11 Must-Visit Catfish Fishing Spots in Virginia

Explore Virginia's prime catfish havens, where James River steals the show with trophy blue catfish reaching a whopping 95 pounds. Immerse yourself in Buggs Island Lake, renowned for its massive catfish and stunning shoreline. Don't miss Rappahannock River's rich catfish numbers and the Potomac River's diverse offerings. Lake Anna is a catfishing paradise, while Chickahominy River caters to trophy seekers. Leesville Lake and Kerr Lake promise large catches, and Shenandoah River's channel catfish are a delight. Venture to these spots for unmatched angling adventures, and there's much more waiting around the next bend to uncover.

key Takeaways

• James River is a top spot for trophy-sized blue catfish, especially late fall to mid-spring.
• Rappahannock River offers excellent night fishing for larger blue catfish near Leedsville Campground.
• Potomac River provides diverse catfishing experiences with larger catches during outgoing tides.
• Buggs Island Lake is renowned for massive catfish, particularly productive in spring and fall.
• Sandy River Reservoir supports night fishing with healthy catfish populations and convenient facilities.

James River

Amidst Virginia's scenic landscapes, the James River stands out as a must-visit destination for catfish enthusiasts. Known for its premier catfishing, this river is a haven for those in pursuit of blue catfish, with some giants tipping the scales at over 95 pounds. As a trophy hunter, you'll find the Lower James River particularly rewarding, especially from late fall to mid-spring. The access points at Deep Bottom Landing, Chickahominy Riverside Park, and Jordan Point Marina are perfect starting spots for your adventure. In addition to the James River, the Arkansas River in Oklahoma is also renowned for its excellent catfishing opportunities.

The river's reputation as one of the East Coast's top catfishing locations is well-earned, thanks to its thriving populations of blue catfish. To maximize your success, focus on targeting deep holes during the night. This is where the larger catfish like to lurk, waiting for prey. Gizzard shad or live eels make excellent bait choices, luring in those trophy-sized catches. Night fishing in areas with excellent shoreline access can increase your chances of a successful catch.

However, keep in mind the consumption advisory: it's recommended you eat no more than one catfish meal per month, and avoid those over 5 pounds. With strategic planning and the right approach, the James River can offer an unforgettable catfishing experience.

Buggs Island Lake

While the James River offers a thrilling quest for trophy blue catfish, Buggs Island Lake, also known as Kerr Reservoir, beckons with its own bounty of catfishing opportunities. Recognized as a prime catfish destination, Buggs Island boasts a rich population of blue, channel, and flathead catfish. Its extensive shorelines and submerged structures create ideal habitats, making it easy for you to target these fish effectively.

If you're itching to catch some big catfish, here's why Buggs Island Lake should be on your list:

1. Variety of Catfish: The lake teems with different catfish species, offering diverse fishing experiences.
2. Size of Catch: Anglers often report catching big catfish, many exceeding 50 pounds, especially in spring and fall.
3. Accessibility: Whether you prefer fishing from the bank or launching a boat, there are numerous public ramps and marinas.
4. Night Fishing: This spot is renowned for productive night fishing, where lights and bait can help you land trophy-sized catfish.

Next time you're in Virginia, consider Buggs Island Lake for an exhilarating catfishing adventure. Whether you're fishing from the bank or on a boat, the possibilities are endless.

Rappahannock River

When you're on the hunt for diverse catfish action in Virginia, the Rappahannock River should be your next destination. Known for its rich catfish population, this river is a haven for anglers seeking both quantity and quality. Channel catfish thrive here, offering not only a thrilling catch but also a safe, delicious meal. Leedsville Campground is your perfect base, providing convenient access to the river with its private ramp. This makes it incredibly easy to launch your fishing adventure right into prime catfish territory.

As you cast your line into the Rappahannock River, expect to reel in catfish ranging from a modest 6 pounds to impressive giants tipping the scales at 50 pounds. For those after the big fish, nighttime is your ally. Target the deeper holes where larger blue catfish lurk under the cover of darkness, waiting for their next meal. With numerous fishing spots scattered along the river, especially near Leedsville, you'll find plenty of opportunities to test your skills and enjoy the serene beauty surrounding you. For those interested in exploring other locations, the John Day Arm in Oregon is renowned for both its catfish and smallmouth bass fishing. So pack your gear, head to the Rappahannock River, and immerse yourself in an unforgettable catfish fishing experience.

Potomac River

Exploring the Potomac River offers a thrilling array of catfish fishing opportunities that are sure to satisfy any angler's appetite for adventure. This river is home to good catfish, providing fantastic spots near Westmoreland State Park and the city dock in Fredericksburg. Here, you can access some of the best spots with ease. Catfish in the Potomac range from 6 to an impressive 50 pounds, with the larger ones lurking in deeper pools and around submerged structures. The river's tidal nature influences catfish behavior, especially during outgoing tides, which often yield the best results for both blue and channel catfish.

To make the most of your fishing trip:

1. Choose the right bait: Chicken liver, nightcrawlers, and cut bait are all effective, with local favorites being gizzard shad and live eels.
2. Consider the tides: Outgoing tides offer better chances for a good catch.
3. Explore at night: Night fishing in deeper waters is particularly productive.
4. Use Hydro Glow fish lights: These lights attract catfish during evening hours, making your night fishing more successful.

Venturing to the Potomac River promises an engaging and rewarding fishing experience, where patience and the right techniques lead to impressive catches.

Lake Anna

Diving into the vast waters of Lake Anna, you'll uncover a catfishing paradise in Virginia. Known for its plentiful blue, channel, and flathead catfish, this 13,000-acre lake offers an exciting challenge with fish typically ranging from 15 to 30 inches. As you cast your line, the lake's 200 miles of shoreline provide ample spots for both bank and boat fishing. The real magic happens during night fishing when catfish become more active. The cooler evening hours are a favorite among local anglers.

Bait selection can make or break your fishing adventure. Here's a quick guide:

Bait Type	Description	Usage Tips
Stink Bait	Pungent and irresistible to catfish	Best for channel catfish
Chicken Liver	Protein-rich and easy to handle	Effective for all catfish types
Live Baitfish	Shad and other small fish	Ideal for targeting larger catfish

Lake Anna's annual stocking guarantees a thriving fishery, welcoming you to participate in several fishing tournaments. These events showcase the lake's reputation as a top catfishing destination in Virginia. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a curious newcomer, Lake Anna promises an unforgettable fishing experience.

Sandy River Reservoir

After you've experienced the thrill of catfishing at Lake Anna, head over to Sandy River Reservoir for another rewarding adventure. Known for its well-stocked waters, this reservoir offers a rich catfish experience. Each acre is stocked with 10 catfish annually, ensuring a healthy fish population that keeps anglers coming back. Night fishing here is a must-try, with the potential to catch 15 to 20 catfish in a single outing. Many of these catches are impressive in size, typically measuring between 18 and 24 inches long.

Sandy River Reservoir boasts a variety of submerged structures and deep pools, creating the perfect habitat for both channel and blue catfish. This environment not only supports a thriving fish population but also increases your chances of landing larger specimens. With well-maintained facilities, including accessible boat ramps, your fishing experience is both convenient and enjoyable.

Here are some top reasons to visit Sandy River Reservoir:

1. Ample catfish stocking: 10 catfish per acre annually.
2. Productive night fishing: Catch 15-20 catfish, 18-24 inches long.
3. Ideal habitat: Submerged structures and deep pools.
4. Convenient facilities: Accessible boat ramps for easy access.

Shenandoah River

The Shenandoah River, a catfish angler's paradise, offers a robust channel catfish fishery that shouldn't be missed. Renowned for its abundant catfish population, it's the best place for those in search of quality catches. The river flows with promise, particularly downstream of Fredericksburg, where you can expect to reel in a variety of eating-sized channel catfish. Whether you're casting from the bank or setting out in a boat, the Shenandoah provides ample opportunities to land a prized catch.

For the best fishing experience, focus on the deep pools and areas near submerged structures. These spots are catfish magnets, drawing them in with their promise of shelter and sustenance. The river's diverse ecosystem supports a thriving catfish population, and you'll likely find yourself amid the action, especially during the warmer months when catfish activity spikes.

Summer's warmth invites more than just a pleasant day by the water; it signals a bustling underwater world ripe for fishing. So grab your gear, and head to the Shenandoah River. It's not just a fishing trip; it's an adventure into one of Virginia's most rewarding catfish locales.

New River

While the Shenandoah River offers its own allure, the New River beckons catfish enthusiasts with its promise of impressive flathead catches. Recognized for its good fishing, especially in areas like Austinville and Fosters Falls, the New River is a haven for those seeking big catfish. Here, the currents create ideal conditions, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours when catfish are most active.

The river's diverse fishing opportunities make it a must-visit for anglers. You'll find prime spots featuring deep pools and submerged structures that attract catfish. Expect a thrilling experience as both channel and flathead catfish, typically ranging from 20 to 40 pounds, make their presence known.

For a successful outing, consider these key points:

1. Target Areas: Focus on spots like Austinville and Fosters Falls, known for their good catches.
2. Timing: Early morning and late evening are prime times due to increased fish activity.
3. Night Fishing: Utilize Hydro Glow fish lights to attract bait and larger catfish.
4. Equipment: Bring sturdy gear to handle the big sizes you'll encounter.

Night fishing on the New River is especially rewarding, offering a serene yet thrilling adventure under the stars.

Chickahominy River

If you're searching for a catfish hotspot that's as accessible as it is abundant, the Chickahominy River should be on your radar. Known for its thriving population of channel catfish, this river offers anglers a variety of fishing experiences. Whether you're casting your line from the bank or launching a boat, you'll find the Chickahominy teeming with opportunities. The river's deep pools and submerged structures are perfect for snagging those larger catfish that lurk beneath the surface.

Using cut bait, chicken liver, or worms is highly recommended to tempt these whiskered giants. As you plan your fishing expedition, take advantage of the river's public fishing areas and convenient boat ramps, which make accessing prime spots a breeze. These amenities cater to both seasoned anglers and beginners enthusiastic to reel in a hearty catch.

For the best results, consider planning your trip during the warmer months. Late spring through early fall is when catfish activity peaks, increasing your chances of a successful outing. The Chickahominy River promises not just a fishing trip, but an adventure filled with the thrill of the catch and the beauty of Virginia's waterways.

Leesville Lake

Looking for an exciting fishing adventure? Leesville Lake in Virginia should be on your bucket list! Known for its diverse catfish species, you'll find both blue and channel catfish, with some catches measuring over 20 inches. Whether you're a bank angler or prefer venturing into deeper waters, Leesville Lake has got you covered. With ample shoreline access and convenient boat ramps, you can easily choose your preferred fishing spot.

Here's why Leesville Lake is a must-visit for catfish enthusiasts:

1. Diverse Catfish Species: Catch blue and channel catfish, with some weighing between 6 to 50 pounds.
2. Accessible Fishing: With plenty of shoreline access and boat ramps, both bank anglers and boaters can enjoy the lake.
3. Productive Night Fishing: Use Hydro Glow fish lights to attract catfish and boost your success rate under the stars.
4. Sustainable Fishery: Annual stocking guarantees a healthy population, offering opportunities for record-breaking fish.

The prime time for fishing is during the warmer months when catfish are most active. Whether you're a novice or an experienced angler, Leesville Lake provides an unforgettable fishing experience, promising both thrill and challenge. During summer nights, anglers can target channel catfish using live bait, a technique that has proven successful in many fishing hotspots.

Kerr Lake

After exploring the vibrant fishing opportunities at Leesville Lake, Kerr Lake beckons with its reputation as Virginia's catfishing haven. Spanning over 50,000 acres, Kerr Lake, also known as Buggs Island Lake, is a paradise for anglers seeking the thrill of reeling in massive catfish. You'll find abundant populations of blue catfish, channel, and flathead catfish lurking in its numerous coves, deep channels, and submerged structures. These features create an ideal habitat, ensuring you're never too far from a promising catch.

When fishing at Kerr Lake, you can expect to hook catfish averaging between 20 and 30 pounds. Some anglers even report snagging trophy-sized fish that tip the scales at over 70 pounds! The prime seasons for fishing here are spring and fall, when catfish are particularly active. Consider night fishing for even better results, as these creatures are known to be more lively after dark.

Accessing the lake is a breeze with multiple public boat ramps and marinas scattered around. Whether you prefer bank or boat fishing, Kerr Lake offers convenience and plenty of opportunities to land that big catch, making it a must-visit spot for any fishing enthusiast.