Park Authority

By Chase Brown

The cold fall weather is finally starting to move in, and you know what that means. The Striped Bass are here. Striped Bass, or Stripers as most people call them, are a migratory fish that move up and down the East Coast of the United States. During the fall, massive schools of these fish travel up the Potomac River and into the creeks. Stripers can vary in size, the smaller ones which are generally referred to as “schoolies” are usually around 12 to 24 inches.  However, in recent years anglers have pulled out some trophy size Striped Bass from the Potomac with some reaching over 40 inches.

The typical ways to catch these fish are soft plastics, crankbaits, or live minnows. Make sure that you use a jig head that is not too heavy or light, I recommend between a ¼ or ½ oz. depending on the current.  In my experience, Striper seemed to be really drawn to white or silver colors and especially love the movement that a long grub trail lure makes. The color of your jig head isn’t as important to Striper, but I typically go for red, white, or standard lead color. Live baitfish are an excellent choice as well for catching Stripers so if you can get hold of some bullhead minnows or shiners you should have success. I find that a 3/0 size circle hook with a ¼ oz. weight attached a foot above the hook is the best choice for fishing your live bait.

Areas such as creek mouths and deep channels are excellent places to find Stripers holding up. You can find a lot of success in areas where the Potomac meets up with a creek as the Striper are typically moving in and out of these areas on a regular basis. The best time to target these fish are on an incoming tide so make sure you go online and find a tide chart for your area. Striper tend to travel in schools so if you can catch one then you can usually catch a handful. Remember the technique you used to catch the first one and there should be more to follow. Deep channels along shallow riverbanks are another area that Striper tend to frequent since the deep water gives them some cover and allows them to pick off baitfish as they move out of the shallows. Fairfax County provides some excellent fishing spots to target Stripers around the Alexandria and Mount Vernon area. Any of the local creeks around you that feed into the Potomac are great places for you to try to target Stripers. Take a drive along the George Washington Parkway and you will be sure to find some great areas to try and land one of these amazing fish.

By Chase Brown

Dust off your tackle box and take the tags off that brand-new fishing pole you got during the holidays because warmer weather is on the horizon and with it comes the early spring fishing season!

Here’s what you need to know on what to do before your first fishing trip this year, as well as tips and information on the fish you can expect to catch. If you have any specific questions about fishing in the area or fishing in general, please do not hesitate to reach out to our FCPA Fishing Coordinator Dan Grulke at dan.grulke@fairfaxcounty.gov. Also, be sure to go online and check out some of the fishing classes we will be offering this year at some of your favorite local parks!

Maintaining your equipment is incredibly important when it comes to fishing, and it can save you a lot of money if done properly and in a timely manner.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare for the upcoming fishing season.

1. Gather all your gear together including all rods, reels, tackle boxes, nets and any miscellaneous lures you may have lying around.
2. Grab your rods and make sure each eye on each rod is properly secured and lines up properly.
3. Take your fishing reels and ensure that each one is cranking smoothly and that you have taken off any fishing line from last year. If your fishing reel is tough to crank and feels sort of locked up, then you may have to spray some lubricant inside the grooves to eliminate some of the rust or any gunk that may have built up inside over time. Be sure to change out your line before your first fishing trip this year if it has been on your reel for over a few months, as fishing line tends to lose its strength and become brittle after it sits on the reel for a while.
4. Make sure that you check for any bait or food in your tackle box that may have been left in it over the winter. For parents, I recommend you check your child’s tackle box for leftover food or bait every time they come home from fishing. I cannot tell you how many times I have found month-old hot dogs and bread that have led to entire tackle boxes needing to be thrown away.
5. Examine all your lures and hooks for signs of rust or wear. Use a sharpening stone on any of them that you think may need to be sharpened. If you find out that a lot of your lures or hooks have started to rust, then you most likely have an issue with water or moisture getting into your tackle box. I would try to locate any holes or breaks in your tackle box, and then think about moving it to a different, dryer location.
6. Check your fishing nets for gashes that may have been made from the previous year and examine them for rust if they are made of metal. Depending on what fish you are targeting, you may be able to get by with a few small gashes in your net, but you can make a quick fix with some thick sewing string and a needle, if you think it is necessary.

Now that you have some steps to get yourself prepared for the season, let us talk about some of the fish you may be targeting out there!

Spring is the time of year when largemouth bass begin their spawning rituals and tend to become highly aggressive. It is also a great time of the year for finding a trophy fish, since a lot of the females are pretty fattened up to prepare for spawning. Typically, you can find pairs of fish along grass beds guarding their nests from intruders and attacking anything that gets too close. In my opinion, this makes for an easy and enjoyable day of fishing, since you do not have to put too much effort into choosing the right lure. If it can fit in their mouth and you cast it close to their nesting site, you should have no problem hooking up with a bass this time of year.

Another reason that spring is a favorite time of year among anglers is the migratory species you can find in the Potomac River, such as striped bass and yellow perch. I had an article that previously talked about striped bass and their fall migration up the river , but they will also make a smaller migration down the river in the early springtime. Typically, there are not as many as there are in the fall, but these fish always seem to come back when the weather starts to warm up. The warmer waters also signal the beginning of the yellow perch migration. These fish spawn in rivers and creeks during this time of year, just like the largemouth bass. The yellow perch, not to be confused with the white perch that inhabits this area year-round, has some distinguishable features that separate it from its counterparts, including its color, which is typically greenish yellow with black bands along its sides.  

I have my best luck with yellow perch when fishing small soft plastics along areas with lots of rocks. Just like the largemouth bass, these fish are very aggressive during their spawning season and will strike at just about anything that crosses their path.

For those of you looking to experience fishing for the first time or looking to catch anything that will take your bait, panfish is the way to go.

Virginia has numerous species of panfish but the most popular three are bluegill, sunfish and crappie. They can be found in just about any body of water around the area and are a fun and easy species to catch that will be sure to brighten anyone’s fishing day.

All you need for these fish are some fishing line, a hook and bait, such as worms or crickets. Panfish typically travel in schools too, so where you find one you should be able to find a dozen.

Fishing for panfish is perfect for beginners or any angler looking for a relaxing day on the water. Although they are not the biggest fish by any means, they have some beautiful colors and patterns and a decent-sized one will put up a good fight on a lightweight fishing rod.

Good luck to all of you this fishing season, and I hope that this article helps you land that trophy catch this spring!

The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that Patriot Park North has been recognized as the best All-Star Outdoor Venue by SportsEvents Media Group in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards. This honor celebrates outstanding outdoor facilities that consistently deliver top-tier amenities, service and playability for athletes and event organizers alike.

Patriot Park North is a dynamic sports complex for competitive baseball and softball. Since opening in 2023, the park has been buzzing with tournaments, camps, exhibitions and other events. It has welcomed players, coaches and fans for 91 tournaments and will host 38 more from March through November 2026. Last year, Patriot Park North generated nearly $500,000 in income and $5.75 million in economic activity in Fairfax County.

“This award reflects the Fairfax County Park Authority’s commitment to recreational excellence in every aspect of our park system,” said Jai Cole, executive director of the Fairfax County Park Authority. “Patriot Park North is more than a sports complex. It’s a gathering place that supports tourism and economic vitality and showcases the gold standard of athletic facilities and service in Fairfax County. I want to thank the Park Authority Board and staff, our county leaders, and all who have helped make Patriot Park a regional destination for unforgettable events and experiences.”

“I am thrilled that Patriot Park North has been recognized with the SportsEvents magazine Readers’ Choice Award for All-Star Outdoor Venue,” said Jeff McKay, chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. “This facility reflects the county’s commitment to high-quality recreational opportunities and the Park Authority’s excellent work in creating spaces that bring our community together.”

“Patriot Park North’s success is just the tip of the iceberg of Fairfax County’s potential in the sports tourism market,” said Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity, chairman of the Fairfax County Sports Tourism Task Force.

“Not only has the facility elevated Fairfax County’s reputation as a premier destination for youth and amateur sports but indeed contributes greatly to the local economy through direct economic impact,” said Barry H. Biggar, president and CEO of Visit Fairfax. “Each tournament brings families, athletes and visitors to our destination, who in turn support our local businesses, which create lasting benefits well beyond the playing fields.”

For more information about Patriot Park North and to take a virtual 360 tour of the facility, visit the Patriot Park North webpage. Additional inquires can be directed to the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

About Fairfax County Park Authority

Fairfax County Park Authority enriches the quality of life for all members of the community through an enduring park system that provides a healthy environment, preserves natural and cultural heritage, offers inspiring recreational experiences and promotes healthy lifestyles. Learn more about our parks, rec centers, golf courses, nature centers, and historic sites by visiting the Fairfax County Park Authority website.

About Patriot Park North

Patriot Park North is an athletic facility in Fairfax, Virginia, for baseball and softball that features six lighted, synthetic turf fields. Designed with both performance and experience in mind, the facility offers on-site concessions, flexible fencing options, portable pitching mounds and generous warm-up areas to support seamless tournament operations. Players benefit from covered, fully wrapped dugouts and electronic scoreboards on every field, while spectators can take in the action from comfortable viewing areas and a press box featuring a 360-degree observation deck. A baseball- and softball-themed playground further enhances the atmosphere, creating an engaging and family-friendly environment that extends beyond the game itself.

In addition to its state-of-the-art facilities, Patriot Park North is surrounded by numerous Fair-fax County Park Authority parks and experiences, including scenic trails, historic sites, nature centers and recreational amenities.

For more information, visit the Patriot Park North webpage.
 

Whether you gravitate toward the light or the dark, there’s a spot for you at the finish line of the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K. Suit up and join this thrilling community event that takes place at Burke Lake Park on Saturday, May 2.

Fairfax County Park Authority brings this annual event back with opportunities for the entire family. The event, set to upbeat, themed music, starts at 7:30 a.m. Begin with a group stretch and warm-up session. Walk, run or roll in the family friendly 5K (3.1 miles) that follows a tree-lined, paved road that is wheelchair and stroller accessible through the park. Step up to the challenge by participating in a competitive 10K that leads through a 6.2-mile wooded trail that circles the lake. Participants in the 10K must be able to maintain faster than a 17-minute mile and complete the course by 9:30 a.m. 

Take on this trek to earn a specially designed shirt and commemorative medal reflecting the race theme. The overall top finishers and top finishers in different age groups for both the 5K and 10K earn awards and bragging rights. Race participants can also register their children to participate in a Tots Dash (ages 2 to 5) and Kids Dash (ages 6 to 10) — short runs to the finish line for children of the 5K/10K participants.

Come out to cheer for the runners and enjoy the post-race refreshments and party. Please note that all race participants and spectators must wait until the race is over before leaving the park, since roadways will be closed for the runners.

A portion of the proceeds from the event goes to the Fairfax County Park Foundation to support beautiful Burke Lake Park. Opportunities to sponsor the popular 5K/10K Healthy Strides race are still available through the Fairfax County Park Foundation at Healthy Strides – Fairfax County Park Foundation.

Fairfax County Park Foundation also supports the Park Authority’s Healthy Strides program -- which offers free online fitness classes -- with monetary donations. Explore all the ways to become a partner and give support by visiting the Park Foundation's Healthy Strides website.

Burke Lake Park is located at 7315 Ox Road in Fairfax Station. For more information, visit the Burke Lake Park website or call 703-323-6600.

About the Fairfax County Park Foundation

The Fairfax County Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3), supports the Fairfax County Park Authority by raising private funds, obtaining grants, and creating partnerships that supplement tax dollars to meet our community’s needs for park land, facilities, and services. For more information, visit the Park Foundation website or call 703-324-8582.

A world of new opportunities awaits to get active, enjoy your favorite hobby, learn new skills and connect with community in Fairfax County Park Authority classes. Explore the numerous classes available for registration now in the newly released spring 2026 issue of Parktakes magazine.

Grow skills with the assistance of our trained instructors across a variety of categories:

• Adapted Recreation
• Aquatics
• Children’s Corner
• Dance
• Equestrian
• Exercise and Physical Fitness
• Farm
• Fine Arts and Crafts
• Gardening
• Golf
• History
• Ice Skating
• Martial Arts and Self-Defense
• Nature
• Outdoor Recreation
• Performing Arts
• Pets
• Science and Technology
• Sports and Leagues
• Xtras

Jump into swimming, embark on a new adventure in the outdoors, dig into gardening, put your paintbrush to canvas, perfect your golf swing, get hands-on with history, glide onto the ice, groove on the dance floor, join the game, and so much more.

Register by Friday, March 6 to save $8 on most classes. Learn more by visiting the Parktakes website.

In a milestone year for the Fairfax County Park Authority, the agency is celebrating its 75th Anniversary and the 20th Anniversary of the Invasive Management Area Volunteer Program.

The IMA Volunteer Program trains and empowers community volunteers to restore parklands, protect wildlife habitats and remove invasive plants that threaten Fairfax County’s forests, meadows and waterways. What began in 2006 as a community-based effort has grown into one of the region’s most impactful, volunteer-driven conservation programs — a powerful example of community-powered stewardship in action.

The program has grown from 10 dedicated IMA volunteer site leaders guiding 400 volunteers to 56 Site Leaders steering more than 4,000 volunteers annually. Additionally, 46 tree rescuers contribute over 900 hours each year to remove invasive vines and protect mature trees. These efforts restore balance to natural ecosystems, protect biodiversity, improve water quality and create healthier habitats for people and wildlife alike.

Be Part of the Next 20 Years

The community is invited to become part of the movement! Get outdoors and meet new friends with hands-on volunteer opportunities at parks across the county. Volunteer opportunities range from 90 minutes to three hours, and anyone 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Longer term commitments are also available.

In celebration of National Invasive Species Awareness Week this week, get ahead of your garden with the "Plant This, Not That.” This helps residents identify invasive plants commonly sold in stores and offers native alternatives that support local ecosystems.

Save the dates for special volunteer events, including the Tree Rescuers Extravaganza, March 21-April 12, and Take Back the Forest events in April and May.

Visit the Invasive Management Area Volunteer Program website to learn more. You can find information on guidance about how to take action, milestone highlights, anniversary storytelling and videos featuring IMA site leaders and volunteers, who are making real change in parks across Fairfax County.

The Invasive Management Area Program is sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation. The Fairfax County Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3), supports the Fairfax County Park Authority by raising private funds, obtaining grants, and creating partnerships that supplement tax dollars to meet our community’s needs for park land, facilities, and services. Visit the Fairfax County Park Foundation website for more information or call 703-324-8582.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board held its election of officers at its meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 11. The board unanimously elected Dranesville District Representative Timothy B. Hackman as chair; Hunter Mill District Representative William G. Bouie as vice chair; Franconia District Representative Dr. Cynthia Jacobs Carter as secretary; and At-Large Representative Dr. Abena Aidoo Hewton as treasurer.

"I’m honored by the confidence my fellow Board members have placed in me," Chairman Hackman said. "Our parks and programs are essential to the health and vitality of our community. I look forward to working with my colleagues, staff and residents to build on our momentum and continue providing outstanding experiences for everyone we serve."

Board officer positions are outlined in the Bylaws Governing the Fairfax County Park Authority Board and include chairman, vice chairman, secretary and treasurer. Officers are elected annually by the members of the Park Authority Board at the beginning of the calendar year.

Members of the Fairfax County Park Authority Board are appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The 12-member board includes one representative from each of the county’s nine magisterial districts and three at-large members. This public body is responsible for setting policy and establishing priorities for the Park Authority. For more information, visit the Park Authority Board website.

Laurel Hill and Twin Lakes Golf Clubs have received the prestigious Weddy Award for Best Golf Club Venue, presented by Brides & Weddings Magazine. The 2026 Weddy Awards celebrate excellence in the wedding and event industry, recognizing businesses that deliver exceptional service, innovation and professionalism. The honor is based on real wedding experiences shared by couples and reflects both venues as trusted and well-regarded wedding and event locations in Fairfax County.

"Earning the Weddys Award is especially meaningful because it reflects the voices of the couples we serve," Event Director Marisa Devon said. "Whether couples choose Laurel Hill or Twin Lakes, they can expect clear communication, attentive coordination and a team that is fully invested in making their day feel effortless and personal."

Laurel Hill attributes its continued recognition to a hospitality-forward approach centered on consistency, professionalism and attention to detail from the initial tour through the final sendoff. Twin Lakes has earned its recognition through the same commitment to service, offering couples a welcoming setting with flexible options and experienced staff that is focused on delivering thoughtful coordination throughout the planning process.

Nestled in Lorton’s rolling terrain, Laurel Hill Golf Club offers stunning views, a rich historical backdrop and a welcoming ambiance. The venue features a 9,400-square-foot clubhouse, including the Tower Grill restaurant and customizable event packages tailored to every couple’s needs. Its scenic landscapes provide picture-perfect settings for wedding photography. The event director guides families through every detail, taking pressure off parents and couples, while the culinary team delivers food that guests continue to rave about. Couples and guests consistently praise the venue’s exceptional service, clear communication and attention to detail.

Located in Clifton, Twin Lakes offers a charming and inviting setting for weddings and events. The venue features versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, along with flexible event packages to suit every celebration. The team is known for being calm, professional, and wonderful with children, creating an environment where guests can truly relax.

Brides & Weddings Magazine is Northern Virginia’s premier guide for engaged couples, offering planning advice and showcasing top wedding vendors. Winners of the Weddy Awards are selected by a panel of industry experts and are featured in the January 2026 issue of the magazine.

For more information about these venues visit the Golf Fairfax Weddings and Parties webpage.

Winter is the perfect time to reflect on your game and sharpen your skills for the upcoming season. Pinecrest Golf Course invites golfers to a one-hour, indoor clinic held in the Valis Family Learning Center on Feb. 14 or Feb. 15. Golfers will learn how to think their way around the course, make smarter decisions and manage risk to turn better choices into lower scores, all without changing their swing.

"Golf is 20% talent and 80% management," said professional golfer Ben Hogan. Poor club selection, overly aggressive shots or ignoring hazards can easily cost several strokes per round.

This clinic will teach how golf professionals approach the game to avoid costly mistakes and gain an edge on every hole. Students will also receive an electronic Course Strategy & Management instruction book to reinforce key concepts.

Clinic Details:

• Dates and Time: Feb. 14 or Feb. 15, from 4 to 5 p.m.
• Cost: $20 per golfer
• Limited to the first 20 golfers
• Location: Held indoors in the Valis Family Learning Center at Pinecrest Golf Course
• Register by contacting the Pinecrest Pro Shop at 703-941-1061

Pinecrest Golf Course is located at 6600 Little River Turnpike in Alexandria.

For more information about this and other Golf Fairfax events, please visit the Golf website.

Young children who attend Fairfax County Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools grow, learn and play, all while building school-readiness. The Park Authority hosts preschool programs at three locations:

• Franconia Rec Center, 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria
• Stone Mansion, 3900 Stoneybrooke Drive, Alexandria
• Spring Hill Rec Center, 1239 Spring Hill Road, McLean

Kids Play Preschools feature welcoming, safe environments that nurture the emotional, social and intellectual growth of young minds. Children enrolled enjoy outdoor play, circle time and educational activities guided by caring and dedicated educators. The Park Authority’s preschool staff are CPR- and First Aid-certified, complete required background checks and have prior experience working with children. Preschool programs range from two to five days a week.

Learn more about our Kids Play Preschools and prepare for the 2026-2027 school year by attending an upcoming open house event at both Franconia Rec Center and Spring Hill Rec Center. No appointment is necessary, just drop in between 9:30 a.m. and noon on Tuesday, Feb. 24, and Wednesday, Feb. 25.

Fairfax County Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools at Franconia Rec Center and Spring Hill Rec Center also offer extended care opportunities for enrolled students. The extended care offerings provide a chance for additional learning and creativity, as well as fun, structured activities and playtime. Both locations have limited spaces on a first-come, first-served basis. Those interested should contact their preschool to learn more and register.

Interested in starting the registration process? Fill out the Preschool Enrollment Inquiry form by visiting the Rec Centers’ Preschool webpage.