Fishing at Woodside Lake, Fairfax County, Virginia

• Overview

  Woodside Lake is one of the Fairfax County waters in Virginia. It stands 331 feet above sea level. The closest town, Wolf Trap, is 2.1 miles away. The nearest city of size is Arlington, 9.3 miles away. Water in the same corner: Spring Lake at about 1.9 miles, Lake Werowance 3.7 miles, Lake Fairfax at about 4 miles, Great Falls Estate Lake 4.5 miles and Lake Audubon at about 4.7 miles. You are close to a county edge here; who manages the access can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Woodside Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. The arms fish better than the open middle whenever the water is up. Built water gives depth close in, which suits a bank angler. Records held for Fairfax County cover blueback herring, alewife and bluegill. Some of the species recorded here are protected or tightly regulated, so check what may be targeted before you fish. Treat Woodside Lake as a water to read rather than to cover.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Temperature averages peak at 77°F in July and bottom out at 33°F in January. Fishing continues through most of the calendar, with quiet spells rather than closures. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. November and March are the quiet, comfortable months to be out. It holds true on Woodside Lake more years than not.

• Tackle & Baits

  Our records carry no access rule either way. Parking is not close: half a mile from the bank, and no nearer option is mapped. Bluegill and other panfish take small jigs or worms under a float near any cover. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Should this one be busy, Spring Lake is 1.9 miles off. Where Woodside Lake is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.