Unique Waters in BRYSON CITY AND SWAIN COUNTY, The Rivers Run Through PATRICK COUNTY,

Five rivers rise out from Patrick County, Va., flowing into two major watersheds. Every river or stream in the county originates from within its borders. This dynamic creates wading opportunities for anglers that can’t be found everywhere.

The Dan River begins on the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains with first-class rainbow, brook, and brown trout. The North and South Mayo River are frequently stocked with brown and rainbow trout. The Smith River can be accessed at Historic Jack’s Creek Covered Bridge. Nearby is Rock Castle Creek with pickerel and sunfish. The Ararat River rises up near

Catch some trophy-size brown and rainbow trout in Deep Creek, or a 50-pound catfish in Fontana Lake. Due to its cold water, Fontana Lake is uniquely home to fish associated with northern lakes like walleye, white bass, and steelhead. Spring also brings fantastic fishing for crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch!

A short distance from all of the lakes, rivers, and streams is the charming historic downtown that has multiple breweries, restaurants, and shops. Several outfitters offer guided trips and top tier advice for a perfect DIY day on the river.

ExploreBrysonCity.com

Amazing scenery, world-class fishing, and miles and miles of pure paddling adventure await you in southern Virginia. The height of sporting delight, Halifax County’s Southern Virginia Wild Blueway has statewide recognition as a premier fishing destination. The rivers—the Dan, the Staunton, and the Banister—combine for more than 100 miles of navigable water. Of that, more than 80 miles have been designated as Virginia Scenic Rivers. These waterways create an anglers’ paradise as you will find largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, sunfish, and striper fishing year-round.

Once off the water, venture on land for drinks, food, and exciting local culture. Celebrate the day’s catch with dinner at Molasses Grill in the historic town of Halifax. Tell reel stories over brews at Factory Street Brewing Company or high balls at Springfield Distillery. Want to explore the area? Experience world-class motorsports, public art, walking tours, museums, historical sites, state parks, and dark skies. From running rapids to trackside thrills, discover what makes your heart race in Halifax County, Va.

In the spring, prepare to meet large blue flathead and channel catfish, making the area a favorite of locals and tournament fishermen.

GoHalifaxVA.com historic Laurel Hill and contains native and rainbow trout. Fairy Stone Lake at Fairy Stone State Park offers largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and bluegill. Neighboring Philpott Lake offers excellent bass, walleye, crappie, and catfish opportunities.

Talbott Dam and Townes Reservoir offer many angling possibilities from shore, as well as from hand-carried boats and canoes.

While you’re here, experience the flavors of Patrick County with a local farm-to-table dining experience at Pickle & Ash. Enjoy Blue Ridge wines at Stanburn and Villa Appalaccia wineries. Immerse yourself in 5-star luxury at Primland Resort. There’s so much to discover. Find yourself here in Patrick County, Va.

VisitPatrickCounty.org

Fishing and History in MARTINSVILLE AND HENRY COUNTY,

Take a look around. On the Smith River, you can explore some magnificent rock outcrops, and Native American fish weirs dating back to the 1300s!

At the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains sits Martinsville and Henry County, a historic region with endless fishing possibilities.

Traveling 44.5 miles across Henry County, the Smith River has 11 public access points and rapids, offering plentiful outdoor recreation for anglers, paddlers, and nature lovers. The River is among the highest catch rates for brown trout in Virginia, of trophy potential, and is among the top two tailwater trout fisheries in the state. Sections are also stocked with rainbow trout by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. Rafting and fishing are possible for most of the year, and the Smith River Trail System offers a variety of paved and natural hiking and biking trails!

Perched at the top of Henry County, the 3,000-acre Philpott Lake is accessible via the Philpott Marina and Bowens Creek Park. Try out some new tackle from Angler’s Choice, located in Martinsville, as you fish for walleye and a variety of bass. Rent a canoe at Beaver Creek Reservoir and fish for pike. Novices can even book a guided, fly-fishing trip on the river with Smith River Outfitters

The Virginia Museum of Natural History and the historic Martinsville Speedway await you once your fishing is finished for the day!

VisitMartinsville.com