A large proportion of fish were 16-20. Although not nearly as abundant as in nearby Chickahominy Lake, Bowfin in Diascund provide excitement and trophy potential. Stripers - Still some night fishing from midnight till 2:30 AM bucktails and rapalas F-18 still the baits of choice. Hey everyone it's time again to start seriously thinking about when you will be able to get on the boat for a tuna trip. Survival of both was excellent in 2021 based on gill net catch rate. This requires anglers to switch tactics and troll nightcrawler harnesses and crankbaits using reels outfitted with lead core line. Depth: Unknown Water Clarity: Stained (6/10) New size and creel limits for Striped Bass and Hybrid Striped Bass were implemented on January 1, 2019. Catfish. Since they can tolerate higher water temperatures, hybrids often chase schools of shad at the lakes surface at night in the summer months. There are now four cohorts of hybrids at-large, and survivors of the original group stocked in 2014 are getting quite large and could give Claytor Lake a run for the hybrid Striped Bass state record soon. The Black Crappie population is riding a big-fish cycle. Since then, trophy bass potential has declined slightly as a result of several factors including reservoir aging, bass virus, and the introduction of Hydrilla. Anglers can also find excitement from Longnose Gar and Chain Pickerel. WebThe three black bass species in Claytor Lake are regulated by a 12 inch minimum size limit and anglers may harvest five per day (all three species combined). Those numbers declined slightly in 2020 and 2021 but are still well above levels observed in the mid-2000s. 8 yellowtail 150 assorted rockfish 65 reds. There are now five cohorts of hybrids at-large, and survivors of the original group stocked in 2014 are getting quite large and could give Claytor Lake a run for the hybrid Striped Bass state record soon. The Smith Mountain Lake Largemouth Bass population, based on DWR sampling, has been improving since 2015. Largemouth Bass with a black n blue spinner. You can find White Crappie, Black Crappie,Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Muskie, Yellow Perch, Bluegill, Spotted Bass, Striped Bass, Hybrid Striped Bass, Striped Bass, Walleye and Largemouth Bass on these waters. The 2021 survey yielded a CPUE-P of 14.4/hr. Note that on January 1, 2021, a 15 minimum was implemented for Smallmouth Bass on Flannagan, which requires anglers immediately release all Smallmouth Bass less than 15. Claytor Lake is a top destination for hybrids in Virginia, holding the state record with a 15 pound, 13 ounce fish caught by Don Jessie in March 2016. Anglers are encouraged to switch over from bass to perch and crappie. Unlimited access to the best fishing spot finder in the game. Drum densities have increased greatly in recent years. An increasing number of kayak anglers have discovered this resource but should exercise caution on windy days. All of these fish attractors are places where anglers can find black bass, sunfish, and Black Crappie. The 2021 spring electrofishing survey yielded 428 bass for a catch rate of 122/hr. Possible catches from Claytor Lake range from bass to carp. Hybrid Striped Bass continue to provide a popular sport fishery, and this system produced a previous state record hybrid. Approximately 17,000 hybrid fingerlings were stocked in 2021. The abundance of hybrids in December 2021 net samples was average, but the majority of fish were over 20 and legal. There are limited numbers of White and Flathead Catfish, but these species make up a smaller portion of the catfish community. Sampling by VDWR biologists in 2021 documented Largemouth Bass abundance at record levels. This lake has historically produced an abundance of citation Yellow Perch, but there has been a decline recently. 259 0 obj <> endobj Redear Sunfish are not as abundant, but sizes are better with fish reaching 9-11. The crappie community has historically suffered from stockpiling but has the capacity to produce quality fish with most whites holding in the upper third of the lake. c)j>Fq,j>x,{PaB(_=d]j026_cbs$/r[|N cgj|K+,y{{!pV@GCk[RCfDULkyPO>CblG7B3\2[i endstream endobj 266 0 obj <>stream Poor habitat (low oxygen at preferred temperature) in summer 2016 caused a striper kill, but the population has started to rebound. Subscribe and save by Joining Sportsman's Warehouse newsletter. WebClaytor Lake Fishing Reports 103 people follow this lake 23 Fishing Reports Type: Lake/Pond Size: 4073.28 acres Avg. Both Bluegill and Redear Sunfish have historically been stunted providing a wealth of action from 3-5 fish. Hybrids are routinely caught in the lower lake on top water baits or by drifting live baits. Convenience Store: YES hb```ZVB ea`b`VY`V4CS @5, W9zF-a1KGkDCFCEGV>u@ZE@1bd`k 3RBV2GIbXklq@+l@F'@ ,/ The White Perch and Black Crappie populations continue to provide excitement during late winter to early spring. Black Crappie in the 12-17 range were abundant, and as a result; prospects for anglers pursuing crappie looks good in 2022. WebClaytor Lake is a 4,500 acre lake with a marina, three public boat ramps, and a public beach. Since Alabama Bass are not easily distinguished from Spotted Bass, size and creel limits on Spotted Bass are no longer in place at Claytor Lake. Hopefully, this will translate to faster growth and larger bass. Since they tolerate higher temperatures, hybrids often chase schools of shad at the surface at night in summer. An abundance of Chain Pickerel and large American Eel can provide additional action. McConaughy also do not survive and recruit to the fishery as well as Brown Trout. and bucktails in spring and fall. Gizzard Shad provide a great forage base but also can make fishing a bit tricky for the average angler. The VDWR, with agreement from Newport News and James City County, built a public boat ramp, courtesy pier, and parking lot off Route 603 near Lanexa. "Just outstanding fishing on those Yellowtail. Bass and catfish are "biting like crazy". Anglers can find Largemouth Bass in coves throughout the lake, but the best places to fish are Peak Creek, Clapboard Hollow, and large coves in the lower lake area. `~X1a[Ho8Gl|'-GLFH'F#[B5HIqoJu{~! U9SB\'2!O YzSmZXT _ eJ\}c)bw_M2nqWUt>[zO%_xh :>IhDx{jy`]53oo`W|{DNcek>0HNM_,O9$MZwX \=/c8|l The Walleye fishery continues to be stable, supported by annual stocking, and the fishery continues to produce good numbers of Walleye > 18. Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. During the spring run from February to May, look for Walleye where the New River enters the lake near Allisonia. The reservoirs small watershed can be supplemented by water pumped in from Chickahominy Lake or Diascund Reservoir. This decline can largely be attributed to missed stocked cohorts in 2016 and 2018 from insufficient hatchery production. RV Hookups: YES The improved population is a result of VDWR fisheries biologists restoring New River strain Walleye to the New River upstream from Claytor Lake. Anglers should study the differences between these fish carefully. Anglers can expect good catches during the spring run on the South Fork Holston River. If you have any information, techniques, tips, or fishing reports you would like to submit, please contact us or leave your report in the comments below. The bass fishery is strong enough to support small scale tournaments weekly from spring-fall. The lake was not trap netted in 2021, but the 2020 net survey found the crappie population healthy with an abundance of fish 11-13. Hybrid Striped Bass were stocked in 2013-2015 and 2017-2021, and pure Striped Bass were stocked in 2017 to diversify fishing opportunities. Surveys in 2021 followed up on fast growing saugeye with females pushing 4-4.5 pounds in just 2.5 years. Two private boat ramps, Ed Allens and Eagles Landing, have numerous bass tournaments. These fish were tagged in the Staunton River beginning winter 2020 as part of an angler exploitation study. Both CPUEs were down from 2019 (90/hr.). From July 1 to September 15, there is no minimum size limit for Striped Bass and Hybrid Striped Bass and anglers are allowed to keep 4 per day combined. Stripers - Still some night fishing from midnight till 2:30 AM bucktails and rapalas F-18 still the baits of choice. In a beautiful setting, this mountain reservoir called Claytor Lake offers up camping, boating and fishing away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The fishery is enhanced by annual stocking of Striped Bass along with previous Walleye stocking which provide trophy fishing potential. %PDF-1.6 % Sandy offers the same caliber Largemouth Bass fishery as Briery but without standing timber which complicates navigation. Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, yellow bass, yellow perch, striped bass and hybrid striped bass at Claytor Lake in Virginia. $uM+(? Gloucester County Parks & Rec. Hi guys, sorry for the lack of a report yesterday. WebClaytor Lake Fishing Videos Marinas on this lake Marina Name: Mountain 2: Island at the Rock House Marina Address: 3776 Rock House Rd, Pulaski, VA 24301 Website: Read More Best Tools, Gear and Gadgets to Have on Your Boat, Read More FishUSA Fishing Tools: A Detailed Review, Read More Walleye Fishing Gear Guide for 2023, Read More 8 Best Swimbaits for Bass Fishing, Read More ISLE Sportsman Review: Fishing From a High-End Paddle Board, Read More 8 Best Crankbaits for Bass Fishing. The state only stocks smallmouth bass and walleye but there is a fair population of muskellunge in the lake as well. Rentals: Kayaks and pontoon boats Learn More New River Excellent 09/21/2022 Bass and catfish are "biting like crazy". In early spring and fall, Walleye and Hybrid Striped Bass may use them as well. ? tc Four additional years of stocking will be conducted in an attempt to improve top end size structure. Brown trout to almost six pounds are being caught on live minnows at night, under the lights. Anglers are WebTake your boat out, or simply head for the dock to enjoy some early morning fishing on Claytor Lake. Catch rates are good, with an average of 1.2/hr. Anglers can explore over 60 miles of shoreline in search of bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, stripers, hybrid striped bass, perch, bluegill, white bass and sunfish. Some VA fishing guides offer guided bass, striper and crappie trips on Claytor Lake. Several boat launch ramps, some for a small fee and some for free, are scattered around the lake. 540 731-8683, Mountain 2 Island at the Rock House Marina NOTE: Walleye catch rates are on the rise the last two years due to increased stocking in the Staunton River drainage. Additionally, several bass in the 16-20 range have been sampled the past five years, and 2021 was no exception. Jigs and deep crankbaits for bass. Actually caught two, a 1lb and a 1.25lb, but I didnt get a picture of the second fish, 1 lb. Many anglers target Walleye on the Cranesnest and Pound River arms during spawning in March and April. Other Non-Gamefish: Certain Restrictions Apply. Those targeting Largemouth Bass should focus on areas between Bolar Marina boat ramp and Rt. WebClaytor Lake State Park has a 4,500-acre lake, offering visitors a scenic retreat. Fishing spots, fishing reports and regulations in. 13 oz. A total of 13 Largemouth Bass over 20 were collected during 2020 sampling, indicating the lake is still producing good numbers of memorable bass. Boat access to the lake is available for a small fee at private ramps at Claytor Lake State Park, Lighthouse Bridge, and at Conrad Brothers and Rockhouse Marinas on the Peak Creek arm of the lake. In 2021, the catch rate of preferred size (> 15) largemouth was 14.3/hr. This group is here to talk about all fishing at Claytor Lake. Click here for a Virginia Fishing License. A 3 pound fish was collected in fall 2021. of which the largest was 20 and 3.4 pounds. Smallmouth Bass were less abundant, but anglers target them with success. Spotted Bass are the most abundant, so they are more frequently caught. The Claytor Lake record for Largemouth Bass was a 14- pound, 6-ounce giant caught in June 1991. Eighty-three percent were over 12, and 44% exceeded 15. This reservoir can be difficult to fish due to quickly rising and falling water and lack of submerged structure. Known as a good crappie lake as well, both White and Black Crappie populations are strong. Smallmouth now outnumber largemouth in many areas. Located in the northeast section of the lake, north side, off Ben H Bolen Drive, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and lots of paved parking. The survey revealed a decline crappie >12. Lake Chesdin had a surprisingly high abundance of large males in the 4-5 pound range. Lake Anna is one of several large reservoirs in Virginia under evaluation for supplemental F1 (original cross between Northern and Florida) Largemouth Bass stocking. The drawdown is scheduled to begin at one foot per day on Monday morning, November 4, until the lake reaches its full drawdown depth of five feet (1841 elevation) by Saturday morning, November 9. The Black Crappie population is not large compared to other lakes, but they average a little less than a pound in size. The expectation was for triploid trout to grow faster and reach larger size, as these fish do not produce eggs and put more energy toward growth. Premier Angler - The World Lives Outdoors. These schooling fish can provide great action and can keep youngsters engaged. The 2020 survey was consistent with past years showing an abundance of medium size Bluegill and Redear Sunfish. 280 0 obj <>/Filter/FlateDecode/ID[<551E622641CEE34F8CCF593BD61F3844>]/Index[259 47]/Info 258 0 R/Length 106/Prev 425427/Root 260 0 R/Size 306/Type/XRef/W[1 3 1]>>stream The crappie population has been generally consistent for both number and size. Read Fishing Reports. Restaurant: YES, Claytor Lake Water Sports The abundant forage base of Blueback Herring provides a great source of nutrition for the assemblage of predators. The use of outboard engines is prohibited, but trolling motors are permitted. State Park Smallmouth, Largemouth, and Spotted Bass (collectively called black bass) are the bread and butter fishes of this lake. Spotted Bass in Claytor are generally smaller than the other black basses. The early morning bite consists using top water lures for bass. The crappie fishery consists of both Black and White Crappie. of electrofishing. Dublin VDWR Boat Launch Ramp No Walleye 19 to 28 inches may be kept and anglers are limited to 2 Walleye per day year round. Timing of surveys on Chickahominy Lake is critical to get a representative sample of larger fish. 2023 Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Spotted Bass are the most abundant, so they are more frequently caught. Live bait o Improved growth has allowed Striped Bass to grow better, and the catch of fish > 30 has doubled since 2016. For up-to-date information, look up the fishing report for the water of your choice. During summer, anglers should fish deeper water (8-12) during the day off points and ledges. Catch rates for fish > 20 declined slightly in 2020 and again in 2021, although 2021 samples still yielded 13 bass > 20. Location. Deep diving Jerk Baits for Bass. White bass are schooled, taking topwater baits. Size Bluegill and Redear Sunfish are not as abundant as in nearby Chickahominy Lake is critical get! 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