I think I found my new calling. | Photo by NOVAtoday
Something’s a little fishy at Cook Lake in Alexandria — and that’s a good thing. Editor Ava, here. Yesterday, I had the chance to stock trout in this well-loved fishing spot. It’s one of the many lakes included in the Urban Fishing Program.
Understanding Cook Lake
Located in the Eisenhower Valley of Alexandria, this lake was constructed in the 1970s as a fishing pond. Strawberry Run flows into it, and the lake then flows into Cameron Run. While the lake gets manually stocked with various species of fish, some, like bass and sunfish, are naturally occurring.
A forebay separates the lake from Strawberry Run, where debris, sediment, and pollutants are captured, reducing their impact on Cook Lake.
These fish are currently swimming laps in Cook Lake. | Photo by NOVAtoday
Type of fish stocked
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) works to stock lakes throughout Virginia. The two types of fish stocked in Cook Lake yesterday were brown and rainbow trout, which are not native to Virginia. I must say, they are quite the pretty fish.
Catfish more your taste? In warmer months, the DWR stocks channel catfish for anglers to enjoy.
Both the trout and catfish are sourced from hatcheries around the state. Learn more about those hatcheries.
A former motel in Falls Church is officially open as a new restaurant: Stratford Garden. With room for up to 300 guests, there’s plenty of space to enjoy a meal or sip a cold beer. When the weather warms up, don’t miss the dog-friendly beer garden.
Traffic
Towing costs are about to go up in Arlington by $25. For an average vehicle, the cost to have your vehicle towed will be $160 instead of $135. Counties like Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William have recently reached a new all-time high. (ARLnow + FFXnow)
Development
Prince William County approved a land sale, spurring the creation of the Innovation District near Manassas. St. John Properties is purchasing two parcels of land, at 9525 Hornbaker Rd. and 11301 Inspiration Ct., to develop 10,000 sq ft of flex and tech buildings. (InsideNOVA)
Outside
Ever been to a fishing derby? You’ll have your chance when Herndon Parks and Rec celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. Events like a fishing derby, marquee festival, and other family-friendly events are expected to take place. Stay tuned for updates on these events. (FFXnow)
Health
Fauquier Health has been named the Top General Hospital for patient safety and quality. The Leapfrog Top Hospital award is one of the more competitive awards for American hospitals. (Fauquier Now)
State
Following up on our Shenandoah Valley development dive, officials are moving forward with plans to reimagine an inactive rail corridor with either a multi-use trail or a rail + trail restoration project. Eventually, $35 million will transfer to the Valley Battlefield Foundation for project ownership. (Virginia Mercury)
Weather
Curious how much it has snowed in cities across Northern Virginia? Check out this breakdown. (Patch)
Holiday
Looking for the perfect gift?The Virginia Lottery’s new holiday Scratchers are great for all the adults on your list: friends, family, or coworkers. You can never go wrong with gifting the Virginia Lottery.*
Shop
If you’re a Costco shopper, you know about the $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about? We’re talking deals on everything from travel to tires.*
A 2026 planner to keep track of your events, to-dos, goals, and more. We love this best-selling weekly option that includes 12 months of monthly and weekly pages for easy planning + scheduling. Or, opt for this flower-adorned daily planner with monthly tabs, metal cover protectors, and a page for expense tracking.
Need to get out of the house this holiday season? Just a three-hour drive to Virginia Beach brings you to Owl Creek Landing, an outdoor adventure park set across 38 acres of scenic forest.
With activities designed for both kids and adults, it’s an ideal spot for an escape. Plus, they’re hosting festive events throughout the holidays — learn more about what’s happening this season.
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