Find Your Next Big Catch in Charlottesville & Albemarle County

**Please note: All users will need to have either a Virginia resident or non-resident freshwater fishing license, and those targeting stocked trout waters between October 1st and June 15th will need to acquire a trout license. Those under 16 years of age do not need a fishing license. Click here for Virginia Fishing Licenses and Fees.**

The Rivanna River flows throughout Charlottesville and Albemarle County, and the James River borders southern Albemarle, just a 30-minute drive from the city center. Both rivers hold many warm water species such as smallmouth bass, catfish, sunfish, and crappie. Efforts from the Rivanna Conservation Alliance have protected the Rivanna River from outside pollutants, making it perfect for fishing, swimming, and floating. These efforts have also helped protect the many species of wildlife in and around the river. Clean waterways and wildlife preservation are definitely things to celebrate, and now you can celebrate with the rest of Charlottesville at the annual Rivanna RiverFest. Each spring, activities are held for a week, culminating in a celebration held at the Rivanna River Company where you'll find conservation demonstrations and other educational activities, kayak and canoe races, and live music. For more information on fishing in the Rivanna, visit this page on the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources' website.

The James is one of the largest rivers in Virginia and commonly produces large smallmouth bass, catfish, and even muskies. The James is accessible through a public boat ramp in Scottsville, a town in southern Albemarle County, where water activities such as fishing, tubing, kayaking, and canoeing reign supreme. While visiting Scottsville, you'll learn that the James River is an integral part of its history and identity. Scottsville was originally the county seat of Albemarle County due to its location on the river, and the batteau (a special type of flat-bottom boat) was used to transport the agricultural riches of Central and Western Virginia to the seaports along the coast. Learn more about this fascinating history at the Scottsville Museum, or get some hands-on experience by taking a batteau ride down the river with the James River Batteau Company. Click here for more information about fishing in the James River.

In western Albemarle County, below the Sugar Hollow reservoir, the Thomas Jefferson Chapter of Trout Unlimited (TJTU) has worked to provide better access to the Lower Moormans River, as well as protect and maintain the cold water fishery. The organization also provides educational programs for those interested in cold water conservation, and partners with Therapeutic Adventures to provide access for interested anglers with physical disabilities. The resulting trail, known as the John Kostanecki Memorial Trail, provides adaptive access for hikers, anglers, and nature lovers with mobility issues who otherwise would not be able to enjoy Shenandoah’s pristine waters.

The annual Adaptive Anglers Fly Fishing Retreat commonly takes place on the first weekend in December on the TJTU section of the Moormans River and at Montfair Resort Farm. A permit is required to fish this section of river, and can be purchased at both of the local fishing outfitters in Charlottesville - see more on that below! For more adaptive fly fishing programs, check out the Therapeutic Adventurers website and Facebook page.

Fly-fishing enthusiasts come from all over the nation to toss a fly in some of the beautiful plunge pools of mountain streams in Shenandoah National Park. The park contains more than 90 mountain streams and tributaries and is just a 30-minute drive from downtown Charlottesville, making this area the perfect basecamp for exploring Shenandoah National Park. Visitors can leave their cars at Sugar Hollow Reservoir and enter the park, hiking along either the North or South Fork of the Moormans River. Multiple species of trout can be found in these waters, including native brook trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Before your visit, be sure to check the fishing regulations in Shenandoah National Park and take a look at this map of the Moormans River.

Beautiful parks are spread throughout Charlottesville and Albemarle County, with many featuring bodies of water perfect for finding sunfish, bass, and catfish. Boat ramps are available at Walnut Creek Park, Beaver Creek Park, Lake Albemarle, and the South Fork Rivanna River Reservoir behind Ivy Creek Natural Area. Additionally, Ragged Mountain Reservoir has a put in for kayaks.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources stocks the lake at Mint Springs Valley Park, Scottsville Lake, and Sugar Hollow Reservoir throughout the fall and winter months. Visitors can find out when the lakes were last stocked by looking at the Daily Trout Stocking Schedule on the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources' website.

If you are looking for a bit of guidance on the local waters, or are in need of a few flies, stop by Albemarle Angler in the Barracks Road Shopping Center. An authorized Orvis dealer, Albemarle Angler can get you set up with everything you need to head out on the water. They also provide classes for beginners and fly-tying clinics, as well as guided fishing trips to waters across Virginia.

Another local guide in the Charlottesville area is Blue Mountain Drift. Based out of Scottsville, enthusiasts can set up for guided trips along the James River.

The Charlottesville area is also home to one of only a few Orvis retail stores in Virginia. Orvis hosts events like Flies and Pints as well as fishing reports, monthly fly tying classes, and more. Check out their Instagram for more information. Other outfitters include Public Lands and James River Reeling and Rafting.

After a day on the water, find a relaxing place to stay, so you can do it all over again! Montfair Resort Farm provides wooded cottages and houses, perfect for couples and families. Onsite lakes are stocked with bass, catfish, and bluegill - and visitors can even rent canoes to take out on the water. You can also enjoy birdwatching, hiking, biking, stargazing and more on the 129-acre property.

Groups should also consider the Lodge at Sugar Hollow. This beautiful retreat is located just below Sugar Hollow Reservoir along the Moormans River. The 4-bedroom lodge has stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as 2 stone fireplaces and a pool. Access to the Shenandoah National Park is just a short drive up the road.

These are just a few of the lodging options that you'll find in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Check out our places to stay page below to explore more options, including luxurious resorts, your favorite chain hotels, cozy inns and B&Bs, plus a selection of vacation rentals, cabins, and cottages.

While you're here, be sure to check out some of the region's award-winning wineries! The Charlottesville area is home to 40+ wineries located along the Monticello Wine Trail and you can use this blog to discover 20+ Charlottesville area wineries on the Virginia Governor’s Cup Gold Medal Trail. It's the perfect way to discover your new favorite vino! Additionally, the region is home to a variety of craft breweries, distilleries, and artisanal cideries. Cap off the day with a delicious meal at one of the area's many farm-to-table restaurants, and you've got a match made in heaven. We can't wait to welcome you to Charlottesville and Albemarle County soon - start planning your trip today!