Brook Trout
Brook trout are the only trout species native to West Virginia streams and serve as the official state fish since 1973.
These beautiful fish thrive in only the coldest and purest mountain streams that are generally less than 15 feet wide, well-shaded, and have numerous pools.
- These beautiful fish are characterized by a dark green back with lighter worm-shaped markings (vermiculation), bluish sides, and a pink to scarlet belly profusely sprinkled with yellow spots interspersed with red ones.
- Their lower fins are orange-red with distinctive white stripes on the front edge.
- Native brook trout in West Virginia typically average 5-6 inches in length and seldom exceed 10 inches.
Fishing in West Virginia
Gauley River
New River
Kanawha River
Elk River
Cranberry River
Little Kanawha River
Greenbrier River
Tygart Valley River
West Fork River
Sutton Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- West Virginia contains 500 miles of native trout streams, representing only 2% of the state's total stream miles.
- These streams are found primarily in the most mountainous regions, often associated with National Forest property.
Key Locations
- Target productive waters including the Cranberry River (Monongahela National Forest), Williams River, Seneca Creek, North Fork of South Branch Potomac River, Shavers Fork, and Elk River.
- These streams are found primarily in the most mountainous regions, often associated with National Forest property, including the small, cold headwater streams of the Elk, Greenbrier, and Williams rivers, as well as Seneca and Gandy creeks.
Specific Spots
- Fish pools, riffles, and areas behind boulders and structures.
Brook Trout FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Brook Trout in West Virginia?
Small spinners, 1/16 oz lures, synthetic moldable baits, salmon e.g.gs, live worms, and mealworms.
What flies work for Brook Trout in West Virginia?
Effective fly patterns include dry flies like Royal Coachman, Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Stimulators, Humpy (yellow, red, orange), terrestrials (beetles, crickets, grasshoppers, ants), and The Usual.
When is the best time to fish for Brook Trout in West Virginia?
The best times to fish for brook trout in West Virginia are late spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). Avoid fishing during October spawning season to protect reproduction.
How do you catch Brook Trout in West Virginia?
For nymph fishing, wade slowly and maintain a low profile. In summer, focus on higher elevation streams or spring-fed waters where temperatures remain cool, and avoid midday fishing when water temperatures peak.
What do Brook Trout eat?
Brook trout are opportunistic feeders with seasonal dietary shifts - during winter and early spring, they primarily consume aquatic insects including mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies, plus other fish.
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