West Virginia is a great place to trout fish. Whether you are looking for native trout in streams, stocked trout in lakes, or a little of both, there are numerous places to wet a line in search of brown, brook, rainbow, and golden trout in West Virginia. These 5 places to trout fish in WV were picked as they represent different areas of West Virginia so that everyone will be near one of them. There may be better picks in some areas but I have fished all of these. If you know of better places leave them in the comments for others (and me!) to check out.
In northern West Virginia, head to the Wheeling area to fish for trout. Middle Wheeling Creek Lake is just one lake in the area that is stocked with trout. The all weather road to the lake makes a nice place for a family fishing trip. There is a steep walk to get to the lake, but it is not a significant deterrent. If you have kids or elderly people in you group, drive them up to the lakes boat launch and drop them off. You can then drive back down to the parking area. If you are looking to stream fish hit Wheeling Creek which runs right through town. Numerous access points in and out of town and along the Wheeling Creek Trail (hike, bike) allows fisherman to find some great stream fishing in an unexpected place.
In western West Virginia try Mountwood Lake in Wood County, east of Parkersburg. Mountwood Lake is a nice place for family fishing with numerous level areas and benches to fish from. I have had very little luck at this lake near my home but have seen a lot of trout pulled from its waters.
In southern West Virginia, try the outlet of East Lynn Dam near Wayne. The fast paced water makes some great trout fishing. Other areas nearby are stocked with trout as well.
In central West Virginia, head to Cedar Lakes State Park near Glenville. Three small lakes run end to end and makes for a lot of family fun. Last summer a nice golden trout kept checking out my bait but wouldn’t bite. The tailwaters of Tygart Lake is another great location in this area. A friend of mine caught his limit there in 20 minutes then spent the rest of the day fishing for bass in the Lake.
In eastern West Virginia, just find a stream and fish! If you must get a recommendation, then go to the Seneca Rocks visitor center and fish below the Rocks. Caution much of this area is a catch and release only area and you’ll need a National Forest Stamp. Trout fishing isn’t much more scenic anywhere. The Cranberry, Williams, and Shavers Fork are well known trout streams as well. Out in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, try the North Branch of the Potomac in Mineral County.
West Virginia’s trout stocking program releases trout all over the state making a trout stream or lake closer than you might imagine. In traditional fisherman style, I didn’t mention my favorite place to trout fish, you’ll have to find it on your own!
