• Visitors bask in a golden sunset at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center in Shenandoah National Park

    Shenandoah

    National Park Virginia

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  • Vehicle Fuel Available at Big Meadows ONLY!

    Vehicle fuel is only available at Big Meadows (mile 52). Gas service has been discontinued at the Loft and Elkwallow areas.

Fishing

A young visitor fishes from the banks of a mountain stream in Shenandoah.

A young visitor fishes from the banks of Rose River.

NPS photo

Shenandoah National Park contains over 70 mountian streams that support diverse aquatic resources including numerous brook trout popluations. Fishing opportunities are abundant but are also regulated in order to preserve and protect fish resources. Please review the current Recreantional Fishing brochure for a list of fishing regulations and liscense requirements, for guidelines on ethical fishing techniques, and for planning a fishing trip in the park. The brochure is avaiable at entrance stations, visitors centers, campgrounds, and the park website.

In order to provide protection for eastern brook trout populations and enhance angling opportunities, Park Rangers strictly enforce regulations. If you see someone violating the regulations, please tell a ranger or call (800) 732-0911. Thank you and happy fishing!

Click here for Fishing Regulations in Shenandoah National Park. (PDF file, 347 kb)

Fishery Management and Monitoring

http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/fishing/regulations

Fishing Guidelines

Anglers who wish to continue recreational fishing at its finest are encouraged to consider the following ethical fishing techniques for hooked fish:

1. All fish that are to be released must be carefully handled and immediately returned to the stream. Try to release fish without removing them from the water.

2. Maintain control of fish with wet hands and only a slightly firm grip.

3. Avoid contact or damage to sensitive gills.

4. Never leave litter, hooks, or spent fishing line in the park-pack it out.

Several commercial businesses are permitted to offer guided fly fishing services in Shenandoah National Park.

Did You Know?

The Stony Man Mining Company issued stock certificates as depicted here.

Skyland was established by the owners of a bankrupt copper mining company as an attempt to recoup their financial losses. Copper was originally mined at Stony Man and charcoal to fuel the smelter was made on the lower terrace where the conference hall stands today.