ACCESSIBLE FISHING IN WEST VIRGINIA
West Virginia lakes, creeks and ponds are a fisherman’s dream. Cast a line and leave your worries behind as you explore these accessible fishing spots around Almost Heaven. The following fishing spots have been designated as accessible fishing areas in West Virginia.
Helpful Tip: A Class Q Special Fishing/Hunting Permit from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources may be required in some areas. The catch-and-keep limit in these spots is 4 trout. Check the DNR website before traveling if your destination is a catch-and-release area.
Clear Fork
Located in Wyoming County, Clear Fork offers a 300-yard section in Gilliand Park for fishing. Trout, smallmouth bass, and bluegill have all been spotted here. These waters are stocked twice a month February-April and once in May. Check out DS Sportsman’s Center in Mullens to pick up any equipment you need.
While You’re There: Visit Twin Falls Resort State Park and visit the Twin Falls Restaurant for a delicious meal.
Coonskin Park Pond
This 2.7-acre pond in Coonskin Park in Kanawha County is known for its abundance of trout. This spot features a paved walking path that surrounds the pond. Trout is stocked once in March, so make sure to enjoy this spot in the late spring or early summer.
While You’re There: Check out the accessible 18-hole golf course in the park.
Handley Pond
This Pocahontas County pond boasts a proud 5 acres, and it best known for bass, trout, and catfish. A fishing pier is available for easy access to the water. Located on the Handley Wildlife Management Area.
While You’re There: Visit the nearby Cranberry Glades Botanical Area and enjoy beautiful wildlife from the half-mile boardwalk that runs through the bogs.
Rollins Lake
Near the town of Ripley, Rollins Lake offers a paved road with access to half of the water. Stocked once a month from January to April, you are likely to catch bluegill, largemouth bass, and channel catfish.
While You’re There: Enjoy an easy walk around the lakes on the paved pathways at Cedar Lakes, or take a tour (and taste some moonshine) at the Appalachian Distillery.
Mash Fork of Camp Creek
Mash Fork is located in Camp Creek State Park and Forest, which became part of the West Virginia park system in 1987. Just under a 10th of a mile, Mash Fork for Class Q is a great little place for trout fishing. This section is stocked once in March for children and Class Q fishing.
While You’re There: Just 30 minutes away is Pipestem Resort State Park, where you can enjoy dinner with a view or pick up Almost Heaven souvenirs from one of the park’s specialty stores.
Millers Fork Pond
This 5-acre pond on the Beech Fork Wildlife Management Area is located in Wayne county, bordering the Hatfield & McCoy travel region. Test your luck with the pond’s variety of fish, including trout, bluegill, crappie, saugeye, tiger musky, and bass.
While You’re There: Beech Fork State Park is full of adventure. Stop by the Camper’s Corner Store for fishing equipment and hand-dipped ice cream or enjoy an afternoon of birdwatching on the paved 1-mile Physical Fitness Trail.
Raleigh County Airport Pond
This 2-acre pond is best known for its angling opportunities for channel catfish, largemouth bass, and trout. A gravel path surrounds the lake for easier water access.
While You’re There: A trip to Raleigh County isn’t complete until you visit the Tamarack. Discover unique Appalachian goods and indulge in a delicious meal from the deli or grill.
Underwood Lake
Underwood Lake is located on YMCA’s Kennedy Center Recreation Area near Huntington. A fishing pier is available for ease of access. This lake contains sunfish, catfish, trout, and bass.
While You’re There: Head over to Ritter Park for a relaxing stroll on the paves walking path, or set up a picnic under in one of the accessible shelters. Head over to the Keith Albee Theater to watch a performance by the Marshall Artists Series. The Keith Albee has several wheelchair and scooter accessible seats, as well as accessible parking and entrances.
Westover Park Pond
Located near Morgantown, this 1.5-acre impoundment provides warmwater fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, bluegill, and trout.For more information, visit the DNR website.
While You’re There: Explore the Caperton Trail, a 5-mile paved trail that runs through Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park and the WVU Core Arboretum. This trail is highlighted with unique local restaurants and shops.
Wood Pond
This Ohio County lake in the Bear Rock Lakes Wildlife Management Area boasts a variety of fish including bluegill, trout, musky, and bass. This half-acre lake has a fishing pier and a paved path for convenient access to the water.
While You’re There: Check out Centre Market in the nearby city of Wheeling and explore a variety of shops and restaurants with something for everyone.