Trout Fishing In Virginia
Guide to fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown, golden and lake trout in area lakes and streams.
Virginia offers fantastic trout fishing opportunities, with a variety of trout species and scenic locations to explore. Anglers can target three primary trout species in the state: rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state.
Fishing For Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous lakes and rivers throughout the state. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the area. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. These vibrant and acrobatic fish can be found in popular trout fishing destinations such as the Jackson River, South River, and the numerous stocked trout waters throughout the state. More...
Fishing For Cutthroat Trout
Cutthroat trout typically call the Pacific northwest home, however they are also stocked in many lakes. Cutthroat trout fishing holds a cherished place among anglers. While fly fishing reigns supreme as the preferred method, these prized fish are also susceptible to various artificial lures mimicking minnows or grubs, as well as live bait presentations. Cutthroat trout fishing is renowned for the spectacular battles while landing. More...
Fishing For Brook Trout
Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore more secluded and scenic locations. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. The Shenandoah National Park and the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are prime locations for pursuing brook trout. More...
Fishing For Brown Trout
Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select area lakes and rivers. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. Virginia's mountain streams, particularly those flowing through the Blue Ridge Mountains, provide excellent habitat for brown trout. The James River, Mossy Creek, and the South Fork of the Holston River are among the renowned locations for pursuing brown trout. More...
Fishing For Lake Trout
Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...
Virginia has a rich history of producing impressive state records for trout. Anglers have landed trophy-sized trout, with rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout exceeding 10 pounds in weight. These state records serve as a testament to the exceptional fishing opportunities available in Virginia's lakes and rivers.
Whether fishing in lakes, rivers, or streams, anglers should familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and restrictions for trout fishing in different waters. Some areas require special permits or have specific catch-and-release regulations to ensure the conservation and sustainability of the trout populations.
Virginia's lakes, rivers, and mountain streams offer a picturesque backdrop for trout fishing enthusiasts. With the opportunity to target rainbow trout, brown trout, and native brook trout, anglers can immerse themselves in the beauty of the state's natural landscapes while enjoying the excitement of pursuing these prized gamefish.
Trout Waters
As far as major lakes in Virginia with trout goes, Lake Moomaw and South Holston Lake are the only ones with a significant trout population. Rivers and streams are your best bet in the state of Virginia.
Trout Species In The State
Rainbow trout
World record: 42 lbs 2 oz
State Record: 14 lbs 7 oz
Brook trout
World record: 14 lbs 8 oz
State Record: 5 lbs 15 oz
Brown trout
World record: 40 lbs 4 oz
State Record: 18 lbs 11 oz
Lake trout
World record: 72 lbs 0 oz
State Record: 5 lbs 6 oz
Click the images and links above for species details.
Select the best trout lures and baits
Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.
Virginia State Record Trout
The state record rainbow trout was caught from Greers Pond.
The state record brook trout was taken out of Cub Run.
The state record brown trout came from Smith River.
The state record lake trout was caught in Philpott Reservoir.
The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.
Visit the The Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries website for information on trout stocking in Virginia.
Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.
Additional trout information
Trout locations and info, by state.
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