Fishing in Virginia
Discover 39 state parks offering fishing in Virginia
🐟 Virginia Fishing License at a Glance
Freshwater prices rise on October 1, 2026. Douthat State Park's fee fishing area needs a daily permit ($8, $13 from Oct 1), and the Kiptopeke and York River state park piers charge a fishing fee instead of a license. Saltwater licenses come from the Virginia Marine Resources Commission.
Checked against the official agency, September 2026. Fees and dates change yearly — always confirm current rates and free-fishing dates via the official link above before purchasing.
Virginia State Parks with Fishing
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Belle Isle State Park
Caledon State Park
Chippokes State Park
Claytor Lake State Park
Clinch River State Park
Douthat State Park
Fairy Stone State Park
False Cape State Park
Green Pastures Recreation Area
Hayfields State Park
High Bridge Trail State Park
Holliday Lake State Park
Hungry Mother State Park
James River State Park
Kiptopeke State Park
Lake Anna State Park
Leesylvania State Park
Machicomoco State Park
Mason Neck State Park
Natural Bridge State Park
Natural Tunnel State Park
New River Trail State Park
Occoneechee State Park
Powhatan State Park
Raymond R. “Andy” Guest Jr. Shenandoah River State Park
Seven Bends State Park
Shot Tower State Park
Sky Meadows State Park
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park
Staunton River Battlefield State Park
Staunton River State Park
Sweet Run State Park
Twin Lakes State Park
Westmoreland State Park
Widewater State Park
Wilderness Road State Park
York River State Park
Other Places with Fishing in Virginia (Not State Parks)
These places are run by a county, city, federal agency, another state agency, a tribe or a private owner, not by Virginia’s state park system. State park passes, rules and reservations may not apply, so check with the operator before you go.
More Fishing Destinations
More Activities in Virginia
❓ Fishing in Virginia — FAQ
Do you need a fishing license in Virginia state parks?
Yes, with one exception. Virginia State Parks: "Fishing licenses are required at all parks except at the Kiptopeke and York River piers where a fee is charged to fish." Douthat State Park's fee fishing area also needs a daily permit ($8, $13 from October 1, 2026) in addition to a freshwater license. (Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, as of September 2026)
Are there free fishing days in Virginia?
Yes — June 5-7, 2026. On free fishing days no license is required; confirm the dates with the official Virginia agency before your trip.