Gold Rush Returns to West Virginia
For the third year in a row, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is planning statewide stockings of the Mountain State’s very own golden rainbow trout. This fish, while native to West Virginia, is a prized catch among anglers. Every spring, we take to our lakes and streams and stock over 50,000 golden trout to give anglers from across the country a chance to reel in this prized catch.
Cast A Line & 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.


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.
Purchase a fishing license
Stocking Locations
Your fishing getaway in Almost Heaven is a click away. Explore the map below to find a stocking location near you.
Select any of the options below to browse by stocking location or stocking date on the map.
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WV State Parks & Forests Stocking Locations
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Other WV Stocking Locations
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Gold Rush Deals and Discounts
Gold Rush Deals & Discounts

ACE ADVENTURE RESORT
Enjoy a special buy one, get two nights free on select lodging at ACE Adventure Resort.
Get This DealACE ADVENTURE RESORT
Relax and unwind after a long day of fishing at ACE Adventure Resort, where anglers and fisherman can buy one, get two nights free on select lodging*:
- The Red Fox Log Home
- The Grey Fox Log Home
- The Black Bear Log Home
- The Log Cottages
- The Laurel Cabins
- The Cozy Park Cabins
More information can be found at: https://aceraft.com/wv-vacation-cabin-discounts/
*Note: This offer expires March 31, 2020.

ELK RIVER GET-A-WAY
Explore the great outdoors even more with free kayak rental with the purchase of three at Elk River Get-A-Way.
Get This DealELK RIVER GET-A-WAY
Finished fishing but still want to explore the great outdoors? Bring your receipt from Bluegrass Kitchen or Tricky Fish restaurants and receive one free kayak rental with the purchase of three regular rentals ($30 value). The Elk River is conveniently located near the state’s capital.
Call 304-993-0006 to reserve a time!
MOUNTAINEER COUNTRY
Check out Mountaineer Country this Gold Rush season with sweet deals and discounts at these participating businesses.
Get This DealMOUNTAINEER COUNTRY
Check out Mountaineer Country this Gold Rush season with sweet deals and discounts at these participating businesses.

MCFLY OUTDOORS
Test your skills with a fishing competition hosted by McFly Outdoors and enjoy 10% off all of their fly-fishing inventory.
Get This DealMCFLY OUTDOORS
Win big as you go for gold this season and participate in McFly Outdoors’ “Gold Rush Fun Fishing Contest!” Register in person at the Morgantown location in Suncrest Towne Centre or by calling 304-592-4022. Participants will have a chance to win a $25 gift card or an official McFly Outdoors hat. Then, throughout the event, participants can enjoy 10% off all fly-fishing inventory in McFly Outdoors’ Morgantown location. Rules of this contest will be provided at registration.

HOLIDAY INN MORGANTOWN
Extend your fishing adventure with a stay at the Holiday Inn – Morgantown, where anglers and fishermen can get a 12% discount on the hotel’s best flexible rate.
Get This DealHOLIDAY INN MORGANTOWN
Hang up your waders and unwind after an adventurous day in Mountaineer Country at Holiday Inn Morgantown – University Area. Gold Rush fishermen and anglers can enjoy 12% off the hotel’s best flexible rate. Must mention “Mountaineer Deals” upon check in.

WEST VIRGINIA STATE PARKS
Get 20% off your entire stay at a West Virginia State Park or Forest.
Get This DealWEST VIRGINIA STATE PARKS
Enjoy Gold Rush by taking a weekend trip to a participating West Virginia State Park and use the offer code GOLDRUSH20 at checkout on wvstateparks.com to save 20% on a lodge or cabin.
#GoldrushWV
Press Center
Click here to access video and photos of the West Virginia golden rainbow trout.
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