If you're an angler looking for the best bass fishing spots in Northern Virginia, you've come to the right place. The Potomac River is a great option, with its 400-mile length and easy access from the DC metropolitan area. It can be difficult to master, but if you focus on shallow, grassy areas with moving baits, you can have great success. Aquia Creek is another option if you're farther south of NOVA, running from Fauquier to Stafford County and approximately 30 miles long.
Occoquan Reservoir is a great option if you want to avoid the tidal nature of the Potomac River. It's a 2,100-acre reservoir that borders Fairfax and Prince William Counties, right on the I-95 corridor and classified as an “exceptional bass fishery” by the VDGIF. Lake Anna is another great option if you don't mind driving for a few hours. It's about 20 square miles with a length of 17 miles, making it a thin lake with many different stream arms where you can find great fishing success.
There's also a nuclear power plant on Anna's private side, often referred to as the “hot side” because the power plant keeps the water warm all year round. If you prefer canoe or kayak fishing, Shenandoah River is one of the best small-mouth fisheries in the world. It runs 55 miles with two branches that run 100 miles and is extremely shallow in most sections. For black largemouth bass in Virginia, South Side region is where you should be. Lake Burton in Callands-Gretna is one of the best places to find them, although it's strictly for catch and release only.
Lake Banister in Halifax is another great spot for big (over 400 acres) bass fishing. If you're looking for a lake with plenty of piers and other amenities, Fountainhead Regional Park is your best bet. It offers 250-foot pier and 100-foot floating pier and is within the Occoquan Reservoir Prohibited Zone, keeping the waters particularly calm and suitable for anglers. Burke Lake Park is also constantly producing the biggest fish in Northern Virginia.
Fishing Fun classes are offered on Saturday mornings at 9 in the morning for children who want to learn basic fishing techniques. Northern Virginia has some of the best bass fishing spots in the country, so don't miss out on this opportunity! Whether you're looking for a challenging river or a calm lake with plenty of amenities, there's something for everyone here. With its diverse range of options and excellent fishing opportunities, Northern Virginia is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for any angler.
