Gold Rush 2024

The West Virginia Gold Rush returned April 1 – April 13, 2024, and was bigger and better than ever, with five times the number of chances to win prizes. 2024 Contest winners will be mailed their prizes directly, and the full list of winners can be found here. In addition to the featured prizes, every angler with a fishing license who caught a golden trout will receive a custom tackle box!

During this two-week period, WV DNR will stock 68 lakes and streams with the Mountain State’s very own golden rainbow trout. This fish is prized by anglers for its unmistakable, bright-yellow color. 50,000 golden trout will be entering our lakes and streams, and this year, 500 fish will be tagged.

Joining Gold Rush is as Easy as 1,2,3

Step 1: Go fishing

This is the fun part! Make sure you have a valid WV fishing license and trout stamp.

Purchase a License

Step 2: Catch a tagged golden trout

We wish you the best of luck on the water.

Step 3: Complete the entry form

Be sure to save your tag number as you will need it to enter to win. Submissions for 2024 have now closed, as of 5/5/2024.

STOCKING LOCATIONS

Your fishing getaway in Almost Heaven is a click away. Explore the map below to find a stocking location near you. Or view the full list of stocking locations here.

WV State Parks & Forests Stocking Locations
Other WV Stocking Locations

ABOUT THE GOLDEN RAINBOW TROUT

West Virginia’s golden rainbow trout is prized by anglers young and old for its unmistakable, bright-yellow color. These fish were selectively and successfully bred by West Virginia Division of Natural Resources biologists over several years and introduced to the public in 1963 as part of West Virginia’s centennial celebration. Decades later, the West Virginia golden rainbow trout has been a popular sport fish, reeling in anglers from all over the country.

PURCHASE A FISHING LICENSE

A valid fishing license with a current trout stamp is your ticket to catching 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 through 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.

Licenses can be purchased at 160 retail locations across the state or online.

Plan Your Fishing Trip

The 2024 Gold Rush Giveaway

50,000 golden trout | 500 chances to win | 100 lucky winners

We’re making every cast count. Of the 50,000 golden trout stocked for Gold Rush, 500 fish will have specially marked, numbered tags. If you are a lucky angler who reels in a catch with a numbered tag, you can enter to win one of four prizes. This year, 100 lucky winners recieved a West Virginia Lifetime Fishing License, a one-night cabin stay at a West Virginia state park or forest, a West Virginia State Parks gift card or exclusive Gold Rush merch. Find the full list of winners for 2024 here. And for the first time – every angler who catches a tagged golden trout will win a special commemorative prize.

1. WV Lifetime Fishing license

A West Virginia lifetime fishing license for five lucky winners.

2. ONE-NIGHT STATE PARK STAY

One-night cabin stay at one West Virginia state park or forest.

3. STATE PARK GIFT CARD

$25 gift card to West Virginia state parks

How to Enter

Step 1

Enter and verify your tag number.

Step 2

Complete the
submission form. Submissions have now closed for the 2024 contest.

Step 3

Wait for the call! Prizes will be announced at the end of the Gold Rush.

Cast a Line and End Up in Almost Heaven

Here, what matters most are the moments you hold onto. Simple and pure. Those moments where you become one with the call of churning streams and relax in the sound of calm waters – all while waiting for the perfect catch. Escape the hustle and bustle and plan your outdoor outing to West Virginia.