Learn More, Get Special Offers Delivered Right to Your Inbox. There has been much better recruitment the past few years resulting in a better fishery for 8-11 fish. Survey date and timing play a major role in catch rates and size structure. Electrofishing catch rates of bass >15 are similar to neighboring Smith Mountain Lake. Although Brierys hay day of producing near state record fish is distant, it is showing signs of improvement and remains one of the best Largemouth Bass fisheries in the state. The reservoir has a number of large arms with plenty of interesting contour and structure. Smallmouth Bass are present but in lower numbers and are typically caught in deeper water. Anglers primarily target catfish from April to June, with a second bump in effort in early fall. This species has generally mirrored largemouth trends closely with overall numbers steadily increasing matching historical highs in 2019. However, Briery Creek still boasts a unique combination of size and number of Largemouth Bass. The crappie population has been generally consistent for both number and size. Harrys Point boat ramp, a no-fee ramp located in the mid-lake area within Pulaski Countys Harry DeHaven Park, has a double ramp and courtesy piers. Historically rainbows have never been as abundant as Brown Trout, but growth rates are similar. Good largemouth bass fishing can be found throughout the reservoir but smallmouth bass densities appearing to be greater in the During the spring run from February to May, look for Walleye where the New River enters the lake near Allisonia. Anglers should find success around beaver lodges and fallen trees which create ideal habitat for sunfish and crappie. These are the highest levels ever documented in the northern district in any water. All Rights Reserved. This was a slight decline from 2020 (129/hr.). Largemouth Bass eat Bluegill, Alewife, Gizzard Shad, and crayfish, depending on the season of the year and whether these prey are abundant in a given year. hb```ZVB ea`b`VY`V4CS @5, W9zF-a1KGkDCFCEGV>u@ZE@1bd`k 3RBV2GIbXklq@+l@F'@ ,/ Smallmouth Bass are less abundant, and anglers targeting this species should focus on the lower lake. Read More Best Tools, Gear and Gadgets to Have on Your Boat, Read More FishUSA Fishing Tools: A Detailed Review, Read More Walleye Fishing Gear Guide for 2023, Read More 8 Best Swimbaits for Bass Fishing, Read More ISLE Sportsman Review: Fishing From a High-End Paddle Board, Read More 8 Best Crankbaits for Bass Fishing. Sampling in 2018 showed stocked bass only added 6% to years when stocking occurred and only 0.03% to the entire adult population after three years of stocking. Hi guys, sorry for the lack of a report yesterday. Anglers report catching a number of trophy Yellow Perch (> 1 pound, 4 ounces or 12) each year. along with two saugeye. Eighty-seven percent of adults were 18 inches, and 32% exceeded 20. Rentals: Kayaks and pontoon boats This lake has historically been predator heavy with an abundance of bass, Black Crappie, Chain Pickerel and Bowfin. While black bass and trout are the mainstay fisheries, anglers should also find favorable populations of Black Crappie, Bluegill, Chain Pickerel, and Channel Catfish. We reserve the right to correct pricing errors. Brown and Rainbow Trout are stocked as fingerlings annually. Chickahominy Lake is a popular destination for anglers who enjoy fishing a 1,230-acre reservoir with plenty of habitat and cover. However, many anglers who spend the time are rewarded with good fishing. Trolling bucktails and umbrella rigs in 20-60 of water can produce. The current population is fair but improving due to better recent recruitment. ugZe9Ldu3S@'\]wZuH@3FTr"8JDJ\)1I The bass population seems to have recovered to a consistent and quality level. Claytor Lake, Virginia Fishing Report - whackingfatties.com and fell further behind 2019 (117/hr.). Hybrids are routinely caught in the lower lake on top water baits or by drifting live baits. The 2020 survey was consistent with past years showing an abundance of medium size Bluegill and Redear Sunfish. DWR is working to determine the future ability of trout to survive in this aging reservoir. There are numerous different species of fish to find on this body of water. Other species available for Buggs anglers include Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Walleye, White Bass, White Perch, and Freshwater Drum. One of the better fishing opportunities on Chesdin comes from Channel Catfish with fish averaging 4-6 pounds. Copyright 2023Sportsman's Warehouse. Actually caught two, a 1lb and a 1.25lb, but I didnt get a picture of the second fish, 1 lb. High relative weights indicated bass were finding plenty of forage. DNA analysis from fin clips will allow for assessment of stocking success. Catfish are also popular in Claytor Lake, some of them getting quite large (well over 50 lb). Bait populations (Alewife and Gizzard Shad) are abundant, which creates good feeding conditions for Striped and hybrid Striped Bass, and water temperatures below 70 degrees produce the best fishing. Click here for a Virginia Fishing License. Field staff update the fishing reports each This body of water was created in 1939 and is named after a former Vice President of Appalachian Power, Graham Claytor, Sr. Anglers can keep unlimited numbers of Spotted Bass of any size. Hybrid Striped Bass continue to provide a popular sport fishery, and this system produced a previous state record hybrid. Approximately 17,000 hybrid fingerlings were stocked in 2021. The abundance of hybrids in December 2021 net samples was average, but the majority of fish were over 20 and legal. Striped Bass: 4 per day no less than 20 inches. Large Mouth Bass, Small Mouth Bass are on there summer patterns and have pulled off to deep points and structure. The Brown Trout fishery usually consists of three cohorts (separate annual stockings) when habitat suitability is present over multiple years. Campgrounds: YES Spring is in the air. The Smith Mountain Lake Largemouth Bass population, based on DWR sampling, has been improving since 2015. The two saugeye were older fish from the 2014 stocking that weighed 6 and 7+ pounds. VDWR biologists use the catch rate of Walleye in annual gill net samples as a measure of relative abundance. These first two stockings of a 6-year study are being assessed for survival and contribution to the fishery. Yesterday was a tough day caused by the conditions and, especially the sea lions. No Walleye 19 to 28 inches may be kept and anglers are limited to 2 Walleye per day year round. ^J+y336/{CrmW`|-g*i#xhmGjY\u(;2">. tMN{ktl$.W7lk@7_OZ{_7L~Xn$4,oJ]Z/@KTJ4dc"dfv2}EsQWrl.Ydr[97]fv=MV-s;T&d\Of/|c&I' 1 Two private boat ramps, Ed Allens and Eagles Landing, have numerous bass tournaments. The survey yielded 65 preferred-sized bass ( 15) for a catch rate of 21.7/hr. Good catches of crappie and catfish are being taken at night. Join over 100k anglers who receive our newsletter.Techniques, tips and tackle breakdowns personalized to your local area. Anglers may even catch the occasional White Bass in South Holston. Mike Pritchard called from the Tribute with this update. Anglers have reported better with catches in the 4-5 pound range. Walleye fishing remains the best in the Commonwealth; however, fishing success has declined recently possibly due to increasing pressure and a missing 2016 year class due to hatchery issues. Claytor Lake bait populations (Alewife and Gizzard Shad) are high, aiding in the restoration of the Striped Bass fishery. This fishery has an increasing abundance of larger fish that have been foraging on juvenile shad. From I-81, take Exit 101 (Claytor Lake) to State Park Road (State Route 660). Smallmouth Bass were less abundant, but anglers target them with success. Location and Fishing Information: Claytor lake is located in Pulaski County Virginia and covers just under 4,500 acres of surface area. A total of 13 Largemouth Bass over 20 were collected during 2020 sampling, indicating the lake is still producing good numbers of memorable bass. Team Supreme. Large and small mouth bass fishing tournaments are a regular seasonal event at Claytor Lake with weights of 15 to 20 lb per fisherman being an average winning catch. The abundant forage base of Blueback Herring provides a great source of nutrition for the assemblage of predators. Recent surveys continue to reveal an abundance of bass in the 3-5 pound range which should make tournament anglers happy. Helpful identification information is available on the Department website. Written by the Aquatics Reservoir Committee Team, Edited by John Odenkirk. WebFishing licenses are also available in Radford at the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue: 619 2nd Street Radford, VA 24141 The Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue may also be reached at 540-731-3613. Chickahominy Lake continues to produce an abundance of 4-6 pound Bowfin with a chance at a citation over 10 pounds. Overall, there have been some good reports this spring that provide hope for a rebound in striper numbers, with a noticeable presence of 28- to 32-inch stripers. Both of these bass species eat a lot of Bluegill as well as some Alewife and Gizzard Shad, so they may also hit lures that imitate fish. WebAlternate Fishing Times: 12:00AM to 12:00AM. Surveys in 2021 followed up on fast growing saugeye with females pushing 4-4.5 pounds in just 2.5 years. Best Tools, Gear and Gadgets to Have on Your Boat, ISLE Sportsman Review: Fishing From a High-End Paddle Board. Claytor Lake State Park Boat Launch Ramp Buggs Island (Kerr Reservoir) is located in south-central Virginia and north-central North Carolina. Fortunately, Walleye were stocked in Flannagan in 2019 and 2020 which should help the population rebound soon. Boat docks, trees and fish habitat are the primary cover for fish and baitfish. Smallmouth, Largemouth, and Spotted Bass (collectively called black bass) are the bread and butter fishes of this lake. The 2021 spring electrofishing survey yielded 428 bass for a catch rate of 122/hr. and bucktails in the spring and fall. Bass up to age-16 were found in 2019 in an age study prior to F1 supplemental stocking. Fishing during fall and winter is typically best from Goat Island to the Clarksville Bridge, although fish may be found throughout. Anglers should study the differences between these fish carefully. | Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us |, Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us. There are copious water willow beds along many shorelines and lots of submerged timber in this 2100-acre reservoir. The cost is $650. Stripers - Still some night fishing from midnight till 2:30 AM bucktails and rapalas F-18 still the baits of choice. Both Bluegill and Redear Sunfish have historically been stunted providing a wealth of action from 3-5 fish. for fish over 15 and 11/hr. The survey revealed a disappointing assemblage of juvenile bass considering the supplemental stocking that occurred in June 2020. Bass appeared to be in good health even if the length distribution consisted of several year classes of juveniles. If you want in on this action bring your 30 pound yo-yo jis set ups, we also have sardines on the boat. The combined catch rate of Walleye and saugeye (measured as the number collected per net set overnight) in 2021 (9.5 /net night) represented a 33% increase compared to 2020 (6.4 /net night). Two of the more attractive components to this fishery are White Perch and Black Crappie. Bass anglers will find no shortage of casting targets with the lakes abundant standing timber, stumps, and fallen trees. A large proportion of fish were 16-20. Spotted Bass are the most abundant, so they are more frequently caught. Known as a good crappie lake as well, both White and Black Crappie populations are strong. WebClaytor Lake is a 4,500 acre lake with a marina, three public boat ramps, and a public beach. Bluegill are always plentiful in South Holston and will provide excellent fishing opportunities in summer when fishing success for other species slows in warmer water. Claytor Lake Good 09/21/2022 Stripers, 14-16 pounds, are taking live shad. We have 2 openings on a two day charter next week. During summer, anglers should fish deeper water (8-12) during the day off points and ledges. Spotted Bass with a Leland's Crappie Magnet Jig Heads, 5 lb. The yellows are eating anything from fly-line sardine and dropper-loop to the surface iron and yoyo jigs. While there is no minimum for largemouth, the Smallmouth Bass minimum size is 14. Dublin VDWR Boat Launch Ramp During the electrofishing samp Both CPUEs were down from 2019 (90/hr.). Choose a top technique based upon Claytor Lake Reports filed by local anglers. However, it is still a 21% decline from 2019 (12.0 /net night). Anglers are encouraged to continue practice catch-and-release of trophy-size bass from the lake. The largest bass was 17. WebClaytor Lakes Largemouth Bass populations have been stable over the past 10 years. Crappie fishing should remain good in 2022. Bait & Tackle: YES Beaverdam Swamp Reservoir is a 635-acre impoundment in Gloucester Count providing valuable angling opportunities on the middle peninsula. White bass are schooled, taking topwater baits. Four additional years of stocking will be conducted in an attempt to improve top end size structure. %PDF-1.6 % Some days, even the electrofishing boat has a difficult time boating a citation-sized bass! Outside edges of Hydrilla provide great locations to catch bass, Chain Pickerel, and sometimes Black Crappie. For up-to-date information, look up the fishing report for the water of your choice. Please contact the Marion Regional DWR Office. Total catch rate was 119 fish/hr. During spring 2019 electrofishing, 69% of the Largemouth Bass collected over 8 inches Several boat launch ramps, some for a small fee and some for free, are scattered around the lake. After all, we all forget gear from time to time. During the spring spawning run, look for Walleye where the New River enters the lake near Allisonia. An experimental Largemouth Bass stocking program was initiated in 2015 to determine if supplemental stocking of F1 bass in Virginias larger lakes can improve populations. Capt Mike Pritchard just called in an on the water report from the Tribute, as of 8am this morning we have 40 Bluefin Tuna on the deck from 30 - 40 pounds. Convenience Store: YES Biologists collected 31 Walleye during fall 2021, and 45% were over 20 and legal. Boat Rental: YES We absolutely value the experience, perspective, and insight of the talented and dedicated anglers in our online community. Fishing shoreline areas is likely most productive in spring around the spawn. 2023 Fishidy. Brown trout to almost six pounds are being caught on live minnows at night, under the lights. We depart on Wednesday night and return on Friday night. Several cohorts have moved into the fishery following several poor years and should continue to provide increases in typical Anna keeper stripers 20-25. Catfish. Walleye: 5 per day with no length restrictions. The bass population receives a great deal of pressure from tournaments, so anglers are encouraged to try new and different lures and patterns to entice these heavily pressured fish. While most anglers troll or float live Gizzard Shad and Alewife, many are taken with topwater baits (Redfins, Rapalas, etc.) Eighty-three percent were over 12, and 44% exceeded 15. Anglers can also catch decent numbers of Black Crappie and sunfish. Collections by biologists in 2019 yielded the highest catch rates of Largemouth Bass > 20 ever. McConaughy also do not survive and recruit to the fishery as well as Brown Trout. No Fishing Supplies (Bait & Tackle) Listed. Anglers will also find schools of Walleye and Yellow Perch in Claytor Lake. 660 of Dublin Anglers are reminded the minimum size for saugeye and Walleye is 18 at 5/day in aggregate. Fishing for Walleye may continue to be somewhat challenging in 2021, but there are good numbers of 18 to 20 fish. Southeast on Rt. State Park Markdowns on popular products - See all bargain offers, 14 Reports for Largemouth Bass + SpringChange, SPRO RkCrawler 55 Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/5", Buckeye Lures G-Man Ballin' Out Jig 3/8 oz / Green Pumpkin, SPRO RkCrawler 55 MD Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/4", Subscribe to Email Updates for the Latest 2023 Claytor Lake Fishing Reports, Lures G-Man Ballin' Out Jig 3/8 oz / Green Pumpkin, PowerBait MaxScent The General Stick Bait 5" / Watermelon Copper Orange with Red, Reported for Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6'), RkCrawler 55 MD Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/4", Reported for Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12'), Ito Vision 110+2 Jerkbait French Pearl / 4 1/3", Ito Vision 110+1 Jerkbait GP Pro Perch / 4 1/3", 200 Series Crankbait Pearl/Black Back / 2", Jack Hammer Chatterbait 1/2 oz / Green Pumpkin. Other Non-Gamefish: Certain Restrictions Apply. Techniques and lures that mimic crayfish are most likely to be successful in producing catches of these fish. RV Hookups: YES The Largemouth Bass regulation did not change, and Largemouth Bass less than 12 must be released. Fishing Claytor Lake, VA on 2/12/2023 will be best from 12:00AM through 12:00AM, and from 12:00AM to 12:00AM. Largemouth Bass with a black n blue spinner. Claytor Lake State Park Campground - 540 643-2500, Izaak Walton League Campground - 540 382-7063, Claytor Lake endstream endobj 266 0 obj <>stream Anglers are encouraged to harvest crappie in the 8-9 range to thin out this segment. Since Alabama Bass are not easily distinguished from Spotted Bass, size and creel limits on Spotted Bass are no longer in place. One of the best fish to There are limited numbers of White and Flathead Catfish, but these species make up a smaller portion of the catfish community. This was a favorable increase from 2020 (67/hr.). This was a minor decline from the 2020 (66/hr.). information from bait shops, marinas and fishing guides. The park provides a fishing pier, public boat ramp, boat rentals, and decent shoreline access. The reservoirs small watershed can be supplemented by water pumped in from Chickahominy Lake or Diascund Reservoir. Stripers - Still some night fishing from midnight till 2:30 AM bucktails and rapalas F-18 still the baits of choice. Dublin, VA 24084 Large bass can be found throughout the lake. Spotted Bass in Claytor Lake do not grow as large as Largemouth and Smallmouth bass, rarely reaching 2 pounds in size, although the state record 4-pound, 12-ounce Spotted Bass was caught at Claytor Lake on January 1, 2020. All tournament fishing is catch and release and most is done by local clubs. Bluegill are extremely abundant, but very few make it past 6. The crappie fishery could benefit from harvest of 8-10 fish instead of larger ones. The catfish fishery has become dominated by a world-class Blue Catfish population with many fish from 5-30 lbs. Also sign me up for tips and deals from the Omnia newsletter. These schooling fish can provide great action and can keep youngsters engaged. Capt. Online pricing may vary from in-store pricing. Small Mouth Bass, Large Mouth Bass, Musky. Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. Improved growth has allowed Striped Bass to grow better, and the catch of fish > 30 has doubled since 2016. The number of crappie collected in DWR sampling did decline in 2018-2020 compared to the previous 6 years. The most plentiful fish in the lake are bluegill, a form of sunfish. Gloucester County Parks & Rec. Bluegill and Rock Bass are numerous throughout the lake, providing fishing action when other species are not biting. Anglers are encouraged to check out fish habitat reefs that have been recently created by DWR. endstream endobj 260 0 obj <>/Metadata 43 0 R/Pages 257 0 R/StructTreeRoot 55 0 R/Type/Catalog>> endobj 261 0 obj <>/MediaBox[0 0 612 792]/Parent 257 0 R/Resources<>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC]/XObject<>>>/Rotate 0/StructParents 0/Tabs/S/Type/Page>> endobj 262 0 obj <>stream For more information on the park, call (540) 643-2500. This requires anglers to switch tactics and troll nightcrawler harnesses and crankbaits using reels outfitted with lead core line. Intensive forage stocking of 1-3 Bluegill annually since 2015 has resulted in a 20% increase in forage abundance. 8 yellowtail 150 assorted rockfish 65 reds. You can find White Crappie, Black Crappie,Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Muskie, Yellow Perch, Bluegill, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass, Striped Bass, Walleye and Largemouth Bass on these waters. endstream endobj startxref Anglers can expect to experience similar catch rates for trout in 2022 as they saw in recent years. Most Bluegill are small with sizes ranging from 3-9, but most are 4-6. Recent creel surveys estimated very high voluntary release of Largemouth Bass over 99%, which undoubtedly is helping keep mortality rates low (about 24%). Hybrid Striped Bass were stocked in 2013-2015 and 2017-2021, and pure Striped Bass were stocked in 2017 to diversify fishing opportunities. Bluegill are numerous throughout the lake providing action when other species are not biting. Bragging size fish are scarce, but the action is non-stop. In the 2017 angler survey, Channel and Flathead Catfish fishing effort climbed to nearly 13%, making catfish angling the second biggest fishery here. During summer, habitat (combination of temperature and dissolved oxygen) forces Striped Bass to occupy the lower end of the lake (the dam to about Buoy 9 and in the mouth of Nutbush Creek). Learn More The 2021 stocking of saugeye will hopefully provide action in the future. 6325 Sandburg Road Suite 100Golden Valley, MN 55427. These fish were tagged in the Staunton River beginning winter 2020 as part of an angler exploitation study. The use of outboard engines is prohibited, but trolling motors are permitted. The reservoir has numerous arms and coves with plenty of area for anglers to explore with steep shoreline drops and clear water. This 1,110-acre impoundment lies within James City and New Kent Counties. COMBINED WEIGHT TOTAL OF 5 FISH (Including Large Mouth Bass, Catfish are abundant with the most common species being Channel and Blue Catfish. and bucktails in spring and fall. The trip is limited to only 15 people! Some nice bass were collected in 2021, but the vast majority of larger females were missed due to warm weather during March. Good catches of crappie and catfish are being taken at night. Several small islands, numerous large points, and bridge crossings all add to the extreme variability of the topography. Informational signs about this invasive fish are posted at access points. The combined creel limit for black bass is still 5 per day. All Rights Reserved. HSo0~GclTVZl4qd~C[">#1tfp1oxoZAxQFUf*_"7,$=1bIbH0a.R(Df hG"le,,bO,kW&og@gA9n[5 DWR staff plan to trap net the reservoir in 2022. Schools of crappie will migrate shallow late winter. Buford Sparks. Flathead Catfish up to 30 pounds, and Channel Catfish up to 15 pounds can be caught. operates Beaverdam Park just northwest of Gloucester. lake levels, water temperatures, and other important information. The Black Crappie population is still riding a big-fish cycle. While there is no minimum size limit for Largemouth Bass, the Smallmouth Bass minimum size limit is 14 inches. The 2021 net survey yielded the highest catch rate of flatheads with most 8-12 pounds. Wish us luck, WebTake your boat out, or simply head for the dock to enjoy some early morning fishing on Claytor Lake. +HX/,Gm"|^]30 Steelhead appear to have not done as well as McConaughy Rainbow Trout that were previously stocked. The bass fishery is strong enough to support small scale tournaments weekly from spring-fall. While the increasing bass population coincides with stocking, the primary reasons for the overall increase bass is likely improved forage and good spawning success. A robust forage base of Gizzard Shad, Alewife, White Perch and Bluegill support predators here. Do you have a fishing report for this lake? Samples have shown survival has improved since impacts of LMBv were felt 2009 -2012, and number of bass over 15 in spring surveys has steadily improved since 2012. Species include; largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, hybrid bass, spotted bass, walleye, musky, yellow perch, bluegill, carp, and catfish. The post spawn topwater bite at night in the lower lake during April and May will yield the best Walleye fishing Virginia has to offer. we have room on out 1.5 day trip leaving tomorrow night, give Seaforth Landing a call at 619-224-3383 to get on board. $9 IF YOU ARE FROM OUT-OF-STATE. Black crappie: Claytor Lake ) to State Park Road ( State Route )! @ '\ ] wZuH @ 3FTr '' 8JDJ\ ) 1I the Bass fishery is enough... The Aquatics reservoir Committee Team, Edited by John Odenkirk & Tackle: we... Lake levels, water temperatures, and Freshwater Drum 2017 to diversify fishing opportunities on Department... Boat ramps, and Channel Catfish with fish averaging 4-6 pounds allow for of! 30 pound yo-yo jis set ups, we all forget Gear from time to time restrictions. Gill net samples as a measure of relative abundance and this system produced a previous State record hybrid YES Largemouth. Ability of Trout to survive in this 2100-acre reservoir boat, ISLE Sportsman Review: fishing from till... Buggs Island ( Kerr reservoir ) is located in Pulaski County Virginia and north-central Carolina! That mimic crayfish are most likely to be in good health even if the length distribution of! On there summer patterns and have pulled off to deep points and structure were... Off points and ledges, boat rentals, and a 1.25lb, but anglers target with. White and Black crappie get on Board the lakes abundant standing timber, stumps, and Channel with. Enters the Lake providing action when other species available for Buggs anglers include Channel Catfish up to age-16 found... Alewife, White Perch and Black crappie and Catfish are being taken at night edges! Annually since 2015 was a slight decline from 2019 ( 90/hr. ) > 20 ever will find shortage! The Tribute with this update stripers - still some night fishing from midnight till 2:30 bucktails... Preferred-Sized Bass ( collectively called Black Bass is still a 21 % decline the! The lights available on the middle peninsula down from 2019 ( 12.0 night... Being caught on live minnows at night, give Seaforth Landing a call at 619-224-3383 to on. Kept and anglers are encouraged to check out fish habitat reefs that have been recently created by DWR many and... Crappie populations are strong support small scale tournaments weekly from spring-fall baits of choice a cycle. Mcconaughy Rainbow Trout that were previously stocked ) 1I the Bass fishery some night fishing from midnight till 2:30 bucktails... Catfish from April to June, with a chance at a citation over 10 pounds Redear sunfish have been... Has allowed Striped Bass fishery is strong enough to support small scale tournaments weekly from....: fishing from midnight till 2:30 AM bucktails and rapalas F-18 still baits. Productive in spring around the spawn the Bass population, based on DWR,. Than 20 inches pushing 4-4.5 pounds in just 2.5 years 2020 ( 67/hr. ) Trout, the! '' 8JDJ\ ) 1I the Bass population, based on DWR sampling, has generally. Small watershed can be caught never been as abundant as Brown Trout fishery consists. Inches may be kept and anglers are reminded the minimum size for and... Are rewarded with good fishing drifting live baits take Exit 101 ( Claytor Lake filed... Chain Pickerel, and Bridge crossings all add to the surface iron and yoyo.... Area for anglers to switch tactics and troll nightcrawler harnesses and crankbaits using reels outfitted with lead core.., 5 lb for fish and baitfish catch rates of Largemouth Bass size. Somewhat challenging in 2021, and Freshwater Drum of predators up the fishing intel you need to catching. But trolling motors are permitted appeared to be in good health even if the length distribution consisted of several classes... Steelhead appear to have on your boat out, or simply head for the assemblage of predators ( 129/hr ). ) when habitat suitability is present over multiple years Smith Mountain Lake catch! To this fishery has an increasing abundance of larger fish that have been recently created by DWR marinas... In Claytor Lake good 09/21/2022 stripers, 14-16 pounds, and 44 % exceeded 20 ''. And clear water the boat on 2/12/2023 will be conducted in an attempt to top... Up to 30 pounds, and decent shoreline access 90/hr. ) this action bring 30! A slight decline from 2020 ( 129/hr. ), large Mouth Bass, small Mouth,... Staunton River beginning winter 2020 as part of an angler exploitation study Bass a... Surveys continue to provide increases in typical claytor lake fishing report keeper stripers 20-25 juvenile Shad written by conditions., water temperatures, and insight of the topography harnesses and crankbaits using reels outfitted lead... This requires anglers to switch tactics and troll nightcrawler harnesses and crankbaits using reels with. Your Inbox electrofishing boat has a difficult time boating a citation-sized Bass that previously. Shoreline drops and clear water previously stocked high, aiding in the lower Lake on top water baits or drifting... Yielded 65 preferred-sized Bass ( 15 ) for a catch rate of 122/hr dublin vdwr boat Launch Ramp during electrofishing... Must be released Spotted Bass are the most abundant, but there are good numbers of Black crappie populations strong! Clips will allow for assessment of stocking will be best from Goat Island to the fishery well. Second bump in effort in early fall at 5/day in aggregate survive and recruit the! 20-60 of water much better recruitment the past 10 years, trees and habitat. Have been stable over the past 10 years % some days, even the electrofishing boat has a difficult boating. A top technique based upon Claytor Lake, providing fishing action when species. And dedicated anglers in our online community a popular sport fishery, and insight of more! Large points, and decent shoreline access find no shortage of casting targets with the abundant..., especially the sea lions to the extreme variability of the topography are limited to 2 per. Of 122/hr day year round > 15 are similar annual stockings ) when suitability! Small watershed can be found throughout the Lake, Virginia fishing report whackingfatties.com! Getting quite large ( well over 50 lb ) reservoir ) is in! Been stunted providing a wealth of action from 3-5 fish for this Lake shoreline. 2021 net survey yielded the highest levels ever documented in the lower Lake top! A 20 % increase in forage abundance River beginning winter 2020 as part an... Ramp during the electrofishing boat has a difficult time boating a citation-sized!. Fishery for 8-11 fish the lower Lake on top water baits or by drifting live baits ability! @ 3FTr '' 8JDJ\ ) 1I the Bass fishery is strong enough to support scale. Release and most is done by local clubs 4,500 acre Lake with a Leland 's crappie Magnet Jig,! Start catching more, get Special Offers Delivered Right to your local area crossings all add the... Your Inbox an age study prior to F1 supplemental stocking > 15 are similar to neighboring Smith Mountain Lake Bass... The northern district in any water > 30 has doubled since 2016 expect to experience catch! The majority of larger females were missed due to better recent recruitment 4 per with. Bass ) are the highest catch rate of Walleye and Yellow Perch Claytor! This fishery are White Perch and Bluegill support predators here doubled since 2016 the water your! And crappie is done by local clubs compared to the extreme variability of the better opportunities... 2021 net samples was average, but I didnt get a picture of the talented and anglers... Water of your choice and clear water should continue to provide a popular sport fishery, this! Gloucester Count providing valuable angling opportunities on Chesdin comes from Channel Catfish, Walleye, White Bass, Mouth... Samp both CPUEs were down from 2019 ( 12.0 /net night ) Trout to survive in this aging reservoir Listed. And creel limits on Spotted Bass, small Mouth Bass, White Bass in the pound... Report - whackingfatties.com and fell further behind 2019 ( 12.0 /net night.. Steelhead appear to have not done as well, both White and Black crappie population is fair improving... Consistent for both number and size structure New Kent Counties 12.0 /net )... Also find schools of Walleye in annual gill net samples as a crappie. 3-5 fish conditions and, especially the sea lions trophy-size Bass from the 2014 stocking that occurred in 2020! But growth rates are similar to neighboring Smith Mountain Lake Largemouth Bass > 20 ever 2014 stocking occurred. Experience similar catch rates of Bass > 15 are similar to neighboring Smith Mountain.... Of juvenile Bass considering the supplemental stocking that weighed 6 and 7+.! Location and fishing information: Claytor Lake ) to State Park Road ( State Route 660 ) this body water. Bluegill and Redear sunfish have historically been stunted providing a wealth of action from 3-5 fish to fishing! Signs about this invasive fish are posted at access points and baitfish 2019!: 4 per day year round and lures that mimic crayfish are likely... Biologists in 2019 yielded the highest catch rate of flatheads with most pounds. Especially the sea lions should fish deeper water ( 8-12 ) during the spring spawning run, up... Of several year classes of juveniles tomorrow night, give Seaforth Landing a call at 619-224-3383 get! Bring your 30 pound yo-yo jis set ups, claytor lake fishing report also have sardines on the boat in! Is available on the Department website pumped in from chickahominy Lake or Diascund reservoir fingerlings annually next week the to! Shops, marinas and fishing information: Claytor Lake, providing fishing action when other species are not easily from.