The 2024 West Virginia Gold Rush: Week 2 Fishing Spots

Week two of the 2024 West Virginia Gold Rush has begun, and there are still plenty of golden trout to be reeled in. What makes this experience even better are all the beautiful, scenic locations that contribute to Almost Heaven’s stunning backdrops.

What is Gold Rush in West Virginia?

The West Virginia Gold Rush is a two-week-long fishing contest. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources will stock 68 lakes and streams across the state with golden rainbow trout, which received its first widespread stocking in 1963. From April 1-13, participating anglers will get a chance to reel in one of 50,000 stocked golden trout, 500 of which are tagged, for a chance to win exclusive West Virginia prizes. Make sure you check the golden trout for a tag and save the assigned number to claim your prize.

For week two, here are some featured locations where you can cast a line and enjoy Gold Rush fishing from April 7-13 in Almost Heaven.

To participate, purchase your West Virginia fishing license here.

Boley Lake

Babcock State Park

Boley Lake is tucked away in the woods of Babcock State Park in Clifftop, West Virginia. The lake is about a half-mile away from the famous Glade Creek Grist Mill in a little bowl in the mountains. Aside from the golden rainbow trout, largemouth bass and bluegill are also common here. Extend your trip by booking one of Babcock State Park’s cozy cabins, which open in mid-April.

    Coopers Rock Lake

    Coopers Rock State Forest

    Coopers Rock Lake is accessible via a short drive from the Coopers Rock exit of I-68 near Morgantown in Coopers Rock State Forest. This lake is six acres large and is a hotspot for trout fishing in West Virginia. The water here is very clear and makes the golden rainbow trout stand out. A hiking trail wraps the perimeter of the entire lake – making it possible to cast a line from just about anywhere.

      Mountwood Park Lake

      Wood County, West Virginia

      In the scenic forest of Mountwood Park in Wood County is a 50-acre lake that’s perfectly suited for West Virginia Gold Rush fishing. Enjoy fishing in this quiet area as the lake is surrounded by a lush forest. Aside from golden rainbow trout, you will also find catfish, large-mouth bass, crappie, carp, sunfish, baitfish, muskie and crayfish. Kayak rentals are also available. To extend your fishing getaway, try out one of Mountwood’s Primitive Cabins.

        North Bend Lake

        North Bend State Park

        North Bend State Park is a fisher’s paradise. The 305-acre recreational lake provides several great locations to cast a line and is equipped with a boat ramp, handicapped accessible fishing pier and other fishing access points. There are also numerous hiking trails, abundant wildlife and excellent overnight accommodations (lodging, camping and cabins) and an on-site restaurant, all of which add to the ultimate West Virginia Gold Rush trip.

          Teter Creek Lake

          Barbour County, West Virginia

          In Barbour County, the 137-acre Teter Creek Wildlife Management Area is home to the 35-acre Teter Creek Lake. This area ranges across old pastures and forests of oak and hickory trees, creating beautiful vistas from wherever you cast a line. Expect to see an abundance of wildlife, including deer, grouse, squirrel, turkey and much more during your Gold Rush trip here.

            Tomlinson Run Lake

            Tomlinson Run State Park

            Tomlinson Run State Park lies on nearly 1,400 acres of heavily forested hills. The 30-acre Tomlinson Run Lake is another fantastic fishing spot to catch a golden rainbow trout. This body of water is regularly stocked to ensure quality chances of catching the big fish. For more recreational activities on the water, the marina offers paddleboats and rowboats for rent.
              Find More Waters

              A Gold Rush Must-Have

              Before you hit the waters, make sure your fishing license is up to date. A valid fishing license with a current trout stamp is required for catching one of West Virginia’s golden rainbow trout. All anglers 15 years and older are required to have a West Virginia fishing license and a valid form of identification while fishing. Licenses are valid throughout the entire calendar year. Whether you’re looking to come for the day or stay for a week, there’s a West Virginia fishing license for you.

              Purchase a Fishing License

              This post was last updated on April 4, 2024