Guide To The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In Virginia

All about fishing for flathead, blue, white and channel catfish in VA.

Catfish can be found in most fishing waters across Virginia. Most rivers, small lakes and ponds have one or more species of catfish. The major containing a healthy population of catfish include Claytor Lake, Kerr Reservoir, Lake Anna, Lake Chesdin, Lake Drummond, Lake Gaston, Lake Moomaw, Leesville Reservoir, Occoquan Reservoir, Philpott Lake, Smith Mountain Lake, South Holston Lake, Swift Creek Reservoir and Western Branch Lake.

Click the images and links above for species details.

What's the best bait for catfish in Virginia?

Choose from the top 5 all-time catfish baits and try them on local waters. Appealing to the keen sense of smell and taste could turn a so-so day into a memorable event.

Virginia State Record Catfish

The state record channel catfish was caught from the Lake Chesdin.

The state record flathead catfish came from Lake Smith.

The state record blue catfish came out of Buggs Island Lake.

The state record white catfish came out of Western Branch Reservoir.

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. Catfish are found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers throughout Virginia. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Catfish Fishing Video

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Additional catfishing information resources.

Catfish Conservation Group

U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments

Planet Catfish

Information for states with catfish.