Stonecoal Lake is one of West Virginia’s best-kept fishing secrets – a quiet, 550-acre DNR lake on the Lewis-Upshur county line that’s earned a statewide reputation as a top muskie and walleye water. Undeveloped, electric-motor-only and ringed by forest, it’s a peaceful lake that rewards anglers who value solitude and big fish over crowds and amenities.
This guide covers Stonecoal Lake: the fishing, the quiet-water character, and access. It’s part of our growing West Virginia Lakes Database.
Stonecoal Lake at a glance
- Surface area: ~550 acres on Stonecoal Creek
- Location: Lewis & Upshur counties, central West Virginia (near Weston & Buckhannon)
- Managed by: West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
- Top fish: muskie, walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, bluegill
Fishing Stonecoal Lake
Stonecoal punches well above its size as a fishery:
- Muskie – the lake is regarded as one of the best muskellunge waters in West Virginia, producing big fish for those willing to put in the casts.
- Walleye – a strong, well-established population.
- Largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish and bluegill round out the catch.
A West Virginia fishing license is required. The standing timber, points and creek channels hold muskie and walleye, and the lack of heavy boat traffic keeps the fishing relaxed.
A quiet, undeveloped lake
Much of Stonecoal’s appeal is what it lacks: there’s little development, and the lake is generally restricted to electric motors (or no-wake), which keeps it calm and quiet. That makes it ideal for anglers, kayakers and canoeists who want a peaceful day on the water surrounded by central West Virginia forest. Basic boat access is provided, but you won’t find marinas or crowds.
Getting there and what’s nearby
Stonecoal Lake is between Weston and Buckhannon in central West Virginia, an easy trip off US-33 and I-79. Nearby Stonewall Jackson Lake pairs well for a central-WV fishing weekend.
Know before you go
- Fishing license: a West Virginia license is required; note muskie regulations.
- Quiet water: generally electric-motor/no-wake – bring a kayak or a small boat, not a speedboat.
- Best seasons: spring and fall for muskie and walleye; summer for bass and panfish.
Frequently asked questions
What fish are in Stonecoal Lake?
Muskie (it’s one of WV’s best muskie lakes), walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish and bluegill.
Can you use a motorboat on Stonecoal Lake?
The lake is generally restricted to electric motors / no-wake, which keeps it quiet and ideal for anglers and paddlers.
Where is Stonecoal Lake?
Between Weston and Buckhannon in central West Virginia, off US-33 and I-79.
Related: explore more of the largest lakes in West Virginia, or head back to the West Virginia Lakes Database.
