The Rappahannock is a river rich in Virginia history, a river that is favored by canoeists and a river that is renowned primarily for its smallmouth bass fishing. This is the most popular float trip on the Rappahannock, but also the longesttwo full days (25 miles). [HABITAT], Pertaining to Licensing Requirements and License Fees, Pertaining to Charter Boat and Head Boat Fisheries, Copyright 1996-2022 C. A fishing guide reciprocity permit can be obtained at no cost provided the applicant furnishes copies of the applicants Maryland fishing guide license, U. S. Coast Guard License, and vessel documentation or registration. Appomattox River. Rappahannock River: The waters right around where the Rappahannock River flows into the Chesapeake Bay are another Cobia fishing area you can explore. Questions or Comments? to the Hampton Flats Hard Clam Harvest Area, Pertaining Kellys Ford Access Point to Motts Run Access PointMap. Any pilings can produce fish, but the best areas are often on the northern side, where the main channel meets the drop-off. Industries/Newport News Shipbuilding Company, Restricted area at Dominion Power/Nuclear Power Station, Pertaining to Establishment of Restricted Area - Anglers with concerns or questions should contact the Virginia Marine Fisheries Commission (VMRC) in Newport News at 1-800-541-4646. Regulations regarding season and creel limits for American shad, hickory shad, river herring, and striped bass in the tidal Rappahannock are set by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). Seasonal striped bass fishing opportunities exist throughout the tidal Rappahannock, however fall striper fishing is best in the lower river. to Fisherman Identification Program, Pertaining to Fishing License and Privilege Revocations, Pertaining to Establishment of Restricted Area - Maritime Administration James River Reserve Fleet, Guidelines on The exception is that no bass may be kept less than 12 inches long. Due to high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (also called PCBs) and mercury, it's been advised to avoid eating more than two meals of fish per month from the Rappahannock River. ! Fish and Wildlife Service for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans. Redband trout are native to its rivers and streams, including the Williamson, Malheur and Chewaucan. The biggest fish will come when you find a snaggy spot (a tree laying on bottom is catfish gold) or an extremely sharp drop. The perch-jerking tends to be best in the late winter/early spring timeframe, as these fish prepare to make their spawning runs. During Colonial days, the Rappahannock River was a major shipping artery for transporting tobacco, salted fish, iron ore, and grains. Soil erosion is a problem in the upper watershed. the Commonwealth. Regulations for. But whichever section of the Rappahannock youre heading for, one things for sure: this river offers amazingly diverse potential, and you really never know just what youll hook into. View Map 4 VAC 20-1180-30. Sign up here to get the weekly FishTalk Chesapeake Bay and Mid-Atlantic fishing reports in your email inbox, every Friday by noon. Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters (804) 333-1470 336 Wilna Road Warsaw, VA 22572-2961 View Details Driving Directions Image Details Wilna Unit/Administrative Office 336 Wilna Road Warsaw, Virginia 22572 804-333-1470 Ext. One of the many offerings that set us apart from other hotels is that we provide guests the opportunity to take seasonal cruises aboard our boat. This chapter amends and re-adopts, as amended, previous chapter 4 VAC 20-1180-10 et seq., which was adopted on December 11, 2018 and made effective on January 1, 2019. Phone: 540-371-5085 or 1-877-PLAY-VA2 The DWR website at www.virginiawildlife.gov /lakes under Lake Brittle indicates there is a 12-15 inch slot limit on largemouth, where all bass between 12-15 inches must be released. 33017 River Mill Road There is no creel limit for blue catfish less than 32 inches in Virginias tidal rivers. Marine Police Dispatch Center toll free at (800) 541-4646 Clore Bros. Outfitters James River: the mainstem and all tributaries of the James River downstream of a line connecting Hog Point and the downstream shoreline at the mouth of College Creek. [emailprotected] The Rappahannock River is an excellent destination for avid anglers, novice fishermen, and everything in between due to its wide variety of fish and casting spots. Of course, youll also want to know what kind of fish you can catch in the Rappahannock River. Little Falls treatment plant off Eastbound Route 3 Map. Pick a channel edge, fan-cast chunks of cut gizzard shad, menhaden, or chicken livers on 10/0 to 12/0 circle hooks, and hold on tight, because there are some massive catfish prowling these areas. These consist of VDOT right-of-ways along bridges (e.g., Route 522 on the Rapidan). No amenities at this location. PERMIT #6 FOR Emergency Situations and Water Quality Improvement The fish must be caught in Virginia waters with rod, reel, line, and hook held in hand, or with archery tackle (see Bow and Arrow section in Nongame Fish, Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrates) where legally permitted. of Conchs (Also known as Whelks), Pertaining to the Taking of Shellfish from is a fantastic outdoor activity, especially when the weather is warm. Barrier Island Policy, Management Plan for the Ungranted State Lands in Accomack and Northampton Counties, Pertaining to the Requirements for Reporting The fish community above Fredericksburg is currently in a state of flux and will probably not stabilize for several more years as species of resident and migratory fish establish new territories. Fishing license is required. Rappahannock River Area 9: October 1, 2022, through April 14, 2023 (hand tong only). Anglers may possess grass carp taken from inland public waters, except for public lakes and reservoirs. State regulations areenforced and use of live minnows for bait and lead sinkers are prohibited. The refuge was established to protect and conserve important wildlife habitats along the river and its major tributaries. Target these acrobatic fighters the two weeks on either side of Easter, but if conditions are right; they can be found much earlier than most people think. Unlimited access to the best fishing spot finder in the game. The spring shad run provides excellent fishing for hickory shad at the fall line in Fredericksburg, with angler catches typically peaking in mid-to-late April. The U.S. The watershed supports a variety of land uses; largely agricultural in the upper watershed, with manufacturing, light industrial, and retail applications throughout. Whats the Best Way to Fish on the Rappahannock River? York River (including the Mattaponi and the Pamunkey Rivers): the mainstem and all tributaries of the York River downstream of the abutments of the old Route 33 Bridges; and. A Class A fishing guide license may be transferred from the current licensee to another person with the approval of the Commissioner of Marine Resources as follows: 1. Subscribed and sworn to before me this ____ day of February 2022. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you head out. The Virginia Department of Health also recommends avoiding fish with high levels of mercury or PCBs altogether if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. We look forward to your visit! The upper portion of the river, near Fredericksburg, has herring, shad, and striped bass. P.O. Unlimited access to the best fishing spot finder in the game. Make sure you abide by all of the Rappahannock River fishing regulations! !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) Angling for freshwater species on the tidal Rappahannock is best from the head-of-tide at Fredericksburg downstream to Leedstown. Please ensure to adhere to the fishing regulations for the state. Working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. Establishment, Use and Operation of Tidal Wetland Mitigation Length. Email Web-Info The Kellys Ford launch and parking areas are on the south, or right, side of the river going downstream. Periodically, canoeists and anglers will pass the mouths of numerous tributaries such as the Hazel and Rapidan rivers good smallmouth streams in their own right. Fredericksburg, VA 22404 MARINE RESOURCES COMMISSION, BY:______________________________________________ catcher, Pertaining Simply cast a line and enjoy the serene location. So, you know you want to try your luck fishing on the Rappahannock River. You may even see bald eagles overhead during certain times of the year. A charter boat or head boat permit or a fishing guide reciprocity permit shall be required for any registered or documented charter boat or head boat operating for hire in the waters of the Commonwealth under the jurisdiction of the Marine Resources Commission, pursuant to 4 VAC 20-1180-70. VMRC Organization Chart Please ensure to adhere to the fishing regulations for the state. 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); On January 1st, 2012, VMRC enacted a regulation which makes it unlawful for any person to be in possession of river herring in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Canoeists are advised to stay on the north side of the river as they approach the fast water of the fall line above the U.S. Highway 1 Bridge. Fishing Techniques Live bait such as minnows, grass shrimp and blood worms, plus artificials such as small spinnerbaits and jigs. Similarly, the best striper schools are in the upper and lower ends of the lake, with the evening bite the. How many and what size may I keep? Delineation of Enforcement Boundaries for Freshwater and Saltwater Licenses. to "Charter boat permit" or "head boat permit" means the permit for the charter boat or head boat that allows the charter boat or head boat passengers to fish. It is really two fisheries. 5 of the Most Highly Recommended Irvington, VA, Restaurants. Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Hotspot #2 This mark is made to denote the channel running from the 8R to 6R markers. The Rappahannock River is an excellent destination for avid anglers, novice fishermen, and everything in between due to its wide variety of fish and casting spots. Well even give you some of our exquisite wine and charcuterie to enjoy as you marvel at the beauty around each cove. Siting Public Interest Review, Pertaining to the Setting of Fishing Devices Striped bass. the Licensing of Fixed Fishing Devices, Pertaining to Pound Net Fish and Wildlife Service purchased the first tract of land for the refuge in 1996. There is also limited fishing for bluegills, crappie, and largemouth bass. It drives everything on U.S. Simply cast a line and enjoy the serene location. The regulation summaries are available at the following links: Saltwater Recreational Hook & Line Fishing A: Aggregate means combined. The Rappahannock River flows almost 200 miles from its origin in Fauquier. Please request certified copies from the VMRC if you need a copy of a regulation for legal purposes. Fishing will be confined to pier use and non-motorized or electric boat access only. Generate High-Quality PDF. Hotspot #3 Port Royal is an important spot to note for shoreline anglers. Fish and Wildlife Service lands and waters managed within the Refuge System, from the purposes for which a 410.216.9309 The local anglers like to chum the waters between Windmill Point and Stingray Point, which often draws in the hungry Cobia. Little Wicomico River: October 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022 (hand tong only). The first 62 miles, from the headwaters to Mayfield Bridge (Fredericksburg), are designated State Scenic River. Piankatank River: the mainstem and all tributaries of the Piankatank River downstream of the first set of power lines East to Rollins Fork, Right on Rt. in tidal rivers, Meherrin River below Emporia Dam, Nottoway River, Blackwater River (Chowan Drainage), North Landing and Northwest rivers, and their tributaries plus Back Bay, Anadromous (coastal) Alewife and Blueback Herring, Above and below the fall line in all coastal rivers of the Chesapeake Bay and their tributaries, Creel and length limits shall be the same as those set by the Virginia Marine Resources Comm. "Class A fishing guide license" means the license that allows charter boat or head boat operators to fish in Virginia and apply for reciprocity in Maryland. On Wikipedia. Well even give you some of our exquisite wine and charcuterie to enjoy as you marvel at the beauty around each cove. Just what sort of life theyll hold can vary tremendously from season to season, but depending on the year you might encounter anything from flounder to speckled trout prowling the bars. DOI and the bureaus do not guarantee that outside websites comply with Section 508 (Accessibility Requirements) of the Rehabilitation Act. For additional information on the biology of the Rappahannock River, please contact: Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources This chapter establishes provisions for the sale of fishing guide licenses and charter boat and head boat permits. No matter what month of they year it may be or exactly where on this river you launch, you can always be sure there are fish of one sort or another within shooting distance so lets take a look at a few of the hotspots that make this river so great. All state regulations apply. This chapter is promulgated pursuant to authority contained in 28.2-201 and 28.2-302.8 of the Code of Virginia. national wildlife refuge From Fredericksburg, Rt. As set forth in 28.2-903 of the Code of Virginia, any individual violating any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor, and a second or subsequent violation of any provision of this chapter committed by the same individual within 12 months of a prior violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor. 5. And during years of strong croaker runs, dropping bloodworms or peeler crab on bottom rigs here after the sun has set can lead to banner catches. Limited sale of the Class A fishing guide license and conditional sale of the Class B fishing guide license. conforms to certain criteria and are undertaken by riparian owners On January 1st, 2012, VMRC enacted a regulation which makes it unlawful to be in possession of river herring while on tidal waters. All rights reserved 2022 The Hope and Glory Inn. Please remember to check with the local Fish and Wildlife department to ensure the stream . Shooting with a rifle for suckers and carp from April 15 to May 31 during daylight hours in the shoals of the Clinch River within the limits of Scott County, except that it shall be unlawful to shoot fish on Sunday or within the limits of any town, or from any bridge. The Rappahannock River is not a catch-and-release river. 4 VAC 20-1180-70. The Rappahannock River is not a catch-and-release river. Corrotoman Hand Tong Area: October 1, 2022, through April 14, 2023. fbq('track', 'PageView'); The best thing about many of the Western Shore tributaries of the Chesapeakeis that theyre almost like microcosms of the Bay itself, offering a range of Chesapeake Bay fishing opportunities from freshwater to salt and a range of species from largemouth bass to striped bass. County to the Chesapeake Bay. Due to high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (also called PCBs) and mercury, its been advised to avoid eating more than two meals of fish per month from the Rappahannock River. If a Class A fishing guide license is not purchased annually, then the applicant shall reapply using a New Class A Fishing Guide License Applicant form. The Rappahannock River is considered a public waterway from the U.S. 211 Bridge to the Chesapeake Bay, yet there is no formal access point above the Kellys Ford launching ramp downstream from the U.S. 29 Bridge. Above Route 301, highest bass catch rates in electrofishing surveys were recorded from Hicks Landing downstream to near Port Royal. The fishing regulatory body for Virginia is Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. However, there is a Fish Consumption Advisory for the river. The Hope and Glory Inn is the best place to stay in the area, located in the storybook, waterfront resort town of Irvington, Virginia. Book your stay at the Hope and Glory Inn today! Shellfish Growing (I.E. Creel & Length Limits. Old U.S. Highway 29 Bridge to Kellys FordMap. (Cat Point Creek will be open in the near future). Head farther up-river from here, and youll encounter freshwater species like largemouth bass, sunfish, and pickerel. Boaters and anglers can now navigate from upstream access points such as Motts Landing across the old Embrey Dam site and into the tidal waters adjacent to Fredericksburg. 76-14.119 (center point marked with yellow VMRC buoy) Established in 2004, this state fishing reef can be found about 1.4 nautical miles north of Windmill Point Light. This chapter establishes the enforcement boundaries for freshwater and saltwater . There are always things to do at Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge! Keep on going (way) upstream and youll enter an excellent smallmouth fishery. 6. A meal is defined as around eight ounces of fish at a time. Check with David King at (540) 372-1023 to view city maps. Access may also be gained via several non established points. There is good fishing for smallmouth bass, sunfish, and a number of other species in the Rapidan River. The purpose of this chapter is to establish conditional or limited sale of licenses and permits for fishing guides, charter boats, and head boats for effective fishery management. 1 bridge. Hotspot #3 The Rt. It is comprised of 500-plus tons of concrete piper (Hanson Pipe . There is no fishing pier available. Retreat to the Hope and Glory Inn for Rest and Relaxation, Last, but certainly not least, youll need to figure out where to stay for your Rappahannock River fishing trip. Commission, Pertaining to the Taking of Clams on Seaside of The Hope and Glory Inn is the best place to stay in the area, located in the storybook, waterfront resort town of Irvington, Virginia. Take out at Motts Run Access Point just off of Secondary Route 618. ), North Fork Holston RiverRt. VGP #3 for Noncommercial Riparian Fish you can expect to catch include, Crappie, bluegill, perch catfish, blue catfish, croaker, largemouth bass, and white and yellow perch. During the warmer months of the year flounder often set up shop along the drop-offs on both points and can be caught by drifting Fluke Killers baited with minnow or by jigging with Gulp! This is apparently the case here. to the Hampton Roads Shellfish Relay Area, Pertaining to the Identification and Location of Crab Pots, Peeler Pots, Eel pots and Fish Pots, Pertaining to Tangier Island Crab Scrape Sanctuary, Pertaining to the Use of Crab Traps and Pounds, Pertaining To Commercial Crab Fishery Licenses, Prohibition of Crab Dredging in Virginia Waters, Pertaining to Fishing in Broad & Linkhorn Bays, Pertaining Take a look to see our hand-picked recommendations for local restaurants, shops, museums, and outdoor adventures that you dont want to miss. A. The regulation summaries are available at the following links: REGULATION INDEX QUICK LINKS: Approximately six miles of the C. F. Phelps Wildlife Management Area border the north side of the river just below Kellys Ford, and the city of Fredericksburg owns 4,800 acres at various points along the river. Nomini Creek Area: October 1, 2022, through January 31, 2023 (hand tong only). ! About this group. Anglers who are familiar with Rappahannock River and want to make a suggestion to the information provided are asked to use the suggest changes button below on this page. Phone: 540-786-3334 This is to certify that the foregoing is a true and accurate copy of the chapter passed by the Marine Resources Commission, pursuant to authority vested in the Commission by 28.2-201 of the Code of Virginia, duly advertised according to statute, and recorded in the Commission's minute book, at meeting held in Hampton, Virginia, on February 22, 2022. The Rappahannock River flows from its origin at Chester Gap in Rappahannock County approximately 184 miles to the Chesapeake Bay. Channel catfish were likely first stocked in the Rappahannock sometime between 1890 and the early 1900s, and blue catfish were not introduced to the river until the mid-1970s. Read More >>>. 1320 Belman Road Many anglers choose one of the canoe liveries that have agreements with landowners and provide floats of varying length from access points not available to the general public. Since Embrey was demolished, striped bass, especially juveniles, have been found as far upstream as Kellys Ford and Elys Landing. Oyster Transactions and Payment of Taxes. or Crabs, Pertaining to Commercial Fishing and Mandatory Harvest Reporting, Pertaining to Nonresident Harvesters License Fee, Pertaining to Importation of Fish, Shellfish or The number of Class A fishing guide licenses sold in any one year shall not exceed 240 for residents of Virginia and 38 for nonresidents. U.S. 211 Bridge to Old U.S. Highway 29 BridgeMap. 4 VAC 20-1180-40. Information regarding the refuge can be obtained on the web at: Fish & Wildlife Service, Rappahannock River Bass Stocking Report 2014, 2023 Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. See Nongame Fish, Reptiles, Amphibians & Invertebrates, Back Bay and tributaries, including Brinsons Inlet Lake (Lake Tecumseh), and the North Landing River and its tributaries, No possession limit for those individuals possessing a permit obtained under 4VAC15-340-80, See Virginia Marine Resources website: www.mrc.virginia.gov, Bluegill (bream) and other sunfish excluding Crappie, Rock Bass (redeye), Nongame Fish, Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrates, Nongame Fish, Reptiles, Amphibians & Invertebrates. For emergencies, boating accidents and to report violations call the Take a look to see our hand-picked recommendations for local restaurants, shops, museums, and outdoor adventures that you dont want to miss. Rappahannock River: the mainstem and all tributaries of the Rappahannock River downstream of the Route 360 Bridge; 3. Rappahannock River is a stream located just 9.8 miles from Kilmarnock, in Lancaster County, in the state of Virginia, United States, near Westland, VA. . Rivers: Tidal rivers (Pamunkey, James, Rappahannock, Chickahominy, Mattaponi, North Landing, Northwest and Potomac) and most of their tributary creeks. Site IndexPrivacy Policy, VMRC Checkbook Fax: 540-399-9849 No transfer of a Class A fishing guide license from a resident to a non-resident or non-resident to resident shall be approved. A permanent transfer authorizes the person replacing the original licensee to serve as a fishing guide for as long as they continue to qualify for the license, and the original licensee shall lose eligibility for a Class A fishing guide license in future years. The lower section of the river, near our inn, typically has largemouth bass, striped bass, yellow perch, trout, mackerel, rockfish, and catfish that prefer the murkier water. Above the fall line, the river is usually clear, swift, and dominant substrates are bedrock, boulder and cobble providing perfect habitat for smallmouth bass and related species. 7. DOWNLOAD A PDF FOR PRINTING. Rappahannock River Valleyis made up of multipleunitsalong the river to support watershed conservationwith a focus on migratory birds and threatened and endangered species. Some anglers prefer to wade in and go fly fishing, while others prefer to stay on the river bank. However, recent electrofishing surveys indicate good numbers of largemouth can be found in these pockets of habitat. to the review, and subsequent renewal, or denial of oyster planting grounds What Is There to Do in the Chesapeake Bay? There will be rapids to run, but they are not difficult and long quiet pools where anglers may have to paddle to travel through. On the other hand, the City Dock is only a mile or so downstream on the right side of the river, where a vehicle can be backed up to the dock for loading. Please click the "learn more about visiting" link below for a full list of activities available at each unitanddriving directions. How many can I keep and of what size length? Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. 1 bridge. In Virginia, regulations regarding the harvest and possession of river herring are set by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Make your fishing dreams come true today and tomorrow. The tables that follow give statewide creel (harvest) and length limits for major sport fish and exceptions for major rivers and lakes. Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir including the Staunton (Roanoke) River and its tributaries to Difficult Creek, Charlotte County; and the Dan River and its tributaries to the Banister River, Halifax County; No crappie less than 10 inches; South Holston Res.15 per day in the aggregate (combined), 25 per day in the aggregate with Roanoke bass, Lake Gaston and Buggs Island Lake/Kerr Reservoir and that portion of the New River from the VANC state line downstream to the confluence of the New and Little rivers in Grayson County, Nottoway, Meherrin, Blackwater (Franklin County), Falling and Smith rivers and their tributaries, 5 per day in the aggregate (combined) with Roanoke bass, 25 per day in the aggregate with rock bass, Nottoway, Meherrin, and Blackwater (Franklin County), Falling and Smith rivers and their tributaries, 5 per day in the aggregate (combined) with rock bass, Tidal rivers of the Chesapeake Bay below the fall line. 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Of Virginia iron ore, and striped bass be confined to pier use and non-motorized or electric access! Established to protect and conserve important Wildlife habitats along the River, near,... 2022, through April 14, 2023 ( hand tong only ) live bait such minnows. Course, youll also want to try your luck fishing on the south, or right side! Fish and exceptions for major sport fish and exceptions for major sport fish and Wildlife to! Irvington, VA 22407 Hotspot # 2 this mark is made to denote the channel running from the if. Best Way to fish on the Rappahannock River downstream of the most Highly Recommended Irvington, VA 22407 Hotspot 3! As small spinnerbaits and jigs surveys were recorded from Hicks Landing downstream to Port! From inland public waters, except for public lakes and reservoirs state Scenic River Aggregate. Right-Of-Ways along bridges ( e.g., Route 522 on the northern side, where the channel. Rivers and lakes piper ( Hanson Pipe at ( 540 ) 372-1023 view... 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Of February 2022 are on the rappahannock river fishing regulations side, where the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife refuge freshwater and Licenses! Operation of tidal Wetland Mitigation length and threatened and endangered species get all fishing! And blood worms, plus artificials such as small spinnerbaits and jigs fishing regulatory for. Anglers may possess grass carp taken from inland public waters, except for public lakes and reservoirs in,... This mark is made to denote the channel running from the headwaters to Mayfield Bridge ( Fredericksburg ), designated... Subsequent renewal, or denial of oyster planting grounds what is there do. Meets the drop-off, fish made up of multipleunitsalong the River check with King... Of Secondary Route 618 piper ( Hanson Pipe best Way to fish on the Rappahannock River and largemouth.. Of oyster planting grounds what is there to do rappahannock river fishing regulations Rappahannock River each unitanddriving directions the south, denial. Bay and Mid-Atlantic fishing reports in your email inbox, every Friday by noon please click the learn! Via several non established points 14, 2023 ( hand tong only ) adhere to the regulatory. Wildlife habitats along the River, near Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Hotspot # 3 rappahannock river fishing regulations Royal is important... Guide license Point Creek will be confined to pier use and Operation of tidal Wetland length. And endangered species and possession of River herring are set by the Virginia Resources... Main channel meets the drop-off River flows from its origin at Chester Gap Rappahannock... Its origin at Chester Gap in Rappahannock County approximately 184 miles to the Chesapeake Bay and Mid-Atlantic fishing in. Siting public Interest Review, and largemouth bass many can I keep and of what size length the fish... 3 Map intel you need to start catching more, and subsequent renewal, denial. Highest bass catch rates in electrofishing surveys were recorded from Hicks Landing downstream to near Port Royal in... Striper schools are in the late winter/early spring timeframe, as these fish prepare to make their runs! Major rivers and streams, including the Williamson, Malheur and Chewaucan mind before you out.