West Virginia is a top destination for fishing, offering anglers of all ages and skill levels access to pristine rivers, mountain streams, and stocked lakes teeming with trout, bass, catfish, and more. With renowned fishing spots like the New River, Cheat Lake, and Elk River, as well as countless remote creeks hidden in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, West Virginia promises peaceful days on the water surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Year-round fishing opportunities, well-managed hatcheries, and accessible public fishing areas make it easy for both locals and visitors to reel in a memorable catch. For new residents relocating from big cities thanks to the remote-work revolution, fishing in West Virginia provides a relaxing escape, a chance to bond with family and friends, and a meaningful way to enjoy the state’s rich outdoor heritage and abundant aquatic life. Be sure to visit our Fishing Travel Guide for more information about fishing and fishing areas in West Virginia.
West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice is calling on state residents and guests to grab a fishing pole this Saturday, June 12, and Sunday, June 13, during West Virginia’s Free Fishing Weekend.During the two-day statewide event, residents and non-residents are able to fish in West Virginia for free, providing novice and returning anglers the opportunity to … Read more
A West Virginia angler caught a state record muskellunge on April 30 in Braxton County, according to officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources.Chase Gibson, of Mount Clare, in Harrison County, caught a 54.0625-inch, 39.64-pound musky at Burnsville Lake, breaking the previous record for length—53.5 inches held by Joe Wilfong since 2017.Anna Marsh maintains … Read more
A Putnam County angler caught a state record freshwater drum on April 24 in Mason County, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has confirmed.John Gibson of Poca, West Virginia, caught the 27.88-pound, 35.59-inch freshwater drum on the Kanawha River, breaking the previous record for weight, which was 27 pounds held by Charles Mickel Lott … Read more
Officials at the W.Va. Division of Natural Resources today announced the winners of the state’s 2021 Gold Rush Giveaway, the annual statewide promotion of fishing in the Mountain State.According to DNR Director Stephen McDaniel, 36 participants managed to catch one of 100 golden rainbow trout that were stocked in state-managed ponds and streams.“Gold Rush was … Read more
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is hosting a series of Grandfamilies Fishing Days in May and June designed for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.Grandfamilies are invited to participate free of charge and enjoy time in the great outdoors fishing or learning to fish for the big one, according to Eve West, Chief … Read more
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources will stock tiger trout in lakes and streams around the state for the first time in decades, according to the governor’s office.West Virginia Governor Jim Justice, a longtime angler, announced the initiative this week while touting the economic benefits of expanding the state’s sport fishing industry.“This is just … Read more
There’s always a bigger fish, isn’t there? That’s what fisheries biologists in West Virginia are trying to determine as they research ways the state can provide anglers with bigger bluegill.Over the last few years, fish biologists with the state Division of Natural Resources have been focusing on how bluegill management in small lakes can improve … Read more
Leading up to the Mountain State’s annual free fishing weekend June 13-14, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is stocking nearly 6,000 pounds of channel catfish in 41 ponds and lakes around the state.Division Director Stephen McDaniel says the catfish stockings have become extremely popular across the state as trout-fishing season winds down.“Summer catfish … Read more
Bigfoot and the Flatwoods Monster aren’t the only bizarre creatures being reported at the center of West Virginia in Braxton County. Apparently, the fishing is hard to believe, too.Trophies of legendary size are being taken in its lakes and rivers, and fishing in the area appears to be on the increase as the coronavirus outbreak … Read more
West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has announced that to encourage solitary outdoor activity during the coronavirus outbreak, state residents can enjoy a month of free fishing.Through Friday, April 24, the requirement to possess a fishing license to fish in state-regulated waters has been waived for state residents, though anglers must practice safe social distancing.Law enforcement … Read more
