Fishing Carvins Cove Reservoir
AKA: Carvins Cove Lake
Popular Fish Species Carvins Cove Reservoir, VA
Largemouth Bass Fishing
The most commonly caught species in Carvins Cove Reservoir continues to be largemouth bass. Although they don't grow to monster size here, fishing for largemouth bass has been decent for average size bass. Good fisheries management by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources has maintained an overall fishery for bass and other species. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Carvins Cove Reservoir on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Fishing for largemouth bass is good here is year round. Smallmouth bass also reside here.
Bluegill Fishing
Fishing for bluegill is a time-honored tradition at Carvins Cove Reservoir, even though they typically run small. Young and old, beginners and seasoned anglers alike, all enjoy catching a bunch of fat bluegill. This year, much like recent years, the bluegill population is healthy and always looking for something to eat. Bluegill fishing is as basic as fishing gets. Any pole, reasonably small line and small hooks baited with anything edible, creates the ideal setup. Add a bobber and you can set the depth you prefer the bait to position. Bluegill hang around brush, rocks, vegetation or any cover available.
Hybrid Striped Bass Fishing
Hybrid striped bass, also known as wipers, are also fished for by many locals at Carvins Cove Reservoir. As a hybrid of striped bass and white bass, they have great potential for spawning massive numbers and growing to large sizes. Fishing for hybrid stripers is a matter of locating schools of bait, and schools of hybrid striped bass are likely to be in the area. Mornings, during Fall, hybrids can be caught on topwater or shallow running lures, as they are feeding on baitfish at the surface. When they move deeper, fish finders improve your odds of locating both bait and schools of wipers. Live bait, spoons and jigs are very very effective here, and these hungry fish can be caught year round.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, yellow perch and hybrid striped bass at Carvins Cove Reservoir in Virginia.
Carvins Cove Reservoir Fishing Video
Just a few minutes north of Roanoke, Carvins Cove Reservoir is a 630-acre lake in the west-central part of the state. It is an easy fishing trip after work, a simple weekend getaway and a great family vacation spot.
Carvins Cove Reservoir, located in Virginia, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a serene and picturesque angling experience. The reservoir is known for its diverse fish populations, making it a haven for anglers of all skill levels.
One of the most sought-after fish species in Carvins Cove Reservoir is the largemouth bass. The lake's clear and calm waters provide an ideal habitat for bass, and anglers have the opportunity to catch both numbers and trophy-sized fish. Spring and fall are typically the best seasons for bass fishing, as the fish are more active and tend to be closer to the shorelines. Anglers can use a variety of techniques, such as casting soft plastics, working topwater lures, or flipping jigs, to entice the bass in Carvins Cove Reservoir.
Aside from largemouth bass, Carvins Cove Reservoir is also home to other popular fish species, including crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish. Crappie can be targeted using jigs or live minnows near submerged structures, while bluegill provide excellent opportunities for young anglers or those seeking a relaxed fishing experience. Channel catfish can be caught using various baits, such as cut bait, stink bait, or nightcrawlers.
Carvins Cove Reservoir offers a tranquil fishing experience in a beautiful natural setting. With its diverse fish species, boating opportunities, and nearby camping options, it remains a favorite destination for anglers looking to escape into nature and enjoy a rewarding day of fishing in Virginia.
The multitude of coves create about fifteen miles of shoreline for sightseeing, boating and fishing. Largemouth bass, bluegill and hybrid striped bass are at the top of the list for most anglers here. Other species in good numbers include catfish, crappie, perch and smallmouth bass. Boat motors are restricted to 10 horsepower or less, so it is a great waterway for canoes, kayaks and car-top boats. There is a portage launch area for kayaks and canoes, plus a boat launch ramp. Boat rentals are available at the boat dock during season. Camping and RV hookups are less than 30 minutes away.
Primary fish species residing in Carvins Cove Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Carvins Cove Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Carvins Cove Reservoir, with its expansive surface area providing ample room for watercraft enthusiasts. Anglers can take advantage of their boats to explore different areas of the reservoir and find the best fishing spots. Whether it's cruising along the calm waters or anchoring at strategic locations, boating enhances the fishing experience on Carvins Cove Reservoir.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Carvins Cove Boat Landing
Rentals: Fishing boats and kayaks
540 362-1757
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Carvins Cove Reservoir Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off Reservoir Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Carvins Cove Reservoir
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Virginia Fishing License.
Camping is not allowed directly at Carvins Cove Reservoir, but there are nearby campgrounds and recreational areas where anglers can set up camp and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Carvins Cove Natural Reserve, which encompasses the reservoir, offers several hiking trails and picnic areas, providing additional opportunities to explore the outdoors.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Mc Farland RV Park - 540 992-2076
Carvins Cove Reservoir VA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Carvins Cove Reservoir
Carvins Cove Recreation Area
State Rte 648
Roanoke, VA 24019
540 362-1757
Fishing lakes in each state.
062524
Carvins Cove Reservoir in VA
VIRGINIA
Fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill and hybrid striped bass in west-central VA.