The Best Places To Fish in West Virginia

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

West Virginia offers a variety of excellent fishing locations that cater to anglers of all skill levels. The purpose of this page is to share information about the best fishing lakes in the state, listed by species. One of the top fishing spots in the state is the New River, known for its exceptional smallmouth bass fishing. The New River is renowned for its trophy-sized smallmouth bass and provides thrilling angling opportunities. The best time to fish for smallmouth bass in West Virginia is during the spring and fall seasons when the water temperatures are cooler and the fish are more active. Anglers can also find a variety of other species in the New River, including musky, walleye, and catfish.

Another popular fishing destination in West Virginia is Summersville Lake, which is known for its fantastic trout fishing. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout, providing ample opportunities for anglers to catch their prized fish. The best time to target trout in Summersville Lake is typically during the spring and fall seasons when the water temperatures are cooler. Anglers can utilize various techniques such as fly fishing, bait fishing, or trolling to entice the trout.

For those interested in bass fishing, Stonewall Jackson Lake is a premier destination. The lake is home to largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and spotted bass, making it a favorite spot for bass anglers. The best time to fish for bass in Stonewall Jackson Lake is during the spring and early summer when the water temperatures are warming up, and the bass are actively feeding. Anglers can target bass using a variety of lures such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics.

When it comes to trout fishing, the Elk River is a top choice for anglers in West Virginia. The river is stocked with rainbow trout and brown trout, offering excellent opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts. The best time to fish for trout in the Elk River is during the spring and fall seasons when the water temperatures are cooler, and insect activity is higher. Anglers can enjoy the challenge of presenting their flies in the river's fast-flowing currents while pursuing these elusive trout.

It's important to note that fishing seasons and regulations may vary, so it's always recommended to check the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources for the most up-to-date information on fishing seasons, size limits, and bag limits. Additionally, it's crucial for anglers to obtain the appropriate fishing license before engaging in any fishing activities in West Virginia.

There are many great places to fish in The Mountain State. To many visitors, the draw is the lush scenery and mountains. To anglers, it is the lakes and rivers that get their attention. The good news is that most of the best places to fish in the state are also set in scenic surroundings.

West Virginia's Top-Five, Amazing Fishing Spots

These major lakes are known for producing results over the years. Several other lakes might make it on this list one year over another, but these are a great way to experience fishing in WV. Learn more...

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Most Popular Fish Species In West Virginia

Fishing enthusiasts will find three species of bass, three species of catfish, walleye, striped bass and wipers, both species of crappie, four species of trout, perch, white bass, bluegill and other species to pursue in West Virginia. Learn more...

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Best Bass Fishing Lakes In West Virginia

If you enjoy bass fishing, WV has some really good fisheries to explore. Largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass are found in many of the lakes across the state. Many of the smaller lakes in the state also produce quality bass fishing from time to time. Learn more...

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Best Lakes To Fish For Catfish In West Virginia

The rivers and lakes of WV are home to some big catfish. Here, you can fish for blue, flathead and channel catfish. Most major lakes and rivers house at least one species, many are home to multiple species. Learn more...

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Best Walleye Fishing Lakes In West Virginia

Big walleye are great fighters, and the smaller ones make excellent table fare. Most of the major lakes in the state offer walleye fishing. In some of these lakes you can also catch sauger and saugeye. Learn more...

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Best Lakes For Striped Bass Fishing In West Virginia

Fishing for striped bass allows you a chance at catching a monster. Hybrid stripers don't grow as big, but they run in schools and are fun to catch - some in the double-digit weight range. Learn more...

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Best Sunfish Fishing Lakes In West Virginia

Sunfish are often the first fish a young angler catches. They are also an integral part of the food chain in many fishing waters. For young and old, they are fun to catch. In West Virginia you can catch bluegill, redear sunfish, rock bass, white bass and yellow perch. These three lakes are just a few of the best places to fish for sunfish in the state. Learn more...

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Enjoy these top spots to go fishing in West Virginia