Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Fishing

WILNA POND

This beautiful 35-acre site is now open year-round to public fishing. The pond is home to largemouth bass, bluegill sunfish, fliers, yellow bullhead catfish and American eel.

KID'S FISHING DAY

The Refuge offers an annual Kids Fishing Day in June of each year. The event includes a fishing clinic followed by fishing at Wilna Pond. Please call (804) 333-1470 for more information.

WILNA POND FISHING REGULATIONS

Open daily, sunrise to sunset. PLEASE NOTE: Seasonal restrictions may be in place to protect nesting birds. Consult Refuge Manager for details.

During the period when the Wilna Tract is open for deer hunting, we will be closed to all other uses, including sport fishing.

Wilna Pond will be closed to the public during scheduled environmental education field trips. Anglers can verify availability by calling (804) 333-1470.

All anglers age 16 and older must possess a valid Virginia state freshwater fishing license.

We prohibit fishing by any means other than by use of one or more attended poles with hook and line attached.

We prohibit the use of lead fishing tackle.

We require catch and release fishing only for largemouth bass. Other finfish species may be taken in accordance with State regulations.

We prohibit the take of any reptile, amphibian, or invertebrate species for use as bait or for any other purpose.

We prohibit the use of live minnows as bait.

We prohibit use of boats propelled by gasoline motors, sail, or mechanically operated paddle wheel. We permit hand launching only; we do not permit backing trailers. PLEASE NOTE: All Virginia boating laws apply to Wilna Pond!

We permit bank fishing on the earthen dam, but we prohibit fishing from the aluminum catwalk.

Please help us keep the Wilna Pond area unspoiled by being responsible - carry out what you carry in!

Need more information? Download our Fishing Brochure.

Learn more about freshwater fishing opportunities in your area!