West Virginia is a haven for anglers, offering some of the best trout fishing in the eastern United States. The state's cold, clear streams and well-stocked lakes provide ample opportunities for both fly-fishing enthusiasts and conventional anglers. Whether you're looking for wild brook trout in remote mountain streams or trophy-sized rainbows in stocked waters, West Virginia has something for every trout fisherman.
Top 10 Trout Streams and Lakes in West Virginia
Below are the top 10 trout fishing destinations in West Virginia, complete with details on their locations and fishing access points.
1. Shavers Fork of the Cheat River
Location: Randolph and Tucker Counties
Fishing Access Points: Bowden, Bemis, Cheat Bridge, and downstream toward Parsons
Shavers Fork is one of the most renowned trout streams in West Virginia. Flowing through the Monongahela National Forest, this river provides an ideal habitat for native brook trout as well as stocked rainbow and brown trout. The upper section near Cheat Bridge is known for its pristine waters and offers an excellent opportunity for fly-fishing in a remote setting.
Several access points make it easy for anglers to fish different stretches of the river. The Bowden area, near the Bowden Fish Hatchery, is particularly popular for stocked trout. Bemis and the sections near Parsons offer deeper pools and runs where large trout are often found.
2. Elk River
Location: Webster, Randolph, and Braxton Counties
Fishing Access Points: Elk Springs Resort, Slatyfork, and Bergoo
The Elk River is a top-tier trout stream in West Virginia, particularly its headwaters near Slatyfork. This river is famous for its limestone spring influence, creating ideal conditions for growing large trout. Anglers can expect to catch brook, rainbow, and brown trout, with many fish reaching trophy sizes.
Elk Springs Resort is a popular access point and offers guided fishing trips for those looking to improve their chances. Public access near Bergoo and along Route 15 provides additional fishing spots. The Elk’s cold, consistent water temperature makes it a year-round fishery.
3. South Branch of the Potomac River
Location: Grant, Hardy, and Pendleton Counties
Fishing Access Points: Smoke Hole Canyon, Franklin, and Petersburg
The South Branch of the Potomac River is one of the most scenic and productive trout streams in the state. The Smoke Hole Canyon section is particularly well-known for its clear waters and rugged beauty, offering excellent fishing opportunities.
Public access points include Franklin and Petersburg, with multiple pull-off spots along the river. This area receives regular trout stockings, ensuring a steady supply of fish for anglers. The deep pools and swift runs create the perfect environment for fly-fishing.
4. Williams River
Location: Pocahontas County
Fishing Access Points: Tea Creek Campground, Day Run, and Laurel Run
The Williams River is a classic mountain stream, flowing through the Monongahela National Forest. It is stocked with rainbow, brook, and brown trout and provides excellent opportunities for anglers looking for solitude and challenging fishing.
Day Run and Tea Creek Campground serve as great access points. The Laurel Run section is also worth exploring, as it offers deep pools where trout tend to congregate. This stream is perfect for those who enjoy hiking and fishing in a remote wilderness setting.
5. North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac River
Location: Pendleton County
Fishing Access Points: Seneca Rocks, Judy Gap, and near Circleville
Known for its stunning scenery and excellent trout fishing, the North Fork of the South Branch is a must-visit for anglers. The river runs near Seneca Rocks, a popular landmark, and provides opportunities for catching wild and stocked trout.
Public access is available near Judy Gap and Circleville. The river features a mix of riffles, pools, and runs, making it ideal for fly-fishing. Many anglers report catching large brown trout in this river.
6. Cranberry River
Location: Pocahontas and Nicholas Counties
Fishing Access Points: Cranberry Glades, Woodbine, and Camp Splinter
The Cranberry River is one of the best wild trout streams in the state. It is home to brook trout and is also stocked with rainbow and brown trout. The river flows through the Cranberry Wilderness, offering a remote fishing experience.
Anglers can access the river at Cranberry Glades and Woodbine, with hiking required to reach some of the best spots. Camp Splinter is another good access point for those looking to fish in less pressured waters.
7. Greenbrier River
Location: Greenbrier and Pocahontas Counties
Fishing Access Points: Cass, Marlinton, and Caldwell
The Greenbrier River is not only a great trout fishery but also one of the most scenic rivers in the state. The upper section near Cass and Marlinton holds both wild and stocked trout.
Anglers can find access along the Greenbrier River Trail, which provides multiple entry points. The Caldwell area is also known for good trout fishing, especially in the spring and fall seasons.
8. Glade Creek
Location: Raleigh County
Fishing Access Points: New River Gorge National Park, Camp Brookside, and Glade Creek Trailhead
Glade Creek is a hidden gem located within the New River Gorge National Park. It is stocked regularly with trout and offers an excellent small-stream fishing experience.
Access is available at the Glade Creek Trailhead and Camp Brookside. The cold, clear water makes this stream a great option for fly-fishing, with many trout hiding under deep cutbanks and boulders.
9. Paint Creek
Location: Fayette and Kanawha Counties
Fishing Access Points: Paint Creek Road, Pax, and Mossy
Paint Creek is a heavily stocked trout stream that provides easy access for anglers of all skill levels. The creek runs along Paint Creek Road, with multiple pull-off areas where fishermen can wade in and cast.
Pax and Mossy offer some of the best fishing sections, with deep pools and riffles that hold large trout. This creek is ideal for those looking for a convenient yet productive fishing spot.
10. Summersville Lake
Location: Nicholas County
Fishing Access Points: Salmon Run, Battle Run, and Long Point
While primarily known as a warm-water fishery, Summersville Lake offers excellent trout fishing in its tailwaters. The cold water released from the dam creates an environment where trout thrive.
Salmon Run and Battle Run are popular access points for fishing near the lake. Anglers can also explore the Long Point area for less crowded fishing spots. The tailwaters are particularly productive for catching large rainbow trout.
Trout Fishing in West Virginia
West Virginia’s trout streams and lakes provide a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. Whether you're seeking remote, wild trout waters or easily accessible stocked streams, the Mountain State has something for every angler. With so many excellent options, planning your next trout fishing adventure in West Virginia is sure to be an exciting endeavor.
