Fishing Lake Moomaw

AKA: Gathright Dam Reservoir

Most Popular Fish
Lake Moomaw Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Fishing Boat Rentals
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Moomaw, VA

Popular Fish Species Lake Moomaw, VA

Lake Moomaw Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are the dominate species over largemouth here at Lake Moomaw in Virginia. They are tough fighters, exciting to catch and make spectacular runs and jumps. Fishing for smallmouth bass can be good anytime they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers.

Lake Moomaw Popular Fish - Black Crappie

Black Crappie Fishing

Black crappie reside in good numbers at Lake Moomaw. Locals call them "slabs" and enjoy the tasty table fare they offer. Crappie fishing is excellent and they are running in sizeable schools. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home.

Brown Trout Fishing

Again this year, fishing for brown trout in Lake Moomaw is delivering some nice catches, many in the 3 to 5 pound range. These hearty fighters have been stocked annually since the lake began filling. In late Winter and Spring, these brown trout along with the alewives, move to shallower water in the 15 to 20 foot range. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass and chain pickerel at Lake Moomaw in Virginia.

Lake Moomaw Fishing Video

Forested, rolling hills surround scenic Lake Moomaw, a 2,500-acre lake in the northwestern part of the state, at Perkins Point. The meandering shore creates over forty miles of shoreline, all of which entice anglers to wet a line.

Lake Moomaw, nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia, offers anglers a picturesque fishing experience in a serene natural setting. This 2,530-acre lake, located within the George Washington National Forest, is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish populations.

Lake Moomaw offers excellent opportunities for trout fishing. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout, providing a thrilling experience for fly fishermen and bait anglers alike. Anglers can fish from the shore or use small boats to access productive areas. Spring and fall are popular seasons for trout fishing, as the cooler water temperatures make the fish more active.

Another popular fish species in Lake Moomaw is the smallmouth bass. Anglers are drawn to the lake's rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and deep drop-offs, which provide ideal habitats for smallmouth bass. Spring and fall are considered prime seasons for smallmouth bass fishing, as the fish are more active and tend to move closer to the shallower areas. Anglers can employ various techniques such as casting crankbaits, using soft plastics, or fly fishing to target these hard-fighting fish.

Lake Moomaw provides a serene fishing experience amidst the beauty of the Allegheny Mountains. With its diverse fish species, excellent trout fishing opportunities, boating possibilities, and nearby camping facilities, it remains a sought-after destination for anglers seeking a peaceful and rewarding fishing adventure in Virginia.

The lake is notorious for great trout fishing. Bass, catfish and crappie are also highly rated here making this a great destination for multiple species. In addition fishing for bluegill, sunfish and chain pickerel can be very good at times. Three boat ramps, a marina, rental boats, camping, restaurants and supplies are all at or nearby the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Moomaw

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Moomaw Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is a popular activity on Lake Moomaw, with its expansive surface area and calm waters providing ample opportunities 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, but it is important to be aware of speed restrictions and any special regulations in place.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Coles Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Coles Point Drive, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fortney Branch Boat Launch Ramp
Located southern tip of the lake, off Fortney Branch Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Lake Moomaw Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off State Route 603, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Lake Moomaw

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Virginia Fishing License.

Camping facilities are available at Lake Moomaw's Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, which offers campsites, picnic areas, and access to the lake. The campground provides amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a boat ramp, making it convenient for anglers looking to maximize their time on the water. Camping near Lake Moomaw allows anglers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and enjoy extended fishing trips.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area Campground - 540 839-2521

McClintic Point Primitive Campground - 540 839-2521