Fishing Charters in Virginia
Browse fishing charters in Virginia that can help you catch flathead catfish.


Nauti Dog Sportfishing
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Experience Virginia Beach fishing charters like never before! Captain Kaleb Underwood and Nauti Dog Sportfishing offer thrilling fishing adventures!


Backlash Sportfishing
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach Fishing Charters Welcome to Backlash Sportfishing- Virginia Beach Fishing Charters, with Captain Steve Richardson aboard the Beautiful Custom Built 56' Carolina Style Custom Boat. The


It’S A Shore Thang Charters
Cape Charles, Virginia
Shore Thang Charters. Fishing charters. Fishing guide. inshore fishing. offshore fishing. Chesapeake Bay. Virginia. boat guide. boat trip. fishing trip. redfish. mackerel. black drum. rockfish. mahi mahi. tuna.


Beach Bum Charters
King George, Virginia
Fishing charter service for the Potomac River Chesapeake bay. Beach Bum Charters LLC King George Va. We also offer beach trips, and sunset cruises.


Island Queen Inland Charters
Chincoteague, Virginia


Citations Only Guide Service
Colonial Heights, Virginia


Shenandoah Lines Fly
Crozet, Virginia
Explore Shenandoah Lines’ fly fishing services in Central VA, including half and full day guided trips, casting lessons, and fly tying classes.


Virginia River Guides
Lexington, Virginia
We are confident in the quality, diversity, and beauty of the waters we fish. Come see us and fish the legendary rivers of Virginia. We float and wade the James, Jackson, and Maury rivers.


Virginia Fly Fishing Guide John Roberts Flyfishing
Lexington, Virginia
John Robert's Fly Fishing Adventures located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia offers the best trout fly fishing in Virginia. John Roberts is your guide offering 50+ years of flyfishing expertise on Virginia Streams.


Takedown Sportfishing
saltwater fishing boat cruise charter boat cobia stripers rockfish flounder tog tautog spadefish triggerfish sheepshead saltwater charters offshore charters fishing


Headboat Fishing


Gettin Bendy Charters
Best Time to Catch Flathead Catfish
Flathead Catfish can be caught year-round in Ridgeway. Right now in March, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Flathead Catfish
For anglers seeking a true trophy, Flathead Catfish in the waterways near Ridgeway, Virginia, offer a rewarding challenge. Smith Mountain Lake holds some impressive Flatheads, particularly in the deeper, timber-filled sections of the lake. The best time to target these behemoths is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Flatheads are ambush predators, so focus your efforts around structure like fallen trees, rock piles, and ledges. Live bait, such as bluegill or bullheads, is the key to enticing these fish. A heavy-duty rod and reel are essential, as these fish can easily exceed 40 pounds. A practical tip: night fishing can be incredibly productive, as Flatheads are most active after dark. Be sure to check local regulations regarding baitfish and size limits before heading out. The Flathead Catfish population in Smith Mountain Lake is healthy, offering a legitimate shot at landing a fish of a lifetime.
Plan a Trip to Ridgeway
See what's biting in Ridgeway, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Flathead Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Flathead Catfish in Ridgeway.
Flathead Catfish Fishing Regulations in Virginia
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Virginia state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to catch flathead catfish near Ridgeway?
Live bait like bluegill or bullheads are very effective for catching flathead catfish. Fish them on the bottom with a heavy weight, especially near structure like submerged logs or rocks.
Are there any restrictions on keeping flathead catfish in Virginia?
No, there are currently no bag or size limits for flathead catfish in Virginia. You can harvest them year-round.
Do I need a specific license to target flathead catfish in Ridgeway?
A standard Virginia freshwater fishing license will cover you for flathead catfish. No special permits are needed.
Where are some good spots to fish for flathead catfish around Ridgeway?
Look for deeper pools and areas with submerged structure in the rivers and lakes near Ridgeway. These are prime ambush points for flatheads.
More Flathead Catfish Fishing in Virginia
Other Species to Fish in Ridgeway
Ready to Catch Flathead Catfish in Ridgeway?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


