Trout fishing in West Virginia offers anglers the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful and productive experience surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Mountain State. It is essential for all anglers, both residents and non-residents, to be aware of the state's trout fishing regulations to ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience. This article outlines the key regulations and guidelines for trout fishing in West Virginia, helping anglers comply with the rules while maximizing their chances of a successful catch.
A. Resident Licensing
• All anglers aged 15 to 64 require a valid West Virginia fishing license.
• Additional permits may be required depending on the area and species targeted.
• Annual, one-day, and lifetime licenses are available.
• License fees vary based on age and type.
B. Non-Resident Licensing
• All non-resident anglers aged 15 and older require a valid West Virginia fishing license.
• Additional permits may be required depending on the area and species targeted.
• Annual, one-day, and multi-day licenses are available.
• License fees vary based on type.
C. License Exemptions
• West Virginia residents aged 65 and older.
• Disabled West Virginia residents who possess a Class Q hunting permit.
• Landowners and their immediate family members fishing on their own property.
• West Virginia residents on active duty in the United States Armed Forces while on military leave.
A. General Regulations
• Trout fishing is permitted year-round.
• The daily creel limit is six trout per angler.
• The possession limit is twice the daily creel limit.
• The minimum length limit for trout is 7 inches.
• All trout species are subject to these regulations.
B. Catch-and-Release Areas
• Specific streams, sections of streams, or impoundments may be designated as catch-and-release areas.
• In these areas, all trout must be immediately released unharmed.
• Only artificial lures with single, barbless hooks are allowed in catch-and-release areas.
C. Fly-Fishing-Only Areas
• Specific streams, sections of streams, or impoundments may be designated as fly-fishing-only areas.
• In these areas, anglers are only allowed to use fly-fishing gear with single, barbless hooks.
• The use of bait or artificial lures other than flies is prohibited in fly-fishing-only areas.
D. Children and Class Q Handicapped-Only Fishing Areas
• Designated areas are reserved for children under 15 and Class Q handicapped anglers.
• In these areas, the daily creel limit is four trout per angler.
• The possession limit is twice the daily creel limit.
• The minimum length limit for trout is 7 inches.
A. Stocking Schedule and Locations
• The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) stocks trout in over 200 streams and impoundments throughout the state.
• Stocking typically occurs between February and May, with additional stockings in October and November.
• Specific stocking dates are not announced, but a weekly stocking report is available on the WVDNR website.
B. Stocked Trout Species
• Rainbow trout, golden rainbow trout, brook trout, and brown trout are stocked in West Virginia waters.
• The WVDNR stocks both fingerling and catchable-size trout.
C. Fishing Access and Restrictions in Stocked Areas
• Anglers must follow all general trout fishing regulations.
• Special regulations may apply to certain stocked areas, such as catch-and-release or fly-fishing-only designations.
• Anglers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local regulations before fishing stocked waters.
• Fishing access may be limited on some private properties; anglers should seek permission from landowners before fishing.
IV. Trout Fishing Season and Special Management Programs
A. Trout Fishing Season
• West Virginia's trout fishing season is open year-round, with some exceptions and specific dates for certain waters and management programs.
B. Delayed Harvest Program
• The Delayed Harvest Program provides a catch-and-release period in designated waters to help conserve trout populations.
• During this period, anglers must release all trout caught in these waters.
• The use of artificial lures with single, barbless hooks is required during the catch-and-release period.
• Harvesting trout is allowed after the designated catch-and-release period ends, typically in early June.
C. Trophy Trout Program
• The Trophy Trout Program aims to create quality trout fishing opportunities by protecting larger trout.
• In designated trophy trout waters, the daily creel limit is two trout per angler.
• The minimum length limit for trout in these waters is 14 inches.
• Anglers should consult local regulations for specific trophy trout waters and restrictions.
V. Protecting West Virginia's Trout Resources
A. Aquatic Invasive Species
• Anglers should take precautions to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
• Clean, drain, and dry all fishing equipment, including waders, boots, and boats, before and after use.
• Do not transport live fish or aquatic plants between bodies of water.
B. Catch-and-Release Best Practices
• Use barbless hooks or pinch the barb on hooks to minimize injury to fish.
• Wet hands before handling fish to reduce damage to their protective slime layer.
• Hold fish horizontally with wet hands, avoiding contact with the gills and eyes.
• Remove hooks quickly and gently using needle-nose pliers or a hook remover.
• If a fish is deeply hooked or bleeding, cut the line as close to the hook as possible and release the fish.
C. Reporting Violations
• Anglers can report fishing violations or suspected illegal activity to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Section.
• Reporting can be done online, by phone, or through the WVDNR's "HuntFishWV" mobile app.
Trout fishing in West Virginia is a rewarding outdoor activity that offers anglers the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. By understanding and following the state's trout fishing regulations, anglers can ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience that helps protect West Virginia's valuable trout resources for future generations.