Tazewell County

The Clinch River is a major asset for fishermen in Tazewell County. This river can still be called rugged and unique, but it is navigable in most of its run through the county. It affords unmatched scenery and has several access points. Its population of 50 species of mussel is more than any other river in the world and more than 100 species of non-game fish such as minnows and darters help to maintain the climate needed for the sustenance of these and the many species of game fish inhabiting the river. The Clinch and its tributaries are the only Virginia waters where sauger is present; longnose gar and freshwater drum are rare, but there. Other species include both largemouth and smallmouth bass, spotted and rock bass, walleye, redbreast sunfish, longear sunfish, bluegill sunfish, musky, black crappie, channel catfish and flathead catfish.

Lake Witten, a 52-acre man-made lake in the middle of the 300-acre Cavitt’s Creek Park, is a quiet paradise for families. It’s regularly stocked with bass, sunfish, bluegill, and catfish and is included in the state’s put and take trout stocking. A fishing license with a trout stamp is required. Paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks are available on the lake; motorized vehicles are not allowed. The park features cabins, full hook-ups for RV camping, a large area for tent camping, bath houses, picnic shelters and a playground along with a supplies store and laundry facilities. It is also a stop on the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail.