Pelham Reservoir

Pelham is a water supply reservoir for the Town of Culpeper. It covers 255 acres with a combination of forested and open, sloped banks along its shores. Some residential development is occurring. If you like crappie and channel catfish Pelham is the place to go. This reservoir probably has more channel catfish per acre than any other lake in Northern Virginia. Other species include largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and pumpkinseed sunfish. It is also a decent lake for yellow perch.

To Pelham Boat Ramp (1081 Lake Pelham Drive ) from Town of Culpeper: Take Rt. 522 north to Virginia Avenue on left at intersection traffic light. Proceed west down Virginia Ave through development thru 4 stop sign intersections, and take left at 5th intersection by tennis courts to lake parking area/boat ramp.

Electric motors only are allowed, and a permit is required ($25 for boating and $10 for fishing — good for the calendar year purchased). Permits are sold weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm at the office of:

The Treasurer
400 South Main Street, Suite 109
Culpeper, VA 22701
Phone: (540) 829-8220.

Fishing

Bass

best bet

Catfish

present

Trout

no

Panfish

present

Biologist Reports

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

More Information

Electric motors only are allowed, and a permit is required ($25 for boating and $10 for fishing – good for the calendar year purchased). Permits are sold weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm at the office of:
The Treasurer
400 South Main Street, Suite 109
Culpeper VA 22701
Phone: (540) 829-8220.