channel catfishLocated near Leesville, Virginia, Leesville Lake is one of a series of impoundments of the Roanoke River. The section between the Leesville Lake and Kerr Reservoir is known as the Staunton River.

Leesville Lake (3,400 ac) is the smaller and lower of a two-lake hydro-electric power generation project. Its sister impoundment, Smith Mountain Lake, is located approximately 17 miles upstream.

Normally, water flows from Smith Mountain lake through generators to Leesville Lake. During periods of low demand, water from Leesville Lake is pumped back to Smith Mountain Lake.

Leesville Lake Fish Species

Leesville Lake fish species include largemouth bass, black crappie, striped bass, walleye, white perch, yellow perch, channel catfish, blue catfish, and white catfish.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) maintains a fish stocking program, boat ramps, and fishing pier on Leesville Lake.

Related Information

Virginia Information

Virginia Freshwater Fishing

Rivers – Lakes

Regional Information