Fishing At Smith Mountain Lake

AKA: Smith Mountain Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white catfish, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, white perch, yellow perch, striped bass and muskie at Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia.

The most popular lake in VA, Smith Mountain Lake, is a 20,000-acre lake in the south-central part of the state, at Penhook. There are over 500 miles of shoreline for enjoying outdoor activities on land or boating and fishing on the water.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Smith Mountain Lake, located in southwestern Virginia, is a premier fishing destination known for its scenic beauty and abundant fish populations. Spanning over 20,000 acres, this reservoir offers anglers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, making it a favorite among fishing enthusiasts.

One of the most sought-after fish species in Smith Mountain Lake is the largemouth bass. The lake's structure, including submerged structures, points, and coves, provides ideal habitats for bass to thrive. Anglers can target bass using various techniques such as casting crankbaits, working soft plastics, or flipping jigs. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for bass fishing, as the fish are more active and tend to move closer to the shorelines.

Smith Mountain Lake is also home to other popular fish species such as striped bass, crappie, and catfish. Striped bass, also known as rockfish, provide an exciting fishing experience for anglers as they can grow to impressive sizes and put up a strong fight. Crappie can be found near submerged structures and brush piles, and anglers often use jigs or live minnows to target them. Catfish, including channel catfish and blue catfish, offer anglers the chance to reel in some sizable catches using various bait options.

Boating is a popular activity on Smith Mountain Lake, with its expansive surface area and numerous coves providing ample space for watercraft enthusiasts. Anglers can explore the lake, search for fishing hotspots, and enjoy the scenic beauty from their boats. The lake permits motorized boats, allowing anglers to cover larger areas and access remote fishing spots.

Camping facilities are available at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The park provides campsites, picnic areas, hiking trails, and access to the lake. Camping near Smith Mountain Lake allows anglers to maximize their time on the water and experience the tranquility of the lake's surroundings.

Smith Mountain Lake provides a memorable fishing experience in a picturesque setting. With its diverse fish species, excellent boating opportunities, and nearby camping facilities, it remains a sought-after destination for anglers seeking a peaceful and rewarding day of fishing in southwestern Virginia.

There are more than a half dozen boat launch ramps for launching everything from canoes and kayaks to power boats and fishing boats. Fishing enthusiasts will be happy to know that Smith Mountain Lake has a reputation as an excellent bass fishing lake. Additionally the lake has healthy populations of stripers, muskie, perch, crappie, catfish and sunfish. Access to shoreline for fishing from the bank is available at numerous locations around the lake. Several VA fishing guides offer guided fishing trips on Smith Mountain Lake with all fishing gear included. Marinas, stores, restaurants, camping and lodging choices surround the lake for convenient access.

Primary fish species residing in Smith Mountain Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Smith Mountain Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Captain's Quarters
Rentals: Pontoon boats
540 721-1175

Halesford Harbour Boat Rentals
Rentals: Pontoon boats
540 238-5606

Parkway Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks
540 297-4412

Parrot Cove Boat Rentals
Rentals: Fishing boats, kayaks and pontoon boats
540 721-5363

The Dock at SML
Rentals: Pontoon boats
540 565-0222

Westlake Boat Rentals
Rentals: Pontoon boats
540 721-1159

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Anthony Ford #4 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Hardy Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Crazy Horse Marina Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Crazy Horse Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Hales Ford Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Meadow Point Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Hardy Ford Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, off Hardy Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Oak Grove Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, south side, off Oak Grove Drive, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Penhook #9 Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Jefferson Dock Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Scruggs #8 Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Dudley Amos Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Smith Mountain Lake Parkway Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, north side, off Smith Mountain Lake Parkway, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.

Smith Mountain Lake State Park Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off County Road 888, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.