Fishing Regulations

New! 2025 Fishing Regulations

The Fishing Regulations Summary includes stocking locations, consumption advisories, creel limits, rules for fishing on reciprocal waters and other tips to help you enjoy West Virginia’s world-class fishing lakes and stream.

Note: The current 2024 Fishing Regulations will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 31. The 2025 Fishing Regulations Summary goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025. If you want to request a printed copy of the current regulations, contact your local authorized hunting license agent or WVDNR District Office.

Fishing Forms

• – West Virginia Master Angler Program & Application
• – West Virginia Trophy Fish Protocol & Citation
• – Application for a Triploid Grass Carp Importation
• – Fish Importation Permit Application
• – 2023 Fishing Tournament Policy

Other Information

• – Fishing tournaments in West Virginia
• – Ohio River Reciprocal Agreement Chart

About West Virginia’s Fishing Regulations

Fisheries biologists utilize regulations to provide world-class recreational fishing opportunities while protecting West Virginia’s fish resources. Regulations prevent over harvesting sport fish, protect spawning fish, maintain healthy populations and protect vulnerable species. Before implementing a new regulation, the WVDNR carefully collects biological information and considers angler preferences. If you have questions about a specific regulation, please contact a fisheries biologist at a nearby WVDNR District Office.