Where are the best places to Fly Fish in West Virginia?

West Virginia is a fly fishing paradise, offering anglers miles of scenic rivers, streams, and creeks to explore. The state is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow, brown, and brook trout, as well as smallmouth bass, musky, and carp. With so many great fly fishing destinations in West Virginia, it can be hard to know where to start, but here are a few of the top spots to consider.

The Elk River

The Elk River is one of West Virginia’s premier fly fishing destinations. This river flows for 180 miles through the Monongahela National Forest, providing anglers with plenty of opportunities to catch trophy-sized trout. The river is well-known for its impressive hatches, including mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies, which make for some exciting dry fly fishing. The Elk River is accessible from several points along its length, including several public access points and private lodges.

The Greenbrier River

Another great spot for fly fishing in West Virginia is the Greenbrier River. This river flows for 162 miles through the eastern part of the state and is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, musky, and rainbow and brown trout. The Greenbrier River is designated as a National Recreation Trail, which means that it is protected from development and pollution. Anglers can access the river from several public access points, including several parks and campgrounds.

The New River

The New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world and is a popular destination for fly fishing in West Virginia. This river flows for 360 miles through West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina, providing anglers with plenty of opportunities to catch smallmouth bass, musky, and carp. The New River is also home to several species of trout, including rainbow and brown trout. The river can be accessed from several points along its length, including several public access points and private lodges.

The Potomac River

The Potomac River is another popular destination for fly fishing in West Virginia. This river flows for 405 miles through Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., providing anglers with plenty of opportunities to catch smallmouth bass, musky, and carp. The Potomac River is also home to several species of trout, including rainbow and brown trout. The river can be accessed from several points along its length, including several public access points and private lodges.

Seneca Creek

Seneca Creek is a hidden gem for fly fishing in West Virginia. This creek flows for 15 miles through the Monongahela National Forest and is home to a population of wild brook trout. Seneca Creek is known for its crystal-clear water, making it a challenging spot for fly fishing. The creek is accessible from several points along its length, including the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area.

If you’re new to fly fishing or just looking for some guidance, there are several local outfitters and guides available in West Virginia. These professionals can provide you with equipment rentals, advice on local fishing spots, and even guided trips on the water. Additionally, there are several fly fishing clubs and organizations throughout West Virginia that offer events, meetings, and resources for anglers of all skill levels.