Try it, you will be hooked!

Whether you’re chasing stripers along the coast or casting for trout in the mountains, or just enjoying your favorite fishing spot, now is the perfect time to experience the fun of fishing in Virginia!

Today and tomorrow (June 6th & 7th), anglers can fish without purchasing a fishing license during Virginia’s Free Fishing Days.

It’s a great opportunity to introduce a family member or friend to the sport and spend time outdoors together.

During Free Fishing Days:

  • No fishing license is required for recreational rod-and-reel fishing.
  • No facility permits are needed.
  • Fishing is permitted on stocked trout waters, including 2,900+ miles of trout streams and many lakes, ponds, and reservoirs.

Please remember that all fishing regulations, including size limits, seasons, catch limits, and gear restrictions, remain in effect.

Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) fishing areas will still require applicable fees.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

VSP warn of frozen waterways

VSP official patch and logo used by permission by Information Officer Brent Coffey

Virginia State Police are urging the public to stay off frozen ponds, lakes, and waterways as cold conditions continue across the region.

Officials checking ponds found ice approaching, but not exceeding, four inches thick.

Officials say four inches of clear ice is the minimum generally considered safe, and even then, it can be deadly.

Authorities warn conditions are especially dangerous on moving water.

Parts of the James River may appear frozen, but flowing water makes ice unpredictable and unsafe at all times.

Police report an increase in calls involving people, especially juveniles, on frozen waterways, and they’re asking parents to talk with children about the risks.

The safest choice, officials say, is to stay off the ice entirely.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.Â