Virginia DWR October catchable trout stocking is underway statewide

Virginia’s fall catchable trout season is active. The Department of Wildlife Resources October schedule shows stockings starting Oct. 1 on waters including Hawksbill Creek, Chestnut Creek (Delayed Harvest), Big Moccasin Creek (DH), Stock Creek, and Middle Fork of Powell River (DH), with nearly daily drops planned through Oct. 30 across mountain and Piedmont counties.

Designated stocked trout waters require a trout license from Oct. 1 through June 15 (urban waters differ). Catchable trout stockings generally run through May under the annual plan, with category A/B/C, Delayed Harvest, and catch-and-release waters on different frequencies. DWR updates a daily stocking list after 3 p.m. on days fish go in; weather and drought can move dates, so check before you drive.

Popular fee and special-regulation sites such as Douthat Lake and Wilson Creek appear multiple times in October. Anglers should confirm Delayed Harvest and catch-and-release gear rules on the water they plan to fish.

This is a The Gillnet news desk summary, not a reprint.

Source: Virginia DWR — Monthly Trout Stocking Schedule, October 2026 (October 2026 schedule).