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Motts Run Reservoir

Motts Run is a city of Fredericksburg water supply reservoir located in Spotsylvania County. It is a steep-sided, 160-acre lake that is normally quiet and receives light fishing pressure. The shoreline is undeveloped, making it one of the more scenic lakes in Northern Virginia.

Maps & Directions

In Fredericksburg, from I-95 Exit 130-B west, continue on Route 3 (Plank Road) approximately 0.5 mile; turn right on Route 639 (Bragg Road) and go about one mile to River Road. Turn left on Route 618 (River Road), go about 2.5 miles along the river past a canoe outfitter and up a steep hill. Watch for the entrance to the concession on the left just past the crest of the hill.
Map

Fishing

Bass

present

Catfish

present

Trout

no

Panfish

present

Anglers traveling to Motts Run will find bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, northern pike, and white perch. The current state record northern pike weighed 31 lbs. 4 oz. came out of Motts Run. Motts has an excellent white perch population, with fish up to a pound not uncommon. Anglers should fish for white perch in early spring, using bloodworms. Motts Run can be a difficult lake to fish. It was scraped clean of structure when formed and is steep-sided and deep. Anglers have to search out the underwater islands and beaver lodges.

Biologist Reports

Regulations

Bass

  • The 12-inch minimum size limit was recently removed for bass harvest to allow anglers to remove stockpiled 10-12″ fish
  • Electric motors only are allowed
  • Daily or seasonal permits are required and available from the concession

Channel Catfish

  • 15 inch minimum, anglers can harvest 8 a day

Facilities, Amenities, and Nearby Attractions

Nearby Attractions

Facilities

  • Fee
  • Parking
  • Handicap-Accessible
  • Food Concession
  • Picnic Tables
  • Grills
  • Restrooms

Amenities

  • Hiking Trails
  • Bike Trails
  • Viewing Blinds
  • Observation Platforms
  • Fishing Pier/Platform
  • Boat Ramps
  • Motorboat Access
  • Horsepower Limit
  • Electric Motor Only
  • Paddle Access
  • Camping
  • Primitive Camping Only

There is a boat ramp and rental concession, operated by the Fredericksburg Parks and Recreation Department. Facilities include the concession building, portable toilets, picnic tables, and fishing piers.

Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area

6600 River Road
Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Contact
540-786-8989

Hours
Mon: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tue: Closed
Wed: Closed
Thu: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Fri: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sat: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sun: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

More Information

For additional information, contact:
Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area
6600 River Road
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Phone: (540) 786-8989 or (540) 372-1086