Fishing Regulations are a helpful resource for planning fishing adventures in West Virginia

Every year, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources releases an update to the state’s fishing regulations. While most regulations remain consistent from year to year, occasional changes are implemented to better maintain the health of our state’s fisheries, protect game fish species and their habitats, and enhance the angling experience. We’ll walk you through updates to the 2025 Fishing Regulations Summary, show you how to navigate them easily, and explain how to use them to plan your next fishing adventure.

How to Read West Virginia’s Fishing Regulations

West Virginia’s Fishing Regulations Summary is available online as a downloadable PDF and in print at WVDNR district offices and authorized license agents statewide. The regulations summary also includes a table of contents organized by species, making it easy for anglers to find the information they need. Whether you’re targeting bass, trout, musky or catfish, each species has its own section that clearly outlines creel limits, size limits, and special rules. By familiarizing yourself with the summary layout, you can easily navigate the regulations and find the information you’re looking for.

What’s New In This Year’s Fishing Regulations

For quick reference, the regulations summary includes a section at the front with new or updated regulations. For 2025, new regulations include:

  • • Daily Creel Limits – The Elk Fork, North Bend, O’Brien and Woodrum lakes now have a daily creel limit of six for black bass (smallmouth, spotted, and largemouth), with only one fish allowed to exceed 16 inches.
  • • Commercial Pay Lakes – Fish caught at these lakes are no longer eligible for state records, fish citations, or the Master Angler program.

How to Use the Fishing Regulations to Plan Your Adventures

West Virginia offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the nation, and the Fishing Regulations Summary provides valuable information to help you plan your next fishing trip. From public lakes and ponds to popular float trips, the regulations detail where you can find a variety of game fish, including bass, catfish, crappie, musky, trout and walleye.

The regulations also highlight popular water trails, boating access points and amenities such as fishing piers and camping facilities. Whether you’re planning a quiet day on a local pond or an adventurous trip along a scenic river, the regulations will help you choose the perfect spot to cast your line.

Buy Your Fishing License and Stamps

Stay informed, plan and enjoy a successful fishing season in West Virginia. But before you cast your line, make sure your fishing license is up-to-date. All anglers 15 years and older are required to have a valid West Virginia fishing license and identification. Trout stamps are also required for anglers fishing for trout. Licenses and stamps are available for purchase online at WVfish.com.