National Fishing and Boating Week, June 1-9, “highlights the importance of recreational boating and fishing in enhancing our quality of life and preserving our country’s natural beauty.” (Source: https://www.takemefishing.org)
Here are some ways to get outside and celebrate:
- Parks, Nature and Water Trails lists state-owned, privately-owned public lands, and trails info.
- Paddler’s Guide to Northumberland County from Northumberland Association for Progressive Stewardship (NAPS) contains info about stops on creeks and the Potomac, places to stay, Northumberland County launch sites, and other information. NAPS has a master map as well as detailed maps for these rivers: Yeocomico, Coan, Little Wicomico, Great Wicomico West, and Great Wicomico East.
- The Northern Neck National Heritage Area has info on marinas, smallcraft rentals, and more.
- Virginia Water Trails lists NNK trails by county. Also, you might want to read Paddling the upper Great Wicomico River.
- Need to be outfitted for time on or near the water? If you live in or are visiting Northumberland County, take a look at the Northumberland County, VA | Do. Stay. Eat. map; it has info on water-related locations and businesses.
- Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge, in Richmond and Westmoreland counties, offers a many ways to enjoy the outdoors, including the Wilna Pond, open for catch-and-release fishing.
- Check out Boating and Water Sports at Westmoreland State Park for ways to boat and fish in the northwest part of the NNK.
- Colonial Beach, on the Potomac River, is “only 35 nautical miles from the Chesapeake Bay” and “is the last deepwater port before Washington, DC. . .” Located in CB are a number of marinas, smallcraft rentals, and boat launches. Learn more.
Fishing
This year, Virginia’s Free Fishing Days are Friday, June 7 to Sunday, June 9. This means no fishing license is required for recreational rod and reel fishing. However, as the Department of Wildlife Resources points out, “All fishing regulations including size, season, catch limits, and gear restrictions will remain in effect.”
Where to Fish provides info about fishing in ponds and lakes and in saltwater, among other subsets.
Read Save the date for free fishing: June 7-9! for more info.
Boating
Boating is more than large motor boats and sailboats. . . it's also about kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Watch Morning Otter Experience on Little Wicomico River Virginia (also below) to watch the joys of nature on the Northern Neck. (The Water Patterns channel vid used with permission)