But that particular bluegill could not have become dinner. Since opening in 2011, Ivy Creek Park has maintained a catch and release policy for bluegill and other fish species populating Clemmons Lake, but starting last year, certain species may be kept — and potentially dipped in cornmeal for a fresh fish-fry.

As part of its Urban Fishing Program, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries introduced about 400 pounds of trout into Clemmons Lake in November. It is the first time Lynchburg has participated in the program, and the city is one of eight such urban fishing sites.