Fishing at Luray RV Resort & Campground: Spring Tips & Regulations

Spring is prime time to cast your line at Luray RV Resort & Campground! With riverfront access to the South Fork of the Shenandoah River and two fully stocked fishing ponds right on-site, anglers of all experience levels can enjoy peaceful, productive days on the water. This month, we’re sharing everything you need to know—from local regulations to gear recommendations and the best fishing spots around.

Types of Fish You’ll Catch (and What They Bite!)

The Shenandoah River and local ponds offer a rich variety of freshwater fish. Here’s what you can expect to reel in:

Bass Species

Smallmouth Bass

Aggressive and fun to catch; found near rocks and ledges in the Shenandoah River.

Best bait/tackle: Soft plastics (tubes, grubs), crankbaits, topwater lures, live minnows.

Largemouth Bass
Prefer calm, shallow areas like our stocked ponds or lake edges.
Best bait/tackle: Spinnerbaits, plastic worms, frogs, live nightcrawlers.

Sunfish & panfish

Redbreast Sunfish
Vibrant and common near slow-moving water and woody cover.
Best bait/tackle: Small jigs, worms, beetle spins, crickets.

Rock Bass
Reliable and great for beginners; found near shaded banks and boulders.
Best bait/tackle: Small crankbaits, worms, inline spinners.

Bluegill
One of the easiest catches, especially in stocked ponds.
Best bait/tackle: Worms, crickets, small spinners, or tiny jigs under a bobber.

Fallfish
Spirited fighters, often mistaken for small bass; native to the region.
Best bait/tackle: Small jigs, worms, inline spinners.

Bottom Feeders & Catfish

Carp
Large and strong; often in shallow, muddy waters.
Best bait/tackle: Corn, dough balls, bread, flavored boilies.

Channel Catfish
Most active in summer and found in deeper holes or lakes.
Best bait/tackle: Chicken liver, stink bait, cut bait, nightcrawlers on bottom rigs.

White Sucker
Common but not usually targeted; found in slower river stretches.
Best bait/tackle: Worms or small dough balls.

Predators & Trophy Fish

Muskellunge (Musky)
Rare but rewarding; considered a trophy catch in the river.
Best bait/tackle:  Large jerkbaits, bucktail spinners, swimbaits. Use heavy-duty gear.

Trout Species

Rainbow Trout & Brook Trout
Stocked seasonally in Hawksbill Creek and mountain streams.
Best bait/tackle: Spinners, dry flies, PowerBait, small spoons, live worms.

Download our printable local fishing and bait guide here!

On-Site Fishing Spots at Luray RV Resort

You don’t need to go far—some of the best fishing is right at your campsite:

• Shenandoah River Access - Our riverfront access lets you step right into the South Fork—no travel necessary. Great for wading or launching a kayak to fish.
• Two Stocked Fishing Ponds - Perfect for kids and families! Our catch-and-release ponds are maintained seasonally and loaded with bass, bluegill, and more.
  
  

Best Local Fishing Locations

Looking to explore the area a bit more? Here are a few hot spots nearby:

• Hawksbill Creek: Flows through downtown Luray and is stocked with trout each spring - Trout Stocking Schedule.
• Lake Arrowhead: Just east of town, this 39-acre lake is ideal for catfish, bass, and bluegill - Park Information.
• Bealers Ferry Pond: An 8-acre public fishing pond with accessible piers; stocked and serene.
• Shenandoah National Park: The park offers over 70 mountain streams with excellent native brook trout fishing. A scenic and peaceful option for experienced anglers looking for wild trout. Seasonal Tip:In spring, melting snow and rains keep streams cool and flowing—perfect for brook trout activity. Early mornings are best for dry flies and light tackle.Learn more here.

Best Fishing Seasons in Luray

Fishing is a year-round activity in the Shenandoah Valley, but some seasons stand out:

• Spring (March–May): Excellent for bass, trout, and sunfish. Water temps rise, and fish become more active—April is peak season!
• Summer (June–August): Great for topwater bass and night catfishing, especially in Lake Arrowhead.
• Fall (September–November): Cooler temps trigger bass feeding frenzies; musky sightings increase.
• Winter (December–February): Slower, but patient anglers can still catch trout or carp in deeper pools.

Local Fishing Gear & Rentals

Need tackle, bait, or last-minute supplies? Check out these convenient options:

• Luray RV Resort Camp Store: Stocked with everything you need for a successful day by the water, including bait, tackle, and fishing poles, plus river toys and snacks!
• Walmart Supercenter – Luray (1036 US Hwy 211 W): Large selection of gear and fishing licenses.
• Appalachian Outfitters (2 W Main St, Luray): Outdoor gear, apparel, and regional advice.
  
  

Fishing Licenses & Regulations

Before you cast a line in Virginia, make sure you’re following the rules—it keeps our waters healthy and fishing fun for everyone. Here’s what you need to know:

• All anglers 16+ need a valid Virginia fishing license. Buy licenses online and visit Virginia DWR for more information on state fishing regulations.
• Our two on-site stocked ponds do not require a fishing license, but please follow catch and release practices.
• Review daily creel limits and size regulations for bass, trout, and musky.
• Don't miss our Local Fishing FAQ's
  
  

Know Before You Go

Planning ahead makes for a smooth and successful fishing trip! Here are a few essentials to keep in mind before you hit the water:

• Check Local Fishing Reports: Review the South Fork Shenandoah Fishing Report – Orvis
• Best Daily Fishing Times: Check out FishingReminder for the best Fishing Times in Luray
• Monitor Local Weather: Plan to fish around weather conditions.
• Check the river flow levels: Consider wading safety and clarity after heavy spring rains - USGS River Gauge.
  
  

Local Pro Tips

Insider tips from Shenandoah Valley locals  to help you fish smarter—not harder:

• Go early morning or evening for the best bites: Fish are more active during cooler parts of the day, especially in spring. Bonus: you’ll catch a gorgeous sunrise or sunset over the Shenandoah.
• Use live bait or match the hatch: Minnows and worms are great for beginners, but experienced anglers can mimic local insect activity with artificial lures for river or fly fishing. Need help choosing the right gear? Check out Murray’s Fly Shop in nearby Edinburg—they’re a local favorite.
• Fish after a light rain: Rising water levels stir up food and draw fish closer to the banks—especially smallmouth bass and carp in the South Fork.
• Wade carefully and quietly: In the crystal-clear waters of spring, fish spook easily. Wear neutral colors, approach slowly, and watch your shadow.
• Cast toward structure: Use soft plastics or spinners near downed trees, boulders, or river bends where fish like to hide.
• Keep it simple at the ponds: At our stocked fishing ponds, live bait like worms or even corn can do the trick. It’s perfect for families, beginners, and anyone looking for a relaxed fishing session.
• Bring polarized sunglasses: The combo of spring sunshine and Shenandoah sparkle is beautiful—but it also creates glare. Polarized lenses help you spot fish below the surface and reduce eye strain.
• Use the daily bite times to your advantage: Check the Fishing Reminder chart for the best times to cast each day.
  
  

Ready to Cast Off?

Whether you’re fishing solo, bringing your kids for their first catch, or trying to land a trophy smallmouth, Luray RV Resort & Campground is the perfect basecamp for your Shenandoah Valley fishing trip. Book your stay, grab your gear, and we’ll see you by the water.