Lake Moomaw, in the Alleghany Highlands of western VA is an untapped treasure. Located far from any significant metropolitan area, the pristine lake is never crowded, there are no shoreline homes, the scenery is breathtaking, and wildlife and fishing opportunities abound.
Moomaw’s 2,530 acres are home to an amazing variety of
gamefish. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, stocked trout (brown, rainbow, and brook), crappie, bluegill, pickerel, channel catfish, and yellow perch all reside in Lake Moomaw. Surrounded by the Gathright Wildlife Management Area, its 43 miles of shoreline are undeveloped. Several excellent boat ramps and
U.S. Forest Service campgrounds are available. Alewives are the primary forage fish in the lake.
While fishing for all species is good, Lake Moomaw, I believe, is the most under-rated smallmouth bass fishery in the east. Few anglers actually target smallmouth. Many go for the more glamorous trout or the largemouth bass, but Lake Moomaw smallies are shaped like footballs. They average 1 1/2 to 2 pounds, and 5 pounders are common. The forage base is prolific
Mike Puffenbarger at Maple Tree Outdoors (540-468-2682) is a quality guide.
If you want to get away from it all, and enjoy outstanding fishing opportunities, try Lake Moomaw.