A Beginner’s Guide to West Virginia Fishing Regulations

Cast your line with confidence using these essential fishing recipes

Whether you’re a novice angler or a seasoned pro, understanding West Virginia’s fishing regulations is key to enjoying the sport. By knowing and following these regulations, which are updated every year, you’ll help protect West Virginia’s world-class fisheries and ensure you’re fishing legally. This guide will walk you through the basics of our state’s fishing regulations and help you cast your first or thousandth rod with confidence.

Why are fishing regulations important?

Fishing regulations play a key role in the conservation and sustainability of fish populations. These regulations are established based on the latest data collected by WVDNR fisheries biologists and are designed to provide anglers with a good fishing experience while protecting the fishery itself. By following these regulations, anglers ensure that fish populations remain abundant and high quality in the future. The regulations also promote equitable access and enjoyment for all anglers while protecting habitats and ecosystems.

When and where do I need a fishing permit and how do I get one?

All anglers age 15 and older are required to have a West Virginia fishing license, and licenses are valid for the entire calendar year. Licenses can be purchased online at WVfish.com or in person at authorized license agents. Certain permits, such as a trout tag, are required to fish for trout, whether you intend to keep a trout or not. For a complete list of resident and nonresident fishing licenses, including annual, three-year and lifetime options, see pages 31 and 32 of the West Virginia Fishing Regulations Summary.

Are there specific fishing seasons and hours in West Virginia?

Although there are no fishing seasons, trout anglers need to be aware of delayed trout areas. These areas are subject to catch-and-release regulations from November 1 to May 16. This means that trout must be returned to the water during this time. The rest of the year, general regulations are in effect, allowing anglers to keep trout. Unlike catch-and-release streams, delayed trout regulations are implemented in streams that are not able to support trout year-round. However, these waters still have high-quality trout habitat and cold water most of the year.

Are there catch limits and size restrictions?

Catch limits (how many fish of a given species can be caught in a day) are set to maintain healthy fish populations. For example, some species have low catch limits to prevent overfishing, while others have higher limits to manage overpopulated species. Possession limits are also set, indicating how many fish can be held at any given time. Minimum and maximum size limits ensure that fish populations can be maintained by only allowing certain sizes of fish to be caught.

Limits vary by species and are detailed on page 2 of the West Virginia Fishing Regulations Summary.

Where can I find information about special regulations?

Some waters have special regulations that differ from the rest of the state. The regulations for these special areas are described on pages 3 through 8 of the regulations booklet. These areas have special regulations that differ from the rest of the state and are clearly defined. It is important to check them if you plan to fish in these areas or if you are targeting specific species.

Please also note that paddlefish and sturgeon are protected species in West Virginia and if caught, must be released immediately.

What tackle and bait are allowed or prohibited in West Virginia?

Game fish may only be taken by hook and line. This may include methods such as rod and reel, trolling, and dropline, although some of these methods have restrictions. Fishing with a net or spear is prohibited. Catfish may be caught by hand, but special regulations apply. Other methods, such as bowfishing, sinking, jig fishing, and spearfishing, are only allowed for nongame fish. More information on these methods can be found on pages 12-13 of the West Virginia Fishing Regulations Summary.

Restrictions on bait types are generally minimal, but some special regulation areas have specific rules. For example, fly fishing areas limit tackle and bait to fly rods and reels and non-edible, unscented bait. Additionally, possession of bait is illegal in some areas of the state, and possession of darter is prohibited statewide. More information on restrictions on the use of different types of bait can be found on pages 10-11 of the West Virginia Fishing Regulations Summary.