The New River near Fries is renowned for its great fishing: smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, walleye, mud catfish and channel catfish, and even the ferocious muskellunge. 

One of the favorite fishing spots in Fries is just below the 39-foot dam that once powered the textile mill. And that’s where visitors are likely to spot the bald eagles and osprey that nest and hunt nearby. 

For trout fishing, head to Crooked Creek Wildlife Management Area in nearby Carroll County. Elsewhere in Grayson County the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources manages Hale Lake, elevation 3,374 feet, for a cool mountain fishing experience.

All anglers age 16 or over, resident or non-resident, using Virginia public waters must obtain fishing licenses. Those are available in person at New River Outdoor Adventures (cash only) or online from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.