Bedford Featured Fishing Sites

Site #1: Smith Mtn. Lake

Description:

With 20,600 acres and 500 miles of shoreline this reservoir is one of Virginia's premier fisheries, offering outstanding fishing and other recreational opportunities.  With countless tributaries and coves make Smith Mountain Lake a picture perfect and angler perfect destination.  Smith Mountain Lake has numerous boat ramps (public and private) and marinas scattered throughout the reservoir. Smith Mountain Lake State Park is a major attraction with all it has to offer. Some of the parks options are picnic areas, a beach, campground, cabins, handicapped fishing pier, boat ramp, hiking trails and scenic views.

Access Points;

Public Boat Launches available throughout

Site #2: Abbott Lake

Description:

Abbott Lake is a 24-acre impoundment located along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway in Bedford County and is one of the attractions to the Peaks of Otter Park. Fishing is just one of the many recreational opportunities available in the Park. Numerous hiking opportunities range from very demanding hikes up high mountain peaks to the short flat trail around Abbott Lake. The Park also offers the outdoor enthusiast lodging at the popular Peaks of Otter Lodge or campground. Other facilities include picnic sites and shelters, a restaurant, restrooms, and scenic drives.

Access Points:

Lake can be accessed from the Blue Ridge Parkway or by taking Route 43 North from the City of Bedford

Site #3: James River

Description:

The James River offers a wide range of angling opportunities and settings. Smallmouth bass are the dominant game species, but spotted and largemouth bass can also be caught. Other species are also plentiful in the James River, including channel catfish, flathead catfish, and various sunfish species (redbreast, bluegill, and rock bass).

Access Points: