Upcoming Events: Wildlife Viewing

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.

DWR is excited to announce our 2026 Annual Virginia Outdoor Women (VOW) Weekend Event!

Event sessions may include: Wildlife Identification/Nature Walk, Flyfishing/Fly Tying, Boating/Kayaking, Archery, Bow Fishing, Hiking, Photography, Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, Fire Building, Camping, Bear Safety, Wild Edibles, Intro to Hunting, Zipline, and Climbing Wall.

Please NOTE: Sessions are determined on a first-come-first-served basis. To increase your chances of getting the sessions you want, completing early registration is strongly encouraged! The event fee covers lodging, meals for the entire weekend, and the event T-shirt.

Click the "Register" button below for full details about how to sign up! Registration opens: July 15, 2026 at 8:00am