Can You Fish on Quantico Marine Base in 2024?

Quantico Marine Base, located in Virginia, offers a diverse array of fishing opportunities for anglers in 2024. The base boasts several large impoundments and ponds ranging from 5 to 16 acres, where anglers can pursue a variety of sport fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish.

Fishing Locations on Quantico Marine Base

Anglers have access to numerous fishing spots on Quantico Marine Base, including:

Breckenridge Reservoir
Joe Fox Fishing Pier
Buffalo Pond
Montford Point Pond
Cedar Run
Quantico Creek
Chopawamsic Creek
R-6 Pond
Chopawamsic Trout Waters
Secon Pool (youth fishing only)
Dalton Pond
Smith Lake
Gray’s Reservoir

The Potomac River and Quantico and Chopawamsic Creeks also provide access to tidal freshwater fishing for largemouth bass and migratory fish such as striped bass. Anglers should be aware that snakehead, an invasive species, can be found in nearly any tidal waterway and must be killed if in possession.

Fishing Regulations and Requirements

To fish on Quantico Marine Base in 2024, anglers must adhere to the following regulations and requirements:

Anglers age 16 and older must possess a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license.
All anglers must register for an account on the Quantico iSportsman website and check in/out using the online platform.
Electric boat motors are allowed on Smith Lake, Breckenridge Reservoir, and Buffalo Pond.
Fishing hours vary depending on the location, with tidal fishing areas open 24 hours a day and non-tidal areas open from sunrise to sunset.
Anglers must report their catch at the Game Check Station for deer, bear, and turkey, while waterfowl harvest is reported through the iSportsman system.

The Quantico iSportsman website provides detailed maps of fishing locations, real-time updates on area closures, and information on obtaining licenses and checking in/out. The Quantico Marina also offers boat rentals and outdoor gear rentals, making it easy for anglers to enjoy a day on the water.

Conservation Efforts and Volunteer Opportunities

Quantico Marine Base is committed to responsible stewardship of its natural resources, including its fisheries. The base’s Conservation Volunteer Program (CVP) provides opportunities for active duty and retired military members, as well as civilians, to get involved in various conservation projects.

CVP volunteers have contributed over 200,000 hours of service since 1986, helping with wildlife surveys, ecosystem research, construction of fishing access areas and boat docks, and more. Anglers interested in supporting conservation efforts can express their interest in joining the CVP by filling out an application on the Quantico iSportsman website.