West Virginia is part of the Appalachian Region and has some of the most rugged terrain in the territory. The abundance of lakes and rivers makes it an excellent fishing destination. Whether you want to spend the day standing in a river fly-fishing for trout or trolling the lakes for bigmouth bass, the perfect fishing spot awaits you in West Virginia. For a stress-free fishing trip, ensure that you have a valid fishing license, and brush up on the state’s fishing regulations before you cast your line.
Fishing Spots in West Virginia
Mountain Lake Campground in West Virginia
Mountain Lake Campground & Cabins in Summersville is right on the shores of Summersville Lake. You can head out to the secluded coves at the lake and pursue diverse types of fish, including catfish, bluegill, walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and sometimes even stocked rainbow trout. The lake has a marina that offers boat rentals and a boat ramp. Bait and tackle as well as night fishing are allowed on sections of the lake. The healthy populations of fish and unbroken solitude make for great fishing in West Virginia.
Pipestem Lake State Park
The Bluestone River runs through the serene wilderness of the state and is full of smallmouth bass, rock bass, and bluegill. In the winter, stocked rainbow trout provide prime fishing. Pipestem Lake State Park is a park between Mercer County and Summers County where you can wade into the Bluestone River and fly-fish for trout and smallmouth bass. The park has a marina for canoe and boat rentals as well as a boat ramp.
Stonewall Resort
Stonewall Jackson Lake is known to offer some of the best bass fishing in West Virginia. Stonewall Jackson Lake is a catch-and-release area that gives you the chance to hook some trophy-sized catches if you know where to look. The Stonewall Resort is a 1,900-acre park that hugs the shore of the lake, giving you the best of both a rustic experience and comfortable living. The resort has a marina that offers boat rentals and a boat launch.
Cheat Lake
Cheat Lake in Monongalia County has good fishing spots that are popular among anglers of all ages and levels of experience. The lake sits on 1,730 acres and is known for its white bass, catfish, walleye largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and yellow perch. Cheat Lake also has a couple of docks, piers, and boat ramps perfect for any fishing adventure.
Tygart Lake State Park
Gather the gang together, and head to Tygart Lake for a fabulous vacation of fishing. The 1,800-acre lake near Grafton is home to various types of fish, including walleye and panfish. When you have reeled in the last catch of the day, dock your boat at the marina and relax at Tygart Lake State Park’s 321-acre campground. The park is nestled at the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains and sits upon a high peninsula overlooking the picturesque lake.
North Bend State Park
The 305-acre North Bend Lake is a catch-and-release spot that is home to many types of fish, including catfish, crappie, bass, and muskies. The lake has a depth of 36 feet in the center and is perfect for warm-water fishing. North Bend State Park in Ritchie County is a beautiful camping spot only a few minutes from the lake. If you prefer casting at night, you can do so because North Bend Lake allows night fishing.
Where to Fish in West Virginia
West Virginia has over 120 public fishing lakes and ponds offering some of the country’s best bass and trout fishing. You can choose to explore state parks like Stonewall Jackson State Park, where you can enjoy fishing and many other great outdoor activities with the entire family. If you are looking for solitude, head to central West Virginia and seek out the seclusion of the coves at Summerville Lake. The towering cliffs and serene environment provide the perfect backdrop to a solitary angler’s fishing trip. If you prefer mixing your fishing vacation with some city touring, some small towns are worth checking out when you need to catch a break from casting. Weston is a town with an unusual collection of sites to explore, such as the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. You’ll find other interesting sites and great fishing near towns throughout West Virginia.
Camping and Fishing in West Virginia
When you are planning a fishing trip to West Virginia, be ready for some camping too. Some of the finest locations for fishing are remote, and you might find yourself spending a night or two in the backwoods. It is critical that you have a map of the West Virginia state parks and campgrounds to plan accordingly and know where to fish in West Virginia.
Be sure to carry enough supplies to ensure that you enjoy your fishing trip. Plenty of water and snacks and a well-stocked first aid kit are necessary to carry along when planning a fishing camping trip in West Virginia.
If you plan to keep your catch, a disposable cooler and some icepacks will come in handy to store the fish before you can get back to your campsite to clean and cook them. Always pack an extra layer of light clothing because temperatures may drop while you’re out on the waterways. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about fishing.
With an RV rental, your fishing trip will be a little more comfortable! After you’ve spent a long day fishing, grill up your catch right at your campsite. Then, retire inside to enjoy all the comforts of home on board your RV. Plan your perfect fishing getaway with an RV rental from RVshare.
