West Virginia’s trout stocking program offers exceptional fishing opportunities across more than 60 waterways throughout the state, with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) maintaining a robust schedule of regular stockings. For 2025, the program has expanded its offerings, including the popular Gold Rush event and increased stocking at various locations. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about license requirements, stocking locations, and regulations to make your West Virginia trout fishing adventure successful.
Licensing Requirements for Trout Fishing in West Virginia
All anglers aged 15 and older must possess a valid West Virginia fishing license to fish in the state’s waters. For trout fishing specifically, additional requirements apply:
Required Licenses and Stamps
- Basic Fishing License: Required for all anglers 15+ years old
- Trout Stamp: Required for anyone fishing for trout, regardless of whether you plan to keep your catch
Both licenses and stamps can be purchased online through the official WVfish.com portal. If you’re planning a West Virginia fishing trip, you can also check comprehensive license information at US Fishing Licenses for the most current pricing and requirements.
License Validation and Identification
When fishing in West Virginia, you must carry both your fishing license/trout stamp and a valid form of identification. Conservation officers regularly patrol popular fishing areas, particularly during peak stocking periods and special events like the Gold Rush.
West Virginia Trout Stocking Locations for 2025
The WVDNR stocks trout in numerous locations throughout the state, with specific schedules published annually. For 2025, there are several ways to find stocking information:
Finding Current Stocking Information
- Online Resources: Daily stocking updates are posted on the WVDNR fishing page
- Stocking Hotline: Call 304-558-3399 for recorded updates
- Printed Regulations: Pages 6-7 of the 2025 Fishing Regulations Summary contain the full stocking schedule
Important Note: The WVDNR does not release daily stocking schedules in advance. Updates are posted at the end of each business day after stockings have occurred.
Gold Rush Program 2025
One of West Virginia’s most popular fishing events, the Gold Rush, returns for its eighth year in 2025. During this special week:
- 69 waters across the state will be stocked exclusively with golden trout
- 41 lakes, including all State Park lakes, will be stocked to provide family-friendly fishing opportunities
- 28 streams will also receive golden trout stockings
The Gold Rush is designed to be accessible to anglers of all experience levels, with many stocking locations featuring amenities like restrooms and playgrounds to accommodate families with children.
Special Regulation Areas for Trout
West Virginia maintains several types of special regulation areas for trout fishing:
Catch-and-Release Areas
In designated catch-and-release waters:
- Fishing is permitted during daylight hours only (except on the North Branch of the Potomac River areas, where fishing is allowed from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.)
- Only artificial flies and lures may be used
- No scented baits are permitted, including those with scents added during manufacturing
- Multiple hook lures must have barbless hooks (except on the North Branch of the Potomac)
- All trout caught must be immediately returned to the water
Fly-Fishing-Only Areas
Some streams are designated as fly-fishing-only, with strict regulations:
- Only conventional fly fishing tackle is permitted
- Open-face and closed-face spinning or spincast reels are prohibited
- All fish must be immediately returned to the water
- No trout may be in an angler’s possession while on these waters
- No scented baits of any kind are allowed
Private Stocking Programs in West Virginia
In addition to the state’s public stocking program, several private operations offer premium trout fishing experiences:
Harman’s Log Cabins Stocking Program
One notable private program is operated by Harman’s Log Cabins:
- Stocking Season: September through June, with limited summer stocking when water conditions permit
- Fish Variety: Primarily rainbow trout, with occasional brook, golden, brown, and tiger trout
- Size Range: Standard 2-3 lb fish, with approximately 10% weighing 4-6 lbs and some trophy fish reaching 10+ lbs
- Permit Requirements: All anglers must purchase a Harman’s permit, which must be visibly displayed
- 2025 Winter Stocking Dates:
- January 4, 2025
- January 23, 2025
- February 13, 2025
- February 27, 2025
- March 13, 2025
- March 27, 2025
Trout Fishing Regulations for 2025
The WVDNR has updated fishing regulations for 2025, available in the Fishing Regulations Summary. Some key points regarding trout fishing:
Bait and Gear Restrictions
- In standard stocked waters, typical bait and gear restrictions apply
- In catch-and-release and fly-fishing-only areas, special regulations prohibit scented baits, including:
- Powerbait
- Gulp products
- Other manufactured scented baits
Hatchery Program
West Virginia operates a network of fish hatcheries that supply the stocking program:
- Trout Hatcheries:
- Bowden Fish Hatchery
- Edray Fish Hatchery
- Petersburg Fish Hatchery
- Reeds Creek Fish Hatchery
- Ridge Fish Hatchery
- Spring Run Fish Hatchery
- Tate Lohr Fish Hatchery
Recent infrastructure upgrades at facilities like the Bowden Hatchery have increased production capacity, allowing for more fish to be stocked in 2025.
Tips for Fishing West Virginia’s Stocked Waters
For the best experience when fishing West Virginia’s stocked trout waters:
- Check updates daily: Stocking information is updated at the end of each business day
- Be prepared with proper gear: Different regulation areas require different equipment
- Consider family-friendly options: State Park lakes offer accessible fishing with amenities
- Explore private options: For trophy fishing, private programs like Harman’s offer larger fish
- Remember conservation: Follow all catch-and-release procedures in designated areas
Conclusion
West Virginia’s trout stocking program provides excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. By understanding the license requirements, knowing where to find stocking information, and following the appropriate regulations, you can enjoy a successful trout fishing experience in the Mountain State.
For more information on fishing licenses and regulations across the United States, visit US Fishing Licenses or check West Virginia’s specific fishing regulations at US Fishing Licenses’ West Virginia page.
Remember that regulations and stocking schedules may change throughout the season, so always verify the most current information through the WVDNR’s official website before planning your fishing trip.
