Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area - text
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Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area

4.4
·14 reviews·Virginia Beach, United States

A serene haven for bird watchers and anglers, offering peaceful exploration of Back Bay's natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Prime time for birding

CrowdLow
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Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area - text

Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area

Best Time

Early mornings

Prime time for birding

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene haven for bird watchers and anglers, offering peaceful exploration of Back Bay's natural beauty.

4.4
(14 reviews)

"Must visit for fishing and bird watching, especially from the quiet boat ramp."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Hunting Seasons

Access may be restricted during active hunting. Always verify before your visit. :warning:

Kayak for More Exploration

Launch a kayak to discover hidden coves and less accessible parts of Back Bay. :kayak:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bird Watching Paradise

Bird Watching Paradise

Spot diverse avian species in their natural habitat. Early mornings offer the best sightings and tranquility.

Fishing Hotspot

Fishing Hotspot

Excellent fishing opportunities, especially for bass during spawn season. The boat ramp provides easy access to prime spots.

Kayaking Adventures

Kayaking Adventures

Explore more secluded areas of Back Bay by launching a kayak from the Lotus Garden pond or other accessible points.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Check for active hunting seasons before you go, as they can restrict access to certain areas. Early mornings are best for bird watching and a peaceful experience.

Getting Around

While the boat ramp offers access to water, exploring the refuge on foot is rewarding. Consider bringing a kayak for a more immersive experience of Back Bay's hidden spots.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Prime time for birding
Crowd
Low
When
Bass spawn season
Why
Best fishing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mornings are awfully pretty at Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area! Princess Anne WMA encompasses 1,546 acres on Back Bay and offers excellent waterfowl hunting. DWR manages the man made impoundments to promote vegetation for migratory and wintering waterfowl. ** Princess Anne WMA is currently closed Monday-Saturday except for approved hunting. Wildlife viewing, scouting, and other approve...
virginiawildlife
276 likes • 0 views

Check Hunting Seasons

Access may be restricted during active hunting. Always verify before your visit. :warning:

Kayak for More Exploration

Launch a kayak to discover hidden coves and less accessible parts of Back Bay. :kayak:

A couple mallards from back in early January at Princess Anne WMA in VIrginia Beach. #mallard #duck #princessannewma #wildlifemanagementarea #virginiabeach #birdsofinstagram #birdphotography #wildlifephotography #naturephotography #nikonphotography
jeffselfphotography
21 likes • 0 views
Birding around Virginia Beach, you always have to keep your eyes to the sky and simultaneously on the ground around you. The high grasses at Princess Anne WMA feel a bit like a death trap, especially after you see those grasses moving ahead of you as snakes dash to the impoundment edges when they sense you walking. Fortunately, this one wasn't a Cottonmouth, but a beautiful Plain-bellied Watersnak...
birdingbielawski
19 likes • 0 views

Early Bird Gets the Worm

Visit in the early morning for the best bird watching and a peaceful atmosphere. :sunrise:

Boat Ramp Convenience

The boat ramp offers easy access for fishing and launching kayaks. :boat:

reddit.com

Back bay

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Hunting Seasons

Access may be restricted during active hunting. Always verify before your visit. :warning:

Kayak for More Exploration

Launch a kayak to discover hidden coves and less accessible parts of Back Bay. :kayak:

Early Bird Gets the Worm

Visit in the early morning for the best bird watching and a peaceful atmosphere. :sunrise:

Boat Ramp Convenience

The boat ramp offers easy access for fishing and launching kayaks. :boat:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(14 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area for its peaceful atmosphere, excellent bird watching opportunities, and good fishing, especially for bass during spawn season. The convenient boat ramp is a highlight for many. Some note that bank fishing can be poor, and access may be limited during hunting seasons.

"Love the quiet little corner with boat ramp. Must visit for fishing and bird watching."

Amresh Vaidya

"Nice boat ramp but fishing at the bank is pretty poor. Out away from the ramp the fishing is good bass is good at spawn season."

Pawpaw keith krebs

"Beautiful morning to go birding!"

Kelly Creger

What People Like

Quiet and peaceful
Great bird watching
Good fishing access

What People Dislike

Limited bank fishing
Hunting season restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area is accessible by car. Specific directions can be found using GPS. For those looking to explore Back Bay more extensively, launching a kayak from the Lotus Garden pond is a popular option. Reddit

Parking is available, particularly near the boat ramp, which is a central point for many visitors. Reddit

Access can be restricted due to active hunting seasons. It's crucial to check the schedule before planning your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area is generally free, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific permit requirements, especially if you plan on hunting or fishing. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, and access may be limited during hunting seasons. It's recommended to check the official website or local advisories for the most current information. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Boating

While bank fishing near the ramp can be poor, fishing is good further out, with bass being particularly active during spawn season. The boat ramp provides excellent access to these areas. Reddit

Yes, kayaking is a great way to explore. You can launch from the boat ramp or other accessible points, including the Lotus Garden pond for access to more of Back Bay. Reddit

Standard fishing regulations apply. Ensure you have the necessary licenses and are aware of catch limits and size restrictions for the species you are targeting. Reddit

🎫 🐦 Bird Watching

Early mornings are considered the prime time for bird watching, offering the best opportunities to see a variety of species in a peaceful environment. Reddit

The area is known for its diverse avian population, making it a popular spot for bird watchers. Specific species can vary by season. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Anglers and Boaters

The boat ramp at Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area is a key feature for anglers and boaters, offering easy access to the waters of Back Bay. While bank fishing can be hit-or-miss, the real fishing potential lies further out, especially for bass during spawn season. Kayakers will find numerous opportunities to explore quieter sections of the bay. Remember to check local fishing regulations and ensure you have the necessary licenses before you cast your line. Reddit

Nature Enthusiasts and Bird Watchers

For those who love observing wildlife, early mornings are the golden hour at Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area. This is when the area is most serene and teeming with avian life. Bring your binoculars and a field guide to identify the diverse species that call this refuge home. The quiet atmosphere, especially away from the boat ramp, makes it ideal for peaceful observation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Back Bay by Water

For those seeking a more intimate connection with the natural beauty of Back Bay, bringing a kayak or canoe is highly recommended. While the boat ramp offers convenient access for larger vessels, kayakers can explore shallower channels and hidden coves that are inaccessible by boat. Launching from the Lotus Garden pond, as suggested by visitors, opens up further possibilities for exploration, allowing you to navigate through serene waterways and discover secluded spots perfect for wildlife observation. Reddit

This approach to exploring allows for a truly immersive experience, where you can get up close with the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area. The quiet glide of a kayak minimizes disturbance, increasing your chances of spotting elusive bird species or other wildlife. It's an excellent way to appreciate the tranquility and untouched nature of the Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area. Reddit

Fishing Opportunities and Tips

Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area is a draw for anglers, particularly those targeting bass. While bank fishing near the main boat ramp might yield limited success, venturing further out into the waters, especially during the bass spawn season, can be highly rewarding. Reddit The boat ramp serves as a crucial access point, facilitating easy launches for boats and kayaks, which are essential for reaching the more productive fishing grounds. Reddit

For the best fishing experience, consider the timing. Early mornings and late afternoons can be productive, and understanding the seasonal patterns of fish like bass will significantly improve your catch rates. Always ensure you have the appropriate fishing licenses and are familiar with local regulations regarding catch and release, size limits, and permitted fishing methods to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable outing. Reddit

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