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!

In recognition of Memorial Day, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families to enjoy complimentary access to select park amenities and activities on Monday, May 25.

This special day of recognition is a small way to say thank you for the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Complimentary admission includes:

• Rec Center access, including pools, fitness rooms, gyms/courts and drop-in fitness classes
• Camping at Lake Fairfax Park (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston)
• Wagon rides at Frying Pan Farm Park (2739 West Ox Road, Herndon) - only valid for service members

Guests must present valid military identification to receive complimentary access.

For more information, visit the Park Authority website, or call 703-324-8700. For ADA or inclusion accommodations, call 703-324-8563 or TTY Virginia Relay at 711.

The Memorial Day 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.

Summer fun starts right here in Fairfax County. The Fairfax County Park Authority invites families, friends and visitors of all ages to enjoy a summer filled with mini golf, carousel rides, train rides, boating and outdoor adventure.

Kick off the summer season on Memorial Day weekend with fun in Fairfax County parks. Spend the day getting out on the water, enjoying classic rides or discovering a new favorite park.

Find park hours, seasonal openings and operating schedules by visiting the Operational Hours website.

Mini Golf, Maximum Fun

Tee off at four mini golf locations for a fun outing the entire family will enjoy:

• Burke Lake Park (7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station)
• Lake Accotink Park (7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield)
• Oakmont (3136 Jermantown Road, Oakton)

Classic Carousel Rides

Whirl around with joy at our charming carousels at one of the Park Authority’s enchanting carousels at several park locations (weather permitting):

• Burke Lake Park (7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station)
• Clemyjontri Park (6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean)
• Franconia Family Recreation Area (6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria)
• Lake Accotink Park (7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield)

All Aboard the Mini Trains

Take a scenic ride through these parks, mini-train style (weekends, conditions permitting):

• Burke Lake Park mini passenger train (7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station)
• Clemyjontri Park mini train (6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean)

Paddle, Pedal or Cruise on the Water

Get out on the water by renting a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, pedal boat or other vessel at one of our marinas. Many locations also allow for personal boat launches. Please check each site’s rules and regulations online before your visit:

• Burke Lake Park (7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station)
• Lake Accotink Park (7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield)
• Lake Fairfax Park (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston)
• Riverbend Park (8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls)

In June, the Park Authority is inviting residents and visitors to get outside and explore the more than 300 miles of trails located throughout the county’s parks and natural areas. In celebration of National Trails Day—established by the National Hiking Society in 1993—on Saturday, June 6, the Park Authority will host trail-related programs and outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the month designed to encourage the community to connect with nature and experience the many benefits of local trails.

From hiking and biking to wildlife viewing and scenic walks, the Park Authority’s trail system offers opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration for all ages and experience levels. Throughout the month of June, community members are encouraged to discover a new favorite trail using the Park Authority’s Trail Buddy app, participate in outdoor programs and events, and experience the county’s diverse park system. More information can be found on the National Trails Day webpage.

As part of the celebration, the Park Authority will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a trail improvement project at Brookfield Park, located at 7417 Floyd Ave. in Springfield, on Saturday, June 6 at 1 p.m. The project created approximately 1,400 linear feet of new natural surface trail, enhancing accessibility, recreational opportunities, and connectivity for the surrounding community to the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail and Accotink Stream Valley Park. Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to take part in a guided trail bike ride led by Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts, offering an opportunity to experience the new trail firsthand and learn more about local biking opportunities.

National Trails Day serves as a reminder of the important role trails play in supporting recreation, wellness, environmental stewardship and community connection. Whether residents are looking for a peaceful nature walk, a family-friendly outing or an active outdoor adventure, the Park Authority’s extensive trail network provides countless ways to enjoy the outdoors close to home.

Residents who are unable to attend the June 6 event are still encouraged to celebrate by exploring a local trail or participating in another trails-related event throughout the month. Additional information about National Trails Day activities, programs and events is available on the Park Authority’s National Trails Day webpage.

View the National Trails Day flyer

The Fairfax County Park Authority has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy as a winner of the Better Project Award, which honors partners for outstanding accomplishments in implementing energy, water, and/or waste reduction projects at individual facilities. FCPA accepted the award on Tuesday, May 12 at the Better Buildings and Better Plants Summit.

The award recognizes FCPA’s innovative energy savings performance contract, or ESPC, at the Franconia Recreation Center, a comprehensive modernization project that has improved building performance, reduced operating costs and enhanced the visitor experience.

Through the ESPC, FCPA partnered with an energy service company to replace outdated systems and integrate advanced building controls into a single, coordinated solution. The project included upgrades to:

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
• Boilers
• Pool systems
• Advanced controls
• Building envelope improvements

These upgrades are delivering guaranteed annual energy savings of more than 360,000 kilowatt-hours, resulting in approximately 20% annual cost savings under a 20‑year ESPC. The project has also reduced maintenance needs, improved indoor air quality and increased the overall reliability of facility operations.

“This recognition from the Department of Energy underscores our commitment to sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and delivering high‑quality facilities for our community,” said FCPA Executive Director Jai Cole. “The Franconia Recreation Center project shows how thoughtful investment in energy efficiency can benefit both the environment and our taxpayers.”

By leveraging the ESPC model, FCPA was able to implement a major capital improvement project without upfront capital costs, paying for upgrades over time through the guaranteed energy savings. This approach aligns with Fairfax County’s broader goals for energy efficiency, greenhouse gas reduction and long-term operational resilience.

The DOE Better Project Award is part of the Better Buildings Initiative, through which DOE recognizes public and private sector partners that are demonstrating leadership in energy efficiency and sustainability at their facilities.

For more information about the Fairfax County Park Authority’s sustainability initiatives, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

From workouts to wellness, Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers provide everything you need to get in shape and ready to take on everything summer has to offer. Don’t miss the chance to get a 15% discount on annual membership when you purchase by May 31.

Annual membership provides access to all nine of the Park Authority’s Rec Centers located across Fairfax County. Enjoy their Fitness Centers, featuring cardio and weight training equipment, as well as drop-in group exercise classes such as cycle, yoga, Pilates, BODYPUMP and Zumba. Jump into a full body workout in the pool — get swimming or start water walking in lap lanes — available at all locations.

Members also can access the following amenities where available, including:

• Gyms and courts for sports activities.
• Discounts on drop-in childcare at Cub Run, Oakmont and Mount Vernon rec centers.
• Indoor tracks at Franconia, Spring Hill and Mount Vernon rec centers.
• Public ice skating and indoor rock climbing at Mount Vernon Rec Center.
• Indoor water park at Cub Run Rec Center.

Make a commitment to your health today. 

Purchase discounted membership

This summer, the sky above Lake Fairfax Park will come alive in a way Fairfax County has never seen before.

As part of Experience Fairfax 250, the Fairfax County Park Authority, in partnership with the Fairfax County 250th Commission and the Fairfax County Park Foundation, will debut its first-ever drone light show during the Lake Fairfax 250th Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27.

Instead of traditional fireworks, hundreds of synchronized drones will light up the night sky with music, motion and patriotic images that celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and Fairfax County’s role in our nation’s story.

Guests can spend the day enjoying everything Lake Fairfax has to offer, from trails, boating and camping to live music, food trucks, family activities and an unforgettable nighttime show.

This celebration brings together the best of Fairfax County — our history, our parks and our community," said Laura Grape, division director, resource management and interpretation division, Fairfax County Park Authority. "Thanks to our partnership with the Fairfax County 250th Commission and the Fairfax County Park Foundation families will experience a one-of-a-kind celebration as we honor America’s 250th anniversary."

"The 250th anniversary is a chance to reflect on where we’ve been, celebrate who we are and inspire the next generation," said Liz Maurer, chair of Fairfax250. "We’re proud to partner with the Park Authority and Park Foundation to bring this special celebration to Fairfax County."

Event highlights include:

• Fairfax County Park Authority’s first-ever drone light show.
• Live music from Reflex, Sonic Boom and School of Rock.
• Food trucks, drinks and family activities.
• Access to park amenities, including trails, fishing, picnicking and camping.
• Guests can also visit The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole. Admission is sold separately.

Event Details

Lake Fairfax 250th Independence Day Celebration

• When: Saturday, June 27, from noon to 10 p.m.
• Where: Lake Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston
• Rain date: Sunday, June 28

Parking (per vehicle):

• $20 online through June 26 at 11:59 p.m. Get your parking pass in advance.
• $25 at the gate
• Pedestrians and cyclists enter free

Guests are encouraged to arrive by 8 p.m. for the best access.

For more information, visit the Lake Fairfax 250th Independence Day Celebration webpage.

This event is brought to you by the Fairfax County 250th Commission and the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

About the Fairfax County 250th Commission

Established by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors in 2021, the Fairfax County 250th Commission leads countywide efforts to honor and commemorate America’s 250th anniversary. Through partnerships, public programs and community events, the Commission celebrates the people, places and stories that shaped Fairfax County and our nation. Learn more by visiting the Fairfax County 250th Commission webpage.

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 Park Foundation website or call 703-324-8582.

In recognition of Historic Preservation Month, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites community members to attend an open house event at the Hannah P. Clark/Enyedi House on Saturday, May 30. Resident curators will be on site to share about the history of the house and the rehabilitation and preservation work they have done.

The event will take place at the property at 10605 Furnace Road in Lorton from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Limited on-site parking will be available.

The Clark/Enyedi house is part of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Resident Curator Program. It was constructed by Hannah Potter Clark circa 1876 during Virginia’s Reconstruction Period after the Civil War and held by her family until 1931. During that time, Clark constructed and expanded the two-story, cross-gable vernacular farmhouse and even moved it across the street to accommodate realignment of the local railroad tracks. In 1986, artist Janos Enyedi and his wife purchased the property and built an art studio that still exists today.

The Resident Curator Program provides a unique opportunity for individuals, nonprofit and for-profit organizations to secure long-term lease agreements to live rent-free in historic properties located in beautiful public park settings. In return, curators agree to invest in the rehabilitation of these properties to ensure that the history of Fairfax County is preserved for future generations to experience.

For additional information visit the Resident Curator Program website. You may also contact Resident Curator Program manager Stephanie Langton at 703-324-8791 or stephanie.langton@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority invites community members to a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the reopening of the newly renovated Reston North Park Playground on Wednesday, June 3 at 5 p.m. The playground is located at 11760 Stevenage Road in Reston.

As part of the celebration, the Wonder Wagon, the Park Authority’s mobile nature center, will be on site offering guided, nature-based hands-on activities for families. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, explore the new playground and participate in the activities.

Beginning in October 2025, Reston North Park Playground underwent a full renovation to replace aging equipment and improve accessibility for all visitors. Originally installed in the 1980s and 1990s, the playground’s retaining walls, steps and equipment had reached the end of their lifecycle and no longer met current accessibility and safety standards. The renovation has transformed the site into a safer, more modern and inclusive play space designed for children, families and caregivers.

Key features of the renovated playground include:

• A single-level design that eliminates steps between play areas.
• Poured-in-place surfacing for improved safety and accessibility.
• Fully accessible routes from the parking lot to both the playground and the lower diamond field.
• Modern, universal play equipment with sensory-rich experiences and activities for multiple age groups.
• Updated site features, including stormwater management and new steps to the lower diamond field.

For more information about Reston North Park Playground or the ribbon-cutting event, please contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.