The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) recently announced the return of trout stockings to select lakes and streams around the state.
“Whether you’re casting a line for the first time or you’ve been fishing these waters for years, our stocked lakes and streams offer the perfect opportunity to experience the thrill of fishing and the natural beauty of West Virginia,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “We encourage everyone to get their 2025 fishing license and stamps and plan a fishing trip this winter.”
Lakes and streams receiving a stocking during the week of Jan. 2 include:
- Anthony Creek
- Cranberry River
- Gandy Creek
- Glady Fork
- James P. Bailey Lake
- Knapps Creek
- Laurel Fork (Randolph)
- Little River West Fork Greenbrier River
- Shavers Fork (Bemis)
- Shavers Fork (Upper Section)
- Spruce Knob Lake
- West Fork Greenbrier River
- Williams River
While daily trout stockings are not announced in advance, the WVDNR publishes a list of recently stocked waters at WVdnr.gov/fish-stocking. Anglers may also find out what waters have been stocked by calling the stocking hotline at 304-558-3399. In inclement weather, missed stockings are made up by either additional stocking runs or additional fish are added to upcoming stocking events. For more information about trout stocking locations, anglers should check pages 6–7 in the 2025 Fishing Regulations Summary, available to download at WVdnr.gov/fishing-regulations.
All anglers 15 years and older are required to have a West Virginia fishing license and a valid form of identification while fishing in the state of West Virginia. Trout stamps are required for those fishing for trout. Licenses and stamps may be purchased online at WVfish.com.
