Cast Away in Stafford, Virginia: Discover the Best Fishing Spots in the Region

Whether you’re an experienced angler chasing trophy bass or simply looking to spend a peaceful morning on the water, Stafford County, Virginia, offers some of the most diverse and rewarding fishing experiences in the region. Nestled just outside the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C., Stafford is home to freshwater lakes, tidal estuaries, and marinas that welcome fishermen of all stripes. Here’s your guide to the top fishing spots in Stafford and what makes each one unique.

Abel Lake Reservoir

Abel Lake Reservoir is a quiet, stocked fishing lake that’s perfect when you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day on the water. With electric motors only, the lake stays calm, making it an excellent spot for bass fishing from a small boat, kayak, or the shoreline.

Why Fishermen Love It

Stocked with popular freshwater species

Peaceful, no-wake atmosphere

Electric motors only

Boat ramp, hiking trails, and picnic areas

Open year-round from dawn to dusk

Aquia Landing Park

Aquia Landing Park offers anglers a beautiful stretch of Potomac River shoreline with plenty of room to cast a line. The changing tides and mix of wooded shoreline and marsh habitat create excellent opportunities for catfish, perch, and seasonal striped bass.

Why Fishermen Love It

Nearly ¼-mile of Potomac River shoreline

Great bank fishing access

Scenic, uncrowded setting

Seasonal opportunities for multiple species

Open year-round

Curtis Lake

Curtis Lake is a favorite local fishing hole that’s easy to access whether you’re fishing from the pier or launching a small boat with an electric motor. It’s a relaxing place to target bass, bluegill, and other freshwater favorites throughout the year.

Why Fishermen Love It

Public fishing pier

Electric motor boat launch

Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere

Open year-round from dawn to dusk

Great for beginners and experienced anglers

Lake Mooney

Lake Mooney has become one of the area’s top freshwater fisheries thanks to its healthy populations of largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, bluegill, and red sunfish. Whether you’re fishing from a kayak or an electric-powered boat, there’s plenty of water to explore.

Why Fishermen Love It

520 acres of fishable water

Excellent bass and crappie fishing

Boat ramp and canoe launch

Electric motors only

Walking trails and family-friendly amenities

Little Falls Boat Ramp

Little Falls Boat Ramp provides free access to some of the best fishing on the Rappahannock River. It’s a popular launch site for anglers chasing smallmouth bass, catfish, shad, and seasonal striped bass.

Why Fishermen Love It

Free public boat ramp

Open 24 hours a day

Direct access to the Rappahannock River

Great for seasonal and year-round fishing

Convenient launch for boats, kayaks, and canoes