Fishing Fun: 6 West Virginia State Parks to Reel in the Big One

West Virginia’s wild and rugged beauty makes it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts searching for a place to cast a line. With rolling mountains, crystal-clear rivers and serene lakes, the Mountain State’s parks offer some of the best freshwater fishing in the region. Whether you're chasing trophy bass, rainbow trout or elusive catfish, these state parks have something for every angler.

1. Blackwater Falls State Park

Located in the Allegheny Mountains of Davis, Blackwater Falls is best known for its breathtaking waterfall, but anglers know the Blackwater River holds excellent fishing opportunities from private boat slips for rent. The river is stocked with trout — including rainbow, brook and brown trout — especially in the spring and fall. Access points along the river make it easy to find a quiet spot for fly fishing.

• Water: Fresh 
• Key Species: Rainbow, brook and brown trout 
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, fly

2. Cacapon Resort State Park

Cacapon Resort, near Berkeley Springs, offers a peaceful escape and a variety of fishing options. The park's six-acre lake is regularly stocked with trout, bass and bluegill. Cacapon Lake is a great spot for beginners and families looking for a calm fishing experience. It has easy shore access and nearby picnic spots.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Trout, bluegill, bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat, canoe, kayak 

3. Stonewall Resort State Park

Stonewall Jackson Lake, the crown jewel of this Roanoke park, is a 2,650-acre reservoir famous for largemouth bass, crappie, muskellunge and catfish. With a no-wake boating policy in many areas, it’s an ideal spot for peaceful fishing outings. Stonewall Resort also offers boat rentals, making it accessible even if you don't have your own gear.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Muskellunge, catfish, largemouth bass, crappie
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Watoga State Park

Whether you’re visiting from a marina or a private boat dock rental, West Virginia’s largest state park, Marlinton’s Watoga State Park, offers some underrated fishing experiences. Watoga Lake, a scenic 11-acre body of water, is stocked with trout several times a year and is also home to largemouth bass and channel catfish. Its remote setting offers a true escape into nature. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Trout, channel catfish, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, canoe, kayak, boats with electric or trolling motors

5. Bluestone State Park

Set along the Bluestone River and close to Bluestone Lake in Hinton, Bluestone State Park offers access to a wide range of fishing experiences. Bluestone Lake is one of the best warm-water fisheries in the state. You’ll find healthy populations of smallmouth bass, hybrid striped bass, catfish and crappie. The surrounding river offers excellent opportunities for wade fishing and kayak fishing.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Crappie, catfish, hybrid striped bass, smallmouth bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, fly, kayak

6. North Bend State Park

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Cairo’s North Bend’s 305-acre lake is a hidden gem for fishing. Whether you’re visiting from a private boat lift rental, a marina or your driveway, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish are all abundant. There's also a fishing pier and rental boats available. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Catfish, bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, pier, canoe, kayak, boat