Lake Frederick is a public lake owned by the state of Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. Boating and fishing are open to the public with no entrance fee. A small parking area is located near the boat ramp.

The Lake

Lake Frederick is 117 acres in the shape of a V. The lake averages 20 feet in depth but can get up to 50 feet in some locations. The edges of the lake often stretch beyond the treeline so you will encounter standing submerged timber sometimes as far as 25 ft from the shoreline. The state owns the lake as well as 50 feet around the entire shoreline.

Boating at Lake Frederick

Boating is allowed, but gasoline motors are prohibited. Electric trolling motors are welcome, as well as man powered kayaks and canoes. Because of these rules you will not see any tubing or water skiing. Lake Frederick is a more relaxed peaceful lake for fishermen and sight seeing rather than water sports.

Fishing at Lake Frederick

Lake Frederick is stocked annually with channel catfish and northern pike. Largemouth bass bluegill, redear sunfish, and black crappie all reproduce naturally in the lake.

DGIF does require anyone 17 years of age or older to have an Access Permit if they do not have a valid Virginia hunting, freshwater fishing or trapping license. Permits are available for purchase online at the link above, at any license agent, or call them at 1-866-721-6911.

New Fishing Pier 2016

DGIF and Shea Homes have an agreement for Shea to complete a new public fishing pier in the spring of 2016. The trail around the lake is currently closed west of the dam for the construction of the fishing pier. The pier will be accessible from the parking lot once it is completed.