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Virginia has a strong fishing identity built around smallmouth bass. The James River through Richmond is recognized as the finest urban smallmouth bass fishery in the United States — a world-class river running through a state capital, accessible by kayak, canoe, and wade fishing in the heart of the city. The Shenandoah River and its North and South Forks hold smallmouth bass through the Valley, with excellent float trips available on the main stem.
The South Holston River tailwater near Bristol is among the top catch-and-release trout fisheries in the Southeast. The spring creeks of the Shenandoah Valley hold wild brown trout in clear, demanding water. The Chesapeake Bay and the coastal rivers hold striped bass in the tidal zone.
Resident licenses cost $23. Virginia is well positioned for year-round fishing. If you move to Virginia and like smallmouth bass, you are making a sound decision — the James through Richmond is available on any day you can find two hours.
The James River through Richmond is arguably the finest urban smallmouth bass fishery in the country. Virginia's Shenandoah Valley limestone spring creeks produce exceptional wild brown and brook trout. The South Holston River below South Holston Dam in the southwest corner of the state is a national-caliber tailwater producing massive rainbow and brown trout.
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Sources: State wildlife agencies, US Fish & Wildlife Service, Bassmaster, Field & Stream, In-Fisherman, Fly Fisherman magazine. License costs reflect annual resident/non-resident fishing license only; additional stamps (trout, salmon) may apply. Updated May 2026.