Fish the Blue Ridge in Grayson County, VA
Grayson County, Virginia is criss-crossed by hundreds of clear mountain streams and creeks, boasting some of Virginia’s finest freshwater fishing. Forty-six miles of the ancient New River meander across the county from its headwaters in North Carolina alongside its many tributaries. Whether you’re looking to cast a line in one of our many stocked streams or fishing for muskie from your kayak, our waters are waiting for you.
Always refer to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources for the most up-to-date information on rules and regulations, seasons, licensing, and public land access while planning your fishing trip.
Plan your Grayson County Fishing Trip:
Outfitters, Guide Services & Campgrounds
New River Outdoor Adventures (Galax): Full-service outfitter providing license sales, river shuttles, boat/bike rentals, and guided fishing opportunities
New River Trips, LLC (near Galax): Offers guided float trips (fly or spin), catch-and-release focused, ½‑day to full-day rates from ~$220–340
Paddleyax Kayaks (Independence): American-made kayaks tailored to your river-loving needs!
New River Bridge Family Campground: Canoes, kayaks, and tubes are available for rent and the campground is conveniently located near attractions, shopping, and dining in Galax, Independence, and Sparta, NC.
New River Campground & Canoe: New River Campground, Canoeing and Kayaking is a full-service Canoe, Kayak, Tube rental and outfitting service located right on the New River.
Prime Fishing Waters
New River
Smallmouth Bass & Muskie: Outstanding fishing; expect 2–4 lb “smallies” and trophy muskie using jigs, crawfish imitations, large plugs, or live bait.
Catfish, Walleye, Panfish: Channel and flathead catfish, walleye, rock bass, redbreast sunfish, and bluegill are all present—and offer diverse angling opportunities.
Smaller Streams & Lake
Hale Lake (Comer’s Rock): A smaller family-friendly lake stocked for kids and beginners—ideal for bluegill and panfish
Elk Creek & Big Wilson Creek: Excellent for rainbow and brook trout; local guides (e.g. Elk Creek Farm) offer stocked trips
Chestnut Creek: Stocked with trout near the New River Trail—great for casual trout anglers
Angling Tips & Local Insight
Combining activities: Outfitters also supply tubing, kayaking, biking rentals—great for mixed recreation days.
Float trips: Combine fishing and river paddling; guided services provide rafts and tackle for seamless days.
Structure fishing: Target deep pools, ledges, rock gardens, and riffles—especially upstream of dams and creeks.
Seasons to target: Spring and fall for smallmouth; summer evenings for topwater; winter deep-water holds; early summer for muskie.
Places to stay while you’re gone fishing:
See our full listing of vacation rentals and campgrounds Here.
