Va guys post up! 2024

drmnbig reply :

I've been here a few months now and I'm beginning to learn some names and the whereabouts of some. It's almost time to really get to fishing so I figured I'd start a thread so that maybe some of us that live close together to be able to hook up for some good fishing. Just post your location and maybe some waters you fish. I'll start....

I live in Staunton.

I've got a couple ponds near here and the Middle River that I have access to. I also fish most of the smaller lakes in and around the Charlottesville area. When I can I fish the bigger lakes like Anna and Buggs Island.

NitroMan reply :

I fish the Potomac River, Lake Anna, and many different smaller lakes around Fauquier County, Va.

A.Do? reply :

I'm all over northern VA fishing ponds, lakes, and rivers.

mudkart reply :

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I'm all over northern VA fishing ponds, lakes, and rivers.

X2. Mostly the local ponds/lakes in Burke/Springfield that are only minutes away.

eddieinva reply :

I fish the Beav lately a lot since it's close to my place- but also ches. bay and x3 wherever lakes/ponds/rivers in nova..

SimonSays reply :

Richmond - James River and a bunch of local lakes

and when I'm up in Northern VA for the weekend to visit my folks, I fish the local lakes and rivers.

NOVA Angler reply :

NOVA...mostly the Potomac and some ponds around Ashburn.

Hung up Paul reply :

NOVA... Burke lakes/ponds.

Wayne P. reply :

I live in Charlottesville and fish the Potomac, Anna, Hunting Run, Motts Run, Mill Creek, Buggs Island, Gaston, Smith Mt,, Moomaw, Lake Orange, Bowlers Mill, Northeast Creek, Slate River, Rivanna Res., Beaver Creek, Chris Green Lake, James River-upper and lower, Chick lake and river, Sandy River Lake, Briery Creek Lake, Claytor Lake, Philpot Lake, Lake Guntersville, Lake Fork, the Kissimmee Chain of lakes, the Alligator Chain of lakes, Falls Lake, Hyco, and several other bodies of water public and private.

Dan: reply :

I live in NoVA and Harrisonburg while I'm at school. I fish the local lakes in NOVA and the Shenandoah river system and lake shenandoah while at school.

Ldavis reply :

drmnbig and Dominion Dan I live in McGaheysville. We need to hook up and go sometime to the Shenandoah but I also fish other places like Anna, Lake Fredrick, Lake Orange etc..

slomoe reply :

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bigbasshunter reply :

Im from NOVA and fish from here all the way down to my fams house in lynchburg. in a kayak for now but hopefully by mid spring ill have a Jon boat with gas.

soccplayer07 reply :

Springfield

Most fish out of Fountain Head. Tourneys there as well. Huntsman/mercer for quick trips.

Derek84 reply :

I'll be in and out of Fredericksburg through out the spring/summer. I like to fish the Potomac (Aquia creek, Pohick Bay), and Anna on the big boat. Hunting Run on the small boat, and wade for smallmouth on the upper Rappahannock. As well as the occasional trip up to Shenandoah for some native brookies on the fly rod.

Aluma-Bass reply :

I live in Powhatan,va just west of richmond. I fish alot of local lakes/rivers. I fish James river for smallies and others are Powhatan lakes, Amelia Lake,Briery Creek, Lake chesdin, Lake Anna , nottaway lake, swift creek resevour, Chicahomny. I fish mostly in central VA area.

VolFan reply :

Mostly the Potomac in and around DC; it a fantastic diverse fishery. Also am starting to turn on to the lakes on Quantico. I'm looking for some pike in MD as well.

rickster reply :

NOVA... fish mostly Potomac DC tidal waters, Beavercreek d**n reservoir, lake Holiday, small ponds and lakes scattered around. Would like to try Occoquan and Burke this year.

VABasser reply :

I've fished many of the small lakes/reservoirs around the NoVA area. I dont mess around with most of them much anymore. Its dawned on me how great of a fishery the Potomac is so I'll be putting in most of my time there this summer I expect. I've fished Occ Res a lot in the past but doubt I'll get the season launch pass this year. It's just easier to catch greater quantity/quality in the Potomac. Not knocking the Res but just my opinion. Besides the Potomac I'll fish Hunting Run a bit and the Rapp for my smallie fix (its almost in my backyard). When I'm at Tech I'll fish the New River some. Looking forward to the spring/summer

Micro reply :

I live in southeast Virginia. I most often fish Chickahominy Lake and River. I also fish Little Creek Reservoir, Lee Hall Reservoir, Daiscund Reservoir, Harwood Mills Reservoir, Waller Mill Reservoir.

http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/fishing/waterbodies/?type=1&region=1

Paul Naj reply :

Also a Nova guy and fish a bunch of local lakes and ponds for LMB and the Upper Potomac for SMB

hokiefisherman93 reply :

Richmond area in and around short pump. Mostly fish the local areas but jump at a chance for bigger fish.

-Drums- reply :

Yet another NoVA guy. I've fished the lakes/ponds all the other NoVA folks have mentioned, but like VABasser said, I'm pretty much now focusing all of my efforts on the mighty Potomac. It really is an amazing fishery with so much to offer, and even more to learn from. I do love Occoquan Reservoir too, though. That lake is FULL of quality fish.

Oh, and the Upper Potomac is an incredible smallmouth fishery.

slomoe reply :

anywhere to rent boats on the potomac?

Chai reply :

i'm in fairfax and i'm anywhere there is water and grass.

Heloman reply :

I am pretty new to the area, but so far have enjoyed fishing at Philpott the best although it has proven to quite challenging. Am interested in going to Briery and Sandy River to learn a little about them this year.

DaveBro1 reply :

My First Post Yay!! I am in Hampton and I fish Lee Hall, FT Eustis, Lake Gaston, Roanoke Rpids Lake. I am looking forward to a trip to Briery Creek this year.

fishingfourfun reply :

I live in Woodbridge and have fished the past couple of years in the Occoquan Reservoir. Purchased a bigger boat and will be venturing into the Potomac River this year.

kiko13 reply :

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anywhere to rent boats on the potomac?

You can rent red rowboats at Fletcher's (DC, above Key bridge). In the spring, there is quite a fishery. You can bring a motor (gas or electric) if you have one.

Ernie

5bass reply :

Roanoke. Fishing Buggs, Gaston, Philpott, Claytor, Smith Mtn, Moomaw, South Holston, New River, James River (head waters), High Rock, Norman, Potomac, Anna and Briery.

SydneyBass reply :

I currently live in richmond, Lately I've been fishing Anna, the Lower James, and Chesdin. When I was at HSC I was fishing Sandy River Resevoir every other day, awesome place, I think Briery Creek overshadows Sandy River, still liked Briery though

Sam reply :

Richmond.

Lakes and rivers in the area plus ponds.

Come on warm weather!

SMfisher reply :

i fish the new river most of the time, claytor lake a few times but i like fishing the river more than the lake.

619bassman reply :

VA Beach as you can see. I'm kinda new to the area, been here for about 1/2 a year now. I fish all the lakes and rivers in the area(a lot in suffolk) and spend quite a bit of time pond hopping as well. I fish from a yak.

basspro48 reply :

Mechanicsville.

I fish the Pamunkey, James, and Chickahominy rivers on a regular basis. I also fish Chick. lake, diascund, little creek, Gaston, Buggs, Anna, and all the farm ponds I can find.

I have also fished Claytor, Rose river, and several smaller lakes in the Emporia area

s13john reply :

im in cumberland va , mostly briery, sandy river, swift creek, james river and lakes in the state forest in cumberland and a bunch of private ponds ... and were theirs water ;D

Vekol reply :

Live in Stafford County, and primarily fish the Potomac out of Aquia Creek. Also fish Anna, Chick, Rappahannock both tidal and free stone, and some of the local lakes/ponds for a change of pace.

VTechHokie reply :

Blacksburg, And I fish the New river most of the time

MrWrinkle reply :

Another NoVA guy here. Usually stick around Springfield (Mercer, Huntsman, etc) but hit Beaverdam a few times a year too

slomoe reply :

Quote

Quote
anywhere to rent boats on the potomac?

You can rent red rowboats at Fletcher's (DC, above Key bridge). In the spring, there is quite a fishery. You can bring a motor (gas or electric) if you have one.

Ernie

Thanks Kiko

osbornj2 reply :

I live in the Roanoke area. Locally, I like to fish the James River (smallies and musky), the New River (mostly smallies), and Carvins Cove (not so much for great fishing, but a pretty place that is very convenient to my home!); Claytor Lake (mostly stripers in the early spring). Looking forward to trying Moomaw later this winter / spring.

Other notable VA waters that I enjoy and try to fish regularly: Briery Creek (2-3 times per year), Holliday Lake in Appomattox (again, not so much because it is an awesome fishery, but more because it is a pretty place to fish {and because I worked at the 4-H Camp during summer in college and I fell in love with the place!}), assorted small ponds / lakes / reservoirs.

My big trip each year is a week-long fly-in excursion into Canada for northern pike and walleye. One of these days, I am going to get into a large lake trout too!

FRfisherman reply :

I live in Warren County. I fish the North and South Fork Shenandoah and Lake Frederick ( ) in my area. I travel to Charlottesville frequently and fish the Rivanna River, Rivanna reservoir and Beaver Creek.

jeepcrazy reply :

I'm in Front Royal, too.

I fish Frederick, the Shenandoah, and a few other places.

johnkook73 reply :

Mostly the James, Chick and Lake Chesdin.

Catch22 reply :

I live in Richmond. I fish Lake Anna, Chick River, and Chick Lake most of the time. I also fish local ponds in the Richmond area. I like to float the Upper James at least once a year with my son. I am spending a week at Kerr Reservoir this spring. It will be our first trip there and my son and I are really looking forward to it.

TheRushFactor reply :

I'm in NoVA, and go to school in West Virginia, so during the school year I fish the Potomac alot for smallies, and then back home I'm all largemouth. Mostly some small ponds around the area, and Lake Fairfax(You'd be surprised at the kinds of fish Fairfax holds, especially pre-spawn and during the spawn.)

mudkart reply :

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and Lake Fairfax(You'd be surprised at the kinds of fish Fairfax holds, especially pre-spawn and during the spawn.)

sssshhhhh.......

memo43 reply :

Live/ stationed at Quantico, pretty much stick to the surrounding lakes/ponds here on base. The potamac every now an then.

would have gone out but like alot of you here, I have to go an shovel my driveway

memo

Tpayneful reply :

I cleaned eight inches of snow off the boat cover and shoveled out a path for my boat trailer. I did shovel the driveway too! On Saturday I am driving to Florida to fish Stick Marsh for a week. You guys should have great weather to fish this weekend looking at the forecast.

5bass reply :

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On Saturday I am driving to Florida to fish Stick Marsh for a week.

Stop by and pick a brother up, would ya? ;D

Tpayneful reply :

I have made this trip to Florida every year for the last 4 years. I would love you pick you up but the back seat is already booked! I am picking up my first bass fishing partner from the Orlando airport on my way to Stick Marsh. He is flying in from Missouri.

The first three years I fished lakes in Ocala National Forest and the St. John's River. It could be tough at times. Last year I fished Stick Marsh and I plan to go there every year until the fishing drops off!

5bass reply :

Alright then, I see how it is.

I hope you catch a whole pile of big'uns.

JonnyBoy reply :

culpeper - close to fburg and faquier counties. i fish lots of private ponds as well as public lakes. lakes include orange, brittle, crocket park, mtn run, pelham, anna, and motts run. The only river i really get into is the rappahannock but even then i dont pitch there much anymore.

lineman711 reply :

I'm from Smyth County in southwestern VA. I mostly fish the Holston River in Saltville. On occasion I do fish the New River around Radford. River fishing probably makes up about 95% of my time on the water. Every now and then I'll get the urge to go to Hungry Mother or South Holston Lake, but never do all that well there. Best smallmouth fishing I've ever seen has been in Saltville, well, except for one outstanding day on the New River, but then again, I don't get to travel and fish much.

Mepps reply :

Haymarket- I fish mainly private farm ponds, public ponds, and lakes. Some those are private, and some not. Also fish nearby streams and have good access to major rivers like Potomac and Shenandoah and Rapp. Been to all the major Va lakes, but there are many yet I want to hit. Occasionally I get out west to Kentucky, where my wife's Grandparents have an A-frame cabin on Yatesville Lake.

I mainly fish light tackle finesse spinning techniques, and rarely break out anything heavy. Exclusively a enthusiast fisherman, not a tournament type of person. I fish to relax and unwind.

I also love to fish saltwater as much as my schedule will allow, and lately, with 2 kids under two years old, that does not happen much at all. This summer I should hit the salt though. I'm truly starting my season this weekend. Good luck to all this season

okrod reply :

Live in Burke and fish all the local ponds and lakes in the area. Fountainhead is my primary spot when I get several hours to drop in my yak. We should get a group of paddlers out this year for a mini tourney.

Possum reply :

I live in a backwoods little place called Darlington heights... it is about 7 miles from Briery Creek so I spend a lot of time their and at Sandy River as well... Unfortunately my boat is out of commission so I am pretty bummed out... I also poke around in private ponds and watersheds any spare time I have but between work and family my days on the water have been reduced

Tpayneful reply :

Got back from Stick Marsh on Sunday. Been busy catching up with everything else. This one settled out at 6lbs 14oz. My partner's biggest was 7lbs, 7oz.

outlawguy540 reply :

I live in King George Va. I fish mostly at the lakes(3) In Presidential Lakes. I also do some catfishing in the Rap River near the Fredericksburg Boat Docks as well as the Potomac. But mostly Bass fish in the Lakes and any water I can find. Theres a little creek by my sons doctors office I often get my line wet whenever he goes. Anyone else live in or near King George? Im going out today.

kingofkistler reply :

Fairfax Virginia here, Been bass fishing for 20+ years. I fish every body of water I come across in this area and have done a tourny or two. I love fishing from a boat and from the bank. If you want to know something, shoot me a PM and keep it on the down low!

Chimborazo reply :

I live in Richmond. Took a many year hiatus from freshwater fishing, and just started back up again last year. I mostly try to hit some of the ponds and the upper James for smallies. I'm not very good at any of it yet. This year I plan to try the lower James for some cats.

smlbass reply :

Obviously, I live and fish on Smith Mountain most of the time. I have ventured to Phillpot, Buggs, and Gaston for tournaments.

Sam reply :

Putting this back at the top of this section so the new guy who is seeking Northern Virginia guys can figure it out. ;D

Jake... reply :

hey guys. NoVA resident here Fairfax/Annandale area looking for a little help on where to fish

I'm looking to try my luck at just some small ponds or lakes where I can pass some time. I don't have a boat so I'm looking to just park my car and chill for a few hours. I always release.

I only know a few small ponds in Burke. It's always bluegill and occasionally a small bass. I'm looking for some tips on where to fish. I know Burke Lake but I hear its not the same

i will not compromise anyones spot. PM me if you can

happy fishing

Jacob

JCrzy4Bass reply :

Hey D,

Gonna give you some up front honest info.

Lake Accotink has small bass in the 1 - 3 lb range. Anything bigger than that and you are lucky. Unfortunately the best spot is tick infested at the moment as you have to walk through the woods a ways. It's the back side of the lake all the way where the creek washes in. If you cast out at an angle standing at the mouth of it and casting back into the main lake there is a nice drop off. There used to be a buoy marker when they were dredging it, don't know if it's still there but that would mark the spot. Spinnerbaits with big willow leaf blades are perfect for here. My best bait on this lake.

The other spot to fish here is the dam, but there is almost ALWAYs someone rigged with multiple catfish poles here blocking it and it's only big enough for one or two people. But any wood over there like laydowns or fallen timber is great. I've caught multiple bass off one log there a couple times. Same spinners get the job done. Inline's even work here. Two entrances to get to accotink. One off Heming ave (back) the other off of Lake Accotink Rd (main)

Don't waste your time at Barton.

Burke is tough, I'm sure you heard but if your after catfish get you some chicken livers and some circle hooks. Put the chicken liver in panty hose and put it on the hook, holds it on really good and will last a lot more fish saving your fingers the stench of nastiness. Go in the back entrance at dusk and fish the first few hours of darkness with some buddies from the last two handicapped piers in the arm of the lake there. You can catch em' all night. Just be quick to set the hook as these catfish bite and run like you wouldn't believe.

Other than that local to your area and your looking at spots like Lake Royal. I don't have a whole lot of info to give you here as I haven't had much luck. The fish I did catch were barely keeper size and they were on smaller Boo Yah Boo jigs with Yum Chunk trailers. Black and blue seemed to work best. I hear downsizing your baits here work well. Maybe grubs, inline spinners, and smaller plastics on jigheads. Stuff like that.

Braddock is private, so is Barcroft and unless you have any connections the ponds on Burke Lake road or off of are all private.

Woodglenn has some nice fish in it 3+ plus and a good population of 2+ but they are hard to catch from shore. Lipless crankbaits off of some of the points (left of the dam if your standing at the dam) and the dam itself will produce. Haven't caught anything on any other baits there though, though only tried a few times. I'd imagine this place would come alive in a canoe as it would be easier to cover the lake. Hard to walk around the whole thing without getting yourself wet from jumping feeder creeks and stuff.

That's all I can think of in your area off the top of my head. I work in Annandale and am constantly trying to find ponds to fish around it because I have hour long lunch breaks. Unfortunately if I do decide to get out by the time I drive, park and walk I get like 20 - 25 minutes to fish royal or accotink.

Not the best area unless you have a boat unfortunately. If you don't mind driving a bit further, the bridge on Yates Ford Road (off clifton rd) is part of the occoquan reservoir and my dad and I almost always catch good sized bass there between 1 - 4 lbs. Spinners, jigs, plastics, etc all work well here. Cranks are hard because there is a lot of down cover near the bridge and around it. Be careful and fish slowly, but the fish are worth it. You can park right on the shoulder by the bridge here without catching any grief, or there is a commuter lot with a walkway going down to the bridge.

I'll post more later, gotta go. Hope this helps. Good luck!

VA121 reply :

Just signed up today. I fish the small community ponds around Ashburn, South Riding and Brambleton. I fish Beaver Dam sometimes, but never had any luck there. All bank fishing because I'm boatless. I have hit Goose Creek every once in awhile, too.

Bank1128 reply :

From Fairfax as well... mostly fish Burke Lake or local ponds... always looking for new places to try around here

deermaster reply :

i live on the eastern shore of va. i fish 3 small farm ponds, around 5-10 acres apiece. i also will be fishing the pocomoke river in md. its only about a half hour from my house, and because its a tidal part of the chessie bay, i can use my va license.

SupraTT reply :

I'm in the Hopewell/Prince George area and I do a lot of wading/floating in the Appomattox for smallies as well as taking the boat out in various lakes around the area.

Philly_N_Nova reply :

I live in Sterling, VA; and I fish the Potomac River at Algonkian Park, mostly because I'm new to fishing(1 month) and haven't been anywhere else yet. If anyone is looking for a partner and or giving some pointers I'd gladly accept.

rondef reply :

I am from Dale City and I fish all over Northern, VA. I have a bass boat and a canoe and I occasionally have a seat available for those that are interested.

morts10 reply :

Just got around to looking at this part of the site. I have been mostly bank fishing North river, Hearthstone, Elkhorn and Braily lakes. Just outfitted a kayak and have made a few trips on the river. Use mostly light spinning tackle. Have just learned to love the way smallmouth bite

mort

Dan: reply :

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Just got around to looking at this part of the site. I have been mostly bank fishing North river, Hearthstone, Elkhorn and Braily lakes. Just outfitted a kayak and have made a few trips on the river. Use mostly light spinning tackle. Have just learned to love the way smallmouth bite
mort

I used to fish the North River in Bridgewater. I know where Elkhorn is but where are Hearthstone and Braily?

NewAngler reply :

I live in STafford, and am very new to fishing. Have been to motts run and abel lake only, wih only small success on abel. a total of 6 sunfish, the largest as big as my hand. I am using a bobber and live worm approach. i have caught them all > 15 feet from shore (no boat), and just let the worm sit until i get a bite.

Can someone give me some pointers as to how to catch bigger fish from shore? really put it into laymens terms, as DO NOT know much about fishing. thanks!

Hung up Paul reply :

Welcome NewAngler.

Spend some time reading...

http://www.bassresource.com/beginner/beginner.html

As for a beginner bait, you really can't go wrong with a senko...

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/senko.html

NewAngler reply :

thanks paul!

NewAngler reply :

Where are good spots along the shore at abel lake?

Ruff-finz reply :

I'm in Centreville and usually fish NOVA as far down as Fredericksburg. Also hit MD waters from time-to-time.

Purpleworm82 reply :

First time poster here out of Falls Church, NOVA represent! I mostly fish for bass and striper with artificials, but occasionally I'll get down to VA Beach or NC for a deep-sea adventure. I fish the Potomac, Shenandoah, Beaverdam and Occoquan Reservoirs, Anna, Buggs, SML and a bunch of small lakes and creeks around Ashburn and Burke.

slomoe reply :

A lot of new NoVa guys! Welcome

raynman reply :

Mostly ponds out in Fairfax or Chantilly area.... occasionally I'll fish the Suffolk lakes in southern, va or lake frederick

Red Bear reply :

Hello people, im located in Loudoun County, VA. Been reading here the last several weeks, this is my first post here. I've always loved fishing since i was a kid and go every year a few times, but recently got back into it where its starting to feel like an addiction . I dont eat fish, i just love to catch them no matter what kind of fish. This place has certainly been helpful to me, and i appreciate having the platform for everyone to share their fishing knowledge and experiences.

Havent had much free time lately so i have just been fishing my uncles pond for the largemouths. I threw everything i had in my small but constantly growing tackle box at them this past sunday and was having NO luck other than one i caught on a spinner bait the first 5 minutes there. so as a last resort i threw on a tiny little rebel crickhopper and figured atleast ill catch some bluegill if nothing else. ended up catching 5 bass on that and 3 nice bluegill. then as i was getting into "a few more casts" mode i hooked a tiny bluegill and was kinda like man, why i gotta catch this little thing. so as i watched this bluegill struggle in the water to free himself right off the bank i see this huge bass come flying out from under an algae patch and nails the bluegill. a brief tussle follows and i leave my line slack, the bass tailwalks with half the blue gill sticking out of its mouth, hits the water and tries to swim out, my line tightens, he circles back toward the bank and dives out of the water like superman, all i see is the bluegills head in its mouth, at that time i yank, he swallows the blue gill and the tiny treble hooks on the crickhopper hook him right in the side of the mouth and pull him in. it was a sight to see, i never had nor seen that happen before. i dont have scales but i estimate it was in the range of 4-5 lbs.

Been to Smith Mtn Lake a couple times this year as well were i caught the only fish that ive ever had to LET take my line out. i was reeling and it was still running out line so i just let it go, every now and then it would turn back and give me a chance to bring in some line before running again, eventually i got it in though, it was the realest fish fight of my life and the adrenaline rush i had was amazing, took over 5 minutes to land him. when i got it up to the dock all the fish could do was lay on the water on its side, no more fight, before i netted it. unfortunately i had no camera and was on a dock night fishing by myself. it was definately my personal best bass. also caught a monster personal best catfish out of SML 2 years ago.

oh yeah, anyone know where i can buy live minnows in loudoun county?

Bryan75 reply :

Hey Guys/Girls. Another Nova Guy here.

I'm in Herndon, lately been chasing 'em out in Fountainhead. Fished a little @ burke lake too. (never catch anything there though)

I have been using Rapala's floating lure. They work awesome up in the lakes in Maine, but here.... I haven't caught anything. I recently tried the "Yum" baby brush hogs (worm like thing).... watermelon I think. I caught a catfish on that @ fountainhead. I'd really like to get my son's out to catch some LMB's. Any advice on what to try next?

Oh and Red Bear, There's a store at the corner of Evergreen mill's rd and Gumspring rd. in Arcola that sell's live minnows. Ateast they used to. :-/

Red Bear reply :

Quote
Hey Guys/Girls. Another Nova Guy here.
I'm in Herndon, lately been chasing 'em out in Fountainhead. Fished a little @ burke lake too. (never catch anything there though)

I have been using Rapala's floating lure. They work awesome up in the lakes in Maine, but here.... I haven't caught anything. I recently tried the "Yum" baby brush hogs (worm like thing).... watermelon I think. I caught a catfish on that @ fountainhead. I'd really like to get my son's out to catch some LMB's. Any advice on what to try next?

Oh and Red Bear, There's a store at the corner of Evergreen mill's rd and Gumspring rd. in Arcola that sell's live minnows. Ateast they used to. :-/

i'll have to check that out. i remember a store called partlowes around beaver dam that used to sell them but i havent been there in years. so i dont know.

as for lures to catch bass, just keep trying, you will find one that works well for you in the places you fish. i've caught a bunch of bass on berkley red shad worms with a 4/0 hook and spinner baits alone. i had one of the rainbow trout xrap's for about two weeks, caught 4 bass on it and they absolutely destroyed it, the thing that makes it dive broke off and both the eyes fell out.

T.R. Express reply :

I use spinner baits all year round at Fountainhead. When the bite gets tough I usually C-rig a 6" lizard. If you can use a jig well, that will pay off huge...

Bryan75 reply :

Quote

i'll have to check that out. i remember a store called partlowes around beaver dam that used to sell them but i havent been there in years. so i dont know.

Partlowes went out of buisness. It is the same store I'm talking about. It's named something different now but same location.

Thanks for the advice. I will try some different things. I want to try Beaverdam, I'll post up what I find over there.

NJAngler609 reply :

hey guys...in about 3 weeks ill be heading to cherrystone campground to do some bay fishing...but while im down there it would be nice to try and catch some big bass..i see alot of ponds around that area...anyone know if they hold bass? costin pond,dixon pond,curtis pond and a couple others...thanks

cmatthews6485 reply :

Looking for a few fishing partners. I have been fishing since i was a kid but just this year really got into it as a hoppy and an addiction i have caught over 200 bass this year in the richmond area mainly in the glen allen oilville and goochland areas. Just last week i caught a nice 4 pounder at innsbrook at one of the lakes. I usually go by my self cause none of my friends have the patience to fish they want to come and then 20 minutes later want to leave. I have all kinds of tackle but my favorite baits are a YUM green pumkin lizard, any kind of shad color popper, and a green pumpkin plastic worm. I like plastics for the early day and the popper for the dusk. Works everywhere i go. Just email me if anyone is ever needs a fishing partner i drive but do not have a boat i do most of my fishing from land except when i go with my uncle in oilville where i normally catch around 15 within 4 hours of fishing in a private lake.

ChazfromVA reply :

i see there are alot of Northen VA guys up here! but im not one of them haha...

Im located in Isle of Wight County , VA.. i fish all the suffolk lakes as well as Gaston, Kerr, the potomac , and the three rivers( Chowan, nottoway, and Blackwater) . If anyone wants to do some fishing around hampton roads let me know. i also live on Lake Burnt Mills which is one of the suffolk lakers that has been closed for three years and the fishing has been phenomenal.. biggest string yet went 32.04 lbs on 5 fish including an 8.6 and 3 6+ lbers. .

anyways nice to seee the Virginia guys posting it up! best of luck to all!

cmatthews6485 reply :

I was just going threw hampton roads area today on the way home from kitty hawk. I stayed at barrier island which is a time share place they had a lake where me and my little brother caught atleast 10 fish a day only fishing for 1-2 hours a day i think the fish were under fead cause no matter what bait i threw they bit it i threw atleast 12 different plastics and all got atleast one fish and my brother is only 13 and has no idea to use fake bait and was still catching them.

NJAngler609 reply :

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hey guys...in about 3 weeks ill be heading to cherrystone campground to do some bay fishing...but while im down there it would be nice to try and catch some big bass..i see alot of ponds around that area...anyone know if they hold bass? costin pond,dixon pond,curtis pond and a couple others...thanks

can anyone help me out?

Dan: reply :

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hey guys...in about 3 weeks ill be heading to cherrystone campground to do some bay fishing...but while im down there it would be nice to try and catch some big bass..i see alot of ponds around that area...anyone know if they hold bass? costin pond,dixon pond,curtis pond and a couple others...thanks

can anyone help me out?

try making another thread. I've never been fishing down that way but there may be some guys who can help you out.

cmatthews6485 reply :

Anyone from richmond need or want a fishing partner. I love fishing but sometimes it gets boring when i go by myself

hokiefisherman93 reply :

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Anyone from richmond need or want a fishing partner. I love fishing but sometimes it gets boring when i go by myself

what bodies of water around richmond you fish?

Bigs reply :

Just found this forum since I just got back into fishing after a few years away from it. Im in woodbridge VA and lookin for some local ponds to hit when Im not on the potomac or Occoquan.

endless reply :

carolina county. lake orange mainly due to renting boats is cheap. and ap hill started there over the weekend mattaponi river.but deffinitly looking to explore any ideals from lures and tips good ponds,lakes rivers near me please let me know. im trying to find some good ponds so i can fish from land with no problem. thanks leave me a message in the message box or if have myspace hit my sig up and leave one there. my aim name is hatchetryda645 i also fish tappahanoch and potomac (colonial beach) but thats for croakers. i will be doing some drum fishing this fall. but anyways back to bass

the pic below is beaverdam pond in fort ap hill.

cmatthews6485 reply :

I fish at innsbrook, a pond in ashland, a big lake in goochland, used to fish a few spots at the james river but havent this year yet. Sometimes ed allens and in wyndham

endless reply :

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I fish at innsbrook, a pond in ashland, a big lake in goochland, used to fish a few spots at the james river but havent this year yet. Sometimes ed allens and in wyndham

do you know if allowed to fish that plant in ashland? not sure of plant name but seem to have the dam behind the plant. the plant is beside some bridge on rt 1. its look like a good place just not sure allowed to fish there. i only fished the james for cats not bass yet. i might when get a boat or i might just buy a electric motor for my 16' thundercraft and use it.

hokiefisherman93 reply :

where is the lake in goochland. i am in wellsley subdivision and fish wilde lake mostly but was wonering where this lake was

cmatthews6485 reply :

Where is wilde lake? and the lake i fish in goochland is private and you have to know the owner to fish there. and that bridge on rt at the d**n you can fish its called south anna river its a good spot below the bridge but i never tried on top of the d**n

endless reply :

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Where is wilde lake? and the lake i fish in goochland is private and you have to know the owner to fish there. and that bridge on rt at the d**n you can fish its called south anna river its a good spot below the bridge but i never tried on top of the d**n

i never tried anna river it self fished something similar as far as width and style and that was the mattaponi. has decent brim in there caught a few small lmb but of course i was on land and stationary. i want to try it when get a lil boat and travel the river itself. whats the biggest you pulled from anna river by the bridge or the river itself?

cmatthews6485 reply :

2.5 but i have only fished it twice and never with fake bait and i dont have a boat either it was from land. im sure there are bigger ones in there just have to fist it more havent gone yet this year and i only use fake bait this year

hokiefisherman93 reply :

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Where is wilde lake? and the lake i fish in goochland is private and you have to know the owner to fish there. and that bridge on rt at the d**n you can fish its called south anna river its a good spot below the bridge but i never tried on top of the d**n

wilde lake is located in the colonies subdivision. if you are coming down lauderdale away from the mall and go about 5-6 traffic lights you come to an intersection where if you turn left its gayton if you turn right its causeway. you turn on causeway there and the lake is right there and has lots of fishing holes

05aucrarsx reply :

any ponds near centreville area?

Bigs reply :

anyone ever fish that pond off of old bridge road in woodbridge ? Its set back a few hundred feet right behind a convenience store and looks semi secluded. You can see it fromt he road when youre driving but it doesnt look easily accesible.

cmatthews6485 reply :

Hokiefisherman what is the biggest size fish you caught there? and whats the average amount you catch when you go there and do you use live or fake bait

SD_BaSsAsSiN reply :

I don't live in VA anymore but my family still does and every time I go back I go fishing with my brother. We fished a lot of different places growing but my favorites are still small farm or neighbothood ponds In Virginia Beach there are a lot of neighborhood ponds that hold some big fish.

05aucrarsx reply :

aite guys, plz help me out here

i live in centreville, and i am willing to drive up to 1 hr.

any pond/lake u guys recommend? I don't have a bot/kayak, so yea, let me know!!!!

thanks

SD_BaSsAsSiN reply :

I sent you a PM since I don't have 10 posts yet I can't post weblinks. Hope it helps.

05aucrarsx reply :

ty sir

ymduhh reply :

I fish lake anna and most of the time though I go to Leesylvania State Park. My only luck there is catfish, any other ponds or lakes I could possibly go to that are around the NoVa area which the chances are pretty good or anything really? I live in Manassas

Sam reply :

For you guys who want to fish in the Richmond area may I suggest obtaining a copy of the 2009 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia guide and look up the area for the ponds and lakes in the greater Richmond area.

Also, get an ADC street map book and look for all the ponds around the greater Richmond area. Many places to fish.

Some suggestions for you guys:

Behind Ukrops at Stony Point on Huguenot Road.

Southlake business park, across from the NAPA building.

UR pond by their bookstore.

Walton Park subdivision pond.

Pond at the intersection of Luck's Lane (Center Point Parkway) and Charter Colony Parkway.

Citie of Henricus.

There are a lot of places to fish. You have to do your research and find them.

05aucrarsx reply :

i stopped by fountain head today, pretty nice place.

looks like i need to rent the boat to fish, if so, any suggestion on hot spots?

what lures do good over there?

thanks

NOVAngler reply :

I've been reading posts for the past few months.. But I finally registered!

Originally from Burke, staying near Reston now..

Spent most of HS fishing Lake Royal, Lake Anna, Mercer, and Burke.

Recently, I've been in reston fishing Lake Thoreau, Audabon, and Lake Anne

I'm a bank angler who loves to finesse fish with Senkos, texas-rigged, weightless, and wacky. I also like to throw texas rigged tubes, wirebaits, and jigs.

I'm always down to try new spots and meet new anglers!

Jake... reply :

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Hey D,
Gonna give you some up front honest info.

Lake Accotink has small bass in the 1 - 3 lb range. Anything bigger than that and you are lucky. Unfortunately the best spot is tick infested at the moment as you have to walk through the woods a ways. It's the back side of the lake all the way where the creek washes in. If you cast out at an angle standing at the mouth of it and casting back into the main lake there is a nice drop off. There used to be a buoy marker when they were dredging it, don't know if it's still there but that would mark the spot. Spinnerbaits with big willow leaf blades are perfect for here. My best bait on this lake.

The other spot to fish here is the dam, but there is almost ALWAYs someone rigged with multiple catfish poles here blocking it and it's only big enough for one or two people. But any wood over there like laydowns or fallen timber is great. I've caught multiple bass off one log there a couple times. Same spinners get the job done. Inline's even work here. Two entrances to get to accotink. One off Heming ave (back) the other off of Lake Accotink Rd (main)

Don't waste your time at Barton.

Burke is tough, I'm sure you heard but if your after catfish get you some chicken livers and some circle hooks. Put the chicken liver in panty hose and put it on the hook, holds it on really good and will last a lot more fish saving your fingers the stench of nastiness. Go in the back entrance at dusk and fish the first few hours of darkness with some buddies from the last two handicapped piers in the arm of the lake there. You can catch em' all night. Just be quick to set the hook as these catfish bite and run like you wouldn't believe.

Other than that local to your area and your looking at spots like Lake Royal. I don't have a whole lot of info to give you here as I haven't had much luck. The fish I did catch were barely keeper size and they were on smaller Boo Yah Boo jigs with Yum Chunk trailers. Black and blue seemed to work best. I hear downsizing your baits here work well. Maybe grubs, inline spinners, and smaller plastics on jigheads. Stuff like that.

Braddock is private, so is Barcroft and unless you have any connections the ponds on Burke Lake road or off of are all private.

Woodglenn has some nice fish in it 3+ plus and a good population of 2+ but they are hard to catch from shore. Lipless crankbaits off of some of the points (left of the dam if your standing at the dam) and the dam itself will produce. Haven't caught anything on any other baits there though, though only tried a few times. I'd imagine this place would come alive in a canoe as it would be easier to cover the lake. Hard to walk around the whole thing without getting yourself wet from jumping feeder creeks and stuff.

That's all I can think of in your area off the top of my head. I work in Annandale and am constantly trying to find ponds to fish around it because I have hour long lunch breaks. Unfortunately if I do decide to get out by the time I drive, park and walk I get like 20 - 25 minutes to fish royal or accotink.

Not the best area unless you have a boat unfortunately. If you don't mind driving a bit further, the bridge on Yates Ford Road (off clifton rd) is part of the occoquan reservoir and my dad and I almost always catch good sized bass there between 1 - 4 lbs. Spinners, jigs, plastics, etc all work well here. Cranks are hard because there is a lot of down cover near the bridge and around it. Be careful and fish slowly, but the fish are worth it. You can park right on the shoulder by the bridge here without catching any grief, or there is a commuter lot with a walkway going down to the bridge.

I'll post more later, gotta go. Hope this helps. Good luck!

hey man wanted to say thanks for the straight info. 8-)

I checked out Woodglen today, took me a while but I found the cauldesac entrance. I walked down the shore where the rocks and the drain thing is but only got a tiny bite, guessing a bluegill . there were like 5 spanish guys though catching small cat's for dinner :

I guess I will check out the local lakes around burke/springfield next

I aint got a boat, so if you guys can help me out with any shore fishing tips for the local lakes I would love it.

and what kinda work do you do in Annandale man?

hokiefisherman93 reply :

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Hokiefisherman what is the biggest size fish you caught there? and whats the average amount you catch when you go there and do you use live or fake bait

today went out and caught two bass over 4 and one 25-30" fish i think was a muskie or something in that family. but there is usually good fishing on the rocks with some worms or lizzards and what not. on average i catch three over 2 and then some nice dinks. nothing too big but its fun

cmatthews6485 reply :

I am going to ed allens tomorrow and renting a jon boat and looking for someone to go with me any takers

05aucrarsx reply :

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Hokiefisherman what is the biggest size fish you caught there? and whats the average amount you catch when you go there and do you use live or fake bait

today went out and caught two bass over 4 and one 25-30" fish i think was a muskie or something in that family. but there is usually good fishing on the rocks with some worms or lizzards and what not. on average i catch three over 2 and then some nice dinks. nothing too big but its fun

how far of a drive is it from centreville, va? will bank fishing okay there?

hokiefisherman93 reply :

its probably a couple hour drive. its right to the west of richmond in a place called short pump

cmatthews6485 reply :

Anyone feel like fishing at ed allens today?

NOVAngler reply :

Went to Myrtle Beach this weekend to visit some friends!!! Caught this badboy in the pond behind her place on a spinnerbait...

...And she doubted it had fish in it!

cmatthews6485 reply :

Went today at innsbrook in richmond wasnt planning on fishing long so i brought my six favorite plastics a popper spinner bait and topwater frog with one hook for my plastics and what a mistake that was. I used my sponnerbait first and wasnt getting anything so i put on this new plastic that i got not saying what is was and first cast i got nailed and it felt big but i forgot that the hook i had on there was tied by my friend that went fishing with me yesterday and bam the line broke or got undone from the hook. i was so mad that i just sat around messing with my top water frog for the rest of the time and came home. It felt way bigger than the 3.5 pounder that i caught there earlier this year

A.Do? reply :

so this is where all the NoVA action is...

05aucrarsx reply :

will hit up a private pond in culpeper in about 5 hrs

wish me luck

cmatthews6485 reply :

I am looking for good places to fish within 30 minutes of the richmond area tomorrow

80pruf reply :

I have a friend that catches GOOD smallmouth at Pony Pasture! He has caught BIG fish in eddy pockets behind rocks that would have people sunbathing on them. Its pretty crazy. Spinning tackle and Zoom centipede...all you need.

05aucrarsx reply :

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I have a friend that catches GOOD smallmouth at Pony Pasture! He has caught BIG fish in eddy pockets behind rocks that would have people sunbathing on them. Its pretty crazy. Spinning tackle and Zoom centipede...all you need.

where is this place at?

hokiefisherman93 reply :

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I have a friend that catches GOOD smallmouth at Pony Pasture! He has caught BIG fish in eddy pockets behind rocks that would have people sunbathing on them. Its pretty crazy. Spinning tackle and Zoom centipede...all you need.
where is this place at?

if you coming from the city and go over the hugenot bridge you take your first right following the bridge. its right when the bridge ends and you turn right when you come to the T intersection and follow it all the way down. its part of the james river park systems

cmatthews6485 reply :

Went to innsbrook and had a good day today catching two around 3lbs and 4 dinks. Would have been better if this guy was not in a spot i wanted to fish i watched him catch 10 within 1 hour and all of his were 3+lbers I caught one of my big ones on a wacky rigged senko and the other on a power bait finness worm

cmatthews6485 reply :

Still in need of a fishing partner i met hokiefisherman and have been with him twice hes a good fisherman as well but i fish pretty much every day when i get off work most of the time i go by myself which is still fun but its not as fun when you dont have anyone to talk to. anyone in the richmond or surronding areas looking to fish hit me up

Shawn OConnor reply :

New to the area as well. Just bought a Tracker 12. Caught a decent one out at Briery and looking forward to going back.

Rocky1965 reply :

Nova here/Burke lake, Lake Accotink, Lake Royale etc...

SydneyBass reply :

Hey Matthews, i sent you a PM

jam1082 reply :

Matthews what pond ru talking about in innsbrook?

cmatthews6485 reply :

I am now hooked on strike king rage tail baits. I have caught alot on my space monkey in black and blue and my 7' andaconda in red shad. I love the action that the tail on the andaconda has.

cmatthews6485 reply :

I caught 6 today at innsbrook and missed just as many i caught one a white and chartuesse spinner bait idk how to spell that and 5 on my yum green pumkin lizard. i was getting a bite almost every cast with the lizard biggest today was 2.5 pounds onthe spinner bait and all 1-2 pounders on the lizard no big fish but still fun. I found a new spot there that is hott

Jake... reply :

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New to the area as well. Just bought a Tracker 12. Caught a decent one out at Briery and looking forward to going back.

how big was she??

cmatthews6485 reply :

Now that the weather is colder and we have got some more fresh rain the fishing should really start getting better for september and october

endless reply :

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Now that the weather is colder and we have got some more fresh rain the fishing should really start getting better for september and october

i thought that so went yesterday to a local pond near me that belongs to the base. the water was 76 degrees and caught nothing had some strikes but a few of those. one monster hit though i think it had to be another bowfin the way it splash on top of water. i was frogging in the lilies so i hope you and all ave better luck and me next time out lol.

man yesterday was bad for me besides not catching anything had all sorts of trouble next time im listening to my gut feelings stay home lol.

go4bass reply :

I live in New Kent county and am new to this forum. I am looking forward to reading all the input from the local Va bassers. I used to bass fish alot but had to give it up for a few years. Just bought a boat and rigging it for bassin and will fish most of the reservoir local to the area. Would appreciate any help eith Diascund, Little Creek, Waller Mill, Beaver Dam and Chick lake.

dauberangler reply :

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New to the area as well. Just bought a Tracker 12. Caught a decent one out at Briery and looking forward to going back.

You need to learn how to properly weigh a bass. Im getting tired of seeing people punch holes in the mouth. Either get a bag and or a scale with jaw grabbers.

cmatthews6485 reply :

If you weigh it right like he did it doesnt punch a whole in the mouth so if you dont know your facts then dont trash on someone else

hokiefisherman93 reply :

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New to the area as well. Just bought a Tracker 12. Caught a decent one out at Briery and looking forward to going back.
You need to learn how to properly weigh a bass. Im getting tired of seeing people punch holes in the mouth. Either get a bag and or a scale with jaw grabbers.

I agree strongly with you dauberangler. I hate seeing fish caught and then people trying to weigh them and causing more harm than good. People need to learn how to use a scale!

cmatthews6485 reply :

But he didnt poke a hole in the mouth he did it right and did it threw the bottom of the gill so it doesnt poke a hole

JVM reply :

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But he didnt poke a hole in the mouth he did it right and did it threw the bottom of the gill so it doesnt poke a hole

...EXACTLY!!!

Hey guys, I have an idea, let's not make it our sole intention to beat up other anglers.

1 - he didn't do anything wrong so far as I can see, lik dude said, under the gills, no harm, no foul right?

2 - If there is a problem weighing them that way or any other non-intentional offense, then politely offer help. I am not trying to be too PC and all but crappin on ppl for no good reason is pretty silly. Tight lines!

Shawn OConnor reply :

Exactly. Know your facts before you start bashing people. I would never poke a hole, that's just dumb.

JVM reply :

On a new note, thinking bout going out tomorrow and maybe monday. Was thinking about hitting either Hunting Run or the Rez. Anyone know how the fishing has been out on either of those lately?

Wayne P. reply :

I fished Hunting Run on Friday 4th. and caught a bunch but mostly small ones.

I'll probably go there tomorrow. It is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.

endless reply :

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On a new note, thinking bout going out tomorrow and maybe monday. Was thinking about hitting either Hunting Run or the Rez. Anyone know how the fishing has been out on either of those lately?

i fish there quite a bit myself hunting run. my pb is from there a 4.2 lber. if not from the county though it will run $7 for the pass and $3 for the launch if have own boat. you can buy a year pass i want to say for 27 but its end when lake closes i think in october something. wayne p knows more about that. i will be getting my year pass when reopen and also im buying both passes ni and hunting run.

ni res i want to try next. i hear alot about it from the guy in gander mountain.and the older guy who works in the hunting run shack. he fishes ni too. hes a very nice man. i sit in there usually talk to him for at least an half hour or so every time hes working. youll see him sometimes fishing with his son in hunting run too. just about everyone is nice to fish around. seems like everyone one fishing gets along well easy to talk to. i had guy help me with my depth finder in middle of the lake one time. but anyways i like the lake alot.

Wayne P. reply :

endless, all the passes are for both lakes. The lake closes on Oct 12 until March.

I have caught several 7#+ bass at Hunting Run and my largest this year is 6-2.

The guy in the rental shack was suprised to see me there today since I usually don't fish on weekends. Dr. apportments messed up my weekday fishing this week.

I can't take my boat to Ni since no gas motors are allowed on it.

endless reply :

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endless, all the passes are for both lakes. The lake closes on Oct 12 until March.
I have caught several 7#+ bass at Hunting Run and my largest this year is 6-2.

The guy in the rental shack was suprised to see me there today since I usually don't fish on weekends. Dr. apportments messed up my weekday fishing this week.

I can't take my boat to Ni since no gas motors are allowed on it.

i thought hunting run was gas free? or they just allow motor along not running? yea i like the guy at shack very nice man. im still searching but i got my 4 # for now but i still got time till oct. and if not next year lol. how today go?

Wayne P. reply :

Read the middle sign:

endless reply :

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Read the middle sign:

thats what i thought just wanted to be sure. so just like lake orange. oh quick question wayne on wacky you ever used mustard ultra points octopus?? the number is 92568BLN. they was on sal at local bait shop so i bought to give a shot but would like to know if you use them before??

Wayne P. reply :

No, I haven't used the Mustad hooks. The Gamakatsu and Owner hooks work good enough for me and I know they are quality products.

That is a case of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it"

TJHfishin reply :

hey guys has anyone here fished lake brittle

Thai reply :

You felt the need to dig up an older topic to ask the same question you just made a topic about why?

nubasser reply :

I know this is an old thread but I fish Smith mountain lake.Because of my work schedule it's usually a day or 2 during the week or in the evenings.

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