Upcoming Events: Fishing

Registration for this virtual series opens April 17th @ 8:00am.

Beginning in 2026, the VOW Program will be hosting an annual Women's Mentored Flyfishing Virtual Series covering all topics related to flyfishing in Virginia. Virtual classes will be held every other week beginning on May 20th and concluding on September 5th. This series will cover flyfishing in general, and will not focus on any specific fish species, but instead is designed for beginners and women interested in flyfishing and need the basic information and resources to get started. Throughout the series, there will also be scheduled in-person opportunities and additional events/workshops throughout the state to promote a sense of community.

The Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) program's goal is to help women feel comfortable and confident in the outdoors - no matter their experience level. DWR is committed to developing a community of women who enjoy the outdoors, value the importance of conservation and outdoor recreation, and want to have opportunities for personal growth, independence, and empowerment.

Please NOTE: All virtual VOW courses do not qualify for any of the VOW Certificates. By registering for this event, you are automatically registered for ALL classes, EXCEPT the final workshop on Sept. 5th. Separate registration is required for the in-person workshop and will be a first come - first served basis at the conclusion of the August 12th virtual class.

Classes will generally be 45 minutes of instruction/presentation, followed by a 15-minute Q&A session. Please visit the registration page for class schedule and agenda.

Get ready for a chill day of catfish, good vibes, and celebrating the Rappahannock River’s awesome watershed!

Join DWR and partners for the 2nd Rappahannock River Invasion: Catfish Cookout & Watershed Festival on Saturday, August 15! Indulge in delicious blue catfish dishes, enjoy live music, and learn about the importance of a healthy bay and fisheries. This event is perfect for families, friends, and anyone who loves good food and good company. Connect with regional partners and enjoy a day of fun while raising awareness about our waterways.

Entrance is free! Buy meal tickets online in advance for $2 off or on-site the day of the event. Meal tickets include a plate of fried catfish, hush puppies, green beans, coleslaw, and a drink. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to celebrate our community and the Rappahannock River in all its glory!

Highlights include:

Tasty Food: Sample dishes made from invasive catfish and local fare.
Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances by tribal bands and musicians.
Interactive Activities: Water testing, nature walks, and presenters.
Educational Engagement: Learn about the impact of invasive species like blue catfish and sustainable fisheries.

Partnering Organizations: Environmental Justice Journalism Initiative (EJJI), Patawomeck Tribe of Virginia, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), Catfish Kelly's, Hard Corner, Friends of the Rappahannock, RIVERE and VTech Coastal Collaborator, F&S County Battlefield Nat. Military Park, Northern Virginia Conservation Trust (NVCT), Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), Virginia State Parks (DCR), Virginia Waterman’s Association, and the Richmond Veterans Center.