Moncove Lake is a quiet 144-acre state-park lake tucked into the far southeastern corner of West Virginia, near the Virginia line in rural Monroe County. Ringed by mountains and rich birdlife, with a campground, a swimming pool and electric-only boating, it’s a peaceful, uncrowded retreat for anglers and families who want mountain scenery far off the beaten path.
This guide covers Moncove Lake: the fishing, the state park, and access. It’s part of our growing West Virginia Lakes Database.
Moncove Lake at a glance
- Surface area: ~144 acres at Moncove Lake State Park
- Location: Monroe County, southeastern West Virginia (near Gap Mills, by the Virginia line)
- Top fish: largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, redear sunfish, some trout
Fishing Moncove Lake
Moncove is a relaxed warmwater fishery: largemouth bass lead the way, with bluegill, redear sunfish and channel catfish, plus some trout stocked in the cooler months. A West Virginia fishing license (and a trout stamp in season) is required. The lake is restricted to electric motors, keeping it calm and quiet – ideal for canoes, kayaks and small fishing boats working the weedy bays and shoreline.
The state park and birding
Moncove Lake State Park offers a campground, a swimming pool, picnic areas, boat rentals and trails. The surrounding wetlands and mountains make it a quietly excellent birding destination, set against Peters Mountain and the rolling farm country of Monroe County. It’s one of West Virginia’s most peaceful, lightly visited state-park lakes.
Getting there and what’s nearby
Moncove Lake is near Gap Mills in Monroe County, southeastern West Virginia, close to the Virginia line. The historic spa town of Sweet Springs, Union and the Greenbrier Valley are nearby, with Peters Mountain rising along the state line.
Know before you go
- Fishing license: required (plus a trout stamp during the stocking season).
- Electric motors only: quiet water – bring a paddle craft or electric motor.
- Best seasons: spring and fall for trout and bass; summer for camping and the pool.
Frequently asked questions
What fish are in Moncove Lake?
Largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and channel catfish, plus some stocked trout in cooler months.
Can you camp at Moncove Lake?
Yes – Moncove Lake State Park has a campground, a swimming pool, boat rentals and trails.
Where is Moncove Lake?
Near Gap Mills in Monroe County, southeastern West Virginia, close to the Virginia line.
Related: explore the small lakes of West Virginia, or head back to the West Virginia Lakes Database.
