Fly Fishing
Lush forests. Unspoiled streams. What better place to cast a line and reel in West Virginia’s native brook trout? Here, you can find a wide array of trout species, including rainbow, golden and brook. Anglers come from near and far to fish these hallowed waters. Grab your rod and find a stream.
West Virginia offers a wide variety of fishing experiences for all types of anglers, but nothing compares to reconnecting with nature and getting back to the basics of fly fishing in a babbling brook. Whether you’re an avid angler or new to the sport, here are a few spots to add to your list.
Cranberry River
Nestled within Cranberry Wilderness, you can find this fly fishing destination within the Monongahela National Forest. The Cranberry River is one of the most popular spots in the state for fly fishing. Named one of Americas 100 best trout streams, you can find hook, brown, and rainbow trout during your fishing adventure.
Milligan Creek
Looking to enjoy a section of only fly fishing? Milligan Creek is the place for you. With one-mile section specifically for fly fishing, this creek is the state’s only home for native brook trout. Located only few miles from Lewisburg, Milligan Creek is a great day trip location.
Seneca Creek
Featured on Trout’s Unlimited list of 100 trout streams in the U.S., this fly fishing spot is more remote than others. Anglers are encouraged to make an overnight excursion to get the full experience of fishing in Seneca Creek. Home to wild rainbow trout and brook trout, this is the perfect spot for more serious anglers.
Elk River
This 172-mile river is perfect for all anglers. The Elk River is home to over 10,000 fish including brown, brook, rainbow, and golden trout. Although this river is long, the best spot for fly fishing is the highest point, due to the limestone creek bed. This river is very popular among anglers because it is known to produce large wild brown and rainbow trout —some reaching sizes of 20 inches or more.
Dry Fork
Dry Fork is well known by native West Virginia anglers. Originating in the Monongahela National Forest, its water flows through Randolph and Tucker counties. Since this creek winds above ground and underground caves, it gets its name due to some portions drying up in the summer months. Stocked with brook, brown, rainbow, and golden trout starting in February, and then every other week from March-May, this is a great fly fishing destination!
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