Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest

Yesterday was a productive day down at Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest. The morning started off with a prebid meeting for proposals on drilling a well at our multiple use parking area. This well will service users of the trails and allows trail riders to wash down their equipment or animals to keep from spreading invasive species as well as allow horse riders to water their stock. After the meeting I rode down to Holliday Creek where I was met by officials with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. With the help of two Gators and an ATV we stocked Holliday Creek with approximately 300 trout. These fish were beautiful, but unfortunately I forgot my camera! The trout stocking takes place twice a year allowing anglers in Central Virginia to have a chance at trout normally found in the cooler waters of the mountains. Holliday Lake is actually deep enough to allow the trout to live there year round and it is always exciting to hear from a fisherman who was lucky enough to land one.

When fishing for trout in Holliday Creek, you need to know that it is a delayed harvest site. The regulation reads as follows: Only artificial lures with single hook may be used in these waters between October 1st and May 31st. During this time all trout must be immediately released unharmed. General statewide fishing regulations apply between June 1st and September 30th.


After finishing up with the stocking I headed out along the Trout Trail which is a hiking only trail that allows access to Holliday Creek specifically for trout fishing. The trail passes along a mixture of rapids, deep pools, shallow flat water, and waterfalls. As I hiked along the trail I put up some nice high visibility blue blazes. This should help prevent anglers from getting lost like I did when I missed a sharp turn that crossed the creek. Look for double blazes that indicate a turn so that you don't wander off into the forest. The Trout Trail runs approximately three miles and connect Route 614 to Route 640. There is also a small section that runs on the opposite side of Route 614 that ties into the Carter Taylor Multiple Use Trail. Pickup a map at the state forest office on Francisco Road, print one off online, or check out one of our kiosks for trail locations.
 
Whenever life is getting you down or you just need to get away, come on out to Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest and cast your line. Between the scenery, the solitude, and the fish, you won't be disappointed!