Public Invited to Comment July 7–August 5, 2026
Stocked trout in Virginia are managed under the DWR’s stocked trout management plan. The modern version of this plan was implemented in 2016 and applied until 2025. This draft covers 2026–2035 and we are seeking public comment.
The plan provides a comprehensive overview of DWR’s stocked trout program and goes into detail about the history of the program, the biology of the fish, the constraints present within Virginia, and the stakeholders who use the trout resource. The plan directly considers the funding and administration of the program, how stockings are announced, angler recruitment and retention approaches, the ecosystem impacts of trout stocking, and the recreational opportunities provided.
Of particular interest in the plan are two significant changes to the overall program. The first is in response to funding limitations and details reductions in the program that would be seen following a 25%, 35%, and 50% reduction. The proposed FY27 Aquatics budget includes a 25% reduction and will likely include the strategies listed in the plan. Given increases in feed cost and transportation expenses, a 35% reduction is also possible. The second is a potential shift in how trout stockings are announced. Historically, any non pre-announced stocking was shared with the public at 4 pm on the day of stocking. About two years ago, anglers began requesting the trout stocking schedule in advance through a Freedom of Information Act request, resulting in conflict among users who have and do not have the schedule. A proposed path to address this concern involves releasing the trout stocking schedule on the third Friday of the month prior to the next month, with appropriate disclaimers.
Anglers are encouraged to comment on all aspects of the plan that are relevant to their concerns and interests.
Read the Draft Virginia Stocked Trout Management Plan