March through November
Where to stay for fishing in West Virginia
The state stocks trout in more than 200 streams and lakes, with wild brook trout in the higher Monongahela National Forest water. The New River holds smallmouth bass and muskie, and Summersville and Sutton lakes are the main reservoir fisheries.
Where do you stay for fishing in West Virginia?
Elk River, Cranberry River and Summersville Lake are three of the best areas to base a fishing trip.
The season runs march through November, and each area below has its own page with places to stay nearby.
- Best time of year
- March through November
- Where people go
- Elk River, Cranberry River, Summersville Lake, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Seneca Rocks
- Where people stay
- Cabins, Campgrounds, Lodges, Vacation Rentals
Where people go
- Elk River
- Cranberry River
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- Berkeley Springs
- Elkins
- Davis
- Thomas
- Morgantown
- Summersville
Fishing near Elk RiverFishing near Cranberry RiverFishing near Summersville LakeFishing near New River Gorge National Park and PreserveFishing near Seneca RocksFishing near Monongahela National ForestFishing in Berkeley Springs, WVFishing in Elkins, WVFishing in Davis, WVFishing in Thomas, WVFishing in Morgantown, WVFishing in Summersville, WVFishing in Charleston, WVFishing in Huntington, WVFishing in Fayetteville, WVFishing in Lewisburg, WVFishing in White Sulphur Springs, WVFishing near Harpers Ferry National Historical ParkFishing near Gauley River National Recreation AreaFishing near Babcock State Park
Places to stay for fishing
We're still adding places to stay near West Virginia's best fishing areas.
Own or manage a property nearby? List it on BookWV.
Fishing in West Virginia: what people ask
When is the season for fishing in West Virginia?
The season runs march through November. Outside those months conditions are unreliable and some access points close.
Where is the best fishing in West Virginia?
Elk River, Cranberry River, Summersville Lake and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are the areas most people head for. The state stocks trout in more than 200 streams and lakes, with wild brook trout in the higher Monongahela National Forest water. The New River holds smallmouth bass and muskie, and Summersville and Sutton lakes are the main reservoir fisheries.
Where should I stay for fishing in West Virginia?
Elk River, Cranberry River, Summersville Lake and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are where most people base themselves, because each one puts you close enough to get an early start. Choose one to see the places to stay within reach of it.
Do I need to book ahead for fishing in West Virginia?
In season, yes. Many of the best fishing areas are near small towns, so weekend lodging can fill quickly. Midweek and shoulder-season dates stay open much longer.
Is fishing in West Virginia good for beginners?
Yes. West Virginia has everything from easy overlooks and short nature trails to demanding backcountry routes, though the two are often an hour apart rather than side by side. Each destination page describes what that area is known for, which is worth reading before you choose where to stay.