Fishing in Northern Virginia is a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the area. Whether you're an experienced angler or just getting started, there are plenty of opportunities to catch bass in the region. However, it's important to understand the regulations and requirements for fishing in the area. In order to fish in Northern Virginia, you'll need a valid fishing license.
Residents and non-residents alike must obtain a license from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. Additionally, anglers who want to fish in domestic waters, such as the George Washington and Jefferson forests, will need a National Forest Seal in addition to their fishing license. For more information on how to purchase a recreational saltwater fishing license and the associated fees, visit the Fishing License Fees section of this website. When it comes to bass fishing in Northern Virginia, there are certain times of year that are better than others.
Generally speaking, the best time for bass fishing is during the spring spawning season. This is when bass move upstream to spawn, making them easier to catch. Anglers can also use a boat with a tower to climb to the top and spot fish on sunny days while wearing polarized amber-colored glasses. I spoke with Nick Secrist of Mossy Creek Fly Fishing in Harrisonburg about fishing opportunities on the river.
He recommends fishing from the dam to Brookneal this month as fish move upstream to spawn. He also suggests using framed rafts to slowly paddle down this picturesque river and stop to fish in deep wells this month. In addition to bass, anglers can also find trout, hybrids, cobia, and other species in Northern Virginia waters. All anglers, captains and guides who fish for cobia must obtain a recreational cobia permit from the Commission and report on any activity of catching and fishing for cobia. The South Holston Reservoir Fishing License allows anglers to fish in the Tennessee and Virginia waters of the South Holston Reservoir upstream of the dam. Finally, it's important to note that a permit for special use of a boat ramp is required to organize, supervise, or request registrations for fishing tournaments, rodeos, or other fishing events in lakes, ponds or streams owned by the department, for which prizes are offered, awarded or accepted depending on the size or quantity of fish caught, whether in money or other valuable considerations.
Any fish caught and entered for scoring or consideration during a permitted fishing tournament, rodeo, or other fishing event must be released immediately at the capture site. Fishing in Northern Virginia is an enjoyable activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. With proper preparation and knowledge of regulations and requirements, anglers can have an enjoyable experience while catching bass and other species in this beautiful region.
