to fish the creek while ensuring their fishing trip goes as smoothly as possible.


Carvins Cove

Carvins Cove

This 630 acre spot allows you to either fish from the banks or paddle your way into the reserve. When it comes to the pulls of the spot, Bluegill and Largemouth are most common. Largemouth can range from 10 to 16 inches, and bluegill comes in smaller at about a size of 2 to 5 inches. It is stocked annually with hybrid striped bass which can reach up to a size of 14 to 18 inches. Note that boat launch fees and the daily access fees might apply. Also, if you are thinking of taking a trawling motor alongside then, they must be ten horsepower or less.


Pigg River

Pigg River

Pigg River is commonly known for being a popular stretch for those who love to float, kayak, and even fish in Franklin County. It is one of the best trout spots in the state. The river is also known for hosting an annual trout Heritage Day for the first Saturday of April.


Blackwater River

Blackwater River

Blackwater is a beautiful stream beginning at Cahas Mountain and flowing all the way into Smith Mountain Lake. The spot brings a great variety to catch, which includes: trout, musky, sunfish, and catfish. If the water is high enough then the waterway can also be a great float trip!


Bath County

Bath County

Located in the mountains of Virginia, west of the Shenandoah Valley, has gained a reputation for one of the finest fishing spots in Virginia. Anglers are attracted by the breathtaking beauty of the pristine rivers, streams and lakes and trophy fish like the beautiful rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, brown trout and dozens of other species. Tourists are welcomed with exceptional hospitality and unique lodging facilities.


Clinch River

Clinch River

This River is the home to many sport fish, making it an ideal destination for anglers. Game fish include smallmouth bass, walleye, redbreast sunfish, spotted bass, sauger, black crappie, and many other species. The river runs 135 miles southwestward from its origin towards the Tennessee state. 

Virginia has an incredible variety of locations to enjoy, each with their own charm and appeal.   For more information on any of these locations, check out our destination pages.



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