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Join Captain Wendell on Smith Mountain Lake for a fishing charter that combines expert guidance with top-tier gear. Perfect for anglers looking for a memorable day on the water near Hardy, Virginia.
Join Captain Wendell on Smith Mountain Lake for a fishing charter that combines expert guidance with top-tier gear. Perfect for anglers looking for a memorable day on the water near Hardy, Virginia.
Book with Westlake Boat Rentals
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Westlake Boat Rentals · Hardy, Virginia
Smith Mountain Lake, located in the rolling hills of Virginia, stands as a prime destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Known for its expansive 20,600-acre reservoir carved out by the Blackwater River, the lake offers diverse fishing opportunities amid a varied landscape of rocky shorelines and tranquil coves. Home to thriving populations of largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, this region invites both novice and seasoned anglers to cast their lines in some of the most productive waters on the East Coast.
Westlake Boat Rentals delivers a standout experience on this renowned lake through their signature fishing charters with Captain Wendell. Bringing over 20 years of hands-on expertise, Captain Wendell knows Smith Mountain Lake’s hotspots intimately. Clients fish from a sturdy 23-foot Hurricane Deck Boat, outfitted with a powerful 2016 V-Max Yamaha 225 engine and modern gear that includes seven-foot Ugly Stik rods, Abu Garcia reels, and a cutting-edge Lowrance HDS 12 fish finder. This equipment suite ensures an efficient and comfortable day, whether you're targeting bass or dragging bait for catfish.
Departing from Westlake Waterfront Inn near Hardy, Virginia, these charters can accommodate up to six anglers, making them perfect for family outings or small groups. The boat’s full bimini top provides shelter from sun and sudden weather changes — a key feature given Smith Mountain Lake’s microclimates.
What sets Westlake Boat Rentals apart is the combination of gear quality, personalized guidance, and local knowledge. Captain Wendell’s patient instruction suits all skill levels, allowing beginners to quickly gain confidence while experts appreciate tactical tips to outsmart wary fish. This fishing charter is not just a boat ride; it’s a focused immersion in one of Virginia’s richest freshwater ecosystems.
With abundant wildlife sightings—bald eagles and blue herons are frequent guests—and landscapes ranging from pine-studded ridges to clear blue waters, Smith Mountain Lake offers a rich backdrop for your next fishing adventure. Booking a day on Captain Wendell’s boat promises more than just a catch; it’s a chance to connect deeply with the lake’s rhythms and stories.
easy.
4–8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
No, Westlake Boat Rentals provides premium rods, reels, and tackle, though you must bring a valid fishing license.
Yes, the boat accommodates up to six passengers and is family-friendly for anglers of all ages.
Common catches include largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and occasionally walleye.
Safety is a priority; trips may be rescheduled or canceled due to storms or unsafe conditions.
Yes, all fishing equipment and state-of-the-art fish finders are included with the charter.
Charters depart from Westlake Waterfront Inn, located near Hardy, Virginia.
Smith Mountain Lake was created in the 1960s with the construction of a hydroelectric dam, shaping the surrounding communities and outdoor recreation culture.
Efforts to maintain water quality and habitat integrity are ongoing, with anglers encouraged to practice catch-and-release and use lead-free tackle.
Westlake Boat Rentals is a boat rental company located in Hardy, Virginia, serving visitors and residents of Smith Mountain Lake. The company operates a fleet that includes a 200hp 24' Sylvan Tritoon, a 150hp 23' Avalon Tritoon, a 150hp 23' Crest Tritoon, and a 24' Sylvan pontoon with a 90hp Yamaha motor. Rentals include watersports gear such as tubes, water skis, and wakeboards, plus life jackets, swim ladders, and a dockside safety check to prepare guests for time on the water. Guests may choose guided charters or self-drive rentals for sightseeing, swimming, watersports, or family outings. A dedicated fishing charter is offered with Captain Wendell, who provides more than twenty years of Smith Mountain Lake fishing experience aboard a 23-foot Hurricane deck boat equipped with premium gear and a fish finder. Boats are equipped with comfort features like Bluetooth stereos, plush seating, and Bimini tops for shade. Staff provide maps to local attractions and briefings to ensure safe navigation and enjoyable routes. Safety and clear communication are emphasized through life jacket availability and dockside procedures before departure. Westlake Boat Rentals accommodates groups and families, with the 24-foot Sylvan pontoon seating up to ten people for relaxed cruises and lakeside recreation. Booking information, availability, and rates are managed through direct reservation channels. Friendly staff assist with equipment setup, safety checks, and local recommendations to help guests make the most of their day on Smith Mountain Lake. Arrive at the dock early to complete the safety briefing and start promptly, and enjoy.
Book with Westlake Boat Rentals