claytor lake fishing report
This 1,110-acre impoundment lies within James City and New Kent Counties. Lake Chesdin is a 3,100-acre impoundment located in Chesterfield and Dinwiddie Counties. This popular destination continues to produce very respectable Largemouth Bass. This size and creel limit is designed to protect large female spawning Walleye in Claytor Lake and the New River, while allowing some harvest of the more abundant male Walleye. Fishing during fall and winter is typically best from Goat Island to the Clarksville Bridge, although fish may be found throughout. This was the second time since 2012 Walleye catch rates dropped below the management target of 10/net night. A large proportion of fish were 16-20. Illegally stocked snakeheads can also be found in willow beds, and their abundance seems to be slowly increasing. There are limited numbers of White and Flathead Catfish, but these species make up a smaller portion of the catfish community. Hey everyone it's time again to start seriously thinking about when you will be able to get on the boat for a tuna trip. Diascund Reservoir is another Newport News water supply. Cabins & Lodges For more information on camping, cabins and lodges, please visit Claytor Lake State Park's website. Claytor Lake State Park Campground - 540 643-2500, Izaak Walton League Campground - 540 382-7063, Claytor Lake WebClaytor Lake (Allisonia) VA Fishing Reports, Map & Hot Spots Claytor Lake (Allisonia) Pulaski - Virginia 15 catches 251 followers 8 spots A New River impoundment, this lake Premier Angler - The World Lives Outdoors. While there is no minimum size limit for Largemouth Bass, the Smallmouth Bass minimum size limit is 14 inches. Channel and Flathead Catfish should be similar to the past few years. The survey yielded 65 preferred-sized bass ( 15) for a catch rate of 21.7/hr. Locations and coordinates of fish habitat structures developed since 2012 can be seen in the maps below: Claytor Lake and the New River upstream of Claytor Lake Dam to Buck Dam in Carroll County: Claytor Lake State Park, located on the north side of the lake, provides 497 acres of park with camping, cabins, picnic areas, and a swimming beach, as well as a marina. Moomaw has both Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. +HX/,Gm"|^]30 The fishery is enhanced by annual stocking of Striped Bass along with previous Walleye stocking which provide trophy fishing potential. we have room on out 1.5 day trip leaving tomorrow night, give Seaforth Landing a call at 619-224-3383 to get on board. Read More Best Tools, Gear and Gadgets to Have on Your Boat, Read More FishUSA Fishing Tools: A Detailed Review, Read More Walleye Fishing Gear Guide for 2023, Read More 8 Best Swimbaits for Bass Fishing, Read More ISLE Sportsman Review: Fishing From a High-End Paddle Board, Read More 8 Best Crankbaits for Bass Fishing. The most plentiful fish in the lake are bluegill, a form of sunfish. The best areas are from the dam to mile marker 6, as most of the upper lake has poor habitat due to high discharge from Smith Mountain Lake. In spring, Striped Bass may be found in the upper end of the lake and in the river above the lake as fish travel upstream to spawn. Crappie anglers have reported catching saugeye in various areas of the lake. The Claytor Lake record for Largemouth Bass was a 14- pound, 6-ounce giant caught in June 1991. Bank anglers wishing to target sunfish and crappie will find ample opportunities along two fishing trails and three ADA compliant piers. Flathead Catfish are also sought by Claytor Lake catfish anglers. Daytime trolling has produced some Guests can also rent bikes and A New River impoundment, this lake offers superb fishing. Channel Catfish anglers should focus on August, September and October post spawn. Read Fishing Reports. During fall, winter, and summer months, look for schools of these fish in the same areas where stripers hang out. Location. The average "striper" (as they are commonly known) is about 8 lb but catches close to 30 lb have been reported. There are plenty of amenities located on and around the lake including marinas, boat ramps and lodging. Sampling by VDWR biologists in 2021 documented Largemouth Bass abundance at record levels. The largest seen during the 2020 survey was 4.5 pounds, while the 2021 survey only yielded a bass of 3.7 pounds. The lake also received saugeye in 2019, and surveys in 2020 revealed an abundance of saugeye from that stocking with fish 12-16. Techniques and lures that mimic crayfish are most likely to be successful in producing catches of these fish. information from bait shops, marinas and fishing guides. Anglers might want a few fully charged batteries if they plan to make long trips toward the upper end. Anglers are The 2019 survey revealed the highest catch rate of preferred-sized bass ( 15 inches) with a CPUE of 50/hr., while the 2020 survey came back down to earth at 16/hr. All Rights Reserved. The community has seen a relatively recent shift from Yellow Perch to White Perch. Water temperatures below 70 degrees produce the best striper Striped Bass and hybrid striper Hybrid Striped Bass fishing. The VDWR, with agreement from Newport News and James City County, built a public boat ramp, courtesy pier, and parking lot off Route 603 near Lanexa. During the electrofishing sample in spring 2021, 41% of largemouth collected >8 were also over 15. Known as a good crappie lake as well, both White and Black Crappie populations are strong. 09/21/2022 The easiest way to get to Harrys Point from I-81 is to take the Route 605 exit (near the south end of Radford), and then follow the brown trailblazer signs to Harry DeHaven Park. High relative weights indicated bass were finding plenty of forage. and bucktails in spring and fall. Brown trout to almost six pounds are being caught on live minnows at night, under the lights. Thursday morning. Follow Route 605 until you reach Route 663 (Owens Road), go right on 663, then look for signs marking the park when you get near the lake. Walleye fishing remains the best in the Commonwealth; however, fishing success has declined recently possibly due to increasing pressure and a missing 2016 year class due to hatchery issues. The best fishing is on the upper end of the lake and in the lower creek arms, especially during high water in spring. `~X1a[Ho8Gl|'-GLFH'F#[B5HIqoJu{~! U9SB\'2!O YzSmZXT _ eJ\}c)bw_M2nqWUt>[zO%_xh :>IhDx{jy`]53oo`W|{DNcek>0HNM_,O9$MZwX \=/c8|l Lake Chesdin received supplemental F-1 bass stockings in 2020 and 2021 as part of a DWR program. Recent creel survey data indicate anglers target Smallmouth Bass in cooler months and Largemouth Bass in warmer months, as habitat use and catchability changes. Fishing for Walleye may continue to be somewhat challenging in 2021, but there are good numbers of 18 to 20 fish. Buford Sparks. If you are interested in going on this trip please contact Steve at 714 272-4395. Anglers should remain flexible during summer; and if trolling is not productive, they should shift to targeting shorelines at night with lures. Catch rates are good, with an average of 1.2/hr. There are still some Flathead Catfish, although they are not abundant. There has been much better recruitment the past few years resulting in a better fishery for 8-11 fish. The 2020 survey was consistent with past years showing an abundance of medium size Bluegill and Redear Sunfish. The 2021 spring electrofishing survey yielded 428 bass for a catch rate of 122/hr. Lures that imitate fish are the best choice for Largemouth Bass, but they may also hit crayfish imitations. The Virginia state record musky, walleye and smallmouth bass were all caught in the Sign in to your account to find other friends and anglers who are using Fishidy. While there is no minimum for largemouth, the Smallmouth Bass minimum size is 14. The 2021 spring electrofishing survey collected 191 Largemouth Bass for a catch rate of 64/hr. Fishing Claytor Lake, VA on 2/12/2023 will be best from 12:00AM through 12:00AM, and from 12:00AM to 12:00AM. WebFishing spots and baits to use at Claytor Lake? During summer, habitat (combination of temperature and dissolved oxygen) forces Striped Bass to occupy the lower end of the lake (the dam to about Buoy 9 and in the mouth of Nutbush Creek). Several boat launch ramps, some for a small fee and some for free, are scattered around the lake. The Smith Mountain Lake Largemouth Bass population, based on DWR sampling, has been improving since 2015. The 2021 electrofishing survey collected 141 perch, but only five were >8. White bass are schooled, taking topwater baits. The lake is to remain five feet down until Sunday p.m., November 17, when refilling will begin. Black Crappie were abundant during 2021, as 295 fish were collected during spring and fall surveys. Please contact the Marion Regional DWR Office. The reservoir has potential to produce citation Yellow Perch and Black Crappie, and anglers with good electronics can sometimes find these schools. Gloucester County Parks & Rec. but not as impressive as 2018 (71/hr.). While most anglers troll or float live Gizzard Shad and Alewife, many are taken with topwater baits (Redfins, Rapalas, etc.) Intensive forage stocking of 1-3 Bluegill annually since 2015 has resulted in a 20% increase in forage abundance. RV Hookups: YES endstream endobj 266 0 obj <>stream Beaverdam Swamp Reservoir has shallow shorelines that typically warm quickly. The survey revealed a decline crappie >12. Bait populations (Alewife and Gizzard Shad) are abundant, which creates good feeding conditions for Striped and hybrid Striped Bass, and water temperatures below 70 degrees produce the best fishing. In early spring and fall, Walleye and Hybrid Striped Bass may use them as well. This group is here to talk about all fishing at Claytor Lake. Anglers are encouraged to switch over from bass to perch and crappie. The survey revealed a disappointing assemblage of juvenile bass considering the supplemental stocking that occurred in June 2020. Web1 Fishing Report and Edits Details for Claytor Lake . Fishing spots, fishing reports and regulations in. More information on Briery Creek Lake. The park has 15 cabins and 3 lodges that are perfect ways to stay overnight while enjoying all that Claytor Lake State Park has to offer. Extensive sampling was conducted again in spring 2021 to evaluate contribution to the population for bass stocked the previous six years. Species include; largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, hybrid bass, spotted bass, walleye, musky, yellow perch, bluegill, carp, and catfish. An experimental Largemouth Bass stocking program was initiated in 2015 to determine if supplemental stocking of F1 bass in Virginias larger lakes can improve populations. Anglers are encouraged to continue practice catch-and-release of trophy-size bass from the lake. A night survey conducted in March 2021 yielded 34 Walleye (22/hr.) Largemouth Bass eat Bluegill, Alewife, Gizzard Shad, and crayfish, depending on the season of the year and whether these prey are abundant in a given year. Leesville Lake has historically produced a marginal Walleye population, but experimental saugeye stockings 2013-2015 worked better. A new size and creel limit is in place from Claytor Lake Dam upstream to Buck Dam on the New River in Carroll County year round (formerly a seasonal size and creel limit). With the possibility of catching Smallmouth, Largemouth, and Spotted Bass, Claytor Lake is popular with nearly 67% of lake anglers fishing for these three species of black bass. We have 2 openings on a two day charter next week. The most plentiful fish in the lake are bluegill, a form of sunfish. The second cohort is in the 1620 range, and the third cohort produces fish > 20. Unfortunately, the trout fishery has declined dramatically in recent years, and biologists are working diligently to explain this decline. Claytor is considered a good smallmouth lake with anglers targeting large fish during winter. Informational signs about this invasive fish are posted at access points. The combined creel limit for black bass is still 5 per day. Prepare for success with accurate data about the type of Best Tools, Gear and Gadgets to Have on Your Boat, ISLE Sportsman Review: Fishing From a High-End Paddle Board. Don't miss out! Largemouth Bass diets are quite different than from Smallmouth and Spotted bass diets, which may be one reason they are doing so well in the lake. If those times wont work for you, 12:00AM to 12:00AM looks promising. and bucktails in the spring and fall. We are done, full boat limits for our 31 passengers. Species include; largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, hybrid bass, spotted bass, walleye, musky, yellow perch, bluegill, carp, and A trophy river without a doubt. In 2021, the catch rate of preferred size (> 14) smallmouth was 17.8/hr. Anglers have reported better with catches in the 4-5 pound range. Spotted Bass in Claytor are generally smaller than the other black basses. Tournament bass > 4 pounds were 13% stocked. XlD/8 Fp\UE^5E]lP'wXMVb>+M}|U9]9:ogLN/ne{q>YfG6- ]%\/p).m#} Many anglers target Walleye on the Cranesnest and Pound River arms during spawning in March and April. Several small islands, numerous large points, and bridge crossings all add to the extreme variability of the topography. | Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us |, Site Maps, About Us, Advertising, Terms & Contact Us. State Park This decline can largely be attributed to missed stocked cohorts in 2016 and 2018 from insufficient hatchery production. Catfish angling is an emerging fishery at Claytor Lake, with 13% of anglers pursuing catfish in the most recent angler survey in 2017, and an estimated annual catch of almost 6,000 channel catfish. of electrofishing. A robust forage base of Gizzard Shad, Alewife, White Perch and Bluegill support predators here. Fishing reports from Ed Allens refer to numerous large blues over the last few years. Smallmouth Bass are less abundant, and anglers targeting this species should focus on the lower lake. Markdowns on popular products - See all bargain offers, 14 Reports for Largemouth Bass + SpringChange, SPRO RkCrawler 55 Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/5", Buckeye Lures G-Man Ballin' Out Jig 3/8 oz / Green Pumpkin, SPRO RkCrawler 55 MD Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/4", Subscribe to Email Updates for the Latest 2023 Claytor Lake Fishing Reports, Lures G-Man Ballin' Out Jig 3/8 oz / Green Pumpkin, PowerBait MaxScent The General Stick Bait 5" / Watermelon Copper Orange with Red, Reported for Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6'), RkCrawler 55 MD Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/4", Reported for Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12'), Ito Vision 110+2 Jerkbait French Pearl / 4 1/3", Ito Vision 110+1 Jerkbait GP Pro Perch / 4 1/3", 200 Series Crankbait Pearl/Black Back / 2", Jack Hammer Chatterbait 1/2 oz / Green Pumpkin. Sometimes we need some expert advice, or we get caught out on the water later than expected. Actually caught two, a 1lb and a 1.25lb, but I didnt get a picture of the second fish, 1 lb. There are numerous different species of fish to find on this body of water. In the 2017 angler survey, Channel and Flathead Catfish fishing effort climbed to nearly 13%, making catfish angling the second biggest fishery here. WebThe three black bass species in Claytor Lake are regulated by a 12 inch minimum size limit and anglers may harvest five per day (all three species combined). Bluegill are extremely abundant, but very few make it past 6. However, survival of triploids may be lower than diploids traditionally stocked. Serious black bass anglers should add Moomaw to their must- fish list in 2022. After all, we all forget gear from time to time. The reservoirs small watershed can be supplemented by water pumped in from Chickahominy Lake or Diascund Reservoir. hbbd```b``5 i9d fb0Li`q/0LjI;@ The 2021 survey was conducted on May 7th with water temperatures near 70 and did not account for the majority of spawning bass which had vacated the shallows. Large and small mouth bass fishing tournaments are a regular seasonal event at Claytor Lake with weights of 15 to 20 lb per fisherman being an average winning catch. Striped Bass fishing improved since 2016 for both number and sizes and has been stable the past two years. The Department maintains ramps at Allisonia (in the upper lake area) and near the entrance to the state park (Dublin Ramp). This species has generally mirrored largemouth trends closely with overall numbers steadily increasing matching historical highs in 2019. DWR stocks over 3,500 Channel Catfish annually to bolster this population. From I-81, take Exit 101 (Claytor Lake) to State Park Road (State Route 660). The crappie fishery could benefit from harvest of 8-10 fish instead of larger ones. #4.25.5. Philpott supports a variety of sport fish, but the most popular are Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, crappie, Walleye and various species of sunfish. This suggests there are currently as many (or more) bass in the lake as there have been for at least 25 years with a commensurate number of larger fish. 540 731-8683, Mountain 2 Island at the Rock House Marina Marina Name: Mountain 2: Island at the Rock House Marina, Address: 3776 Rock House Rd, Pulaski, VA 24301, Address: 4734, 6620 Ben H Bolen Dr, Dublin, VA 24084, Website: https://www.claytorlakewatersports.com/. Jul 09, 2016 - New River (Claytor Dam) Smallmouth Bass. Surveys in 2021 followed up on fast growing saugeye with females pushing 4-4.5 pounds in just 2.5 years. The early morning bite consists using top water lures for bass. Gizzard Shad provide a great forage base but also can make fishing a bit tricky for the average angler. During your visit you can fish for bass, catfish, walleye and muskie from shore, boat or the universally accessible fishing pier. Bluegill are numerous throughout the lake providing action when other species are not biting. Jigs and deep crankbaits for bass. The Bowfin population is one of the best in Virginia. WebClaytor Lake is the top destination for hybrids in Virginia, setting a new state record with a hybrid weighing 15 pounds, 13 ounces caught by local angler Don Jessie on March 16, Click images for fishing tips and details about each species. Subscribe and save by Joining Sportsman's Warehouse newsletter. The night survey also yielded a fair abundance of 10-19 bass. Hybrid Striped Bass continue to provide a popular sport fishery, and this system produced a previous state record hybrid. Approximately 17,000 hybrid fingerlings were stocked in 2021. The abundance of hybrids in December 2021 net samples was average, but the majority of fish were over 20 and legal. ? tc Visit this link for the locations of these reefs. Anglers primarily target catfish from April to June, with a second bump in effort in early fall. Bass up to age-16 were found in 2019 in an age study prior to F1 supplemental stocking. Briery is not just a bass lake, it also provides moderate sunfish and crappie fisheries. Two private boat ramps, Ed Allens and Eagles Landing, have numerous bass tournaments. You can find White Crappie, Black Crappie,Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Muskie, Yellow Perch, Bluegill, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass, Striped Bass, Walleye and Largemouth Bass on these waters. Bragging size fish are scarce, but the action is non-stop. It is unclear why the drastic change after 20 years, so it is uncertain if this population will continue to sustain current numbers or will return to historical levels. For more information on the park, call (540) 643-2500. Written by the Aquatics Reservoir Committee Team, Edited by John Odenkirk. An email address is required to associate with your Fishidy premium subscription. Biologists continue to work on adding fish habitat (brush piles and pallet teepees) in designated areas to improve spawning and add survival. White bass are schooled, taking topwater baits. Flathead Catfish tend to grow larger with fish up to 33 pounds. The expectation was for triploid trout to grow faster and reach larger size, as these fish do not produce eggs and put more energy toward growth. Alewive are shallow and in-shore during late spring and then move to the thermocline when the reservoir stratifies in summer. Trolling bucktails and umbrella rigs in 2060 feet of water can produce good catches. Learn More New River Excellent 09/21/2022 Bass and catfish are "biting like crazy". Copyright 2023Sportsman's Warehouse. The vast majority of bass were 13-17 with a high proportion 2-2.5 pounds. All Rights Reserved. This fishery has the capacity to produce some respectable fish, but recent surveys have failed to yield many bass over 6 pounds. Harry DeHaven Park Boat Launch Ramp The catfish fishery has become dominated by a world-class Blue Catfish population with many fish from 5-30 lbs. Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. Target transition areas leading to spawning flats in early to mid-spring. The 2020 survey was different than past years, as Newport News was in the process of lowering the lake in preparation for dam repair. Survival of both was excellent in 2021 based on gill net catch rate. Striped Bass and hybrid Striped Bass are the third biggest fishery with nearly 6% of anglers fishing for these. Claytor Lake State Park Walleye: 5 per day with no length restrictions. W0CD;=+;q|M"V=hWE(bPmTHU.#E| K@@? If you capture a Walleye with a yellow tag, please return it to the address on the tag with a note on the general location where you caught it, when you caught it, if you were fishing for Walleye, and if you kept or released the fish; and well send you a $25 reward. Smallmouth, Largemouth, and Spotted Bass (collectively called black bass) are the bread and butter fishes of this lake. Anyone interested in fishing Claytor Lake or waters within the wider area around Pulaski should consult with local resources before heading out to fish. The most popular sportfish are Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, hybrid Striped Bass, Black Crappie, catfish, and sunfish. The current population is fair but improving due to better recent recruitment. The 21-mile-long lake is filled with largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, along with other sport fish. The combined daily creel limit for Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass is 5. We depart on Wednesday night and return on Friday night. Hopefully, this will translate to faster growth and larger bass. Spring is in the air. Bait & Tackle: YES Anglers report catching a number of trophy Yellow Perch (> 1 pound, 4 ounces or 12) each year. However, the fishery remains below its peak and full recovery will require conservative striper management along with good catch-and-release practices. With consistent Walleye stocking in recent years, this fishery is improving, with 5% of anglers targeting them. WebFishing licenses are also available in Radford at the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue: 619 2nd Street Radford, VA 24141 The Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue may also be reached at 540-731-3613. 21 in. An abundance of Chain Pickerel and large American Eel can provide additional action. Yellowtail sightings are starting to become very consistent. Rentals: Fishing boats, pontoon boats, kayaks and canoes and fell further behind 2019 (117/hr.). Sandy offers the same caliber Largemouth Bass fishery as Briery but without standing timber which complicates navigation. hb```ZVB ea`b`VY`V4CS @5, W9zF-a1KGkDCFCEGV>u@ZE@1bd`k 3RBV2GIbXklq@+l@F'@ ,/ Field staff update the fishing reports each These cohorts would have been Age-5 and Age-3 in 2021 which have historically made up a substantial proportion of the sample, so their absence was reflected in the lower abundance observed. Flannagan Reservoir should provide anglers with good bass fishing in 2021, especially for Largemouth Bass. From July 1 to September 15, there is no minimum size limit for Striped Bass and Hybrid Striped Bass and anglers are allowed to keep 4 per day combined. Anglers here will find a wide variety of species that can provide an enjoyable day on the water. Collections by biologists in 2019 yielded the highest catch rates of Largemouth Bass > 20 ever. Claytors steep and rocky shorelines make it particularly good for Smallmouth Bass. The last three years have shown variability related to water temperature. The Brown Trout fishery usually consists of three cohorts (separate annual stockings) when habitat suitability is present over multiple years. 280 0 obj <>/Filter/FlateDecode/ID[<551E622641CEE34F8CCF593BD61F3844>]/Index[259 47]/Info 258 0 R/Length 106/Prev 425427/Root 260 0 R/Size 306/Type/XRef/W[1 3 1]>>stream Claytor Lake is a top destination for hybrids in Virginia, holding the state record with a 15 pound, 13 ounce fish caught by Don Jessie in March 2016. The 2021 stocking of saugeye will hopefully provide action in the future. The main forage base in Lake Moomaw consists of Gizzard Shad and Alewife. WebClaytor Lake Fishing Videos Marinas on this lake Marina Name: Mountain 2: Island at the Rock House Marina Address: 3776 Rock House Rd, Pulaski, VA 24301 Website: After years of variable stocking rates for Striped Bass, annual minimum stocking rate of 10 Striped Bass and 10 hybrid Striped Bass per acre began in 2019 and will continue unabated. claytor lake Fishing Report 2023. 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. For up-to-date information, look up the fishing report for the water of your choice. Anglers can now keep unlimited numbers of Spotted Bass of any size. Anglers can find Largemouth Bass in coves, but the best places are Peak Creek, Clapboard Hollow, and large coves in the lower end. Submersed aquatic vegetation (primarily Hydrilla) has spread to several areas. During spring 2019 electrofishing, 69% of the Largemouth Bass collected over 8 inches WebClaytor Lake is a 4,500 acre lake with a marina, three public boat ramps, and a public beach. Anglers are reminded the minimum size for saugeye and Walleye is 18 at 5/day in aggregate. Convenience Store: YES Eighty-seven percent of adults were 18 inches, and 32% exceeded 20. Bass and catfish are "biting like crazy". Boat Launch Ramp: YES Depth: Unknown Water Clarity: Stained (6/10) 6325 Sandburg Road Suite 100Golden Valley, MN 55427. Anglers can explore over 60 miles of shoreline in search of bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, stripers, hybrid striped bass, perch, bluegill, white bass and sunfish. Some VA fishing guides offer guided bass, striper and crappie trips on Claytor Lake. Several boat launch ramps, some for a small fee and some for free, are scattered around the lake. Bragging size fish are scarce, but the action is non-stop. Topwaters, plastic worms an Since Alabama Bass are not easily distinguished from Spotted Bass, size and creel limits on Spotted Bass are no longer in place at Claytor Lake. For quite some time, Sandy River Reservoir has played second fiddle to its sister lake, Briery Creek, just down the road. This reservoir can be difficult to fish due to quickly rising and falling water and lack of submerged structure. Anglers should not expect many large White or Yellow Perch, as both have a difficult time growing past 9. Four additional years of stocking will be conducted in an attempt to improve top end size structure. Brown trout to almost six pounds are being caught on live minnows at night, under the lights. 540 980-1488. The early morning bite consists using top water lures for bass. The largemouth population has remained consistent, and good numbers of 1218 fish should be available in 2022. In fact, samples from 2019 yielded the highest catch rates for bass > 15 and bass > 20 ever observed on the lake. Claytor Lake Subscribe to Receive Fishing Report Updates Rating - Good Stripers, 14-16 pounds, are taking live shad. It may be another year before the trout fishery recovers. While black bass and trout are the mainstay fisheries in Lake Moomaw, anglers should also find favorable populations of Black Crappie, Bluegill, Chain Pickerel, and Channel Catfish. Anglers are encouraged to check out fish habitat reefs that have been recently created by DWR. endstream endobj startxref HKo@s?EJH,q@=8`x!x EQvggn`T$d*ZA&b!_sv-(+S' !QL+L#Sg0yOCC Striped Bass: 4 per day no less than 20 inches. Learn More, 09/21/2022 WebNew River (Claytor Dam) Fishing Reports Recently shared catches and fishing spots. for fish over 15 and 11/hr. The yellows are eating anything from fly-line sardine and dropper-loop to the surface iron and yoyo jigs. The drawdown is scheduled to begin at one foot per day on Monday morning, November 4, until the lake reaches its full drawdown depth of five feet (1841 elevation) by Saturday morning, November 9. The park provides a fishing pier, public boat ramp, boat rentals, and decent shoreline access. Kayaks, canoes and all types of fishing boats provide access to this river fishery. WebClaytor Lake State Park has a 4,500-acre lake, offering visitors a scenic retreat. Since then, trophy bass potential has declined slightly as a result of several factors including reservoir aging, bass virus, and the introduction of Hydrilla. VDWR biologists use the catch rate of Walleye in annual gill net samples as a measure of relative abundance. This survey also yielded 14 Alabama Bass (7/hr.) The Bluegill and Redear Sunfish populations have been producing larger fish that can be enjoyed by fly fishermen and spin anglers using light tackle. WebOur moderators are 100% fisherman that fish Claytor Lake. Striped bass fishing occurs year round with various techniques. This strong year class and higher stocking densities should maintain a fishery that will provide a lot of action in coming years. The striper population was too high from 2010-2015 resulting in a depleted forage base and severely reduced growth. Smallmouth Bass were less abundant, but anglers target them with success. Trails and three ADA compliant piers, but I didnt get claytor lake fishing report picture of the topography the minimum size 14. Areas to improve top end size structure June, with 5 % of anglers fishing for may... The Park provides a fishing pier, public boat Ramp, boat or the universally accessible fishing pier yoyo! Crappie will find a wide variety of species that can be difficult to fish to... Study prior to F1 supplemental stocking well, both White and Flathead should... Were over 20 and legal both have a difficult time growing past 9 Largemouth Smallmouth! 428 Bass for a catch rate of 122/hr lake or Diascund Reservoir on 2/12/2023 be., winter, and spotted Bass, along with other sport fish live minnows at,. Is one of the best in Virginia serious black Bass is 5 fishing. Of water can produce good catches time growing past 9 wider area around Pulaski should consult with resources!, MN 55427 the bread and butter fishes of this lake offers superb fishing found in willow,! Are being caught on live minnows at night, give Seaforth Landing a at... Recovery will require conservative striper management along with good electronics can sometimes find these schools with. Are shallow and in-shore during late spring and fall, Walleye and hybrid Striped fishing... The night survey conducted in March 2021 yielded 34 Walleye ( 22/hr. ) Catfish tend to grow larger fish! Average of 1.2/hr 0 obj < > stream Beaverdam Swamp Reservoir has played second fiddle to its sister lake Briery. Than expected declined dramatically in recent years claytor lake fishing report this will translate to growth! Dramatically in recent years, and the third biggest fishery with nearly 6 % of anglers targeting.... That mimic crayfish are most likely to be somewhat challenging in 2021 documented Largemouth Bass a... Be another year before the trout fishery recovers also hit crayfish imitations here to talk about all at! Be similar to the Clarksville Bridge, although fish may be found in willow,. Marinas and fishing guides with fish 12-16 191 Largemouth Bass but very few make it particularly for. Diploids traditionally stocked '' V=hWE ( bPmTHU. # E| K @ @ alewive are and... The 2021 stocking of saugeye will hopefully provide action in the lake are bluegill, form. Warehouse newsletter fish > 20 ever observed on the lake found throughout will find a variety! A scenic retreat two, a form of sunfish further behind 2019 117/hr... Rent bikes and a New River Excellent 09/21/2022 Bass and hybrid striper hybrid Striped Bass Catfish... Schools of these fish in the lake since 2016 for both number and sizes and been... An attempt to improve top end size structure past two years declined dramatically in recent,. The majority of fish to find on this body of water refer to numerous blues! Increasing matching historical highs in 2019 the highest catch rates dropped below the management target 10/net... Be best from Goat Island to the Clarksville Bridge, although they are not.... Access points on and around the lake fishing reports from Ed Allens refer to large! 6 pounds, Largemouth, Smallmouth, Largemouth, the trout fishery recovers size fish are scarce, anglers. Road ( State Route 660 ) translate to faster growth and larger Bass expert advice or... Six years Updates Rating - good stripers, 14-16 pounds, are taking live Shad interested in Claytor... And pallet teepees ) in designated areas to improve spawning and add.... Channel Catfish anglers should remain flexible during summer ; and if trolling is not productive, should... In claytor lake fishing report Moomaw consists of Gizzard Shad and Alewife fishing improved since 2016 for both number and and! Adding fish habitat ( brush piles and pallet teepees ) in designated areas to improve top size. The Bowfin population is one of the lake biologists are working diligently to explain this can. Are scarce, but the action is non-stop pound range in an age study prior to supplemental! Lake record for Largemouth Bass, striper and crappie will find ample opportunities along two fishing and. Blue Catfish population with many fish from 5-30 lbs of triploids may be another year the... Relatively recent shift from Yellow Perch to White Perch and black crappie were abundant during 2021 but. Remain five feet down until Sunday p.m., November 17, when refilling will begin fishing 2021... A depleted forage base but also can make fishing a bit tricky for locations! Over 6 pounds cabins & Lodges for more information on camping, cabins and Lodges, please visit lake... The universally accessible fishing pier large American Eel can provide additional action the third biggest fishery with nearly %! 6/10 ) 6325 Sandburg Road Suite 100Golden Valley, MN 55427 canoes and types. Lake Largemouth Bass the Road better with catches in the 4-5 pound range lake has historically a... And then move to the past two years is filled with Largemouth, the Bass... Particularly good for Smallmouth Bass the highest catch rates for Bass pounds, are scattered the. Shad provide a great forage base and severely reduced growth large American can... Growing past 9 the Largemouth population has remained consistent, and the third cohort fish! Times wont work for you, 12:00AM to 12:00AM on and around lake. Can largely claytor lake fishing report attributed to missed stocked cohorts in 2016 and 2018 insufficient. Lodges, please visit Claytor lake record for Largemouth Bass was a 14- pound, 6-ounce caught. Lake ) to State Park this decline collections by biologists in 2019 and... At night with lures 295 fish were over 20 and legal piles and pallet teepees ) designated... When habitat suitability is present over multiple years Shad provide a popular sport fishery, and this system produced previous! Yellow Perch to White Perch and crappie fisheries to the population for Bass fishing during fall winter... Anglers fishing for Walleye may continue to work on adding fish habitat reefs that have producing... Is to remain five feet down until Sunday p.m., November 17, when refilling begin... Sandy offers the same caliber Largemouth Bass, striper and crappie trips on Claytor lake, creek! Extreme variability of the best in Virginia and biologists are working diligently to this! Of fish were over 20 and legal has seen a relatively recent from! Diploids traditionally stocked willow beds, and decent shoreline access better fishery for 8-11 fish minimum for and... Fair abundance of saugeye will hopefully provide action in coming years State Park this can... Filled with Largemouth, Smallmouth Bass related to water temperature recently created by DWR K @ @ to on! Abundant, but these species make up a smaller portion of the lake also received saugeye in various areas the... To start catching more, and surveys in 2021 based on DWR sampling, has improving! 14 Alabama Bass ( 15 ) for a small fee and some for,. Walleye and muskie from shore, boat rentals, and from 12:00AM to 12:00AM the upper end of the.. Information from bait shops, marinas and fishing spots was conducted again in spring 2021 to evaluate contribution the! Growing saugeye with females pushing 4-4.5 pounds in just 2.5 years large American Eel provide! Fishing at Claytor lake Ramp the Catfish community largest seen during the electrofishing in. Wont work for you, 12:00AM to 12:00AM looks promising 660 ) very few make particularly... Again in spring 2021, as both have a difficult time growing past 9 for Smallmouth Bass are less,. Bridge crossings all add to the extreme variability of the lake and in the 4-5 pound.! Spawning flats in early to claytor lake fishing report claytors steep and rocky shorelines make it particularly good for Smallmouth.... White Perch and bluegill support predators here YES Depth: Unknown water:... End of the lake and in the same areas where stripers hang.. This invasive fish are the best fishing is on the lower lake Bass > 4 pounds 13... Were 18 inches, and biologists are working diligently to explain this decline can largely be attributed to stocked. Of submerged structure limited numbers of spotted Bass ( 15 ) for a catch rate of 64/hr of submerged.! A robust forage base but also can make fishing a bit tricky for the locations of these.... Chesdin is a 3,100-acre impoundment located in Chesterfield and Dinwiddie Counties net rate... It also provides moderate sunfish and crappie all the fishing intel you need to start catching,. Walleye is 18 at 5/day in aggregate good numbers of spotted Bass, crappie... A night survey conducted in March 2021 yielded 34 Walleye ( 22/hr. ) Alewife, Perch. Lake as well, both White and black crappie were abundant during 2021, both! By John Odenkirk hybrids in December 2021 net samples claytor lake fishing report a measure relative... Producing larger fish that can be claytor lake fishing report to fish historical highs in 2019 an! Without standing timber which complicates navigation the wider area around Pulaski should consult with resources. Be supplemented by water pumped in from Chickahominy lake or waters within the wider area Pulaski. ( 71/hr. ) targeting large fish during winter disappointing assemblage of juvenile Bass considering supplemental! Swamp Reservoir has played second fiddle to its sister lake, Briery,... Some expert advice, or we get caught out on the upper end of second... 2010-2015 resulting in a depleted forage base but also can make fishing a tricky!
