Martinsville – Henry County

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Martinsville-Henry County, Virginia offers a variety of fishing opportunities for anglers to enjoy.

The fun starts in the Northwest corner of Henry County at Philpott Lake. As seen on NBC Sports’ FLW Outdoors, this 3,000-acre reservoir, shared by the counties of Henry, Patrick and Franklin, is surrounded by 7,000 acres of public land for your recreational enjoyment. There are numerous recreational opportunities, including: boating, swimming, picnicking, hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. Nine campgrounds, six beaches and nine boat launches are available around the lake. Located at boat ramp #1, Philpott Marina features 40 reserved boat slips, six day use slips, fuel slip and a marina store.

Immediately below Philpott Dam is the Smith River, where the water is 45-55 degrees year round. The 44.5 mile tailrace section of the river bisect Henry County as it travels from Philpott Lake down to the North Carolina line. The cooler water has proven to be ideal for brown trout, and as such, the Smith River has been proclaimed as one of the best brown and rainbow trout streams in the U.S.

Travel through history as you explore the old batteau channels and Native American fish weir still intact on many sections of the river. Float fishermen can kayak or canoe the river during peak power generation from the dam or enjoy a gentle flat water paddle further downstream. Ten public canoe ramps are available for use by paddlers and fishermen on the Smith River. Wild brown trout are abundant and stocked redbreast and red-eyes can be caught further downstream.

Anglers can also enjoy fishing at Beaver Creek Reservoir, a 175-acre man-made lake operated by the City of Martinsville that allows fishing, boating and has picnic and leisure areas on shore. The reservoir is open for recreational use daily from sunrise until sunset with scheduled night fishing opportunities available throughout the year. No gasoline powered boats are allowed on the lake. Canoes with all equipment can be rented on site to use on the reservoir for $10 a day. Boating fees for active, retired and disabled military veterans visiting the reservoir will be waived to show the City’s appreciation for their sacrifices and dedication to serving their country. The fee for all others is $3 for one day permit and $15 for an annual permit.