The state motto of Virginia is Virginia is for Lovers but it could also be Virginia is for Anglers. With hundreds of miles of creeks, streams. and rivers and countless lakes and ponds, the places to fish in Virginia provide ample opportunities no matter where you live. Virginia offers some excellent trout fishing opportunities, with its diverse rivers and streams that cater to both seasoned anglers and beginners. Here are some of the top trout rivers in Virginia.

Mossy Creek in Augusta County is one of Virginia's most famous fly-fishing streams. Mossy Creek offers challenging fishing due to its deep pools, overhanging branches, and strong currents. It's a spring-fed stream with abundant wild brown trout and is restricted to fly-fishing only with barbless hooks and catch and release angling is highly encouraged.

Smith River below Philpott Dam is another tailwater fishery known for its brown trout. The cold water released from the dam creates a suitable environment for trout, and the river is known for producing large fish. Special regulations exist with size and creel limits and fly-fishing and artificial lures only.

Whitetop Laurel Creek is in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Whitetop Laurel Creek is one of the state's best wild trout streams and has a good population of wild brook and rainbow trout. Several portions of the creek are managed under special regulations with a few catch-and-release sections.

Shenandoah National Park Streams. Shenandoah National Park is home to numerous small streams that are great for brook trout fishing. Streams like the Rose River, Rapidan River, and Hughes River are popular among anglers. Most streams are catch-and-release with artificial lures only.

The South River runs through the city of Waynesboro and offers urban trout fishing at its best. The river is stocked regularly, and the catch-and-release area provides an opportunity for anglers to target larger fish. Catch-and-release section is fishing with artificial lures only.

The Jackson River flows through Alleghany and Bath Counties and is renowned for its scenic beauty and excellent trout fishing, especially in the tailwaters below Gathright Dam. The river has both wild and stocked trout, including some trophy-sized fish and portions of the river are managed as special regulation waters with size and creel limits.

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