Richmond, Virginia

What's biting

• Largemouth Bass

  Where: James River backwater coves, Belvidere Pond, Pocahontas State Park lakes; shallow weed edges and fallen timber in 1–3 m (3–10 ft) of water.

  Early fall sees aggressive feeding as water cools slightly. Work topwater plugs and soft plastics (4–5 inch worms) around structure at dawn and dusk; subsurface presentations mid-day. Target 18–23°C (64–73°F) zones.

  Caution: Check Virginia DWR for current size and bag limits before fishing.

• Smallmouth Bass

  Where: James River rocky shoals and drop-offs near Richmond; Chickahominy River deeper pools; 2–5 m (6–16 ft) depths.

  Smallmouth are active in current-break areas. Cast crankbaits, tube jigs, and live shiners near boulders and ledges; focus on early morning and late afternoon when water is still warm.

  Caution: Check Virginia DWR for current size and bag limits before fishing.

• Channel Catfish

  Where: James River main channel and deeper holes; Belvidere Pond; night fishing most productive.

  Use fresh chicken liver, cut shad, or stink baits anchored near bottom in 3–6 m (10–20 ft). Catfish feed heavily in early fall; fish after dark for best results.

  Caution: Check Virginia DWR for current size and bag limits before fishing.

• Crappie (Black & White)

  Where: Pocahontas State Park lakes, Belvidere Pond, and James River backwater areas with submerged brush and fallen trees.

  Crappie school around structure in 1–3 m (3–10 ft) of water. Use small jigs (1/8–1/4 oz) tipped with minnows or soft plastics; vertical jigging is most effective.

  Caution: Check Virginia DWR for current size and bag limits before fishing.

• Sunfish (Bluegill, Redear, Pumpkinseed)

  Where: Pocahontas State Park lakes, pond margins, and James River backwater vegetation; shallow water 0.5–2 m (1.5–6 ft).

  Use small flies, 1/32 oz jigs, or live crickets around aquatic plants and fallen wood. Early morning and late afternoon are prime; they'll bite all day in September.

  Caution: Sunfish are abundant and generally unrestricted, but confirm with Virginia DWR.