Fishing
State Fish Hatcheries Support Recreation, Conservation, and a Connection to the Outdoors—and They Need Our Help
The average age of a government fish hatchery in the Northeast is 80 years, and many hatcheries need expensive infrastructure upgrades. Read more…
Top Virginia Waters for Trophy Smallmouth Bass in 2025
Where the most trophy-size smallmouth bass catches were recorded in DWR's trophy fish program in 2025. Read more…
Top Virginia Waters for Trophy Largemouth Bass in 2025
Where the most trophy-size largemouth bass catches were recorded in DWR's trophy fish program in 2025. Read more…
DWR Fishing Report: Winter Fishing in Virginia
We’re highlighting winter fishing in Virginia, including first-hand reports from our biologists in the field and what’s being caught from across the state. Watch…
2026 Fishing, Boating, and Nongame & Endangered Species Regulations Scoping Period
Submit your suggestions for potential changes on fishing, boating, and nongame & endangered species regulations. Read more…
Stephen Miklandric Makes History by Claiming Master Angler VI
The first Master Angler VI patch in the Online Virginia Angler Recognition Program has been claimed! Read more…
How to Catch Blue Catfish in Virginia’s Tidal Rivers
Learn some tips and tricks to catching blue catfish from DWR’s Aquatic Education Coordinator. Watch…
Fish Story: A Striper as Big as He Is
At just 8 years old, Mason Clark landed a citation striped bass. Read more…
Try Something New: Fish America’s Oldest River
The New River has incredible biodiversity for an inland, non-estuarine river, offering ancient geology, striking scenery, and year-round opportunities for great fishing. Read more…