- Virginia Beach Fishing Pier is a popular spot for catfishing, with anglers reporting catches of blue and channel catfish.
- The James River is another great place to catch catfish in Virginia, with the area around Richmond being particularly productive.
- The Chickahominy River is known for its large flathead catfish, which can weigh up to 50 pounds.
- Smith Mountain Lake is a top destination for catfishing in Virginia, with anglers targeting both channel and blue catfish.
- The Potomac River offers excellent opportunities for catching both channel and flathead catfish, with many anglers reporting success using cut bait or live shad as bait.
If you’re an avid angler in Virginia, then you know that there’s no shortage of fishing spots. But if you’re specifically looking to catch catfish, then it can be a bit more challenging to find the right place. Whether it’s for a relaxing day on the water or an opportunity to reel in a big catch, choosing the best location is crucial.
But fear not, fellow fisherman! We’ve done the research and scoured the state to bring you the top spots for catfishing in Virginia. From rivers to lakes and everything in between, we’ve got you covered with all the insider tips and tricks.
But why settle for just any old fishing spot when you can have the best? With our recommendations, you’ll be able to land your next personal record or simply enjoy a peaceful day on the water surrounded by nature. So pack up your gear and get ready for some serious catfish action – because these spots are sure to deliver!
The Quick Answer:
The best time to go catfishing in Virginia is during the warmer months, from May to September. Catfish are more active in warmer waters and tend to feed more during this time. Early morning or late evening is also a good time to fish as catfish tend to be more active during these times.
Best Locations for Catfishing in Virginia
Rivers
The James River is one of the best places for catfishing in Virginia. The river has several deep holes and channels that are perfect for catching catfish. The Rappahannock River is also a great spot, especially near Fredericksburg, where there are plenty of big cats lurking around.
Lakes
Lake Gaston is a popular destination for catfish enthusiasts. The lake is known for its large flathead catfish and blue catfish populations. Smith Mountain Lake is also a great option, with plenty of opportunities to catch channel and blue catfish.
Ponds
Ponds can be overlooked when it comes to catfishing, but they can offer some great opportunities for catching smaller catfish. Try fishing at ponds near farmland or areas with heavy vegetation as these spots tend to have higher populations of fish.
Top Rivers and Lakes for Catfish Populations in Virginia
Rivers
The James River has an abundant population of both blue and channel catfish. Another great option is the Shenandoah River, which has an impressive number of large flathead catfish.
Lakes
Lake Anna is home to some monster-sized blue and channel cats. Also, Buggs Island Lake (also known as Kerr Lake) boasts an excellent population of all three main species – channel, blue and flathead.
Recommended Bait and Tackle for Catfishing in Virginia
Bait
Fresh cut bait such as shad or herring works well when fishing for larger sized fish like flatheads or blues. Live bait like worms and minnows are ideal when targeting smaller-sized fish like channels.
Tackle
When it comes to tackle, a heavy-duty spinning or baitcasting rod with a strong line is crucial. Use a sinker to keep the bait in place and choose a hook size that is appropriate for the type of fish you are targeting.
When is the Best Time to Go Catfishing in Virginia?
The best time to go catfishing in Virginia is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. The water temperature plays an essential role in the activity level of catfish, so they tend to be more active when the water reaches above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, catfish tend to feed more at night or early morning and late afternoon when the sun isn’t as bright.
Regulations and Restrictions on Catfishing in Virginia
Virginia has several regulations when it comes to catfishing. Anglers are allowed up to 50 blue catfish per day with no minimum size limit; however, only one flathead over 32 inches can be kept per day. Channel catfish have no daily bag or size limits. A fishing license is required for all anglers who plan on fishing and must be purchased before casting your line into any body of water.
Tips for Beginners Trying Catfishing in Virginia
– Start small: Begin by fishing at smaller ponds or rivers before moving on to larger bodies of water.
– Patience: Be patient and try different baits and techniques until you find what works best for you.
– Get familiar with regulations: Take some time to understand the regulations governing catfishing so that you don’t get caught breaking any laws.
– Practice catch-and-release: Consider practicing catch-and-release if you’re not planning on keeping your catch since this helps maintain healthy populations of fish.
Finding a Guide or Charter Service for Catfishing in Virginia
Many guides and charter services are available for catfishing in Virginia. Guides can provide local knowledge of the best spots to fish, as well as tips and tricks to help you catch more fish. Consider doing some research online or asking local fishing shops for recommendations.
Local Events and Tournaments Related to Catfishing in Virginia
There are several local events and tournaments related to catfishing in Virginia. The Annual James River Catfishing Tournament is held each year on the James River, with prizes awarded for the biggest catches. Other notable events include the Lake Gaston Big Cat Quest and the Smith Mountain Lake Catfish Challenge, both of which attract anglers from all over the state.
In conclusion, Virginia has numerous exceptional locations for catfishing, offering enthusiasts a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Place to Catfish in Virginia
What is the best time of year to catfish in Virginia?
Although they can be caught any time of year, the best months for catching this type of fish are March through May. To increase your chances of success, it’s recommended you use heavy tackle along with cut bait, live herring, shad, or peeler crabs.
Where is the best place to catch catfish?
To find catfish during the day, search in areas with muddy water like tributaries and their outflows. Also, look for them near deep structures such as river bends, drop-offs, holes, and humps. Catfish can be found around cover like standing timber and deep weed edges.
Where is the best place to catch flathead catfish in Virginia?
Some of the best rivers for fishing include the James, New, Staunton/Roanoke, and Occoquan Creek. If you prefer lakes, some great options are Occoquan, Claytor, Flannagan, Smith, and Buggs Island.
What is the best bait for catfish in Virginia?
Flathead Catfish show a stronger preference for live bait over cut bait, with live sunfish being my preferred choice. It is important to note that when collecting sunfish for use as bait, they must be caught using a reel and rod, as using a throw or gill net for this purpose is considered illegal in Virginia.
Do catfish like sun or shade?
In order to keep catfish content in a tank, it is important to provide both sunlight to warm the water and shade for them to hide in.
What time of day do catfish bite the most?
Catfish are typically more easily caught during the night due to their natural ability to navigate in low light conditions. They have sensory barbels, colloquially referred to as “whiskers,” that help in detecting bait, as well as large mouths to aid in compensating for their relatively small eyes.