Tailwater Trout Float Trips on Jackson River

A nice spring time brown on the Jackson River.

The Jackson River in Bath County is one of Virginia’s most famous streams and for good reason. There are plenty of wild trout, both Rainbow and Brown, some of which grow to very large sizes in this year round tailwater fishery. Generally, we will do a full day float using our Fishcraft rafts to hop from spot to spot then wade fish the numerous riffles, runs and pools of the Jackson. Anglers must be able to get in and out of the boat and wade, as some spots are shallow and some of the best fishing is by foot. This is a technical, but very rewarding fishery and can produce amazing wild fish. Guided wade trips on the upper “Hidden Valley” section are also available. One of the last remaining wild trout fisheries in the state.

Many of us have heard the stories about the King’s Grants/Crown Grants on the tailwater of the Jackson river. There are countless articles and stories out there about it. Even though a couple of them do give exact court case findings/settlements and this is what the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, has to say about it.

If you are interested in fishing the Jackson tailwater we highly recommend familiarizing yourself with as much information about the public access points and regulations as you can. Even with the information that is available from the courts and VDGIF, you want to use extreme caution and judgment while on the Jackson. This is the one river in the state that I would strongly encourage using a guide. We have been fishing/guiding on this river for years. Not only do we have in depth knowledge of the rules and regulations, we know the fishery inside and out. If you would like to experience this amazing river in the most relaxed and productive way possible please, give us a call.

Update, 1/5/2021. It’s our favorite time of year for fishing the Jackson. High water and big flies. We highly recommend floating a couple consecutive days. We are happy to arrange  your overnight accommodations. If you’d like more info or to get a couple days booked  give us a call. (434) 977-6882.

This trip does require a valid Virginia freshwater license. If you need to purchase one please, follow the link and scroll down to fishing license.