Find the Best Freshwater Fishing in Virginia

With so many great fishing spots around Virginia, it’s hard to decide where to go on your next fishing trip. There are over 800 miles of designated Virginia Scenic River, 176,000 acres of public lakes, and 22 state parks that offer fishing across the Commonwealth.  That’s why more than 30 localities got together to launch fishvirginiafirst.com. It’s an indispensable resource for freshwater anglers.

The goal of Fish Virginia First is to introduce anglers to the finest freshwater fishing in Virginia. Fishing is as important to these communities as it is to you. They extend a warm welcome because they know that anglers care about the state’s waterways and will be responsible users of our natural treasures. So, you can expect genuine hospitality when you visit a Fish Virginia First partner. 

What is Fish Virginia First?

Fish Virginia First is a partnership of cities, towns and counties that have top-quality fishing opportunities. Some partner localities feature big lakes that host  professional tournaments. Others boast major rivers that hold trophy-sized fish. Still other partner destinations feature rugged and secluded streams that are perfect for a day of fly-fishing. Those familiar with Virginia’s legendary outdoor recreation will not be surprised to find some counties that have all of the above and more. 

Serious anglers and casual casters will all appreciate the great content at fishvirginiafirst.com. Every partner locality — in every region of Virginia — has its own informational page, which can be found via an alphabetical list or by clicking on a map. Each page describes in detail the variety of fishing experiences available. You’ll also find information on local gear shops, outfitters and professional guides. That’s not all. One of the most popular tools on the site is our unique species finder. It will tell you what fish you’re likely to encounter in each community. Some people use the tool in reverse. If you’re in the mood to find muskie, small mouth bass, or photogenic rainbow trout, simply click the species and find out where to catch them.

Foliage & Fish – A Great Weekend Getaway

There is no better time than fall to spend time outdoors casting a line and exploring new rivers and lakes. The scenery is breathtaking, the air is crisp and the fish are biting.  

For a day trip, a weekend with fishing buddies or a week-long family vacation, be sure to check out the trip planning resources at Fish Virginia First.

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