I just wrapped up an incredible trip exploring not only the famed Smith Mountain Lake fishing scene but also venturing onto the pristine waters of the Smith River. This blog post will serve as your ultimate guide if you're planning your own adventure to Smith Mountain Lake!
Our Partners in Adventure: Mossy Oak Properties
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the fishing, a massive shout-out to our partners, Mossy Oak Properties Land and Farm Realty. Without their unwavering support, this content wouldn't have been possible. Their agents don't just understand the region; they live the outdoor lifestyle. They're hunters, anglers, and true outdoor enthusiasts with an unparalleled grasp of the Smith Mountain Lake region.
With hundreds of thousands of acres of national forest to explore and incredible properties by the water, in the woods, or on a farm, be sure to check them out if you're looking for your next favorite place near Smith Mountain Lake!
Your Key to Success: Hire a Fishing Guide
Whenever I travel to a new area, gaining local knowledge is paramount. You can connect with locals who hunt and fish the area, or you can hire a guide. On this trip, we were blessed with both! Not only did we have John and Joel from Mossy Oak Properties Land and Farm Realty, but we also linked up with Chad Green from Last Cast Guide Service.
Chad has been fishing Smith Mountain Lake for over 30 years and guiding for eight. He emphasized that while it's not a “numbers lake,” it's a “quality fish lake,” with plenty of three to five-pound fish – it doesn't get much better than that for local intel! Whether you prefer jig fishing or other tactics, Smith Mountain Lake fishing offers something for everyone.
Check out Trout Fishing on the Smith River
Beyond the lake, we embarked on a float trip on the Smith River. Just a short drive from the Smith Mountain Lake area, this river is renowned for its incredible trout fishing. Located in Henry County, Virginia, in the town of Bassett, the Smith River is a tailwater coming out of the Philpott Reservoir, ensuring cool water temperatures year-round. This makes it a haven for native brown trout, stocked brook trout, and native and stocked rainbow trout.
While the fish were a bit tight-lipped early on, a black rooster tail with a gold blade proved to be the winning lure after lunch, a classic bait that has worked for me since childhood.
Tips for Smith Mountain Lake Fishing
Bass (largemouth & smallmouth)
Topwater lures—like frogs and buzzbaits—shine in early morning or late evening due to explosive strikes.
Crankbaits imitate baitfish or crawfish and are effective year-round; vary retrieval for best action.
Jigs, Carolina rigs, drop shots, shaky heads are great around structure and deeper points.
Striped Bass
Early summer, bass feed on bluegill. Fish shallow pockets, dock posts, or shade lines with small worms, grubs, or gliders.
Crappie
Best in early spring (Mar–May) and fall (Oct–Nov), especially near brush piles, docks, or fallen trees.
Catfish
Channel and flatheads are popular and found in coves, particularly in upper Roanoke/Blackwater arms. Use live bait on bottom rigs.
Fishing License
Virginia freshwater license required. Available online via VA DWR, or at marinas and tackle shops.
Fish Limits and Rules
Bass (Largemouth/Smallmouth) Limit
5/day, max 2 under 14″ (statewide).
Striped Bass Limit
June 1–Oct 31: 2/day, no length limit; Nov 1–May 31: 2/day, slot limit 30–40″ must be released.
Bluegill/Sunfish Limit
50/day.
Channel/Flathead Catfish Limit
20/day.
Crappie Limit
25/day.
Muskellunge Limit
2/day, 30″ minimum.
Weather & Seasonal Factors
Early morning and dusk are most productive, especially for topwater lures. Summer midday often too hot/light for stripers.
Shallow fishing for bass is best in spring and early summer; later fish move offshore into deeper structure.
Dress smart: Mornings can be cooler than forecasts—bring layers, hat, sunscreen.
Watch water levels: Fluctuate 1–2 ft regularly and can drop during droughts—impacts accessibility and fish holding structure.
Where to Fish Smith Mountain Lake
Main lake & deep points: Prime for stripers and deep-bass tactics.
Upper coves/brush piles: Prime for crappie and catfish.
Shallow dock areas & pocket backs: Productive for bluegill, bass on nests in May–June .
Smith Mountain Lake State Park: Public boat launch, pier (ADA-accessible), restrooms, muskie and striper stocking points.
Wildlife Management Area (WMA): Public fishing/hiking access along ~10 mi shoreline—permit required.
Hiring a Local Fishing Guide
These seasoned captains are highly rated:
Last Cast Guide Service – Captain Chad
Rockfish Adventures – Captain Erik
Clint’s Striper Guide Service – Captain Clint
Quick Checklist
- ✅ Valid Virginia freshwater fishing license
- ✅ Know species-specific creel & size limits
- ✅ Pack layers, hat, sunscreen
- ✅ Choose gear: topwater, jigs, Carolina rigs, live bait
- ✅ When in doubt, aim for deeper water in hot months or shallow during cooler periods
- ✅ Consider hiring a local guide or launching from public access points
Tackle Shops for Bait and Tackle in Smith Mountain Lake
SML TackleShack
Located at 1100 Celebration Ave, Moneta (behind Bob’s Up The Creek Outfitters). SML TackleShack offers full tackle lines and reel/rod repair and builds custom rods
Great local support and convenience for SML anglers.
Angler’s Choice Marine
Angler’s Choice Marine is located in Martinsville, a bit north of Smith Mountain Lake. They have a large inventory of tackle. This tackle shop is worth a visit if you are passing through going south to fish.
Public Boat Launches at Smith Mountain Lake
| Launch Name | Ramp Lanes | Parking | Facilities |
|---|
| Hardy Ford | 2 | Large | Courtesy dock, restroom |
| Hale’s Ford | 1 | Moderate | Courtesy dock, restroom |
| Oak Grove | 1 (wide) | ~60 trailers | Courtesy & fishing docks, restroom |
| State Park (Huddleston) | 1 | Parking | Courtesy dock, restroom (accessible) |
| Anthony Ford | 1 | Small | Courtesy dock, restroom |
| Penhook #9 | 2 | ~42 paved spaces | Courtesy docks, restroom, handicap dock |
| Scruggs #8 | 1 | ~22 spaces | Courtesy dock, restroom, handicap dock |
Discovering Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia
Smith Mountain Lake, nestled in central Virginia's beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, is incredibly accessible from Lynchburg and Roanoke. This expansive lake boasts 32 square miles of water and over 500 miles of shoreline, offering endless exploration. You'll find a variety of accommodation options right on the lake, including Smith Mountain Lake State Park and Mariners' Landing, which features a world-class golf course and luxurious condos for that five-star lakefront experience.
But Smith Mountain Lake fishing is just one piece of the puzzle. The surrounding region is teeming with rivers that flow into and around the lake, providing incredible angling opportunities. Within a short drive, you can be on some of the best trout fishing streams in the entire state! A sportsman's paradise, with ample public land for hunting and countless chances to go fishing and immerse yourself in the outdoors.
Top 5 Restaurants for Smith Mountain Lake Region
Here are some of the top-rated restaurants around the Smith Mountain Lake area. After a day on the water, enjoy eating out at one of these great choices.
Drifter’s (Moneta)
– Drifter's is known for a lively yet family‑friendly atmosphere, live music, generous portions (especially shrimp and wings), and gluten‑free options.
Tiff's Lakefront [formerly The Landing Restaurant] (Huddleston)
– Tiff's Lakefront is often crowed because it regarded by many as the best restaurant at Smith Mountain Lake.
– Upscale waterfront dining with chef‑driven cuisine and beautiful lake views.
The Copper Kettle (Moneta)
– The Copper Kettle Company is frequently ranked #1 or #2 on Yelp’s “Top 10 Best Restaurants Near Smith Mountain Lake”
– Offers a diverse menu of salads, burgers, grain bowls, and hearty entrees in a comfortable setting.
Napoli Cowboy (Westlake area)
– Napoli Cowboy is on Yelp’s top-tier list for the Smith Mountain Lake region of Virginia.
– Unique blend of Italian and Texas flavors with solid reviews for both food quality and service.
Allessandro's Pizzeria & Grill (Huddleston)
– We ate at Allesandro's Pizzeria & Grill several times on our trip to fish Smith Mountain Lake for Pizza and Italian Food.
– Casual dining with lots of options like pizza, pasta and sandwhiches.
Smith Mountain Lake Fishing
With smart timing, the right gear, and a bit of local knowledge, Smith Mountain Lake is an exceptional year‑round fishery.
If you're planning a trip, we highly recommend booking a couple of days with Chad Green of Last Cast Guide Service. You'll gain immense knowledge and have the chance to catch some truly impressive fish.
And, of course, if you're looking for property in this incredible region, connect with Mossy Oak Properties Land and Farm Realty. Without them, this unforgettable exploration of Smith Mountain Lake fishing wouldn't have been possible!
If you liked this article and want to check out another fishing guide, read the Pamlico Sound Fishing Guide.
