One challenge that any angler is bound face is finding a river or lake that has the right fishing conditions throughout the year. Virginia is one location with reservoirs that have the right conditions for angling no matter the time of year. Anglers from within and from the bordering states flock it all year long for Smith Mountain Lake fishing.
The lake, a jewel of Virginia, is a great spot from which to view the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains. It has a great reputation for its significant striper and bass population. The total size of the reservoir is estimated to be about 20000 acres. It also boasts a 500 mile shoreline. With such a vast size, finding a good angling location ought to be a walk in the park.
There are numerous public and private boat ramps and marinas along the lake shore. A major attraction within the vicinity is the State Park. Many visitors to the park come in the summer to enjoy its campgrounds, beach, picnic areas, hiking trails and cabins. A golf course is also present for those interested in the sport.
Accommodation is available for visiting anglers at the many cabins, lodgings and rental houses near the lake. From the onset of summer, the reservoir gets dense with boat traffic. For this reason, many anglers who do not like distractions prefer visiting in the cooler months.
The most dominant fish species around are bass. Most anglers prefer going after largemouth bass. They have been proven to outnumber smallmouth bass by far. You should also be able to make a decent catch of striped bass. While there are populations of crappie, they are not as plenty as those in other Virginia reservoirs.
Spring and early summer offer the best time to go fishing. By then, vast numbers of bass populate the shallow water sections. Furthermore, the fish usually fall for different types of bait during these seasons.
The bass tend to move back into deep sections at the peak of summer. The best bait to use at the time is shad. The months of October to November and March to May see an increase in crappie populations in the shallow areas. You should also be able to spot many of them by the marshes and trees close to the shoreline.
All angling activities within the reservoir are guided by state laws. You can get a free copy of the regulations at most bait shops across the state. The regulations are also available in digital format online. One important regulation to remember is that every angler must have a license. You may apply for one online or at any bait shop in the locality. Annual licenses cost $36 for nonresidents and $18 for the locals.
Before you head out on your boat, ensure you put on appropriate clothing and carry fresh drinking water. Put your water in a non breakable bottle. Some rain gear should also help keep you protected from the occasional rainfall. As most stores have rental rods and reels, you do not have to travel with your own. You can hire a guide to help you out as well.
The lake, a jewel of Virginia, is a great spot from which to view the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains. It has a great reputation for its significant striper and bass population. The total size of the reservoir is estimated to be about 20000 acres. It also boasts a 500 mile shoreline. With such a vast size, finding a good angling location ought to be a walk in the park.
There are numerous public and private boat ramps and marinas along the lake shore. A major attraction within the vicinity is the State Park. Many visitors to the park come in the summer to enjoy its campgrounds, beach, picnic areas, hiking trails and cabins. A golf course is also present for those interested in the sport.
Accommodation is available for visiting anglers at the many cabins, lodgings and rental houses near the lake. From the onset of summer, the reservoir gets dense with boat traffic. For this reason, many anglers who do not like distractions prefer visiting in the cooler months.
The most dominant fish species around are bass. Most anglers prefer going after largemouth bass. They have been proven to outnumber smallmouth bass by far. You should also be able to make a decent catch of striped bass. While there are populations of crappie, they are not as plenty as those in other Virginia reservoirs.
Spring and early summer offer the best time to go fishing. By then, vast numbers of bass populate the shallow water sections. Furthermore, the fish usually fall for different types of bait during these seasons.
The bass tend to move back into deep sections at the peak of summer. The best bait to use at the time is shad. The months of October to November and March to May see an increase in crappie populations in the shallow areas. You should also be able to spot many of them by the marshes and trees close to the shoreline.
All angling activities within the reservoir are guided by state laws. You can get a free copy of the regulations at most bait shops across the state. The regulations are also available in digital format online. One important regulation to remember is that every angler must have a license. You may apply for one online or at any bait shop in the locality. Annual licenses cost $36 for nonresidents and $18 for the locals.
Before you head out on your boat, ensure you put on appropriate clothing and carry fresh drinking water. Put your water in a non breakable bottle. Some rain gear should also help keep you protected from the occasional rainfall. As most stores have rental rods and reels, you do not have to travel with your own. You can hire a guide to help you out as well.
About the Author:
Get an overview of the factors to consider when selecting a Smith Mountain Lake fishing guide and more information about a reliable guide at http://www.smlfishingcharters.com now.