WVDNR releases updated fishing regulations
WVDNR encourages anglers to renew annual licenses and stamps early
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.VA. — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) today announced the availability of the state’s 2025 Fishing Regulations Summary, which can be downloaded for free at WVdnr.gov/fishing-regulations.
“Reviewing the updated Fishing Regulations Summary each year is an important step for anglers to stay informed about the rules that preserve the quality of our state’s world-class fisheries,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “As we approach the new year, I encourage everyone to download a copy and renew their licenses early, so they’re ready to cast their lines come January 1.”
West Virginia’s updated fishing regulations will go into effect on Jan. 1. Anglers are encouraged to review the full updated summary and make note of new regulations, which include:
- The daily creel limit on Elk Fork, North Bend, O’Brien and Woodrum lakes is six for black bass (smallmouth, spotted and largemouth). Only one fish may exceed 16 inches.
- Fish caught on commercial pay lakes are not eligible for state record, fish citation or Master Angler programs.
The WVDNR also announced a correction to the print edition of the Regulations Summary. In the special regulations section for black bass on page 2, Elk Fork, North Bend, O’Brien and Woodrum lakes should have been removed from the lakes section under catch-and-release. These lakes are now under the minimum size limit section also on page 2. Physical copies of the 2025 Fishing Regulations Summary will be available at WVDNR district offices and authorized license agents around the state in January.
All anglers 15 years and older are required to have a West Virginia fishing license and a valid form of identification while fishing in the state of West Virginia. Trout stamps are required for those fishing for trout. Licenses and stamps may be purchased online at WVfish.com.
