Smithfield Lake near Smithfield: Fishing Spots, Seasons and Access

• Overview

  Set in Isle of Wight County, Virginia, this is Smithfield Lake. The country here is pine and hardwood. Around 26 acres of surface means several distinct areas to work. It is among the larger waters listed here for Isle of Wight County. The nearest town is Smithfield, 2.2 miles away. Newport News is the closest city, 13 miles away. Two sets of local rules meet not far from this water.

• Where to Fish on Smithfield Lake

  No chart reached our records; the first cast is your sounding. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Rip-rap along the wall holds fish that the open bank never does. Records held for Isle of Wight County cover bluegill, redfin pickerel and tessellated darter. County records show what lives in the area; the local agency holds the water-by-water list. At Smithfield Lake light and wind decide more than tackle does.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The seasonal spread runs 38°F to 78°F. Winter is the comfortable season here rather than the difficult one. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to be out. April and May are the settled weeks, with October close behind. Plan any trip to Smithfield Lake around it. A settled week fishes better than a changeable one.

• Tackle & Baits

  The access position is unclear from public sources. There is a slipway on the shore, half a mile from the water we list. You can leave the car about half a mile from the water. A wire trace and a big bright lure handle the pike; deep water asks for a heavier spoon. Where the road in crosses private land, ask first. Where parking is tight, arriving early solves most problems. Should this one be busy, Scotts Factory Pond is 2.7 miles off. Check the position at Smithfield Lake before loading the car.