All You Should Know About Smith Mountain Lake Fishing

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By Anthony Reynolds


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 lies at the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains in the State of Virginia. Many people know it for its incredible bass and striper population. The reservoir occupies an estimated 20000 acres. Its shoreline stretches to about 500 miles. Getting the perfect angling spot when around should not take long.

The lake shore is filled with private and public marinas and boat ramps. State Park is the main point of interest for many tourists visiting the area. Tourists flock it from the onset of summer, with a large number opting to stay in the campgrounds and cabins while exploring the many hiking trails, picnic areas and beach. The park hosts a great golf course as well.

If you are a visiting angler, you can get accommodation at any of the numerous rental houses, cabins and lodgings near the lake. During summer, the waterway always experiences heavy boat traffic. You might therefore want to travel in the cooler seasons if you want to fish undisturbed.

Bass are the most dominant types of fish around. The most preferred type of bass amongst anglers is the largemouth. This species outnumbers smallmouth by a significant margin. Striped bass are also available. While a considerable crappie population is present, it is not as vast as in the other local 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.

When the summer hits its peak moment, the bass move into deeper waters. Shad usually comes in handy as bait at this point in time. Crappies move to the shallow sections from March to May and from October to November. The trees and marshes dotting the shoreline also get flocked by crappies at the time.

All anglers are required to abide by the state regulations. Most of the bait shops in the state offer free copies of regulations. You can also get the same in PDF format on the internet. One key law to bear in mind is that licensing is a must for all angling activities. The local bait stores are also contracted to sell licenses by the authorities. Annual permits go for $18 for locals and $36 for anglers from outside the state.

Before setting out for your activity, make sure you dress appropriately and pack some drinking water. Anglers are discouraged from carrying glass bottles within the reservoir. Ensure you stay protected from the impromptu rainfall with the right rain gear. Since many of the stores nearby offer rental reels and rods, it is not a must to go with your equipment. There are local guides available for hire as well.




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