Click here for a printable "Fishing Regulations" bulletin:
(Adobe Acrobat pdf format, 8.5" x 14" - legal-size format)

1. Waters
All streams within Shenandoah National Park, including all tributaries, are open for catch and release recreational fishing unless (1) designated as closed or (2) designated as open for harvest. Streams designated as open for harvest are also considered to be open for catch and release fishing. Those streams that are closed or designated for harvest are listed at the above link.

2. Season
Streams and their tributaries designated as Open for Harvest or Catch and Release are open all year.

3. Licenses
All residents 16 years and older fishing within the park must have a Virginia State fishing license in his/her possession. A 5-day nonresident license ($6.50) may be purchased at Panorama Restaurant, Big Meadows and Loft Mountain Waysides, or from local sporting goods stores. Non-residents 12 years and older must have a Virginia license.

4. Size Limits
No trout under nine inches in length may be kept. Undersized fish must be immediately and carefully returned to the water. Size limits on other species of game fishes are those established by applicable State law.

5. Creel Limits
No person may retain more than six trout per day nor have more than six trout in possession. Creel limits on other species of game fishes are those established by applicable State law.

6. Lures
Only a single hook (barbed or barbless) artificial lure may be used.

7. Commercial Fishing Guides
Anyone who serves as a fishing guide or instructor for compensation must apply for an Incidental Business Permit from the Concessions Management Office prior to entering the park.