claytor lake fishing report

WebTake your boat out, or simply head for the dock to enjoy some early morning fishing on Claytor Lake. Both CPUEs were down from 2019 (90/hr.). However, many anglers who spend the time are rewarded with good fishing. Buggs Island is also one of Virginias best places to catch crappie with fish over two pounds not uncommon. The survey yielded 65 preferred-sized bass ( 15) for a catch rate of 21.7/hr. of which the largest was 20 and 3.4 pounds. Most Bluegill are small with sizes ranging from 3-9, but most are 4-6. This was a minor decline from the 2020 (66/hr.). Thursday morning. Brown Trout stocked in NovFeb at 67 grow to 1213 in six months. Bluegill are extremely abundant, but very few make it past 6. 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 Currently an aging reservoir and limited summer habitat availability is a concern. The most plentiful fish in the lake are bluegill, a form of sunfish. Cabins & Lodges For more information on camping, cabins and lodges, please visit Claytor Lake State Park's website. During summer, habitat (combination of temperature and dissolved oxygen) forces Striped Bass to occupy the lower end of the lake (the dam to about Buoy 9 and in the mouth of Nutbush Creek). Locations and coordinates of fish habitat structures developed since 2012 can be seen in the maps below: Claytor Lake and the New River upstream of Claytor Lake Dam to Buck Dam in Carroll County: Claytor Lake State Park, located on the north side of the lake, provides 497 acres of park with camping, cabins, picnic areas, and a swimming beach, as well as a marina. 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. Boat Launch Ramp: YES For more information on the park, call (540) 643-2500. Fishing reports for claytor lake are updated each week, usually by The 2021 spring survey collected 173 Largemouth Bass for a CPUE of 86/hr. This ranked much lower than in 2020 (76/hr.) Buggs Island (Kerr Reservoir) is located in south-central Virginia and north-central North Carolina. Bass forage heavily on Gizzard Shad here. Largemouth Bass with a black n blue spinner. Catfish angling is an emerging fishery at Claytor Lake, with 13% of anglers pursuing catfish in the most recent angler survey in 2017, and an estimated annual catch of almost 6,000 channel catfish. The 2022 tournament will take place on Saturday, September 17, 2022 at Claytor Lake State Park located at 6620 Ben H. Bolen Dr, Dublin, VA 24084. On the other-hand, today is a hell of a lot better day. Campgrounds: YES The Largemouth Bass regulation did not change, and Largemouth Bass less than 12 must be released. However, in 2021 Walleye were stocked at a reduced rate, once again due to insufficient hatchery production. During fall, winter, and summer months, look for schools of these fish in the same areas where stripers hang out. Intensive forage stocking of 1-3 Bluegill annually since 2015 has resulted in a 20% increase in forage abundance. This is good news for bass anglers in 2022! 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. 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. Walleye observed in the 2021 sample were 1527 with an average of nearly 20. The survey revealed a decline crappie >12. A variety of artificial habitat structures have been used since habitat efforts began in 2001 including spider blocks, dumbos, rock piles, Mossback habitat structures, and Christmas tree reefs. These fish were tagged in the Staunton River beginning winter 2020 as part of an angler exploitation study. We have 2 openings on a two day charter next week. WebFishing at Claytor Lake, Virginia Fishing has also become a major attraction at Claytor Lake. Informational signs about this invasive fish are posted at access points. The Bluegill and Redear Sunfish populations have been producing larger fish that can be enjoyed by fly fishermen and spin anglers using light tackle. Improved growth has allowed Striped Bass to grow better, and the catch of fish > 30 has doubled since 2016. Both fish have taken to foraging on Gizzard Shad with larger saugeye from previous stockings still available. In the 2017 angler survey, Channel and Flathead Catfish fishing effort climbed to nearly 13%, making catfish angling the second biggest fishery here. Remember to adjust these times based on barometric pressure, and weather changes. Illegally stocked snakeheads can also be found in willow beds, and their abundance seems to be slowly increasing. this includes food and permits. Later in the spring and through the summer, main lake points and ledges should hold considerable numbers of fish. During the spring run from February to May, look for Walleye where the New River enters the lake near Allisonia. Fishing reports from Ed Allens refer to numerous large blues over the last few years. With consistent Walleye stocking in recent years, this fishery is improving, with 5% of anglers targeting them. Bluegill are always plentiful in South Holston and will provide excellent fishing opportunities in summer when fishing success for other species slows in warmer water. This suggests there are currently as many (or more) bass in the lake as there have been for at least 25 years with a commensurate number of larger fish. Boat Rental: YES Its a scenic place to fish for a variety of species. The park has 15 cabins and 3 lodges that are perfect ways to stay overnight while enjoying all that Claytor Lake State Park has to offer. The state only stocks smallmouth bass and walleye but there is a fair population of muskellunge in the lake as well. NOTE: THERE IS A COST OF $7 TO PARK AT THE STATE PARK. Using this web site acknowledges your agreement to the, Stripers, 14-16 pounds, are taking live shad. While black bass and trout are the mainstay fisheries, anglers should also find favorable populations of Black Crappie, Bluegill, Chain Pickerel, and Channel Catfish. There are multiple different types of bass in this lake which make it home to some very good fishing. There are numerous different species of fish to find on this body of water. Serious black bass anglers should add Moomaw to their must- fish list in 2022. The Bluegill population has been producing some larger 6-8 fish and is better than most district reservoirs. The crappie population has been generally consistent for both number and size. Fortunately, Walleye were stocked in Flannagan in 2019 and 2020 which should help the population rebound soon. Follow Route 605 until you reach Route 663 (Owens Road), go right on 663, then look for signs marking the park when you get near the lake. During your visit you can fish for bass, catfish, walleye and muskie from shore, boat or the universally accessible fishing pier. Anglers should remain flexible during summer; and if trolling is not productive, they should shift to targeting shorelines at night with lures. Crappie anglers have reported catching saugeye in various areas of the lake. Since then, trophy bass potential has declined slightly as a result of several factors including reservoir aging, bass virus, and the introduction of Hydrilla. Overall bass catch rate was 156/hr., so any bass angler even close to northern Virginia should plan at least one trip in 2022 to either Fountainhead Park on the Fairfax side or Lake Ridge Park on the Prince William side (or both). Lake Chesdin had a surprisingly high abundance of large males in the 4-5 pound range. Spotted Bass are the most abundant, so they are more frequently caught. 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 early morning bite consists using top water lures for bass. Eighty-three percent were over 12, and 44% exceeded 15. Of those, 94% were legal (>10). 13 oz. Learn More, 09/21/2022 Claytor Lake holds fewer Largemouth Bass than other Virginia lakes, and they grow slowly in this mountain reservoir. Fishing Claytor Lake, VA on 1/21/2023 will be best from 12:00AM through 12:00AM, and from 12:00AM to 12:00AM. +HX/,Gm"|^]30 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. This body of water was created in 1939 and is named after a former Vice President of Appalachian Power, Graham Claytor, Sr. The survey did not reveal an abundance of bass with only 46 collected (23/hr.). Bluegill. Please contact the Marion Regional DWR Office. endstream endobj 263 0 obj <>stream but not as impressive as 2018 (71/hr.). The main sporting varieties are largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and striped bass. These cohorts would have been Age-5 and Age-3 in 2021 which have historically made up a substantial proportion of the sample, so their absence was reflected in the lower abundance observed. Lake Chesdins crappie community has been producing some extremely large hybrids (natural cross between a black and white). Gloucester County Parks & Rec. DWR stocks over 3,500 Channel Catfish annually to bolster this population. An experimental Largemouth Bass stocking program was initiated in 2015 to determine if supplemental stocking of F1 bass in Virginias larger lakes can improve populations. Markdowns on popular products - See all bargain offers, 14 Reports for Largemouth Bass + SpringChange, SPRO RkCrawler 55 Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/5", Buckeye Lures G-Man Ballin' Out Jig 3/8 oz / Green Pumpkin, SPRO RkCrawler 55 MD Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/4", Subscribe to Email Updates for the Latest 2023 Claytor Lake Fishing Reports, Lures G-Man Ballin' Out Jig 3/8 oz / Green Pumpkin, PowerBait MaxScent The General Stick Bait 5" / Watermelon Copper Orange with Red, Reported for Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6'), RkCrawler 55 MD Crankbait Red Craw / 2 1/4", Reported for Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12'), Ito Vision 110+2 Jerkbait French Pearl / 4 1/3", Ito Vision 110+1 Jerkbait GP Pro Perch / 4 1/3", 200 Series Crankbait Pearl/Black Back / 2", Jack Hammer Chatterbait 1/2 oz / Green Pumpkin. HKo@s?EJH,q@=8`x!x EQvggn`T$d*ZA&b!_sv-(+S' !QL+L#Sg0yOCC Sport fishing is very popular at Claytor Lake. Channel Catfish anglers should focus on August, September and October post spawn. In spring, Striped Bass may be found in the upper end of the lake and in the river above the lake as fish travel upstream to spawn. Black Crappie were abundant during 2021, as 295 fish were collected during spring and fall surveys. A 3 pound fish was collected in fall 2021. Submersed aquatic vegetation (primarily Hydrilla) has spread to several areas. The positive trend was likely a function of increases in primary productivity and habitat improvements related to the return of aquatic vegetation (both submersed and emergent). A new size and creel limit is now in place from Claytor Lake Dam upstream to Buck Dam on the New River in Carroll County year round (formerly a seasonal size and creel limit). The bass fishery is strong enough to support small scale tournaments weekly from spring-fall. Two private boat ramps, Ed Allens and Eagles Landing, have numerous bass tournaments. Anglers should find a good distribution of fish 8-13. Harrys Point boat ramp, a no-fee ramp located in the mid-lake area within Pulaski Countys Harry DeHaven Park, has a double ramp and courtesy piers. Target transition areas leading to spawning flats in early to mid-spring. There were some bass in the 3-4.5 pound range, and the largest was 20 and 5.2 pounds. The crappie fishery could benefit from harvest of 8-10 fish instead of larger ones. Bass and catfish are "biting like crazy". Anglers fishing for sunfish can find a variety of smaller sunfish including Redear, Redbreast, and Pumpkinseed, but Bluegill dominate. DWR is waiting for someone to claim the open state-record for saugeye, as the minimum qualifying weight is 6 pounds. This strong year class and higher stocking densities should maintain a fishery that will provide a lot of action in coming years. DWR staff plan to trap net the reservoir in 2022. Hi guys, sorry for the lack of a report yesterday. So, what type of fish are in this lake? This was a favorable increase from 2020 (67/hr.). Claytor is considered a good smallmouth lake with anglers targeting large fish during winter. lake levels, water temperatures, and other important information. Learn More, 09/21/2022 NOTE: Walleye catch rates are on the rise the last two years due to increased stocking in the Staunton River drainage. Fishing during fall and winter is typically best from Goat Island to the Clarksville Bridge, although fish may be found throughout. Fishing spots, fishing reports and regulations in. Recent creel survey data indicate anglers target Smallmouth Bass in cooler months and Largemouth Bass in warmer months, as habitat use and catchability changes. Flathead Catfish tend to grow larger with fish up to 33 pounds. Yesterday was a tough day caused by the conditions and, especially the sea lions. If you capture a Walleye with a yellow tag, please return it to the address on the tag with a note on the general location where you caught it, when you caught it, if you were fishing for Walleye, and if you kept or released the fish; and well send you a $25 reward. Small Mouth Bass, Large Mouth Bass, Musky. Anglers primarily target catfish from April to June, with a second bump in effort in early fall. Channel Catfish were the fourth most harvested fish with an estimated 2,692 fish. State Park The Smallmouth Bass population makes up less than 10% of black bass but still contributes to the fishery. Smallmouth Bass were less abundant, but anglers target them with success. Smallmouth, Largemouth, and Spotted Bass (collectively called black bass) are the bread and butter fishes of this lake. During the electrofishing samp This is a 4,500-acre lake in the southwest part of the state, at Radford, VA. 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. WebFishing spots and baits to use at Claytor Lake? Depending on the year, the deep, cold waters of Moomaw have potential to provide suitable trout habitat. Additionally, DWR experimented with stocking steelhead Rainbow Trout from 2009 2017. Overall, there have been some good reports this spring that provide hope for a rebound in striper numbers, with a noticeable presence of 28- to 32-inch stripers. Claytors steep and rocky shorelines make it particularly good for Smallmouth Bass. The survey revealed a disappointing assemblage of juvenile bass considering the supplemental stocking that occurred in June 2020. This reservoir has historically supported a fair Striped Bass population that has fluctuated for both number and size due to variable recruitment. claytor lake Fishing Report 2023. Collected bass were in good condition and showed favorable relative weights. Capt. This was an increase from 2020 (62/hr.) Spotted Bass in Claytor Lake do not grow as large as Largemouth and Smallmouth bass, rarely reaching 2 pounds in size, although the state record 4-pound, 12-ounce Spotted Bass was caught at Claytor Lake on January 1, 2020. Some nice catches of bass are being made on grubs and Drop Shot. Early morning WebClaytor Lake Fishing Services. Collections by biologists in 2019 yielded the highest catch rates of Largemouth Bass > 20 ever. Hybrid Striped Bass were stocked in 2013-2015 and 2017-2021, and pure Striped Bass were stocked in 2017 to diversify fishing opportunities. Fishing from the shoreline is permitted throughout the park except for Learn More, 09/21/2022 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. Call Sea Landing now at (805) 963-3564 to make your reservation. The lake record Flathead Catfish of 58 pounds, 8 ounces was caught from the upper area of the lake. The abundant forage base of Blueback Herring provides a great source of nutrition for the assemblage of predators. Recent surveys continue to reveal an abundance of bass in the 3-5 pound range which should make tournament anglers happy. Bragging size fish are scarce, but the action is non-stop. Spotted Bass with a Leland's Crappie Magnet Jig Heads, 5 lb. Bait & Tackle: YES The number of crappie collected in DWR sampling did decline in 2018-2020 compared to the previous 6 years. Rockhouse Marina Don't miss out! The New River has opportunities to catch some of the top species in trophy sizes. JJ is back in Santa Barbara and today he scored limits of nice Rockfish. It is illegal for anglers to move Alabama Bass from Diascund Reservoir and can only be held alive (in possession) if actively fishing a tournament. The trip is limited to only 15 people! Guests can also rent bikes and Mike Pritchard called from the Tribute with this update. WebClaytor Lake Fishing Reports 103 people follow this lake 23 Fishing Reports Type: Lake/Pond Size: 4073.28 acres Avg. A robust forage base of Gizzard Shad, Alewife, White Perch and Bluegill support predators here. 0 Learn More The park provides a fishing pier, public boat ramp, boat rentals, and decent shoreline access. The two saugeye were older fish from the 2014 stocking that weighed 6 and 7+ pounds. 540 731-8683, Mountain 2 Island at the Rock House Marina Anglers should target Alewife depth when fishing for bass, crappie, or trout. Anglers are encouraged to continue practice catch-and-release of trophy-size bass from the lake. s-b@q'mbNH#O%e'p4o/k }g9E; =T^#9BJ3KL2U ?nMMm)6x_6=5 3F] *k{SK / Claytor Lake bait populations (Alewife and Gizzard Shad) are high, aiding in the restoration of the Striped Bass fishery. Lures that imitate fish are the best choice for Largemouth Bass, but they may also hit crayfish imitations. The largest bass in the 2021 survey weighed 6.5 pounds. Online pricing may vary from in-store pricing. 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. Wish us luck, We depart on Wednesday night and return on Friday night. Fishing shoreline areas is likely most productive in spring around the spawn. Deep diving Jerk Baits for Bass. Fishing Claytor Lake, VA on 2/12/2023 will be best from 12:00AM through 12:00AM, and from 12:00AM to 12:00AM. Bank anglers wishing to target sunfish and crappie will find ample opportunities along two fishing trails and three ADA compliant piers. endstream endobj 266 0 obj <>stream 540 643-2500. All of these fish attractors are places where anglers can find black bass, sunfish, and Black Crappie. Spring is in the air. Sometimes we need some expert advice, or we get caught out on the water later than expected. This decline can largely be attributed to missed stocked cohorts in 2016 and 2018 from insufficient hatchery production. Anglers are reminded the minimum size for saugeye and Walleye is 18 at 5/day in aggregate. VDWR biologists use the catch rate of Walleye in annual gill net samples as a measure of relative abundance. Some nice bass were collected in 2021, but the vast majority of larger females were missed due to warm weather during March. endstream endobj startxref DNA analysis from fin clips will allow for assessment of stocking success. The 2020 net survey collected 456 crappie over two nights, and most fish were from two year classes with peaks of distribution centered on 8-9 and 10-11. These are the highest levels ever documented in the northern district in any water.

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