Fishing Spots in Loudoun County
Loudoun County offers a surprisingly large range of fishing spots, from quiet mountain-fed lakes to accessible suburban ponds and rivers. Whether you’re an experienced angler chasing largemouth bass or just looking for a peaceful place to cast a line with the kids, Loudoun has a spot to suit your style. Scenic reservoirs like Beaverdam and Sleeter Lake offer calm waters and stocked fish, while local parks and nature preserves provide family-friendly access to ponds and streams. For those seeking bigger catches and more expansive waters, the Potomac River delivers excellent opportunities for smallmouth bass, catfish, walleye, and even shad during spring runs. Here are some of the most popular places across Loudoun county where anglers find their favorite fishing spots .
Ashburn Lake
Situated in the heart of Ashburn, Ashburn Lake is a convenient spot for local anglers. The lake is known to host species like largemouth bass, black crappie, and bluegill. It’s an accessible location for those looking for a quick fishing trip without venturing far from home.
Claude Moore Park
Claude Moore Park in Sterling is ideal for a quick fishing trip, especially for families and novice anglers. The park features two stocked ponds where you can catch largemouth bass, bluegill, and other panfish. Easy walking access, park facilities, and nature trails nearby make it a convenient option for a half-day visit. The park also hosts educational programs and wildlife viewing opportunities, adding to the appeal for those looking to combine fishing with other outdoor activities.
Beaverdam Reservoir
Beaverdam Reservoir, between Ashburn and Brambleton, is a 350-acre body of water that recently reopened with improved public access and amenities. It’s a favorite among local anglers for its healthy populations of largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and sunfish. Fishing is permitted at Beaverdam and Reservoir Park from designated shoreline areas and via non-motorized watercraft like kayaks and canoes. Its clear waters and natural shoreline also make it a peaceful setting for casting a line, especially during early morning or evening hours.
Franklin Park
Located in Purcellville, Franklin Park features a catch-and-release pond that’s especially popular during the spring months when it’s stocked with trout every two weeks from February to April. The park’s serene setting and panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains make it a delightful spot for a relaxing fishing experience.
Goose Creek
Goose Creek is a notable fishing destination in Loudoun County, Virginia, offering a blend of scenic beauty and diverse angling opportunities. This 53.9-mile tributary of the Potomac River meanders through the county, providing habitats for various fish species. Anglers frequent Goose Creek for its populations of smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and largemouth bass. The creek’s structure, including pools and riffles, creates ideal conditions for these species. Notably, the area near the old Route 7 bridge east of the Goose Creek Golf Course offers accessible fishing spots.
Potomac River
The Potomac River forms Loudoun County’s northern boundary and offers some of the best river fishing in the region. Popular access points like Algonkian Regional Park, Seneca Regional Park, and the boat launch at Point of Rocks provide entry to a wide range of fishing environments from slow-moving pools to fast-flowing riffles. Anglers regularly catch smallmouth bass, channel and flathead catfish, walleye, and sunfish, with seasonal runs of American shad and striped bass in spring. Whether you’re fishing from the bank, wading, or launching a kayak, the Potomac combines scenic beauty with the potential for trophy catches just minutes from town.
Sleeter Lake
Located in Round Hill, Sleeter Lake offers a quiet and scenic fishing experience on its 101-acre reservoir. The lake is regularly stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish, making it a great destination for both beginner and seasoned anglers. There’s a boat launch for electric motorboats and paddle craft, and the surrounding park includes picnic spots and walking paths for a relaxed family outing. Fishing is allowed from March through early November, in accordance with park hours.
Whether you’re casting into a stocked pond with the kids or chasing bass along the Potomac, Loudoun County offers fishing opportunities that balance accessibility with natural beauty. From tranquil neighborhood lakes to expansive reservoirs and rivers, each location brings its own charm and a chance to unwind outdoors. With a little gear and a free afternoon, you’re never far from a good catch in Loudoun.