West Virginia’s fall fly fishing is a fisherman’s dream, for a reason!
Fall is an excellent time for fly fishing on West Virginia’s creeks, lakes, rivers and streams! This season brings cooler temperatures, increased insect activity and a unique opportunity to target trout with dry flies imitating migrating ants, or with streamers and nymphs to attract aggressive, territorial fish looking to bulk up for the coming winter. Don’t forget: you will need a West Virginia fishing license and trout stamp to target trout within the state.
The majority of the state is filled with nooks and crannies along a multitude of water sources holding native spawned Brook Trout and DNR stocked trout species, including Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Golden Rainbow Trout and Tiger Trout. These fish can be found from small holes of water in tiny tributary creeks to larger cold water rivers and lakes.
Fall fly fishing on the Blackwater River and Pendleton Lake within Blackwater Falls State Park, are good locations to fish and can be productive, with opportunities for trout and other species. Autumn is a prime time, as cooling temperatures increase trout activity and create a strong, although not hatch-driven, surface feeding pattern.
Fall is an excellent time for fly fishing on West Virginia’s Elk River, particularly in its upper, wild trout-rich sections above Sutton Lake, offering a chance to catch brown, rainbow and brook trout. Popular tactics include matching the hatch with patterns like Adams, Blue Wing Olive or Sulphur. Try using a variety of techniques to find success in the crystal clear waters.
For a more rugged and secluded fall fly fishing trip into the West Virginia backcountry, anglers may choose to venture into the “Dogway section” of the Cranberry River. The “Dogway section” refers to Dogway Fork, a tributary of the Cranberry River in Webster County, West Virginia. It is a popular area for trout fishing, known for its “fly fishing only” designation and populations of brook trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Access is only by hiking, biking or horseback along the former railroad grade, as vehicles are restricted past the Cranberry Campground gate. This is a remote and beautiful area inside the Monongahela National Forest, offering opportunities for fishing, hunting, hiking, camping and backpacking to reach majestic places less traveled.
The fall fly fishing angler looking for the pull of the drag over a limit catch day, West Virginia offers many “Fly Fishing Only” catch and release areas throughout the backcountry. The fish caught in these waters must be immediately returned to the water, and fishing is permitted during daylight hours only. Regulations for these waters include permitting only artificial flies and streamers and prohibiting conventional spinning or spin-cast reels. Lures with added scent or edible attractants are also prohibited. Grab your gear and head out to Edward Run in Hampshire County, Milligan Creek in Greenbrier County, Red Run of Dry Fork in Tucker County, Second Creek at Rodgers Mill in Monroe County, Thorn Creek in Pendleton County, Buffalo Creek of New River in Fayette County to name a few.
Fall in Love with #AlmostHeaven
One of the best ways to stay in the loop with all things fall in West Virginia is by following along with us on social media. From live foliage updates to exclusive offers, you are sure to be inspired by our feeds. Use the buttons below to join the conversation. Be sure to share photos from your autumn adventures using #AlmostHeaven for a chance to be featured.
Send Me UpdatesThis post was last updated on October 28, 2025