Fishing at a Virginia State Park is a great way to enjoy some time on the water this summer. You can fish in saltwater, freshwater, rivers, lakes, creeks, the Chesapeake Bay and even the Atlantic Ocean. There are a variety of fish across the Commonwealth and even more programs that range from learning the basics to competing in tournaments.

There are so many programs that can help you build skills while having fun. If you are new to fishing or someone who is looking to refresh their skills, there is a program waiting for you at a Virginia State Park.

Beginner programs

Beginner programs aren’t just for beginners, but they do teach the basics and can serve as a refresher course for those who haven’t fished in a while or for those looking to build their skills.

Pocahontas State Park offers a Fishing FUNdamentals program that teaches you all the basics you'll need to know to get started with fishing from tying on your hook and tackle to casting your line. After your lesson, you will then get to try your luck and skills in the lake. Rods, reels, and bait provided. Water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and bug spray are strongly recommended for you to bring. Equipment is limited and reservations are suggested, so call 804-796-4472 or email rebecca.whalen@dcr.virginia.gov for more information.

New River Trail State Park offers a Gone Fishin’ program that is perfect for anyone new to fishing or looking to brush up on their skills in a fun, supportive environment. This program will cover basic fishing skills such as casting, reeling, dragging, hook tying, rigging, and hopefully, catching your first fish in the New River. Call the park at 276-699-6778 to confirm your spot and register.

Staunton River State Park offers Fishing 101 on the beautiful Edmund’s Lake and this program will teach you how to tie basic fisherman knots that will help you reel one in. Fishing poles and worms are provided, but you can bring your own equipment and tackle if you want.

Machicomoco State Park offers a program called Hook, Line and Sinker that teaches you the basics of saltwater fishing, including tying knots, casting the reel and hopefully reeling in a fish. You must be at least 16 years old to participate in this program and registration is free but please call the park at 804-642-2419 to let them know that you will be attending so they can be sure to have the correct number of supplies.

Some parks offer games that help you learn the basics of fishing before you get in the water. Twin Lakes State Park offers a Backyard Bass program. This land-based, hook-free fishing game is a fun and safe way to learn how to cast, but even those who are fishing fanatics will enjoy trying to beat out the competition in this game of limited resources. This program is suitable for all ages and please note that there is no actual fishing during this game.

Fishing camps

Virginia State Parks offer camps, clinics and tournaments at some locations as another way to enjoy fishing. The goal is to be sure you leave with confidence and skills for your next fishing adventure. Competing in a fun and friendly environment is also something that some parks offer. Programs vary each year based on staff availability.

Leesylvania State Park has monthly clinics during the summer, with hands-on workshops that provide family fun as you learn how to fish. The programs are available for all ability levels and for kids ages 3-15 years old. Rods and reels are provided by the park, but you can bring your own equipment if you have it.

Seven Bends State Park offers fishing camps that dive into essential fishing skills, learning about river conditions and weather patterns, bait and tackle selection, fishing techniques and safety practices. Additionally, you will get information on how to choose the right rods and reels, how to read the river and locate the bet fishing spot, tie knots, rig poles, and hand-tie jigs. There will be guest speakers, including experienced anglers and a visit from a conservation officer. Each camper will receive their very own fishing pole, reel, bait and tackle. Register a week before camp, max 20 per session. Register through Shenandoah County Parks & Rec by visiting www.scpr.info or call 540-459-6777.

Claytor Lake State Park hosts an annual Festival and Get Outside Day and this event includes a fishing tournament along with music, fireworks and activities. The park also hosts a Friday Night Fishing program that highlights the best places to fish. The festival and program are both suitable for all skill levels.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park has some fishing tournaments that are scheduled at the park office. A special-use permit application, which may be obtained from the office, is required and must be submitted at least two weeks prior to a tournament. Tournaments are scheduled first-come, first-served.

River Seining

Have you ever caught a fish using a net? If not, you should explore aquatic life through a fun catch and release program.

Chippokes State Park offers a program called Seining on the James that gives you a hands-on experience to see what lives in the James River. Supplies are provided but be sure to wear appropriate attire and shoes for being in the water and walking on shells.

York River State Park offers a River Seining program that allows you to get a closer look at the variety of fish and shellfish that live in York River. Water shoes are recommended, and be sure to dress for being in the water.

Westmoreland State Park offers a Caught Seining program that gives you an exclusive look at aquatic life in the Potomac River. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes that are appropriate for stepping on rocks and shells.

Caledon State Park offers a Shore Seine program that allows you to explore the brackish waters of the Potomac River that are home to a unique variety of fish and shellfish. Wear close-toed shoes and clothes that can get wet. This program requires paid reservations. Call the park at 540-663-3861 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. or stop by the visitor center to reserve your spot.

Holliday Lake State Park offers a Dipnetting Adventure program that invites you to explore the aquatic world using dip-nets, where you'll discover the diverse critters living in and around the lake. You'll learn how to identify different species, understand their roles in the ecosystem and experience the thrill of catching and releasing these fascinating creatures. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, this interactive experience promises a fun and educational afternoon by the water.

Fly Fishing

Shenandoah River State Park offers a Fly Fishing 101 program that will go over all the basics to get you catching your first fish on a fly. This program is for ages 12 and up. Participants 16 and older are required to have a valid Virginia Freshwater Fishing License. You will be wading in water up to two feet deep and closed-toe shoes are required. Waders are recommended but not provided. Pre-registration for this program is required so email megan.goin@dcr.virginia.gov or call (540) 622-2262.

Let’s Go Adventures features a series of programs led by our expert rangers on camping, kayaking, hiking, fly fishing, orienteering and archery. New River Trail and Hungry Mother state parks offer fly fishing program this summer.

When you attend a class, you’ll learn about the basics of the activity, including selecting the proper equipment and how to use it, Leave No Trace Principles, park etiquette and safety guidelines.

Check out the Let’s Go website for all the programs offered this year.

Be sure to get your fishing license

• Fishing licenses are required at all parks except at the Kiptopeke and York River piers where a fee is charged to fish.
• The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website has information about freshwater fishing licenses.
• Visit the Virginia Marine Resources Commission website for information about saltwater fishing. Saltwater fishing also requires an annual free registration as explained on the website.
• Check out the Fish Virginia First Trail.

Plan your next fishing adventure

Virginia State Parks offer so many programs year-round and many of them are free. A parking fee is required at most locations so be sure to always check the park website before your visit.

You can always enjoy a program or a self-guided adventure on the water at a Virginia State Park. Bear Creek Lake, Sweet Run, Clinch River, Staunton River Battlefield, James River, Douthat, Occoneechee, Widewater and Belle Isle State Parks are perfect for self-guided fishing adventures.

More details about fishing at Virginia State Parks can be found on the website as well as in my other fishing blog.

For the full list of fishing programs, visit the events page.