| Whitetop Laurel and Straight Branch Trout Stocking ClosuresImpacts from Hurricane Helene were widespread throughout Southwest Virginia, particularly the Mount Rogers Area around Damascus, which led to a complete closure of the Virginia Creeper Trail between Green Cove Station and Damascus. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026 to repair or replace several dozen trestle crossings and to rebuild the trail system. As a result of large-scale construction mobilization, heavy traffic along Highway 58, and public safety concerns, most of Whitetop Laurel and Straight Branch will not be stocked with catchable trout until further notice. Beartree Lake is currently undergoing renovation and dredging and will also not be stocked until completion of that project. For more information, a list of nearby waters receiving increased stocking allocations, and a map of the affected area, please see this press release. |
Trout Stocking Updates- Pandapas Pond in Montgomery County will change from an A water to a B water this stocking season.
- Liberty Lake in Bedford County will change from an A water to a B water this stocking season.
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Urban Trout Stockings- Shields Lake (Richmond): February 9
- Dorey Park (Henrico): February 9
- Cook Lake (Alexandria): February 10
- Old Cossey Pond (Fredericksburg): February 10
- Armistead Pointe Park (Hampton): February 18
- Ivy Creek Park (Lynchburg): February 20
- Locust Shade Park (Prince William): February 23
- Northwest River Park (Chesapeake): Stockings cancelled until further notice
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| Beartree Lake (Washington County)Beartree Lake, located on the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area in Washington County, will be drawn down for repairs and will not be stocked with trout until further notice. Public inquiries related to the closure can be directed to the Mount Rogers NRA (276-783-5196). |
