October stirs lots of fishing interest especially with those anglers who are familiar with the Upper Tidal Rappahannock. Catfish action for “whiskerfish” anglers is available in all sizes especially the channel and blue cats. Both offer a wide variety of fun for all ages but pursuit of the big, lunker blue catfish which the “Rapp” is famous for often draws the most attention. Port Royal Landing on the Caroline County side of the Rappahannock offers a strategic and convenient location for anglers who want to fish the section of the river from below the Route 301 Bridge to several miles upriver. Not only is this beautiful stretch of water a popular area for catfish anglers, as bass fishermen also launch from Port Royal Landing to fish the many structures, tributaries and drop-offs which harbor high quality bass territory. Port Royal Landing’s next Catfish Tournament is on Saturday, October 5, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The entry fee is $50 per boat with an optional lunker pot cost of $10 per angler. First, 2nd and 3rd place cash prizes will be awarded for the heaviest three fish. The lunker pot categories include biggest overall fish, biggest fish caught by a woman angler and the biggest fish caught by a youth angler. Additional merchandise prizes are planned for up the 10th place. Port Royal Landing is easy to get to and located right next to the Southbound side of Route 301 Bridge, between King George and 

     October is a busy month for anglers across the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The Virginia fall, 2002 striped bass season opens on October 4. Stay informed for changes in fishing season date and times by visiting the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) website at www.state.va.us/mrc/homepage.htm The VMRC can also be reached by phone at (757) 247-2200. Information on Maryland fishing regulations is available by calling 1-800-688-3467 or visiting their website at www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries . Fishing regulation information on Potomac River waters within the jurisdiction of the Potomac River Fisheries Commission (PRFC) is available by calling 1-800-266-3904. 

© 2002 Steve & Chelly Scala All Rights Reserved.