Gone Fishin’: Reel Fun at Sunnyside Ponds

Did you know Sunnyside Retirement Community has its very own stocked fishing ponds? Whether you are a seasoned angler or just looking for a relaxing afternoon by the water, our ponds offer the perfect setting to drop a line and enjoy the outdoors — no long road trip required.

Every October, both of our ponds are freshly stocked with trout, giving residents, employees, and family members plenty of reasons to grab a rod and make some new fishing memories right here on campus. Beyond trout, our ponds are also home to bass and sunfish — making for a fun variety of catches throughout the year.

To keep the experience enjoyable for everyone, we do have a few guidelines to help maintain our ponds and keep things running smoothly:

1. Residents are welcome to fish any day of the week — and can even invite non-resident family or guests to join in. If you aren’t able to accompany your guest, just notify the front desk (Highlands or Corson) so they can pick up a day pass.
2. Employees and their immediate family (spouse, children, grandchildren) can fish during June and July. If the employee can’t be present, their family member can grab a pass from the front desk when they arrive.
3. Horizon Club wait list members can arrange fishing dates through the Marketing Department.
4. To help maintain the fish population: anglers may keep only two trout per day, two bass (12 inches or larger), and four large sunfish (about the size of an adult hand). If a fish is injured or bleeding, please do not release it back into the pond.
5. Please do not feed the fish, clean fish at the pond, or leave behind any trash. And for our neighbors’ comfort, no fishing after dark.
6. Both ponds are for your enjoyment — but also shared spaces — so we ask that everyone be mindful of nearby residents while fishing.

Have a question about fishing at Sunnyside? Reach out to Alex Banks at extension 540.568.8836.

So, whether you’re hoping for a trophy trout, a fresh catch for dinner, or simply a peaceful afternoon on the banks, Sunnyside’s ponds are waiting. The only thing missing is you.