Fish The Finest
Captain Hartman is one of the premier captains running striper fishing charters on Smith Mountain Lake. Captain Hartman is a full-time fishing guide, specializing in only striper fishing charters. Striped bass “AKA Striper” are the apex predator in Smith Mountain Lake. Striper grow to impressive sizes, and put up great fights. Striped bass offer a super fun and exciting fishing experience for all ages! Striped bass also make great table fare, with a fish cleaning service provided in your charter’s rate. Capt. Hartman uses various techniques to target striper throughout the seasons, as well as top of the line equipment to optimize your fishing experience. You’re sure to have a blast! Contact us at (540) 204-7146 to check availability and schedule your charter, or try our online booking option. Hartman Guide Services is a Full Service Striper Fishing Charter that’s Booking season runs mid March- late November
Below are some of our favorite photos from recent charters. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
smith mountain lake
striper fishing charters
From newcomers to fishing fanatics, Captain Hartman creates a memorable fishing experience for all participants regardless of skill level.
Fishing charters are priced by the number of total guests in your group, not per-person. Please refer to our Rates page for current pricing. The rate also includes all of your gear, gas, bait, tackle, rods/reels, and fish cleaning should you choose to keep your catch!
For in-depth details on your fishing excursion, please check out our What to Expect page.
Follow Hartman Guide Services on Facebook for up-to-date info on our fishing charters and recent catches!
It's prime striped bass season at Smith Mountain Lake!🎣![]()
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As the weather cools, the lake transforms into a paradise for anglers - especially those looking to hook one of SML's most sought-after catches: striped bass. These powerful fish are most active during the cooler months, making fall the ideal time to hit the water.![]()
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Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or a first-time visitor, booking a guided fishing trip with one of SML's local experts is the best way to learn where the stripers are biting and what techniques will bring them in. Guides know the lake's patterns inside and out - from the early-morning hot spots to the deep-water structures where the biggest fish hide.![]()
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So grab your gear, layer up, and experience the thrill of striper season on Smith Mountain Lake. With crisp air, calm water, and stunning fall views, there's no better time to cast a line. 🎣🍂![]()
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Photo by Weston Hartman
AND… That’s a wrap! Went out on a good note to end the 2025 season! Heck of a guide season this year with so many great people and memories! After going non-stop for months, some much needed R&R coming up. I’m excited to see everyone again in 2026! Some big things coming next year, including Hartman Guide Services MERCH! 😎 STAY TUNED! www.hartmanstriperfishingsml.com #hartmanguideservices #smithmountainlake #striper #fishing
A good limit, indeed! 🐟www.hartmanstriperfishingsml.com #hartmanguideservices #smithmountainlake #striper #fishing
If it swam - Emmanuel caught it today! Absolute clinic put on by this young man! Good fishin!www.hartmanstriperfishingsml.com #hartmanguideservices #smithmountainlake #striper #fishing
Good start to November! www.hartmanstriperfishingsml.com #hartmanguideservices #smithmountainlake #striper #fishing
By reserving a date with Hartman Guide Services LLC you agree to the following: 1)You will assume full responsibility for personal injury to yourself and anyone in your party. 2)You and your party release and discharge Hartman Guide Services (HGS) and Capt. Weston Hartman for injury, loss or damage arising out of use of, or presence upon the facilities of HGS or Capt. Hartman regardless of fault, and 3) You and your party indemnify and defend HGS and Capt. Hartman against all claims, causes of action, damages, judgments, costs or expenses.
