West Virginia is a beautiful state with plenty of opportunities for fishing, and if you want to get the most out of your fishing experience, you need to get a fishing license. Fishing licenses in West Virginia are issued by the Department of Natural Resources, and there are a few different types available depending on your needs. Here is a guide to help you understand the different types of licenses available, and how much they cost.
Types of Fishing Licenses in West Virginia
West Virginia offers several types of fishing licenses, including:
- Annual Resident Fishing License: This license allows you to fish anywhere in the state for an entire year. It costs $20 for adults and $12 for children under 17.
- Annual Non-Resident Fishing License: This license allows you to fish anywhere in the state for an entire year. It costs $45 for adults and $25 for children under 17.
- 7-Day Resident Fishing License: This license allows you to fish anywhere in the state for a period of seven consecutive days. It costs $10 for adults and $6 for children under 17.
- 7-Day Non-Resident Fishing License: This license allows you to fish anywhere in the state for a period of seven consecutive days. It costs $25 for adults and $15 for children under 17.
- Trout/Salmon Stamps: This license allows you to fish for trout and salmon in certain waters in the state. It costs $6 for adults and $3 for children under 17.
Where to Get a Fishing License in West Virginia
West Virginia fishing licenses can be purchased at any of the following locations:
- Online at wvdnr.gov
- At any of the Department of Natural Resources offices
- At any hunting and fishing license agents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much is a fishing license in West Virginia?
The cost of a fishing license in West Virginia depends on the type of license and whether you are a resident or non-resident. Annual resident licenses cost $20 for adults and $12 for children under 17, while annual non-resident licenses cost $45 for adults and $25 for children under 17. 7-day resident licenses cost $10 for adults and $6 for children under 17, while 7-day non-resident licenses cost $25 for adults and $15 for children under 17. Trout/salmon stamps cost $6 for adults and $3 for children under 17.
Where can I buy a fishing license in West Virginia?
West Virginia fishing licenses can be purchased online at wvdnr.gov, at any of the Department of Natural Resources offices, or at any hunting and fishing license agents.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in West Virginia?
Yes, you need a valid fishing license to fish in West Virginia. Licenses can be purchased online, at any of the Department of Natural Resources offices, or at any hunting and fishing license agents.
What types of fishing licenses are available in West Virginia?
West Virginia offers several types of fishing licenses, including Annual Resident Fishing Licenses, Annual Non-Resident Fishing Licenses, 7-Day Resident Fishing Licenses, 7-Day Non-Resident Fishing Licenses, and Trout/Salmon Stamps.
Do I need a Trout/Salmon Stamp to fish for Trout/Salmon in West Virginia?
Yes, you need a Trout/Salmon Stamp to fish for Trout/Salmon in West Virginia. This stamp costs $6 for adults and $3 for children under 17.
Are there any restrictions on fishing in West Virginia?
Yes, there are certain restrictions on fishing in West Virginia, such as size and creel limits, bag limits, and closed seasons. You should familiarize yourself with the regulations before you start fishing.
What are the size limits for fish in West Virginia?
The size limits for fish in West Virginia vary depending on the species. For example, the minimum size limit for bass is 12 inches, while the minimum size limit for trout is 7 inches.
What is the bag limit for fish in West Virginia?
The bag limit for fish in West Virginia varies depending on the species. For example, the bag limit for bass is 6 per day, while the bag limit for trout is 5 per day.
Are there any closed seasons for fishing in West Virginia?
Yes, there are certain closed seasons for fishing in West Virginia. For example, the closed season for bass is from April 30th to May 30th. You should familiarize yourself with the regulations before you start fishing.
Are there any special regulations for fishing in West Virginia?
Yes, there are a few special regulations for fishing in West Virginia. For example, anglers are required to release all large-mouth bass that are over 18 inches in length. You should familiarize yourself with the regulations before you start fishing.
Do I need a license to fish in a public lake in West Virginia?
Yes, you need a valid fishing license to fish in any public lake in West Virginia. Licenses can be purchased online, at any of the Department of Natural Resources offices, or at any hunting and fishing license agents.
Do I need a license to fish in a private lake in West Virginia?
Yes, you need a valid fishing license to fish in any private lake in West Virginia. Licenses can be purchased online, at any of the Department of Natural Resources offices, or at any hunting and fishing license agents.
Do I need a license to fish in a river in West Virginia?
Yes, you need a valid fishing license to fish in any river in West Virginia. Licenses can be purchased online, at any of the Department of Natural Resources offices, or at any hunting and fishing license agents.
Do I need to wear a life jacket while fishing in West Virginia?
Yes, it is recommended that you wear a life jacket while fishing in West Virginia. It is also a good idea to bring a cell phone or other form of communication in case of an emergency.
Do I need to register my boat in West Virginia if I am only fishing?
Yes, you need to register your boat in West Virginia if you are using it for fishing. You can do this at any of the Department of Natural Resources offices.
What is the minimum age for fishing in West Virginia?
The minimum age for fishing in West Virginia is 12 years old. However, those under the age of 12 may fish if they are accompanied by an adult who has a valid fishing license.
Can I fish with a rod and reel in West Virginia?
Yes, you can fish with a rod and reel in West Virginia. However, there are certain restrictions on the type of bait and lures that can be used. You should familiarize yourself with the regulations before you start fishing.
Do I need a license to fish in a tournament in West Virginia?
Yes, you need a valid fishing license to participate in a tournament in West Virginia. Licenses can be purchased online, at any of the Department of Natural Resources offices, or at any hunting and fishing license agents.
Conclusion
Fishing licenses in West Virginia are issued by the Department of Natural Resources, and there are a few different types of licenses available depending on your needs. Licenses can be purchased online, at any of the Department of Natural Resources offices, or at any hunting and fishing license agents. Knowing the types of licenses available and the regulations for fishing in the state will help you get the most out of your fishing experience.