Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests provides multiple opportunities to hunt, fish and engage in shooting sport activities in a safe and environmentally sound manner that promotes marksmanship, public safety, hunter education, competition and lawful hunting.
Lake and Pond Fishing
Fishing on national forests and grasslands is sometimes more than a sport. For some, the rewards of lakes, rivers and streams feed families at home or at the campsite. State laws apply to fishing laws and regulations on all national forests and grasslands. Some states prohibit putting fish remains into the waters, lakes, streams or rivers after you have cleaned and gutted your catch. Some states set limits on the number of fish you can catch and when. Other rules are imposed by the national forest and grassland, such as not fishing during derbies or in areas posted as closed. Know the rules before you angle to your favorite fishing spot. Thin strings of nylon or other materials can help bring home a king salmon, the most prized fish in Alaska, or a speckled trout from the cool Gold Medal Colorado rivers that flow through national forests.
River and Stream Fishing
Rivers, creeks and reservoirs within the national forest system offer great opportunities for fishing. Many of the slow-moving bodies of water, especially reservoirs, offer an excellent variety of fishing opportunities. If using a boat to fish, wear a life jacket and make sure each passenger wears one, too. Inspect waterfronts daily—the natural environment is subject to change without notice.
- Don’t fish in areas where it is not permitted. These areas have been declared “off limits” to protect wildlife, vegetation, or for your safety. When choosing a site for fishing, always consider safety factors. Because fishing is practiced in a variety of environments, evaluate factors specific to safety in each environment.
- Bring along extra safety items such as water, flashlights, maps, and a cell phone or radio.
- Always wear foot gear appropriate to the conditions.
- Stay dry, warm and protected from the elements. Wear a waterproof sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. Wear thin layers of clothing that progress outward to include water and wind protection as the final layer.
- Use appropriate insect protection measures, including proper clothing and repellents.
- Keep fishing knives sharp and cover the blade when not in use.
- Handle fish carefully.
- Use caution when baiting and removing hooks.
Hunting
Hunting Rules and Regulations
Virginia law now allows hunting on Sunday on public and private land, including National Forest System lands, except under the following circumstances:
- within 200 yards of a house of worship or any accessory structure thereof.
- to hunt or kill any deer or bear with a gun, firearm, or other weapon with the aid or assistance of dogs.
See the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website for detailed information about the new regulations and other restrictions.
Please note that hunting is not permitted in designated campgrounds or developed recreation areas. The Big Game Hunting page linked above lists campgrounds that hunters often use for camping during hunting seasons.
Hunting activities on National Forest land in Virginia are regulated by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (Virginia DWR). For licensing information, visit the DWR License and Access Permit information page. For hunting regulations and detailed game unit information, visit the DWR Public Hunting Lands page.
Information about hunting on National Forest land in West Virginia can be found at West Virginia Department of Natural Resources.
Information about hunting on National Forest land in Kentucky can be found at the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
Be aware of shooting regulations within the Forest. Shooting is prohibited within 150 yards of a building, campsite, developed recreation site or occupied area; or across or on a road or body of water; or in any manner or place where a person or property is exposed to injury or damage. Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 261.10(d)
Opening and closing of seasonal roads and campgrounds may vary by Ranger District. Disabled hunter access is available on each Ranger District. Please contact the District Office near where you are interested in hunting for more information.
Portable tree stands are permitted as long as they are not affixed and do not cause resource damage - i.e., cutting limbs, placing nails or bolts into trees is prohibited. Tree stands left unoccupied for an extended period of time is also prohibited.
Please respect private property boundaries while hunting on public lands.
Recreational and Target Shooting
Target Shooting Guidelines:
Target shooting on the George Washinton and Jefferson National Forests is allowed only at established shooting ranges. Several rules apply to all shooting ranges. See forest order for details
- Discharging a firearm in a developed recreation site is dangerous and prohibited.
- Firearms may be discharged in the general area for the purpose of hunting during the open season.
- Discharging a firearm in a developed recreation site is dangerous and prohibited.
Search for Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Opportunities
Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area
Potts Slope Shooting Range
Raccoon Branch Campground
Raven Cliff Recreation Area
Roaring Run Day Use Area
Saint Mary's Trail (Forest Trail #500)
Seekford Boat Launch
Staunton Dam Day Use Area
Steel Bridge Campground
Stony Fork Cabin
