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 proudly celebrated the soft reopening of the Mount Vernon Rec Center on Monday morning, June 9, with a vibrant welcome from the community and local leaders. Located at 2017 Belle View Blvd. in Alexandria, the renovated recreation facility opened its doors at 7 a.m., with eager community members lining up early to be among the first to step inside and explore the brand-new center.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck, Mount Vernon District Representative to the Park Authority Board Linwood Gorham, Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services Director Christopher Herrington, as well as members of the FCPA leadership team, Mount Vernon Rec Center project team, and dedicated facility staff.

The newly expanded Rec Center now features a stunning two-story fitness center, a second NHL-sized ice rink, a climbing wall and updated group fitness spaces. To accommodate ongoing renovations, the reopening is being staged in phases, beginning this week with access to the Fitness Center and ice rinks.

Additional features, including summer camps, Parktakes classes, and drop-in group fitness classes, will be available on Monday, June 16. Drop-in child care and the new two-story climbing wall will open later this month. The pool, natatorium, spa and sauna are still under renovation and are expected to open later this summer.

Mount Vernon Rec Center is truly a space where community, wellness, and opportunity intersect. "This is more than just a building, it’s a cornerstone of this community," Cole said. "It’s a place where people of all ages come together to connect, grow and support one another in reaching their health and wellness goals. We are so proud to bring this revitalized space back to the Mount Vernon community."

The upgraded Fitness Center includes a wide range of equipment, from stair climbers and recumbent bikes to Pilates reformers and free weights. Group fitness classes will soon begin in four new studio classrooms, offering yoga, Pilates, tai chi, Zumba and more.

The ice arena continues its legacy of cultivating skating excellence with two full-size rinks, enhanced support facilities, and public programs including open skate, training and private events.

Modified hours will remain in effect until July 6:

• Monday–Friday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Saturday: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sunday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Full operating hours will resume on Monday, July 7.

Memberships are now available at a special in-person discount for new members. Visitors are encouraged to stop by to explore their options and discover all that the revitalized Rec Center has to offer.

For more information about programs, reopening phases, and upcoming events, please visit the Mount Vernon Rec Center website or contact FCPARECenters@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin construction on the next phase of improvements to the Long Branch Stream Valley Trail, enhancing one of the county’s most popular recreational corridors. Work is expected to begin in late June or early July 2025.

This project focuses on improving the trail segment between Woodland Way and Wakefield Chapel Road, following the successful completion of Phase 1 in 2021, which upgraded the trail from Olley Lane to Woodland Way. Phase 2 will include paving the existing gravel trail and installing new stormwater culverts to support long-term durability and environmental management.

Tibbs Paving, the contractor for the project, will be mobilizing on site in early summer. Active construction is expected to continue through July, with completion anticipated by the end of summer 2025, weather permitting.

Residents and park users may experience occasional construction traffic entering and exiting the area via Woodland Way and Wakefield Chapel Road. All construction activity will comply with the Fairfax County Noise Ordinance, which permits work from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, with potential work on weekends and holidays between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., as needed.

The project aims to replace approximately 5,500 linear feet of trail with new asphalt and concrete surfaces, as well as upgrade failed stormwater pipes. These improvements will enhance trail accessibility, safety, and usability for pedestrians and cyclists.

Funding for this phase of the project will be provided by the 2020 Park Bond. The Fairfax County Park Authority appreciates the community’s continued support and patience as it works to enhance park infrastructure across the county.

For more information, visit the Long Branch Stream Valley webpage. Questions about this project can be directed to the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Kick off your Independence Day celebrations with fireworks, food and family fun at Lake Fairfax Park on Saturday, June 28. The Fairfax County Park Authority invites residents and visitors to enjoy a full day of festivities capped off by a spectacular fireworks show at one of the county’s most beloved parks.

The celebration begins at noon, giving guests plenty of time to explore the park and grab a spot before the fireworks light up the night sky. Arrive early to enjoy a full lineup of live entertainment, food trucks and activities for all ages.

Fireworks will begin shortly after 9 p.m. Food trucks are available from noon to 9 p.m. There will be live performances throughout the day. The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and requires separate admission. 

Purchase Water Mine Tickets

All picnic areas are first-come, first-served, and visitors are encouraged to arrive by 8 p.m. to secure a good viewing spot. The park will close to new arrivals at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Parking is $20 per vehicle when you purchase in advance; it will be $25 per vehicle at the gate on the day of the event. Parking fees begin at 10 a.m. Bicyclists and pedestrians enter free. 

Purchase Event Parking

Lake Fairfax Park is located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston. For more information, visit the Lake Fairfax Park website or call 703-471-5415.

For questions, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-8700. 

The Fourth of July fireworks show 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.

Get ready to run, jog or stroll your way through summer at the Summer Sprint in the Park, a family-friendly 5K and 1-mile fun run on Saturday, June 28, at Lake Fairfax Park, located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston.

The race begins at 9 a.m., with packet pickup from 7:45 to 8:45 a.m. This all-ages event is perfect for seasoned runners and first-time participants alike, offering a scenic course that winds through grass, trails and paved roads.

Registration is just $5 per runner or $10 per family, making it an affordable way for the whole family to get active outdoors. The top three male and female finishers in the 5K will receive prizes. All runners will be treated to water and post-race refreshments.

The Summer Sprint is co-sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Fairfax County Park Foundation and Reston Runners. It supports community wellness and recreational access across the county.

Spots are limited, so sign up today and join us for a morning of fitness, fun and fresh air!

Register for Summer Sprint in the Park

View the Summer Sprint in the Park flyer

As the summer season heats up, the Fairfax County Park Authority reminds visitors to Scott’s Run Nature Preserve to enjoy the area responsibly and follow all park regulations to protect the environment, ensure public safety and preserve this natural space for everyone.

Scott’s Run, located in McLean, is a popular hiking and nature destination that attracts thousands of visitors each summer. Due to its ecological sensitivity and limited capacity, it’s essential that all park users remain mindful of the preserve’s rules.

Park Rules and Safety Reminders

• No picnics or coolers are allowed in the park. This includes grills, alcohol, and glass containers. Bags will be checked at trailheads, and enforcement will be increased near the waterfall area. For designated picnic areas, visit the Picnic website.
• Swimming, wading and boating are strictly prohibited. Scott’s Run creek is adjacent to a large sewage pipe. Fast-moving currents, slippery rocks and rising water levels create hazardous conditions. In addition, entering the water disrupts fragile habitats. For safe water recreation, consider visiting one of our spray grounds or water parks.
• Parking is only permitted in the designated lot. Parking is limited to 50 vehicles, and towing will be enforced for cars parked along roadways or in nearby neighborhoods.
• All dogs must be leashed at all times. For off-leash options, check out one of Fairfax County’s many dog parks.
• The park closes at dark.
• All park rules are enforced by security staff.

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is located at 7400 Georgetown Pike, McLean. For more details, visit the Scott’s Run Nature Preserve website or call 703-759-9018. 

The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the launch of the Golf Fairfax App, a new mobile tool designed to make your time on the course even better. Now available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play, this innovative app powered by Gallus Golf brings convenient access to a suite of golfer-focused features to your fingertips.

Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just getting into the swing of things, the Golf Fairfax App is your ultimate on-course companion. With just a few taps, you can:

• Book tee times quickly and easily
• Access GPS-enabled course maps and driving range GPS
• Keep score with an interactive digital scorecard
• Get instant alerts through Noteefy, our tee time waitlist assistant
• Stay linked in with Golf Fairfax news, upcoming tournaments, events and exclusive offers

"The Golf Fairfax app is all about enhancing the player experience," Division Director Ryan Carmen said. "From booking tee times to staying connected with our courses, this tool makes it easier than ever for golfers to focus on what they enjoy most, playing the game."

This new app reflects the Park Authority’s continued commitment to embracing smart technology and meeting the expectations of today’s golfers by offering greater convenience, real-time updates and seamless access to quality golf experiences across the county.

Ready to download? Visit the Golf Fairfax website to get started and access direct links and QR codes for both app stores.

Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to welcome the community back to Mount Vernon Rec Center, located at 2017 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria, on Monday, June 9 at 7 a.m. The much anticipated reopening of this recreational hub brings many new amenities to the neighborhood, from its two-story Fitness Center to the addition of a second ice rink to the indoor arena and a climbing wall.

Providing use of this community resource as soon as possible, the Park Authority announces a staggered opening that starts with access to the Fitness Center and ice rinks. Summer camps, Parktakes classes and drop-in group fitness classes start on Monday, June 16. Drop-in child care and the climbing wall will begin operating at the Rec Center later in June. Currently the pool, natatorium, spa and sauna are closed while renovations are completed. These amenities are scheduled to open later this summer.

The upgraded and expanded Fitness Center features various types of cardio and strength equipment — from recumbent bikes and stair climbers to Pilates reformers to strength equipment and free weights. A variety of low- and high-impact drop-in group fitness classes (yoga, Pilates, tai chi, Zumba, Les Mills Bodypump) for all ages and levels will be hosted in four new studio classrooms.

The Rec Center’s new ice arena upholds the legacy of creating today’s and tomorrow’s hockey and skating champions. The arena features two National Hockey League-sized ice rinks, a skate rental area, skate sharpening services, team locker rooms and party rooms with skate-friendly flooring for events. Enjoy public skate sessions, sign up for skating classes and train and compete again here at Mount Vernon.

As the Mount Vernon Rec Center staff continues to work toward reopening at full capacity, the facility will operate under modified hours until July 6:

• Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Sunday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Rec center hours will expand to normal rec center hours starting Monday, July 7.

It is easy to gain access to the new and improved facility with membership. New members are eligible for a discounted rate with an in-person purchase. Not sure if membership is right for you? Come by the Rec Center to discover all the admission options and explore everything the center has to offer.

Mount Vernon Rec Center provides many opportunities to conveniently gather, renew health and wellness goals, and maintain the rich community connections for which the Mount Vernon neighborhood is known. Have additional questions? Please contact us at FCPARECenters@fairfaxcounty.gov.

For the latest details about the facility and the grand reopening in late summer, visit the Mount Vernon Rec Center website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to honor Juneteenth through a series of engaging events at multiple park locations, highlighting African American history, resilience and cultural contributions.

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated remembrance of the end of slavery in the United States. Observed each year on June 19, it commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

In Fairfax County, the Park Authority recognizes Juneteenth by sharing stories of the African American men, women and children who shaped the region’s history through their labor, leadership, creativity and community.

Featured Events

Juneteenth Celebration at Sully Historic Site

Sully Historic Site, Thursday, June 19

Celebrate African American history through guided interpretive tours of original outbuildings and the first floor of the main house. Experience storytelling, music, children’s activities, quilt exhibits, touchable artifacts, interpretive displays, and a free health clinic. Food trucks will be available and picnic tables provided. Free admission.

Exploring Our Historic Meeting House and Grounds

Frying Pan Farm Park, Saturday, June 21

Explore the rich history of Frying Pan’s Meeting House, one of the oldest religious structures in Fairfax County. Staff and volunteers will offer informal tours of the building and grounds, highlighting the history of African Americans in the area. Free admission.

These events are part of the Park Authority’s ongoing commitment to telling inclusive stories and creating space for dialogue, learning and community connection.

For details and registration information, visit the Juneteenth website.