Wv Trout Stocking Schedule
Introduction
If you’re a fishing enthusiast in West Virginia, you’re probably familiar with the WV Trout Stocking Schedule. It’s a comprehensive guide that provides information on when and where trout are stocked in the state’s rivers and streams. As someone who has been fishing in West Virginia for years, I can attest to the importance of this schedule. In this article, I’ll be sharing my personal experience with the WV Trout Stocking Schedule and providing a detailed guide to help you make the most of your fishing trips.
What is the WV Trout Stocking Schedule?
The WV Trout Stocking Schedule is a yearly plan that outlines the dates and locations where trout will be stocked in the state’s waters. The schedule is created by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) and is typically released in late winter or early spring. The schedule includes streams and rivers that are stocked with rainbow, brown, and golden trout.
List of Events and Competitions
Every year, there are several events and competitions that coincide with the WV Trout Stocking Schedule. Here are some of the most popular ones: – The Governor’s One Shot Turkey Hunt: This event takes place in late April and coincides with the first week of trout stocking. It’s a charity event that raises money for the West Virginia Hunters Helping the Hungry program. – The West Virginia Trout Tournament: This is a two-day event that takes place in late April or early May. Anglers compete to catch the biggest trout, and there are cash prizes for the top three finishers. – The West Virginia Gold Rush: This is a new event that was introduced in 2022. It takes place in late June and coincides with the stocking of golden trout. Anglers can win cash prizes for catching tagged golden trout.
How to Use the WV Trout Stocking Schedule
The WV Trout Stocking Schedule is an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to go fishing in West Virginia. Here are some tips on how to use the schedule to plan your fishing trips: 1. Check the schedule regularly: The schedule is subject to change, so it’s important to check it regularly to make sure you have the most up-to-date information. 2. Plan ahead: If you want to fish in a particular stream or river, check the schedule to see when it will be stocked. Plan your trip accordingly. 3. Be prepared: Make sure you have the right gear and equipment for the type of fishing you’ll be doing. You’ll also need a valid West Virginia fishing license.
Detail Schedule Guide
Here is a detailed guide to the WV Trout Stocking Schedule: – February: The first stockings of the year take place in February, typically in the eastern panhandle. Some of the popular streams that are stocked include the Cacapon River, Lost River, and Opequon Creek. – March: In March, stockings take place in the central and southern parts of the state. Some of the popular streams that are stocked include the Elk River, Cherry River, and Middle Fork River. – April: April is the busiest month for trout stocking. Streams and rivers across the state are stocked with rainbow, brown, and golden trout. Some of the popular streams that are stocked include the Greenbrier River, Williams River, and Shavers Fork. – May: In May, stockings continue in the eastern panhandle and the central part of the state. Some of the popular streams that are stocked include the South Branch of the Potomac River, North Fork of the Hughes River, and Cranberry River. – June: June is when the stocking of golden trout takes place. Some of the popular streams that are stocked include the Blackwater River, Elk River, and North Fork of the South Branch.
Schedule Table
Here is a table that provides a summary of the WV Trout Stocking Schedule: Month | Area | Streams/Rivers | Trout Species —– | —- | ————- | ————- February | Eastern Panhandle | Cacapon River, Lost River, Opequon Creek | Rainbow, brown March | Central and Southern WV | Elk River, Cherry River, Middle Fork River | Rainbow, brown April | Statewide | Greenbrier River, Williams River, Shavers Fork | Rainbow, brown, golden May | Eastern Panhandle and Central WV | South Branch of the Potomac River, North Fork of the Hughes River, Cranberry River | Rainbow, brown June | Statewide | Blackwater River, Elk River, North Fork of the South Branch | Golden
Question and Answer
Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish in West Virginia?
A: Yes, you need a valid West Virginia fishing license to fish in the state’s waters. You can purchase a license online or at a licensed vendor.
Q: When is the best time to fish in West Virginia?
A: The best time to fish in West Virginia depends on the species you’re targeting. Trout fishing is best in the spring and early summer when the water is cool. Bass fishing is best in the summer and fall when the water is warmer.
Q: Can I keep the trout I catch?
A: Yes, you can keep the trout you catch as long as they meet the state’s size and bag limits. You can find information on size and bag limits on the WV DNR website.
FAQs
Q: How often is the WV Trout Stocking Schedule updated?
A: The schedule is updated regularly throughout the stocking season. It’s important to check the schedule often to make sure you have the most up-to-date information.
Q: Can I fish in a stream or river that hasn’t been stocked?
A: Yes, you can fish in any stream or river in West Virginia as long as it’s open to fishing. However, your chances of catching fish will be lower if the stream or river hasn’t been stocked recently.
Q: What gear do I need to go trout fishing in West Virginia?
A: You’ll need a fishing rod and reel, fishing line, hooks, bait or lures, and waders. You may also want to bring a fishing vest, net, and tackle box.