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 Board voted to approve a Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program grant totaling $10,084.47 on Dec. 10, to support improvements at the Westgrove Park off-leash dog area. The total estimated cost for this improvement project is $20,168.94.

The Westgrove Pumphouse Association for Canine Kindness (Westgrove P.A.C.K.) sought to enhance the off-leash dog area at Westgrove Park through the installation of ADA compliant engineered wood fiber surfacing and the addition of accessible picnic tables. Since its establishment as an interim-use off-leash dog area in 2012 and designation as a permanent use in the Westgrove Park Master Plan approved in 2013, the dog park has experienced heavy use, resulting in surfacing challenges.

The project will install engineered wood fiber surfacing at the north end of the dog park, providing improved accessibility, maintainability and aesthetics compared to existing conditions. Engineered wood fiber also supports the Park Authority’s goals for universal accessibility, unlike grass or bare soil, which has been unable to withstand high levels of use. In addition, the project includes the installation of two accessible picnic tables, enhancing comfort and usability for park visitors.

The total project cost of $20,168.94 will be shared equally between Westgrove P.A.C.K. and the Park Authority through the Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program. The project will be managed by staff from the Park Operations and Development Divisions, with maintenance and repair responsibilities provided by Westgrove P.A.C.K., as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Park Authority and the organization. Project completion is anticipated by spring 2026.

Westgrove Park is located at 6801 Fort Hunt Road in Alexandria in the Mount Vernon District.

The Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program encourages public-private partnerships that improve Fairfax County parks and park facilities. Since 1999, the program has awarded approximately $2.2 million in grants for projects valued at more than $16.6 million. Grants ranging from a few hundred dollars to the maximum of $20,000 have funded projects such as trail improvements, construction of gazebos and shelters and park and athletic field enhancements.

For more information or to apply for a matching grant, visit the Mastenbrook Grants website, or call 703-324-8740. Applications are available on the Mastenbrook Grants website.

Commit to your wellness in the New Year by becoming an annual member of Fairfax County Park Authority’s Rec Centers. Purchase membership during January to secure a 15% discount on the membership rate. Explore the amazing amenities that the Park Authority’s nine Rec Centers offer during the Open House event on Sunday, Jan. 4.

Everyone is invited to visit and try out any Park Authority Rec Center on Jan. 4 with the signup for a free, 7-day trial membership or the purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass. Discover your neighborhood Rec Center and see how it can help you meet your fitness goals. Tour the building, try out amenities, use equipment in the Fitness Center, swim a lap in the pool and more.

Enjoy special programming between 2 and 5 p.m., such as a membership information table, fitness demonstrations and other special activities. Find your nearest Rec Center and explore the Open House lineup below:

• Audrey Moore Rec Center Open House
• Cub Run Rec Center Open House
• Franconia Rec Center Open House
• George Washington Rec Center Open House
• Mount Vernon Rec Center Open House
• Oakmont Rec Center Open House
• Providence Rec Center Open House
• South Run Rec Center Open House
• Spring Hill Rec Center Open House

Annual membership provides access to any of our nine Rec Centers, each with their own amenities. Enjoy flexible membership options with no initiation fees. Join today to access:*

• Pools, spas and saunas 
• Fitness centers (free orientations)
• Virtual and drop-in fitness classes
• Indoor tracks and athletic courts
• Drop-in pickleball and basketball games 
• Public ice skating and climbing wall sessions
• Discounts on drop-in child care

*Space permitting, amenities vary by location.

Purchase in-person at Rec Centers or by visiting the Rec Center passes webpage. Learn more by visiting the Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers website.

Families, friends and neighbors are invited to Lake Accotink Park on Saturday, Dec. 20 at noon for the beloved holiday tradition when Santa Comes to Lake Accotink Park. This community favorite offers a lively outdoor experience for all ages, featuring holiday activities, photo opportunities, and seasonal fun!

Attendees can enjoy a variety of cheerful holiday touches, including:

Holiday photo opportunities with Santa starting at noon.

• A festive backdrop for family pictures.
• Pet-friendly fun - leashed dogs are welcome.
• Seasonal treats and activities for children and families.
• Volunteer support provided by the Friends of Lake Accotink Park.

For more information or to register, visit the Friends of Lake Accotink Park webpage.

Lake Accotink Park is located at 7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield. For more information about the park, visit the Lake Accotink Park website or call 703-569-3464.

With the winter holidays approaching, and the potential for inclement weather in the Washington metropolitan area, residents may be wondering how to stay informed about what’s open, what’s closed, and when schedule changes occur. The Fairfax County Park Authority offers several easy ways to stay up to date on holiday hours and weather-related closures.

Park Authority Website

The most up-to-date information on closures and cancellations is posted on the Park Alerts website.

This page can also be accessed via the alert bar at the top of any Fairfax County Park Authority webpage.

Holiday hours for parks, facilities and amenities are listed on the Holiday Hours website.

Contact Individual Park Sites

For the most current information about specific parks, programs or facilities, visitors are encouraged to contact the site directly. Please note that when registered programs or classes are canceled, participants will receive an email notification directly from staff.

For additional information, please contact 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 by visiting the Park Authority website.

Competition heats up this winter at Pinecrest Golf Course, where golfers can take on world-class courses from the comfort of the Trackman indoor studio. Back for its second year, the Indoor Trackman League invites players to compete on the Trackman4 golf simulator inside Pinecrest’s dedicated simulator suite. The league will run from Jan. 5 to March 29, 2026. Online registration is due Wednesday, Dec. 31.

The league will feature four nine-hole rounds on these internationally acclaimed courses: Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland; Le Golf National in France; Real Club Valderrama in Spain; and Royal County Down in the U.K. Golfers will have three weeks to complete each round and may attempt each course up to four times. Only the best score from each course will count toward league standings. Awards will be presented to overall winners and closest-to-the-pin. There will be designated tees for men, women and juniors.

"Pinecrest’s Indoor Trackman League keeps golfers in the game when winter limits outdoor play," said Michael Mauk, program director at Pinecrest Golf Course. "Players can challenge themselves, improve their performance and experience some of the world’s most iconic courses without leaving Northern Virginia."

Registration is $40, with discounted Trackman fees of $25 for the first hour and $20 for additional hours applied to league rounds. To participate, golfers must create a Trackman account and handicap.

Pinecrest Golf Course is located at 6600 Little River Turnpike in Alexandria. For more information or to register, visit the Trackman League’s webpage.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the appointment of Nigel A. Fields to the position of deputy director for Planning and Development. Fields is a leader in conservation, park development and programming, and land use planning and management. He began his new role on Dec. 1 and succeeds Aimee Vosper, who is retiring from the Park Authority on Dec. 26 after 12 years of service.

"Nigel brings an impressive record of implementing visionary change in diverse parks and directing community renewal and partnership initiatives to his new role," Fairfax County Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole said. "We are excited to welcome him and his passion for environmental issues, cultural heritage, and community engagement to the Park Authority."

During his distinguished career, Fields has held senior positions at the National Park Service and the Environmental Protection Agency and served parks from the Great Smoky Mountains to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Most recently, he served as director of the EPA’s Office of Community Revitalization, where he directed land use, disaster resilience, and community-based climate justice programs.

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 by visiting the Park Authority website.

When the weather turns chilly, Fairfax County Park Authority provides many ways to stay active and entertained during the winter season — bring your family and friends out to our seasonal events, coordinate attendance at our winter camps and register for classes together.

Still Time for Seasonal Events

Embrace the magic of the season by attending events where kids can meet Santa, all ages can get festive indoors or outdoors, and the whole family can take on activities that bring the season to life. Explore a comprehensive list of events and their details on the Park Events Calendar website.

Don’t forget the start the year off on the right foot with First Hike — head out into our parks for a hike and submit your photos for our contest. Visit the First Hike Fairfax website for more information.

Stay Cool at Winter Camp

When schools close, winter camps are in session. There’s no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy at camp this season from hitting the stage or creating an artistic masterpiece to enjoying the outdoors or learning a new sport to exploring the world of STEM or building a new business. Mark your calendars:

• Dec. 22-26 (no camp Dec. 24-25)
• Dec. 29-Jan. 2 (no camp Jan. 1)
• Jan. 19
• Jan. 29-30
• Feb. 16-17

Check out everything our winter camps have to offer by visiting the Camps website. 

Move, Learn and Discover with Classes

Take some time for yourself this winter by registering for classes. The Park Authority offers classes for every age and every interest:

• Build skating skills on the ice.
• Create with arts and crafts.
• Dance your way into the new year.
• Achieve your goals with a sport.
• Elevate your fitness.
• Explore nature.
• Choose your own adventure with extras.
• Learn lifesaving swim skills.

Browse the full lineup of classes and ways to stay active with Parktakes online.

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 by visiting the Park Authority website.

The Turner Farmhouse Foundation invites the community to its annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the historic Turner Farmhouse in Great Falls. The event is free, open to the public and includes onsite parking. Guests are encouraged to RSVP online; tickets are provided at no cost.

The Turner Farmhouse Foundation serves as the resident curator for the farmhouse and its outbuildings through the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Resident Curator Program. In partnership with organizations, such as the Becky Love Foundation and Comfort Zone Camps, the Foundation uses the outbuildings to operate a retreat center and host bereavement programs.

Built in 1905, the Turner Farmhouse is a 3,216-square-foot Queen Anne style home located at 10609 Georgetown Pike within a 52-acre community park at the intersection of Georgetown Pike and Springvale Road. The former Mark Turner Dairy Farm is a rare surviving example of early 20th century agricultural life in the Great Falls area. Many original architectural details, including hardwood floors, fireplaces and a formal parlor, remain intact. Several historic outbuildings further reflect the site’s rural heritage.

The Resident Curator Program offers long-term, no-rent leases to individuals and organizations committed to rehabilitating and maintaining significant historic properties on public parkland. In exchange, curators ensure reasonable public access to these sites, including hosting an annual open house.

For more information about the Resident Curator Program, visit the Fairfax County Park Authority Resident Curator Program website or contact Program Manager Stephanie Langton at 571-407-6586.

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 by visiting the Park Authority website.