Virginia · Bath / Alleghany Co.
Jackson River — Lake Moomaw Tailwater
Bath / Alleghany Co. · 20 mi · Class Riffles
Optimal: 300–1500 CFS · USGS #02012500
⚠53°F — Cold water — dress for immersion, not air temperature
—CFS
3.59 ft gauge height
Loading…Avg flow: 580 cfsHist. median: 525 cfsUSGS #02012500
VA Stocked Trout Water · USACE Gathright Dam Tailwater · Lake Moomaw
The 20-mile Jackson River tailwater below Gathright Dam (Lake Moomaw) is Virginia’s premier trophy trout fishery — cold, oxygen-rich releases create wild brown and rainbow trout habitat unlike anything else in the state. The river flows through the Allegheny Highlands past historic Hot Springs and the Homestead resort. The lower section near Covington has been a contested public access fishery, with court rulings in the 2010s clarifying the public's right to fish much of the tailwater.
Outfitters
Murray’s Fly Shop
Jackson River and Shenandoah Valley fly fishing guides
10-Year Flow Patterns
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Data Quality
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.
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