Patrick County issued the following announcement on Oct. 6
Trout fishing is the perfect way to connect to the outdoors and Patrick county sports many beautiful places to fish. Two unique places are Ararat and Claudville which make up the southwestern part of Patrick County. These communities sport beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and are important parts of the county's agritourism. Visitors to these towns can get their lines wet in the Ararat and the Dan Rivers. As you are driving on the scenic, winding, roads, keep an eye out for the VDGIF signs that indicate which areas are stocked.
These signs will often be found near bridges, but keep an eye out for well-worn pull-offs close to water. They will be placed on power poles and trees near the water's edge. Stocking will begin again on October 1st and fishing licenses can be bought online at https://license.gooutdoorsvirginia.com/Licensing/CustomerLookup.aspx.
Travelers in Ararat will find themselves tucked against the Blue Ridge Mountains. The roads here wind and curve around woods and fields. The Ararat River flows through the community and is a home for native trout and other wildlife. Keep an eye out for bridges and pull-offs along Hunters Chapel Rd, Friends Mission Rd, Spring Branch Rd, River Rd, Holly Tree Rd, and Ararat Highway. Hungry fishermen can catch a bite at Boyd's Diner, Claudville Cafe, and Dan River Grocery.
The Dan River offers more great fishing. The Dan River crosses Low Water Bridge Ln, Ararat Highway, Sawmill Ln, and Kibler Valley Rd. Be mindful of private property as you wander through Kibler Valley and honor any posted signs you see. Where the river is stocked will be marked with the VDGIF sign.
Kibler Valley Rd runs all the way through the valley and brings you to the power plant at the end. Travelers here will find themselves surrounded by nature. The mountains cradle the Dan River as it flows down through the land. For those who love to hike, you can park at the Pinnacles Hydro Plant and explore the miles of pristine wilderness past the plant. You can obtain a permit inside the power plant free of charge (and maybe sneak a peek at how the plant operates). The waters here are known for their native brown trout. Just keep in mind that once you enter the valley there are no places to buy supplies and no cell service. There are multiple convenience stores in both Ararat and Claudville where water, food, and bait can be purchased.
Travelers can also stay in Kibler Valley at Barnard's, which has two beds and baths, a spacious porch, and private river access. There is also lodging at the Lower Tenant House is a completely furnished one-bedroom cabin that sleeps four and has high-speed internet. The Kibler Valley School House has also been converted into a one-bedroom cabin with a beautiful river view.
Travelers can also choose to stay at Wolf Creek Farm and Wolf Creek Haven in Ararat which has a variety of lodging options. Travelers can also stay at By The Creek Inn in Claudville which is a Historic Farm House located on a working cattle farm. For more information on where to stay, check out our lodging page.
Original source can be found here.
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