As the sun rises over the pristine streams and lakes of West Virginia, anglers across the state are gearing up for another exciting fishing season. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to try your hand at the sport, one important consideration is the cost of a fishing license. In 2024, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources offers a variety of options to suit every angler’s needs and budget.
Resident Fishing Licenses
For West Virginia residents, the cost of an annual fishing license starts at $19. This base license allows you to fish for all legal species, excluding trout, in all counties of the state. However, if you plan to fish for trout, you’ll need to purchase an additional trout stamp for $10.
If you’re a resident senior who turned 65 before January 1, 2012, you may be exempt from purchasing a fishing license altogether, as long as you carry a valid West Virginia driver’s license or photo ID card issued by the Division of Motor Vehicles.
For those who don’t need a full-year license, West Virginia offers a five-day resident fishing license for just $8. This license is perfect for residents who are on vacation, fishing for the first time, or returning to the sport after a long hiatus. Keep in mind that the five-day license is valid for five consecutive days chosen by the buyer and specified on the license.
If you’re a resident who plans to hunt, trap, and fish, you may consider purchasing a combination license. The Class AB-L license, which includes hunting, trapping, and fishing privileges, costs $805 for adults and varies based on the child’s age for those under 15.
Nonresident Fishing Licenses
If you’re visiting West Virginia from out of state, you have a few options when it comes to fishing licenses. The most affordable choice is the one-day nonresident fishing license, which costs just $3 per day. There is no limit on the number of days you can purchase, making it a flexible option for short trips or weekend getaways.
For those who plan to stay longer, an annual nonresident fishing license costs $37. This license allows you to fish for all legal species, excluding trout, in all counties of the state.
If you plan to fish for trout, you’ll need to purchase an additional trout stamp for $16. This stamp is required for both resident and nonresident anglers who wish to fish for trout.
Other Considerations
In addition to the base fishing license, anglers in West Virginia must also purchase a conservation stamp. The cost of this stamp is $5 for residents and $13 for nonresidents. The conservation stamp helps support wildlife conservation efforts throughout the state.
It’s important to note that there are certain exemptions to the fishing license requirement in West Virginia. Residents who are totally blind, residents who turned 65 before January 1, 2012, and nonresidents or residents under 15 years of age are exempt from purchasing a fishing license.
To make purchasing a fishing license more convenient, West Virginia offers several options. Licenses can be obtained at retail agent locations throughout the state, through the official DNR website (www.WVhunt.com), or directly from the Hunting and Fishing License Unit by phone.
West Virginia also offers two free fishing days each year, where everyone can fish for free. In 2024, these free fishing days are scheduled for June 8 and 9. Additionally, resident and nonresident children ages 15 and younger fish for free all year long.