Question 1

What is the current water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

The current water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is 66°F as of Invalid date. This temperature reading is based on our advanced satellite monitoring system and real-time data collection. Water temperature is a crucial factor for fishing success and water activities.

Question 2

How often is the Smith Mountain Lake water temperature updated?

Accepted Answer

Water temperature data for Smith Mountain Lake is updated daily through our satellite monitoring system. The last update was made on Invalid date. We use advanced thermal imaging and surface monitoring technology to provide accurate, real-time temperature readings.

Question 3

What activities are suitable for the current water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

With the current water temperature of 66°F at Smith Mountain Lake, conditions are ideal for fishing, boating, and moderate water activities. The temperature typically fluctuates 2-3 degrees throughout the day. This data is monitored via satellite and updated regularly to help you plan your lake activities.

Question 4

How good is the fishing at Smith Mountain Lake with the current water temperature?

Accepted Answer

The current water temperature of 66°F at Smith Mountain Lake is ideal for catching Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Yellow perch, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, White bass, Brown bullhead, American eel. These species are typically most active at this temperature range. For best results, fish during early morning or late evening hours when fish are most active. Always check local fishing regulations and licenses before fishing.

Question 5

What is Smith Mountain Lake and what activities are available?

Accepted Answer

Nestled between Bedford and Franklin Counties in Virginia, the expansive Smith Mountain Lake sprawls over 20,600 acres, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and anglers alike. This reservoir is a haven for water-based activities, boasting numerous public and private boat ramps, as well as marinas strategically scattered throughout its vast expanse. One of the major attractions of the area is the renowned Smith Mountain Lake State Park, offering a plethora of recreational options, including picnic areas, a sandy beach, campgrounds, cabins, a handicapped-accessible fishing pier, boat ramps, hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and even a golf course adjacent to the park.

Anglers flock to Smith Mountain Lake, enticed by the abundance of black bass species. Largemouth bass, constituting the majority of the fishery, outnumber smallmouth bass and consistently contribute to the lake's reputation as one of Virginia's top producers of bass citations. The lake's angling allure extends further, as it hosts the prestigious ESPN Bassmaster Elite Series tournament, attracting seasoned anglers and enthusiasts alike.

Sunfish and catfish also hold their own as popular sport species in Smith Mountain Lake. While sunfish are abundant, competition with shad limits their growth, resulting in smaller sizes. Channel catfish, the preferred catfish species, thrive in the lake's waters, and in recent years, flathead catfish have gained popularity for their impressive size and abundance. Anglers seeking the prized flathead catfish often concentrate their efforts in the upper reaches of the Roanoke and Blackwater arms, especially within coves.

For those with a taste for the elusive musky, Smith Mountain Lake sees an annual stocking of musky fingerlings. While not known for large numbers of muskies, the lake offers a tantalizing challenge, with a few of these formidable fish caught each year, primarily by bass and striper anglers.

Smith Mountain Lake stands as a testament to the rich diversity of aquatic life and recreational opportunities that Virginia's waterways can offer. Whether casting lines into the lake's bountiful waters, exploring the scenic beauty along its shores, or enjoying the myriad activities provided by the State Park, visitors to Smith Mountain Lake are treated to an immersive and unforgettable experience in the heart of Bedford and Franklin Counties.

Question 6

How big and deep is Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Smith Mountain Lake is a substantial body of water covering 20600.00 acres (32.19 square miles) with a maximum depth of 0.00 meters (0 feet). This size and depth make it ideal for various activities including and water recreation.

Question 7

What are the current conditions at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Current conditions at Smith Mountain Lake as of May 12, 2025: 
      Water temperature is 66°F, 
      weather is Cloudy, 
      and water clarity is typical for the season. 
      These conditions are regularly updated to help you plan your visit.

Question 8

When is the best time to fish at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

The best fishing times at Smith Mountain Lake vary by season:
      Spring (March-May): Spring fishing at the lake is excellent for Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Flathead catfish, Yellow perch, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, White bass, Yellow bullhead, Brown bullhead, Gar, American eel. Focus on shallow areas warming up first, and use light tackle as fish become more active after winter.
      Summer (June-August): During summer months, fish are most active early morning and late evening. Look for Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Flathead catfish, Yellow perch, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, White bass, Yellow bullhead, Brown bullhead, Gar, American eel in deeper, cooler waters during mid-day.
      Fall (September-November): Fall brings excellent fishing opportunities as Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Flathead catfish, Yellow perch, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, White bass, Yellow bullhead, Brown bullhead, Gar, American eel feed heavily before winter. Focus on areas with falling water temperatures.
      Winter (December-February): Ice fishing is popular during winter months. Target Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Flathead catfish, Yellow perch, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, White bass, Yellow bullhead, Brown bullhead, Gar, American eel in shallower bays and near structure, always ensuring safe ice conditions.
      Additionally, early morning and late evening typically offer the best fishing conditions.

Question 9

What facilities and access points are available at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Smith Mountain Lake offers the following facilities and amenities:

Please note that some facilities may have seasonal hours or closures. Check current conditions and regulations before your visit.

Question 10

What types of fish can I catch at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Smith Mountain Lake is home to Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Flathead catfish, Yellow perch, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, White bass, Yellow bullhead, Brown bullhead, Gar, American eel. Each species has specific patterns and preferences that can help you plan your fishing trip effectively.

Question 11

What are the best techniques and times to catch Largemouth bass at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Largemouth bass at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Dawn, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 65-80°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring/fall, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Rivers, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Late Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Pitching and flipping, Trolling, Casting
- Effective lures: Plastic worms, Crankbaits, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Shiners, Frogs, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy power rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 10-20 lb test

Question 12

What are the best techniques and times to catch Smallmouth bass at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Smallmouth bass at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Late Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 65-75°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring/fall, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Streams, Rivers, Lakes, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Drop shotting, Jigging, Casting
- Effective lures: Jigs, Tube baits, Soft plastics
- Natural bait options: Crayfish, Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 6-15 lb test

Question 13

What are the best techniques and times to catch Striped bass at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Striped bass at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Dawn, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 55-70°F
- Typical depth: 5-30 feet
- Habitat: Rivers, Lakes, Estuaries
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Trolling, Casting, Live bait fishing
- Effective lures: Swimbaits, Spoons, Soft plastics
- Natural bait options: Shad, Herring, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy power rod
- Reel: Spinning or baitcasting reel
- Line: 10-20 lb test

Question 14

What are the best techniques and times to catch Black crappie at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Black crappie at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Evening
- Preferred water temperature: 58-68°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Slow-moving rivers
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Vertical jigging, Casting, Bobber fishing
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Soft plastics
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Light power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 15

What are the best techniques and times to catch White crappie at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For White crappie at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Evening
- Preferred water temperature: 60-70°F
- Typical depth: Shallow in spring, deeper in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Slower rivers
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Vertical jigging, Casting, Drifting
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Spinners
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Insects

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Light power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 16

What are the best techniques and times to catch Bluegill at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Bluegill at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 69-75°F
- Typical depth: 1-10 feet in spring, 10-20 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Streams
- Spawning season: Late Spring to Early Summer

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bobber fishing, Casting
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Worms, Crickets

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Ultralight power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 17

What are the best techniques and times to catch Channel catfish at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Channel catfish at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Night
- Preferred water temperature: 70-85°F
- Typical depth: 5-15 feet in spring, 15-30 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Ponds
- Spawning season: Late Spring to Early Summer

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bottom fishing
- Effective lures: None commonly used
- Natural bait options: Cut bait, Stink bait, Liver

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy power rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 10-30 lb test

Question 18

What are the best techniques and times to catch Flathead catfish at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Flathead catfish at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Night
- Preferred water temperature: 70-85°F
- Typical depth: 5-20 feet in spring, 20-40 feet in summer
- Habitat: Rivers, Large Lakes
- Spawning season: Summer

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bottom fishing
- Effective lures: None commonly used
- Natural bait options: Live fish, Cut bait

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Heavy power rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 20-50 lb test

Question 19

What are the best techniques and times to catch Yellow perch at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Yellow perch at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Winter
- Active times: Morning, Afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 50-68°F
- Typical depth: 3-12 feet in spring, 10-25 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Ponds
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Vertical jigging, Bobber fishing
- Effective lures: Small jigs, Spoons, Spinnerbaits
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Ultralight to light power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 2-6 lb test

Question 20

What are the best techniques and times to catch Walleye at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Walleye at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Dawn, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 50-70°F
- Typical depth: 10-20 feet in spring, 20-40 feet in summer
- Habitat: Lakes, Rivers, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Jigging, Bottom bouncing, Trolling
- Effective lures: Jigs, Deep diving crankbaits, Spinner rigs
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Leeches, Nightcrawlers

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 6-12 lb test

Question 21

What are the best techniques and times to catch Muskellunge at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Muskellunge at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Early morning, Late afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 65-75°F
- Typical depth: 5-25 feet
- Habitat: Lakes, Large rivers, Weed edges
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Trolling, Casting
- Effective lures: Large crankbaits, Spinnerbaits, Bucktail jigs
- Natural bait options: Large minnows

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Heavy action rod
- Reel: Large baitcasting reel
- Line: 30-50 lb test

Question 22

What are the best techniques and times to catch Chain pickerel at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Chain pickerel at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Fall
- Active times: Morning, Late afternoon
- Preferred water temperature: 58-72°F
- Typical depth: 3-10 feet
- Habitat: Lakes, Slow rivers, Weedy areas
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Casting, Trolling
- Effective lures: Spinners, Soft plastics, Spoons
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Frogs

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium action rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 8-12 lb test

Question 23

What are the best techniques and times to catch White bass at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For White bass at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Morning, Dusk
- Preferred water temperature: 60-70°F
- Typical depth: 5-20 feet
- Habitat: Rivers, Lakes, Reservoirs
- Spawning season: Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Casting, Trolling, Vertical jigging
- Effective lures: Jigs, Spinners, Spoons
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Worms

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Light to medium power rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 4-10 lb test

Question 24

What are the best techniques and times to catch Yellow bullhead at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Yellow bullhead at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer
- Active times: Night
- Preferred water temperature: 68-82°F
- Typical depth: 2-12 feet
- Habitat: Lakes, Ponds, Slow streams
- Spawning season: Late Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bottom fishing
- Effective lures: Small soft plastics
- Natural bait options: Worms, Minnows

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 6-10 lb test

Question 25

What are the best techniques and times to catch Brown bullhead at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Brown bullhead at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Active times: Night
- Preferred water temperature: 65-80°F
- Typical depth: 3-15 feet
- Habitat: Ponds, Lakes, Rivers
- Spawning season: Late Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bottom fishing
- Effective lures: Soft plastics
- Natural bait options: Worms, Cut bait

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium rod
- Reel: Spinning reel
- Line: 6-12 lb test

Question 26

What are the best techniques and times to catch Gar at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Gar at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Summer
- Active times: Daytime
- Preferred water temperature: 70-85°F
- Typical depth: 1-10 feet
- Habitat: Rivers, Lakes, Swamps
- Spawning season: Late Spring

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Casting, Snagging
- Effective lures: Spinnerbaits, Jerkbaits
- Natural bait options: Minnows, Shiners

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 15-25 lb test

Question 27

What are the best techniques and times to catch American eel at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For American eel at Smith Mountain Lake:
- Best seasons: Summer
- Active times: Night
- Preferred water temperature: 65-78°F
- Typical depth: 5-25 feet
- Habitat: Rivers, Estuaries
- Spawning season: Fall

Recommended techniques:
- Fishing methods: Bottom fishing
- Effective lures: N/A
- Natural bait options: Worms, Small fish

Tackle recommendations:
- Rod: Medium-heavy action rod
- Reel: Baitcasting reel
- Line: 15-25 lb test

Question 28

What are the best fishing seasons at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Spring: Best for catching Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Bluegill, Channel catfish, Flathead catfish, Yellow perch, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, White bass, Yellow bullhead, Brown bullhead

Fall: Best for catching Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, Brown bullhead

Summer: Best for catching Bluegill, Channel catfish, Flathead catfish, White bass, Yellow bullhead, Brown bullhead, Gar, American eel

Winter: Best for catching Yellow perch

Question 29

What water recreation activities are available at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Smith Mountain Lake offers various recreational opportunities including:
      - Fishing

Additional lake information:
      - Lake size: 20600.00 acres (32.19 square miles)
      - Maximum depth: 0.00 meters

The lake is particularly suitable for fishing and boating 
      during current conditions. Always check weather forecasts and local regulations before activities.

Question 30

What's the best time to visit Smith Mountain Lake, and how's the weather?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Smith Mountain Lake depends on your planned activities:
      - Summer (June-August): Ideal for swimming, boating, and water sports
      - Spring/Fall: Excellent fishing and fewer crowds
      - Winter: Ice fishing when conditions permit
      Current weather is Cloudy. 
      Check our real-time updates for water temperature and conditions before your visit.

Question 31

What permits and regulations should I know about for Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

For Smith Mountain Lake, you should be aware of:
      - Fishing license requirements (check state regulations)
      - Boat registration requirements

For specific requirements and current regulations:
      
      - Contact local authorities
      - Visit the DNR website
      - Visit official websites listed below

Question 32

Where can I find more information about Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

You can find detailed information about Smith Mountain Lake through these official resources:
        
        - Additional Information
        
        These resources provide up-to-date information about:
        
        - Current lake conditions
        - Facility hours and availability
        - Special notices and alerts
        
        - Seasonal updates and events
        
        Official websites: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/smith-mountain-lake

Question 33

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in January?

Accepted Answer

In January, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 44.60°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 34

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in February?

Accepted Answer

In February, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 41.00°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 35

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in March?

Accepted Answer

In March, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 40.86°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 36

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in April?

Accepted Answer

In April, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 57.50°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 37

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in May?

Accepted Answer

In May, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 70.50°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 38

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in June?

Accepted Answer

In June, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 74.00°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 39

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in July?

Accepted Answer

In July, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 77.00°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 40

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in August?

Accepted Answer

In August, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 81.76°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 41

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in September?

Accepted Answer

In September, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 80.62°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 42

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in October?

Accepted Answer

In October, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 70.57°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 43

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in November?

Accepted Answer

In November, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 61.00°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 44

What is the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake in December?

Accepted Answer

In December, the water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is approximately 48.86°F. 
        This information helps in planning activities like water activities.

Question 45

What are the current fishing conditions at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Current water temperature at Smith Mountain Lake is 66°F. 
        These conditions are ideal for catching Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Striped bass, Black crappie, White crappie, Yellow perch, Walleye, Muskellunge, Chain pickerel, White bass, Brown bullhead, American eel.

Question 46

What is the maximum depth of Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Smith Mountain Lake has a maximum depth of 0.00 meters (0 feet). This depth provides excellent habitat for various fish species and supports diverse aquatic life. The lake's depth profile makes it suitable for both shallow-water fishing and deep-water activities.

Question 47

How big is Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Smith Mountain Lake covers an area of 20600.00 acres (32.19 square miles) at full pool. The lake is currently holding 13172.61 acres of water, which represents 63.9% of its total capacity. This substantial size makes it an important recreational resource for Bedford County, offering extensive opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

Question 48

Where is Smith Mountain Lake located?

Accepted Answer

Smith Mountain Lake is located in Huddleston, Bedford County, VA. The lake is accessible to the public and serves as a popular destination for outdoor activities. Its location in Bedford County makes it easily accessible from Huddleston and surrounding communities.

Question 49

What is the current water level at Smith Mountain Lake?

Accepted Answer

Smith Mountain Lake is currently holding 13172.61 acres of water, compared to its full capacity of 20600.00 acres. This represents 63.9% of its total capacity. Boaters should exercise caution and be aware of potential shallow areas. These water levels are monitored regularly and impact various recreational activities on the lake.

Smith-Mountain-Lake