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West Fork River

Boat Ramps
20
Access Points
31
Species
19

The West Fork River in West Virginia is a diverse fishery that offers excellent angling opportunities throughout the year. This tributary of the Monongahela River flows through north-central West Virginia, providing a serene fishing experience with various habitats ranging from shallow riffles to deep pools. Known for its smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and other game fish populations, the West Fork River attracts anglers seeking both challenging sport fishing and relaxing outings. The river's changing character—from its headwaters to where it joins with the Tygart Valley River to form the Monongahela—offers different fishing experiences along its course. Recent habitat improvements, including the removal of several dams in Harrison County, have enhanced the river's ecological health and improved fish movement throughout the system.


Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on West Fork River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on West Fork River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

West Virginia licenses and regulations

West Virginia Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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West Virginia Fishing License

All anglers who are at the age of 15 and older are required to have a fishing license and a valid form of identification such as a State Issued ID or Driver's License while fishing.

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West Virginia Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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West Virginia Stream Access Laws

On navigable waters, the public may use the streambed up to the high water mark. On floatable waters, the public may float through private land but cannot legally use the streambed. Public rights on non-navigable waters are not well defined, but are likely none.

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Take West Fork River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around West Fork River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for West Fork River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish West Fork River and check the forecast before you go.

WEST FORK RIVER AT WALKERSVILLE, WV

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