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 Rosario Bombaugh has been named a recipient of the 2025 Sharon Bulova Award for Exemplary Administrative Professionals. This distinguished honor recognizes Bombaugh’s outstanding leadership, initiative, and commitment to excellence in public service.

Bombaugh, a veteran of the Park Authority, has nearly two decades of exemplary service. Starting as a seasonal employee in 2006, she now serves as an Administrative Assistant III in the Park Services Division, ensuring daily administrative tasks and special projects, such as Earth Day celebrations, the Trailblazer Awards, and the annual Administrative Conference, are accomplished. Bombaugh’s dedication, tenacity and infectious sense of humor make her a favorite among staff and the public she proudly serves.

With a highly competitive field of nominees across the county’s 1,500 administrative staff members, Bombaugh’s achievement is a testament to her dedication and invaluable contributions to the Park Authority and the greater Fairfax County community.

Bombaugh was formally recognized at the 2025 ART Conference on Friday, April 25, during the opening ceremony. In addition to receiving a monetary award of $300, her name will be engraved on the Sharon Bulova Award plaque displayed at the Government Center.

The award is named in honor of Sharon Bulova, who dedicated more than 30 years to serving the Fairfax County community, including a decade as Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. Beginning her career as an aide to the board, Bulova became known for her collaborative leadership and deep commitment to public service. She championed initiatives that strengthened county services and elevated the vital contributions of administrative professionals. Her legacy continues to inspire excellence, leadership and dedication across all levels of service.

Please join us in congratulating Bombaugh on this well-deserved recognition.

For more information, contact the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Join the Fairfax County Park Authority and Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik for a morning of free outdoor fun on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to noon at Ruckstuhl Park, located at 7545 Idylwood Drive in Falls Church.

The festivities will feature the Wonder Wagon, the Park Authority’s Mobile Nature Center, with engaging activities, games, and hands-on experiences for all ages. The event will also commemorate the official ribbon-cutting for the park’s new playground. Bring your family, friends and neighbors to celebrate this exciting new addition and explore the natural beauty of your local park.

Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, celebrate your community, and enjoy a fun-filled morning!

For questions about this event, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Find your path to health and wellness at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers. Become an annual member and score a 15% discount when you purchase during May. Explore your neighborhood Rec Center for free and connect with other community members during the Open House event on Thursday, May 22.

Rec Center members gain access to a variety of tools that help them meet their health goals — from Olympic-size pools to Fitness Centers to exercise classes to sports activities, such as basketball, pickleball and racquetball. Join now to swim laps, use free weights and strength-building equipment, jump on cardio machines, join drop-in group fitness classes (either virtual or in-person), and enjoy spas and saunas. Membership provides access to any Park Authority Rec Center, as well as discounted rates on drop-in child care where available. Get 15% off annual membership when you purchase in May. Purchase at Rec Centers or at the Rec Center passes webpage.

See everything that Rec Centers have to offer during the Rec Center Open House on Thursday, May 22. Drop by anytime all day to explore your local Rec Center for free — tour the building, explore amenities, workout in the Fitness Center and take a lap in the pool. Visit from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. for fun activities such as sample exercise classes, giveaways, games, crafts and popcorn. Learn more by visiting the Rec Center website.

For additional information, please contact FCPARECenters@fairfaxcounty.gov.

View Rec Center Membership Sale flyer

Huntley Meadows Park is turning 50 years old. The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to celebrate five decades of wetland conservation, wildlife habitat and outdoor discovery at one of Fairfax County’s most beloved parks. This milestone also marks the 200th anniversary of nearby Historic Huntley, adding even more reasons to celebrate this spring.

50th Anniversary Celebration and Wetlands Awareness Day

Sunday, May 4, 2025, noon to 4 p.m. at Huntley Meadows Park

Step into nature and celebrate the magic of wetlands.

• Noon: Activities begin with live animal encounters, hands-on exhibits and wetland exploration.
• 1 p.m.: Join the festive anniversary celebration, featuring cake, commemorative activities and family-friendly fun.
• Admission is free, and shuttle service will be available from nearby parking areas for visitor convenience.

Join the celebration May 4. Find event and shuttle details at the celebration’s webpage.

More Ways to Celebrate Huntley’s Legacy

In addition to the main event, there are more ways to honor Huntley Meadows Park’s 50th anniversary and Historic Huntley’s 200th anniversary:

• Special exhibit: "Huntley Meadows at Fifty" — A photographic retrospective of the park’s transformation, on display at the Norma Hoffman Visitor Center from March 8 to June 1.
• Family Hilltop Outing: Celebrate 200 years of Historic Huntley with a special guided tour and family activities on Saturday, May 17, at 4:30 p.m.
• Anniversary merchandise: Limited-edition commemorative items available at the Huntley Meadows gift shop.

About Huntley Meadows Park and Historic Huntley

Huntley Meadows Park, Fairfax County’s largest natural area, preserves critical wetland, meadow and forest habitats, providing a refuge for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for visitors. Huntley Meadows Park is located 3701 Lockheed Blvd. in Alexandria. For more information, visit the Huntley Meadows Park website or call 703-768-2525. 

Historic Huntley, built in 1825 by Thomson Mason, offers a glimpse into the region’s early 19th-century history and architecture overlooking the park’s landscape. Historic Huntley is located 6918 Harrison Lane in Alexandria. For more information, visit the Historic Huntley website or call 703-768-2525.

With an award-winning system of 420 parks, the Fairfax County Park Authority relies on thousands of volunteers to support its programs and initiatives. It would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to operate this nationally recognized park system without their dedicated service.

The Park Authority is now accepting nominations for the annual Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Program, recognizing the outstanding contributions of volunteers. Online nominations are open for the following awards:

• Elly Doyle Park Service Award & Youth/Student Award – These awards honor Ellamae "Elly" Doyle’s many years of service and accomplishments as a member and chairman of the Park Authority Board. During her tenure, Fairfax County’s park system expanded significantly, adding open space, new recreational facilities, and fostered a strong commitment to preserving local natural and cultural resources. This award recognizes a volunteer or group of volunteers for their outstanding contributions to Fairfax County parks.
• The Harold L. Strickland Partnership and Collaboration Award – Recognizes outstanding teamwork and cooperation in providing state-of-the-art facilities in Fairfax County parks, honoring the service and contributions of retired Park Board member Harold L. Strickland.
• The Mayo Stuntz Cultural Stewardship Award – Honors historian, volunteer and acclaimed author Mayo S. Stuntz by recognizing exceptional contributions to FCPA cultural preservation efforts.
• The Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award – Recognizes individuals who exemplify the spirit of Sally B. Ormsby’s dedication to environmental stewardship and education about local natural resources.
• The Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Award – Recognizes significant, tangible contributions made by individuals, organizations or businesses that enhance diversity systemwide and foster a culture of inclusion within parks and the surrounding community.

Nominations are due by Friday, May 16. The nomination form is available on the awards nomination webpage. Nominations in all categories may be submitted by the general public, including Park Authority employees and volunteers.

Award recipients will be honored later this fall. For additional details, visit the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards webpage.

For more information or alternative formats of the application, please contact the Public Information Office via Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The wait is over—Fairfax County Farmers Markets are back open for business! Hosted by the Fairfax County Park Authority, these beloved markets connect residents with local farms and food producers across ten locations countywide.

Each market offers a vibrant selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh baked goods, specialty foods and more. Markets also feature seasonal events, cooking demos, kids’ activities and live music—making it easy and fun to shop local and eat fresh.

Check out the full schedule below and plan you next market visit.

WEDNESDAYS

McCutcheon/Mount Vernon

April 16-Nov. 26, 8 a.m. - noon

Sherwood Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane

Oakmont

May 7-Oct. 29, 8 a.m.-noon

Oakmont Recreation Center, 3200 Jermantown Road

Wakefield

May 7-Oct. 29, 2-6 p.m.

Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road

THURSDAYS

Annandale

May 1 -Oct. 30, 8 a.m. - noon  

Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike

Herndon

May 1 -Oct. 30, 8 a.m. - noon  

Old Town Herndon, 700 Block of Lynn Street by the Red Caboose

FRIDAYS

McLean

May 2-Oct. 31, 8 a.m.-noon

Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Road

Kingstowne

May 2-Oct. 24, 3-7 p.m.

In the Giant parking lot, 5870 Kingstowne Towne Center

SATURDAYS

Burke

Apr. 19-Nov. 22, 8 a.m.-noon

VRE parking Lot, 5671 Roberts Parkway

Reston

Apr. 26-Nov. 22, 8 a.m.-noon

Lake Anne Village Center, 1609-A Washington Plaza

SUNDAYS

Lorton

May 4-Nov. 23, 8 a.m.-noon

VRE parking lot, 8990 Lorton Station Blvd.

Please visit the Farmers Market website for a complete list of market times and locations. If you have any questions, please contact the Community Horticulture Office at 703-642-0128.

Ever wonder what you’re missing when the lights stay on? This International Dark Sky Week, April 21–28, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites you to reconnect with the wonder of the night—and learn how to protect it.

Light pollution doesn’t just dim our view of the stars. It also disrupts wildlife, impacts our health and wastes energy. But small changes at home can make a big difference for our skies. Join the movement and be a night-sky hero!

Here are a few ways you can take action:

• Learn the glow-down. Brush up on outdoor lighting standards in Fairfax County.
• Flip the switch for flight. Dim your lights to help migrating birds navigate safely.
• Make your mark. Share your dark sky-friendly actions and inspire others to do the same.
• Bring the stars back. Discover simple changes to reduce light pollution at home.
• Earn a patch. Sign up for a Dark Sky Scouting class and earn the Girl Scouts Dark Sky Patch.

It’s time to take back the night—one porch light at a time. Explore how you can make a difference by visiting the Dark Skies website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is thrilled to announce a lively and enriching celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at Mason District Park on Saturday, May 10, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event promises to be a day of culture, community and fun, with activities and entertainment for all ages.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of AAPI cultures through a dynamic lineup of performances, workshops and interactive experiences. From traditional dance and music to contemporary arts and crafts, this event showcases the vibrant diversity and contributions of the AAPI community.

Event Highlights:

• Cultural Performances: Enjoy captivating dance and music performances from local AAPI artists, bringing traditional and modern expressions to life on stage.
• Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops, including calligraphy, origami and martial arts demonstrations, perfect for all ages.
• Culinary Delights: Savor delicious AAPI cuisine with food vendors offering a variety of authentic dishes and treats.
• Art Exhibits: Explore stunning art displays featuring works by AAPI artists, celebrating heritage and creativity.
• Children’s Activities: Kids can enjoy face painting, storytelling sessions and engaging crafts designed to teach and entertain.

Mason District Park is located at 6621 Columbia Pike in Annandale Admission is free, and all are welcome to join in the festivities. Parking is available on site.

For more information about the AAPI Heritage Celebration, please visit the AAPI Heritage Festival webpage.

The Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage is presented by the Asian Community Center in partnership with the Fairfax County Park Authority and 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 Park Foundation website or call them at 703-324-8582.