163 regulations for Virginia, United States. Page 1 of 2.
Black Crappie — Briery Creek Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. No crappie less than 9 inches (9 inch minimum length limit). Briery Creek and Sandy River reservoirs crappie exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · Size limit: No crappie less than 9 inches (9 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Black Crappie — Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. No crappie less than 9 inches (9 inch minimum length limit). Geographic exception: Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir including the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries to Difficult Creek, Charlotte County, and the Dan River and its tributaries to the Banister River, Halifax County (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · Size limit: No crappie less than 9 inches (9 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Black Crappie — Claytor Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. Statewide crappie limit: 25 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · License required
Black Crappie — Dan River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. No crappie less than 9 inches on the Dan River and its tributaries to the Banister River, Halifax County (Buggs Island Lake rules); statewide limits apply elsewhere. Dan River crappie exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · Size limit: No crappie less than 9 inches on the Dan River and its tributaries to the Banister River, Halifax County (Buggs Island Lake rules); statewide limits apply elsewhere. · License required
Black Crappie — Flannagan Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. No crappie less than 10 inches (10 inch minimum length limit). Flannagan and South Holston reservoirs crappie exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · Size limit: No crappie less than 10 inches (10 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Black Crappie — Lake Anna
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. Statewide crappie limit: 25 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · License required
Black Crappie — Lake Gaston
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — No daily limit (crappie) for black crappie. Geographic exception: no daily limit on crappie at Lake Gaston (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits, Virginia waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: No daily limit (crappie) · License required
Black Crappie — Lake Moomaw
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. Statewide crappie limit: 25 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · License required
Black Crappie — Leesville Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. Statewide crappie limit: 25 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · License required
Black Crappie — Philpott Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. Statewide crappie limit: 25 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · License required
Black Crappie — Sandy River Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. No crappie less than 9 inches (9 inch minimum length limit). Briery Creek and Sandy River reservoirs crappie exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · Size limit: No crappie less than 9 inches (9 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Black Crappie — Smith Mountain Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. Statewide crappie limit: 25 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · License required
Black Crappie — South Holston Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 15 crappie per day in the aggregate (combined) for black crappie. No crappie less than 10 inches (10 inch minimum length limit). South Holston Reservoir crappie exception: 15 per day in the aggregate, 10 inch minimum (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits, Virginia waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 15 crappie per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: No crappie less than 10 inches (10 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Black Crappie — Staunton River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) for black crappie. No crappie less than 9 inches on the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries to Difficult Creek, Charlotte County (Buggs Island Lake rules); statewide limits apply elsewhere. Staunton (Roanoke) River crappie exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 25 crappie per day in the aggregate (black or white combined) · Size limit: No crappie less than 9 inches on the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries to Difficult Creek, Charlotte County (Buggs Island Lake rules); statewide limits apply elsewhere. · License required
Blue Catfish — Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day, except only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches for blue catfish. Only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches. Blue catfish exception: Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir including the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries to Difficult Creek and the Dan River and its tributaries to the Banister River (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day, except only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches · Size limit: Only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches. · License required
Blue Catfish — Dan River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day statewide; on the Dan River and its tributaries to the Banister River, Halifax County, only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches for blue catfish. Only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches in the described section. Dan River blue catfish exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day statewide; on the Dan River and its tributaries to the Banister River, Halifax County, only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches · Size limit: Only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches in the described section. · License required
Blue Catfish — James River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day statewide; no daily limit on the tidal James River and its tributaries below the fall line downstream to a line connecting Hog Point on Hog Island (Surry County) and the downstream point of the mouth of College Creek (James City County), except only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches for blue catfish. In the tidal James River section described, only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches. James River blue catfish exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day statewide; no daily limit on the tidal James River and its tributaries below the fall line downstream to a line connecting Hog Point on Hog Island (Surry County) and the downstream point of the mouth of College Creek (James City County), except only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches · Size limit: In the tidal James River section described, only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches. · License required
Blue Catfish — Lake Anna
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day for blue catfish. Statewide blue catfish limit: 20 per day, no statewide length limits; specific reservoir and below-fall-line exceptions apply where noted (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day · License required
Blue Catfish — Lake Gaston
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — No daily limit, except only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches for blue catfish. Only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches. Lake Gaston blue catfish exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits, Virginia waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: No daily limit, except only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches · Size limit: Only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches. · License required
Blue Catfish — Staunton River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day statewide; on the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries to Difficult Creek only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches for blue catfish. Only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches in the described section. Staunton (Roanoke) River blue catfish exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day statewide; on the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries to Difficult Creek only 1 blue catfish per day may be longer than 32 inches · Size limit: Only 1 blue catfish per day longer than 32 inches in the described section. · License required
Bluegill — Briery Creek Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — No daily limit (sunfish) for bluegill. Geographic exception: no daily limit on bluegill (bream) and other sunfish at Lake Gaston and Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir including the listed Staunton (Roanoke) and Dan river sections (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: No daily limit (sunfish) · License required
Bluegill — Claytor Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Dan River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Flannagan Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — James River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Lake Anna
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Lake Gaston
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — No daily limit (sunfish) for bluegill. Geographic exception: no daily limit on bluegill (bream) and other sunfish at Lake Gaston and Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir including the listed Staunton (Roanoke) and Dan river sections (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: No daily limit (sunfish) · License required
Bluegill — Lake Moomaw
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Leesville Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — New River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Philpott Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Sandy River Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Shenandoah River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Bluegill — Smith Mountain Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for bluegill. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Brown Trout — Jackson River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 4 trout per day (rainbow and brown combined) in the tailwater from Gathright Dam downstream to the Westvaco Dam at Covington, only 1 of the 4 may be a brown trout over 20 inches; the statewide trout limit (6 per day, 7 inch minimum) applies elsewhere for brown trout. Tailwater section: no brown trout less than 20 inches; all brown trout less than 20 inches must be released immediately. Jackson River Tailwater special regulation (Gathright Dam to Westvaco Dam, Covington); bait allowed (VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters, 2026). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 4 trout per day (rainbow and brown combined) in the tailwater from Gathright Dam downstream to the Westvaco Dam at Covington, only 1 of the 4 may be a brown trout over 20 inches; the statewide trout limit (6 per day, 7 inch minimum) applies elsewhere · Size limit: Tailwater section: no brown trout less than 20 inches; all brown trout less than 20 inches must be released immediately. · License required
Brown Trout — Lake Moomaw
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 2 trout per day for brown trout. 16 inch minimum size limit on trout. Lake Moomaw special regulation trout water: the entire reservoir has a 16 inch minimum size limit and 2 fish per day creel limit on trout; bait allowed (VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters, 2026). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 2 trout per day · Size limit: 16 inch minimum size limit on trout. · License required
Brown Trout — Mossy Creek
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 1 trout per day in the 4-mile special-regulation portion of the stream (from the Augusta/Rockingham county line upstream to the posted sign at the confluence of Joseph's Spring); the statewide trout limits (6 per day, 7 inch minimum) apply elsewhere on the creek for brown trout. Special-regulation section: 20 inch minimum size limit; all trout less than 20 inches must be immediately returned to the water unharmed. Statewide 7 inch minimum applies elsewhere. Mossy Creek (Augusta County) special regulation trout water: 20 inch minimum, 1 fish per day, fly-fishing only, in the 4-mile special-regulation portion of the stream (from the Augusta/Rockingham county line to the posted sign at the confluence of Joseph's Spring). A free written landowner permit (gooutdoorsvirginia.com) is required, no bait may be in possession (VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters, 2026). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 1 trout per day in the 4-mile special-regulation portion of the stream (from the Augusta/Rockingham county line upstream to the posted sign at the confluence of Joseph's Spring); the statewide trout limits (6 per day, 7 inch minimum) apply elsewhere on the creek · Size limit: Special-regulation section: 20 inch minimum size limit; all trout less than 20 inches must be immediately returned to the water unharmed. Statewide 7 inch minimum applies elsewhere. · License required
Brown Trout — Smith River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 6 trout per day (all trout combined) from Philpott Dam downstream to the State Route 636 bridge (Mitchell Bridge), only 1 brown trout per day longer than 24 inches; statewide trout limits apply elsewhere for brown trout. Philpott Dam-to-Mitchell Bridge section: no brown trout 10 to 24 inches, only 1 brown trout per day longer than 24 inches. Smith River (Henry County) special regulation trout water; bait and any combination of artificial lure allowed in this section. A trout license is required in the put-and-take stocked sections October 1 - June 15 (VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters, 2026). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 6 trout per day (all trout combined) from Philpott Dam downstream to the State Route 636 bridge (Mitchell Bridge), only 1 brown trout per day longer than 24 inches; statewide trout limits apply elsewhere · Size limit: Philpott Dam-to-Mitchell Bridge section: no brown trout 10 to 24 inches, only 1 brown trout per day longer than 24 inches. · License required
Brown Trout — South Holston Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 7 trout per day - only 2 of the 7 may be lake trout for brown trout. South Holston Reservoir (Virginia waters) exception: trout 7 per day, only 2 lake trout, no minimum size; bait allowed. A special South Holston Reservoir license allows fishing both the Tennessee and Virginia waters upstream of the dam (2026 VA digest / VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 7 trout per day - only 2 of the 7 may be lake trout · License required
Chain Pickerel — Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — No daily limit (chain pickerel and northern pike) for chain pickerel. Geographic exception: no daily limit on chain pickerel and northern pike at Lake Gaston and Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: No daily limit (chain pickerel and northern pike) · License required
Chain Pickerel — Lake Gaston
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — No daily limit (chain pickerel and northern pike) for chain pickerel. Geographic exception: no daily limit on chain pickerel and northern pike at Lake Gaston and Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits, Virginia waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: No daily limit (chain pickerel and northern pike) · License required
Channel Catfish — Briery Creek Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Claytor Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Clinch River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Dan River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Flannagan Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — James River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day statewide (channel, white and flathead catfish); no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line for channel catfish. Below-fall-line catfish exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day statewide (channel, white and flathead catfish); no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line · License required
Channel Catfish — Lake Anna
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Lake Gaston
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Lake Moomaw
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Leesville Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — New River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — North Fork Holston River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Philpott Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Sandy River Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Shenandoah River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — Smith Mountain Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Channel Catfish — South Holston Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 catfish per day (all catfish), only 1 catfish per day longer than 34 inches for channel catfish. Only 1 catfish per day may be longer than 34 inches. South Holston Reservoir all-catfish exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits, Virginia waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 catfish per day (all catfish), only 1 catfish per day longer than 34 inches · Size limit: Only 1 catfish per day may be longer than 34 inches. · License required
Channel Catfish — Staunton River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for channel catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Flathead Catfish — Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for flathead catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Flathead Catfish — Claytor Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for flathead catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Flathead Catfish — James River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day statewide (channel, white and flathead catfish); no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line for flathead catfish. Below-fall-line catfish exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day statewide (channel, white and flathead catfish); no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line · License required
Flathead Catfish — Leesville Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for flathead catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Flathead Catfish — New River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for flathead catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Flathead Catfish — Smith Mountain Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for flathead catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Flathead Catfish — Staunton River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) for flathead catfish. Statewide channel/white/flathead catfish limit: 20 per day, no length limits. Exception: no daily limit in all rivers below the fall line (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 20 per day (channel, white and flathead catfish) · License required
Hybrid Striped Bass — Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — October 1 - May 31: 2 striped bass or hybrid striped bass per day in the aggregate (combined); June 1 - September 30: 4 per day in the aggregate for hybrid striped bass. October 1 - May 31: no striped bass or hybrid striped bass less than 20 inches or greater than 26 inches. June 1 - September 30: no length limit. Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir striped bass exception, including the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries to Leesville Dam and the Dan River and its tributaries to the Union Street Dam, Danville (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: October 1 - May 31: 2 striped bass or hybrid striped bass per day in the aggregate (combined); June 1 - September 30: 4 per day in the aggregate · Size limit: October 1 - May 31: no striped bass or hybrid striped bass less than 20 inches or greater than 26 inches. June 1 - September 30: no length limit. · License required
Hybrid Striped Bass — Claytor Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — September 16 - June 30: 2 striped bass or hybrid striped bass per day in the aggregate; July 1 - September 15: 4 per day in the aggregate for hybrid striped bass. September 16 - June 30: no striped bass or hybrid bass less than 20 inches. July 1 - September 15: no length limit. Claytor Lake and its tributaries striped bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: September 16 - June 30: 2 striped bass or hybrid striped bass per day in the aggregate; July 1 - September 15: 4 per day in the aggregate · Size limit: September 16 - June 30: no striped bass or hybrid bass less than 20 inches. July 1 - September 15: no length limit. · License required
Hybrid Striped Bass — Lake Gaston
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 4 striped bass or hybrid striped bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for hybrid striped bass. October 1 - May 31: no striped bass or hybrid striped bass less than 20 inches. June 1 - September 30: no length limit. Lake Gaston striped bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits, Virginia waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 4 striped bass or hybrid striped bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: October 1 - May 31: no striped bass or hybrid striped bass less than 20 inches. June 1 - September 30: no length limit. · License required
Hybrid Striped Bass — Staunton River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — October 1 - May 31: 2 striped bass or hybrid striped bass per day in the aggregate (combined); June 1 - September 30: 4 per day in the aggregate for hybrid striped bass. October 1 - May 31: no striped bass or hybrid striped bass less than 20 inches or greater than 26 inches. June 1 - September 30: no length limit. Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir striped bass rules apply on the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries up to Leesville Dam (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: October 1 - May 31: 2 striped bass or hybrid striped bass per day in the aggregate (combined); June 1 - September 30: 4 per day in the aggregate · Size limit: October 1 - May 31: no striped bass or hybrid striped bass less than 20 inches or greater than 26 inches. June 1 - September 30: no length limit. · License required
Lake Trout — South Holston Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 7 trout per day - only 2 of the 7 may be lake trout for lake trout. South Holston Reservoir (Virginia waters) exception: trout 7 per day, only 2 lake trout, no minimum size; bait allowed. A special South Holston Reservoir license allows fishing both the Tennessee and Virginia waters upstream of the dam (2026 VA digest / VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round · Daily limit: 7 trout per day - only 2 of the 7 may be lake trout · License required
Largemouth Bass — Briery Creek Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. No largemouth or smallmouth bass 16 to 24 inches; only 1 per day longer than 24 inches. Briery Creek Lake trophy bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: No largemouth or smallmouth bass 16 to 24 inches; only 1 per day longer than 24 inches. · License required
Largemouth Bass — Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Only 2 of the 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass may be less than 14 inches. Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir: only 2 of 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 14 inches (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: Only 2 of the 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass may be less than 14 inches. · License required
Largemouth Bass — Claytor Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Statewide largemouth/smallmouth bass limit: 5 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Largemouth Bass — Clinch River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Within the boundaries of Scott, Wise, Russell or Tazewell counties: no largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 20 inches, only 1 per day longer than 20 inches; the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply elsewhere on the river. Clinch River (Virginia) bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: Within the boundaries of Scott, Wise, Russell or Tazewell counties: no largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 20 inches, only 1 per day longer than 20 inches; the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply elsewhere on the river. · License required
Largemouth Bass — Dan River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Only 2 of 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 14 inches on the Dan River and tributaries downstream from the Union Street Dam, Danville; statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply elsewhere. Dan River (Virginia section) bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: Only 2 of 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 14 inches on the Dan River and tributaries downstream from the Union Street Dam, Danville; statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply elsewhere. · License required
Largemouth Bass — Flannagan Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. No largemouth bass less than 12 inches (12 inch minimum length limit). Flannagan Reservoir exception: no largemouth bass less than 12 inches; no smallmouth bass less than 15 inches (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: No largemouth bass less than 12 inches (12 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Largemouth Bass — James River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. No largemouth or smallmouth bass 14 to 22 inches and only 1 per day longer than 22 inches from the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture rivers (Botetourt County) downstream to the 14th Street Bridge in Richmond; elsewhere on the river the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply. James River bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: No largemouth or smallmouth bass 14 to 22 inches and only 1 per day longer than 22 inches from the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture rivers (Botetourt County) downstream to the 14th Street Bridge in Richmond; elsewhere on the river the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply. · License required
Largemouth Bass — Lake Anna
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Statewide largemouth/smallmouth bass limit: 5 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Largemouth Bass — Lake Gaston
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Only 2 of the 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass may be less than 14 inches. Lake Gaston: only 2 of 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 14 inches (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits, Virginia waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: Only 2 of the 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass may be less than 14 inches. · License required
Largemouth Bass — Lake Moomaw
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. No largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 12 inches (12 inch minimum length limit). Lake Moomaw exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: No largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 12 inches (12 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Largemouth Bass — Leesville Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Only 2 of the 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass may be less than 14 inches. Leesville Reservoir: only 2 of 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 14 inches (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: Only 2 of the 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass may be less than 14 inches. · License required
Largemouth Bass — New River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. No largemouth or smallmouth bass 14 to 22 inches and only 1 per day longer than 22 inches from Fields Dam (Grayson County) downstream to the VA-WV state line, including the listed tributary sections of the Little River, Big Walker Creek and Wolf Creek but not Claytor Lake; elsewhere the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply. New River (Virginia section) bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: No largemouth or smallmouth bass 14 to 22 inches and only 1 per day longer than 22 inches from Fields Dam (Grayson County) downstream to the VA-WV state line, including the listed tributary sections of the Little River, Big Walker Creek and Wolf Creek but not Claytor Lake; elsewhere the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply. · License required
Largemouth Bass — North Fork Holston River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. From the Rt. 91 Bridge upstream of Saltville downstream to the VA-TN state line: no largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 20 inches, only 1 per day longer than 20 inches; the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply elsewhere on the river. North Fork Holston River bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: From the Rt. 91 Bridge upstream of Saltville downstream to the VA-TN state line: no largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 20 inches, only 1 per day longer than 20 inches; the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply elsewhere on the river. · License required
Largemouth Bass — Philpott Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Statewide largemouth/smallmouth bass limit: 5 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Largemouth Bass — Sandy River Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Statewide largemouth/smallmouth bass limit: 5 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Largemouth Bass — Shenandoah River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. No largemouth or smallmouth bass 11 to 14 inches (protected slot applies on the North Fork, South Fork and mainstem Shenandoah River; the aggregate creel of 5 per day applies). Shenandoah River bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: No largemouth or smallmouth bass 11 to 14 inches (protected slot applies on the North Fork, South Fork and mainstem Shenandoah River; the aggregate creel of 5 per day applies). · License required
Largemouth Bass — Smith Mountain Lake
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Only 2 of the 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass may be less than 14 inches. Smith Mountain Lake and its tributaries below Niagara Dam: only 2 of 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 14 inches (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: Only 2 of the 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass may be less than 14 inches. · License required
Largemouth Bass — Staunton River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) for largemouth bass. Below Difficult Creek, Charlotte County: only 2 of 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 14 inches. Upstream of Difficult Creek the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply. Staunton (Roanoke) River bass exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 5 largemouth and smallmouth bass per day in the aggregate (combined) · Size limit: Below Difficult Creek, Charlotte County: only 2 of 5 largemouth or smallmouth bass less than 14 inches. Upstream of Difficult Creek the statewide limits (5 per day in the aggregate, no length limit) apply. · License required
Muskellunge — James River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 1 per day for muskellunge. No muskellunge less than 40 inches (40 inch minimum length limit). Statewide muskellunge limit (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 1 per day · Size limit: No muskellunge less than 40 inches (40 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Muskellunge — New River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 1 per day for muskellunge. New River, Claytor Dam downstream to the VA-WV state line: June 1 - last day of February, no muskellunge 40 to 48 inches; March 1 - May 31, no muskellunge less than 48 inches. The statewide 40 inch minimum applies elsewhere. New River muskellunge exception (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 1 per day · Size limit: New River, Claytor Dam downstream to the VA-WV state line: June 1 - last day of February, no muskellunge 40 to 48 inches; March 1 - May 31, no muskellunge less than 48 inches. The statewide 40 inch minimum applies elsewhere. · License required
Muskellunge — Shenandoah River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 1 per day for muskellunge. No muskellunge less than 40 inches (40 inch minimum length limit). Statewide muskellunge limit (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 1 per day · Size limit: No muskellunge less than 40 inches (40 inch minimum length limit). · License required
Rainbow Trout — Jackson River
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 4 trout per day (rainbow and brown combined) in the tailwater from Gathright Dam downstream to the Westvaco Dam at Covington; the statewide trout limit (6 per day, 7 inch minimum) applies elsewhere for rainbow trout. Tailwater section: no rainbow trout 12 to 16 inches; the 7 inch statewide minimum size does not apply to rainbow trout in this section. All rainbow trout between 12 and 16 inches must be released immediately. Jackson River Tailwater special regulation (Gathright Dam to Westvaco Dam, Covington); bait allowed (VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters, 2026). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 4 trout per day (rainbow and brown combined) in the tailwater from Gathright Dam downstream to the Westvaco Dam at Covington; the statewide trout limit (6 per day, 7 inch minimum) applies elsewhere · Size limit: Tailwater section: no rainbow trout 12 to 16 inches; the 7 inch statewide minimum size does not apply to rainbow trout in this section. All rainbow trout between 12 and 16 inches must be released immediately. · License required
Rainbow Trout — Lake Moomaw
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 2 trout per day for rainbow trout. 16 inch minimum size limit on trout. Lake Moomaw special regulation trout water: the entire reservoir has a 16 inch minimum size limit and 2 fish per day creel limit on trout; bait allowed (VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters, 2026). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 2 trout per day · Size limit: 16 inch minimum size limit on trout. · License required
Rainbow Trout — Smith River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 6 trout per day (all trout combined) from Philpott Dam downstream to Mitchell Bridge; statewide trout limits apply elsewhere for rainbow trout. The length limit for rainbow and brook trout in this section is the 7 inch statewide minimum. Smith River (Henry County) special regulation trout water; bait allowed (VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters, 2026). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 6 trout per day (all trout combined) from Philpott Dam downstream to Mitchell Bridge; statewide trout limits apply elsewhere · Size limit: The length limit for rainbow and brook trout in this section is the 7 inch statewide minimum. · License required
Rainbow Trout — South Holston Reservoir
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 7 trout per day - only 2 of the 7 may be lake trout for rainbow trout. South Holston Reservoir (Virginia waters) exception: trout 7 per day, only 2 lake trout, no minimum size; bait allowed. A special South Holston Reservoir license allows fishing both the Tennessee and Virginia waters upstream of the dam (2026 VA digest / VDWR Special Regulation Trout Waters). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Virginia's trout season is open year-round; the general statewide limits are 6 trout per day, no fish less than 7 inches. · Daily limit: 7 trout per day - only 2 of the 7 may be lake trout · License required
Redbreast Sunfish — Clinch River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for redbreast sunfish. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required
Redbreast Sunfish — James River (Virginia)
Virginia, United States
Virginia limits — 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) for redbreast sunfish. Statewide limit for bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding crappie, rock bass (redeye) and Roanoke bass: 50 per day in the aggregate, no statewide length limits (2026 VA digest Creel and Length Limits). Source: 2026 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Digest, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR), dwr.virginia.gov - Creel (Harvest) and Length Limits table and Trout Waters pages (2026 edition, fetched August 2026). Creel limits are per person per day. Regulations for many smaller lakes and boat access sites are posted on site, and posted regulations are in effect. Regulation changes may occur throughout the year - check with VDWR (virginiawildlife.gov) before you fish. This is an abbreviated summary, not a legal document.
Season: Open year-round (Virginia has no closed season for this species; special catch-and-release or gear rules on specific waters are noted where they apply). · Daily limit: 50 sunfish per day in the aggregate (combined) · License required