While many flock to the great indoors in search of summer relief, catch-and-release fishing in NoVA’s fishing holes and public parks can be the perfect way for others to find a bit of solitude while hooking a couple.
Catch-and-release fishing plays a pivotal role in preserving Northern Virginia’s waterways and lakes, but there are some important rules to know before you go.
First, all anglers who are 16 or older must obtain a state fishing license from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. This can be completed in person with a license agent or submitted online. Remember to use a net when landing your fish, and always wet your hands before handling them. When unhooking your fish, take care not to damage its mouth. Pack a pair of wire clippers, as in some cases, it’s safer to cut the hook off rather than take it out of the fish.
After gathering your bait and tackle, it’s time to hit the road. Here are some prime catch-and-release spots for some mid-week fishing.
Windmill Pond at Ashburn Farm
At this pond — one of five stocked catch-and-release ponds throughout Ashburn Farm — you’ll find largemouth bass, channel catfish, redear sunfish, and flathead minnows. Grab a couple of worms from the community worm bin, and fish to your heart’s delight. Boating is prohibited here. And don’t disturb the triploid grass carp, an essential fish that feeds on underwater vegetation. 21401 Windmill Dr., Ashburn
Franklin Park
You’ll find largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill at this regional park in Loudoun County. Netting the fish is not allowed here. In its 203 acres, the park features a nearby tennis court, walking trail, and disc golf course. There’s even a dog park, so your furry friends can tag along. Because of the pond’s size, boating is prohibited. 17501 Franklin Park Dr., Purcellville
Burke Lake Park
Beyond largemouth bass and bluegill, you’ll find muskie, walleye, catfish, and white perch at this Fairfax County public park. To traverse the 218-acre lake, rent a battery-powered boat or fishing kayak from the marina, or bring your own. You can buy bait at the marina and rent a fishing pole for free. 7315 Ox Rd., Fairfax Station
Lake Fairfax
Anglers are welcome at Lake Fairfax year-round. There, you’ll find largemouth bass, rainbow trout, sunfish, bluegill, and black crappie. This 18-acre lake is an excellent location for newcomers and children. Take note that fishing from a boat is only allowed with a $6 launch pass on canoes personally carried in. Canoes and paddleboats rented from the marina cannot be used for fishing. Motorized boats, both gas and electric, are prohibited. 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr., Reston
Pohick Bay Regional Park
You’ll find bluegill, carp, northern snakehead, black crappie, and striped bass when fishing on the Potomac at Pohick Bay. Boats are available for rent from the marina, or you can launch your own from the boat ramp. Motorized boats are allowed at Pohick Bay, which has access to Gunston Cove and the Potomac River. 6501 Pohick Bay Dr., Lorton
Lake Mercer
This secluded 43-acre lake is accessible by foot or bike. Its inhabitants include green sunfish, pumpkinseed, spotted bass, and largemouth bass. The trail leading to the lake is paved, and it’s also a great place for amateur ornithologists to spot herons and woodpeckers. While there’s no boat ramp at Lake Mercer, small canoes may be carried in and launched. 8854 Hooes Rd., Fairfax Station
Feature image of Burke Lake Park, stock.adobe.com
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