West Virginia is one of the best trout-fishing states in the East, and while much of that happens in mountain streams, the state also stocks a network of trout lakes – from high, cold impoundments in the spruce forests to family-friendly state-park lakes and cold tailwaters below the big dams. This guide rounds up where to catch trout in West Virginia’s lakes and how to do it. Every lake links to a full guide in our West Virginia Lakes Database.
High-mountain trout lakes
The cold, clear lakes of the high Alleghenies are classic trout water. Spruce Knob Lake – the highest lake in the state – and Summit Lake near Richwood are both stocked, scenic and popular with fly anglers. Nearby is Trout Pond, the only natural lake in the state.
Deep, cold reservoirs
Jennings Randolph Lake on the Maryland border is deep and cold enough to hold lake trout as well as stocked trout – a true two-story fishery. The cold tailwaters below big dams like Summersville and Tygart are stocked trout fisheries too.
Stocked state-park & WMA lakes
Many smaller lakes get regular trout stockings in the cooler months, making them great family trout spots: Teter Creek Lake, Big Ditch Lake, Moncove Lake, Watoga Lake, Lake Sherwood and Lake Stephens all see stocked trout.
When and how to fish them
West Virginia stocks trout heavily in spring and fall (and some waters in winter), when the water is cold – that’s prime time. Bank anglers do well with bait and small spinners, while fly anglers and float-tubers work the high lakes. As the water warms in summer, trout fishing shifts to the coldest, deepest lakes and the tailwaters.
License and trout stamp
To fish for or possess trout in West Virginia you need a fishing license and a trout stamp from the Division of Natural Resources. Check the DNR’s stocking schedule to time your trip, and confirm current limits before you keep fish.
Ready to fish? See our fishing in West Virginia guide, browse all the small lakes, or head back to the West Virginia Lakes Database.
