Here in Southern Virginia, near the North Carolina border, you will find an angler’s paradise at Occoneechee State Park!

With over 48,000 acres of water and 800 miles of shoreline, there is a lot to like here on the peaceful shores of Kerr Reservoir, aka Buggs Island Lake. Occoneechee provides 24-hour lake access, with three boat launch areas and a modern marina. The park’s camping facilities and cabins make this the perfect spot for a getaway with your fishing buddies, or with the family.

It's truly an angler's paradise at Occoneechee State Park

Anglers from all over enjoy visiting Buggs Island Lake, as the lake is known for a variety of fishing options, and some world record fish. According to Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF), Buggs Island has one of the best largemouth bass fisheries in the country. Buffalo, Grassy, Bluestone, and Butcher Creeks Lake are also very productive for crappie, which happen to be some of the tastiest fish, in my opinion. Catfish, both channel and blue, white perch, and striped bass are found here too. For detailed information about types of fish and regulations, visit the VDGIF web site or pick up a fishing guide in the park office. For current local fishing reports, upcoming events, links to area businesses, and more, you can also visit Kerr Lake Information.

It's dinner, caught fresh from Buggs Island Lake

Fishing at Buggs Island Lake can be done just about year round. According to Park Manager Scott Shanklin, the best crappie fishing typically starts in February, and extends through the end of April or beginning of May depending on the weather. Spring tournament season starts in March and extends through May, then picks up again in September through November. Various organizations, such as Virginia Bass Federation and Fishers of Men frequently hold tournaments at the park. Shanklin says that the Virginia Bass Federation even built and donated a fresh water pump for the tournament weigh in station a few years ago.

Occoneechee Marina offers transient slips and annual rentals too

The VDGIF and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and Virginia have a reciprocal fishing license agreement, which means fishing is legal in Buggs Island Lake with either state’s license. You may purchase a license online, or pick one up at the Circle K market, located just outside the park, the Lake Motel, or other area businesses. 

If you prefer bring your own boat, the Occoneechee marina has transient slips for overnight rentals, as well as annual slip rentals. If not, pontoon and fishing boats, including safety equipment, may be rented at boat ramp #1 from Clarksville Marine Rentals, Inc. You can buy ethanol free gasoline at the marina fuel pumps.

Occoneechee State Park is located just outside the town of Clarksville in Mecklenburg County. Several bait and tackle shops in the area cater to anglers and boaters.  If the ladies want to come along for the trip, but don’t enjoy fishing, the town of Clarksville has great shopping, with antiques, galleries, and the nearby Morningstar Outlet store, for curtains and bedding at bargain prices. Or make this a family affair. There are plenty of trails and other activities for the whole family, and there is nothing like the joy on a kid's face when they catch a fish.

To make reservations for camping or cabins, click here. For a map of the area click here.

Leave your cares behind, and spend a little time at Occoneechee State Park for a taste of paradise.