West Virginia is a haven for kayak fishermen, offering a plethora of angling opportunities. Whether you’re in search of the best fishing spots in West Virginia or looking to indulge in kayak angling adventures, this beautiful state has it all.
From small lakes to majestic rivers, West Virginia is a treasure trove of kayak fishing spots. Whether you’re targeting largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, muskie, or walleye, these fishing spots are sure to provide a thrilling and rewarding experience.
Join us as we embark on a journey to explore some of the best kayak fishing spots in WV. From hidden gems like Upper Mud River Lake to standout lakes like Sleepy Creek and Stephens Lake, we’ll guide you through the top destinations that will take your angling adventures to new heights.
Upper Mud River Lake: A Hidden Gem for Bass Fishing from a Kayak
When it comes to kayak bass fishing in West Virginia, Upper Mud River Lake is a true hidden gem. Located near Hamlin, this 306-acre lake is considered one of the best small lakes for bass fishing in District 5. Its abundance of woody cover and aquatic vegetation creates the perfect habitat for bass, making it a paradise for anglers.
Anglers can explore the arms of the lake, where they’ll find standing timber, beaver huts, and weed beds that serve as hiding spots for largemouth bass. The dense vegetation provides ample opportunities for kayak anglers to navigate through, casting their lines into the prime bass habitat.
What sets Upper Mud River Lake apart is its reputation as a good muskie fishery as well. Anglers can try their hand at catching these elusive predators using larger lures, adding an extra dimension of excitement to their fishing adventures.
Table: Upper Mud River Lake – Fishing Information
| Fishing Spot | Species | Best Time to Fish |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Mud River Lake | Largemouth Bass, Muskie | Spring, Fall |
Table: Upper Mud River Lake provides a summary of the fishing information for this exceptional kayak bass fishing spot. Anglers can target both largemouth bass and muskie, with the best time to fish being in the spring and fall seasons. This information can serve as a helpful guide for planning an exciting fishing trip to Upper Mud River Lake.
Sleepy Creek and South Mill Lake: District 2’s Standout Bass Fishing Lakes
In District 2, anglers have the opportunity to explore two standout bass fishing lakes: Sleepy Creek and South Mill Lake. These picturesque locations offer excellent fishing experiences for both kayak and small boat anglers.
Sleepy Creek
Sleepy Creek, located in Berkeley County, is a 205-acre lake known for its outstanding largemouth bass habitat. Anglers can navigate through large areas of standing timber, providing ideal conditions for bass to thrive. The lake’s serene atmosphere and abundance of bass make it a favorite among fishing enthusiasts.
South Mill Lake
South Mill Lake, situated in Grant County, is a smaller 48-acre lake that offers a perfect match for small-boat anglers. To enhance the largemouth bass population, a regulation change was implemented, allowing anglers to harvest bass below 12 inches and above 16 inches. This change has resulted in an increase in the number of quality fish available for anglers to catch.
Both Sleepy Creek and South Mill Lake provide anglers with unique fishing experiences in District 2. Whether you prefer the tranquility of Sleepy Creek or the smaller, more intimate setting of South Mill Lake, these bass fishing lakes are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and bountiful catches.
| Lake | Location | Size | Regulation Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleepy Creek | Berkeley County | 205 acres | Harvest bass below 12 inches and above 16 inches |
| South Mill Lake | Grant County | 48 acres | Harvest bass below 12 inches and above 16 inches |
Stephens Lake and Plum Orchard Lake: Must-Visit Fishing Destinations in District 4
West Virginia’s District 4 is home to two incredible fishing destinations that every angler should explore: Stephens Lake and Plum Orchard Lake. These picturesque lakes offer a wealth of opportunities for small lake bass fishing in WV, ensuring an unforgettable angling experience.
Stephens Lake
Located in Raleigh County, Stephens Lake is a true gem for kayak fishing enthusiasts. This 242-acre lake boasts a diverse habitat that caters to a variety of fishing techniques. Whether you prefer shallow or deep fishing, Stephens Lake has something for everyone.
During the warmer months, anglers can target pre-spawn largemouth bass using both shallow and deep fishing techniques. Shallow fishing is particularly productive when the water temperature is ideal for bass activity. Additionally, deep fishing can yield excellent results when shad are active in the lake.
Plum Orchard Lake
Plum Orchard Lake, situated in Fayette County, is another must-visit fishing destination in District 4. Spanning 202 acres, this lake offers a rich habitat for largemouth bass and other fish species. The presence of lily pads and weed beds provides ample cover for bass, making it an ideal spot for kayak anglers looking for both quantity and quality catches.
Aside from largemouth bass, Plum Orchard Lake is also home to crappie, offering anglers the opportunity to diversify their catch. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this beautiful lake will captivate you with its stunning surroundings and abundant fish population.
When planning your fishing adventures in West Virginia’s District 4, make sure to include Stephens Lake and Plum Orchard Lake in your itinerary. These two outstanding fishing spots guarantee a thrilling and rewarding experience for all kayak anglers.
Greenbrier River: Ideal for Kayak and Small Boat Anglers
The Greenbrier River is a picturesque and serene waterway that offers endless opportunities for kayak and small boat anglers in West Virginia. Stretching across the state, this majestic river provides a diverse range of fishing experiences, making it an ideal destination for anglers of all skill levels.
With its calm and tranquil waters, the Greenbrier River is perfect for kayakers and small boat enthusiasts. The river features stretches that are easily navigable for any type of small fishing boat, allowing anglers to explore its scenic beauty and hidden fishing spots. Whether you prefer kayaking or navigating in a small boat, the Greenbrier River provides a peaceful and enjoyable angling experience.
Prime Kayak Fishing Rivers in WV
The Greenbrier River ranks among the prime kayak fishing rivers in West Virginia. As the river flows downstream, it transitions from trout waters in Pocahontas County to smallmouth bass habitat. Anglers can expect thrilling encounters with hard-fighting smallmouth bass and the opportunity to catch largemouth bass in the lower sections of the river, which are warmer.
Kayakers can alternate between floating and wading, allowing them to explore different sections of the river and discover new fishing hotspots. The Greenbrier River’s stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife create a captivating backdrop for anglers as they enjoy the beauty of nature while casting their lines.
Your Ultimate Small Boat Fishing Destination
For small boat anglers, the Greenbrier River offers an array of fishing possibilities. The calm and meandering waters of the river make it easy to explore the diverse habitats and find your perfect fishing spot. Whether you’re targeting smallmouth bass, trout, or other species, the Greenbrier River provides a unique and memorable fishing experience.
So grab your kayak or small boat and set off on an angling adventure on the Greenbrier River. Discover the tranquility and beauty of this waterway as you cast your line and reel in the catch of the day.
Kayak Fishing the New River: Thrilling Adventures and Abundant Catches
The New River in West Virginia is a haven for kayak fishing enthusiasts, offering thrilling adventures and abundant catches. Known for its turbulent whitewater and stunning landscapes, this majestic river is famous for its population of hard-fighting smallmouth bass. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, fishing the New River in West Virginia is an experience like no other.
With its rapids and challenging currents, the New River is best explored by kayak. Specially designed kayaks allow anglers to navigate the river’s whitewater sections, reaching areas that are inaccessible to other watercraft. As you paddle along, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the New River Gorge, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your fishing adventures.
Smallmouth bass fishing in West Virginia is a favorite among anglers, and the New River is renowned for its thriving population of these feisty fish. The river’s rocky structure and swift currents provide the perfect habitat for smallmouth bass, making it an ideal destination for kayak fishermen. Prepare for thrilling battles and exhilarating fights as you hook into these powerful fish.
| Species | Size Range | Best Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Smallmouth Bass | 12-20 inches | Casting crankbaits and spinnerbaits near rocks and rocky shores |
| Walleye | 14-24 inches | Vertical jigging with soft plastics or live bait near deep holes |
| Muskie | 30-50 inches | Trolling large crankbaits or casting large swimbaits near woody cover |
When planning your kayak fishing trip on the New River, be sure to pack your fishing gear, including medium to heavy-action spinning or baitcasting rods, a variety of lures, and appropriate safety equipment. It’s also essential to familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary permits or licenses.
Embark on a kayak fishing adventure on the New River in West Virginia, and you’ll be rewarded with thrilling experiences and an abundance of catches. Whether you’re targeting smallmouth bass, walleye, or muskie, this iconic river offers endless opportunities for anglers to test their skills and create lasting memories in the heart of nature.
Summersville Lake: Crystal Clear Waters and a Fisherman’s Paradise
Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offering crystal clear blue waters, Summersville Lake is a true haven for fishing kayak enthusiasts. Situated in West Virginia, this magnificent lake provides ample opportunities for anglers to indulge in their favorite pastime while surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking for a new adventure, Summersville Lake is the perfect destination for an unforgettable fishing experience.
When it comes to fishing kayak in WV, Summersville Lake stands out as one of the best fishing spots in the state. The lake is home to a diverse range of fish species, including perch, walleye, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass. With its extensive shoreline and numerous coves, anglers can explore different areas of the lake and discover their favorite fishing spots. Whether you prefer casting your line near rocky outcrops or navigating through hidden coves, Summersville Lake offers endless possibilities for anglers of all skill levels.
One of the advantages of fishing kayak in Summersville Lake is the ability to access areas that are difficult to reach by other watercraft. With its calm and tranquil waters, kayakers can navigate through narrow channels and explore hidden corners of the lake. This opens up a world of opportunities for anglers to discover secluded fishing holes and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.
| Species | Best Time to Fish | Preferred Lures |
|---|---|---|
| Perch | Spring and Fall | Minnow imitations, jigs |
| Walleye | Spring and Fall | Jerkbaits, crankbaits |
| Smallmouth Bass | Year-round | Soft plastics, jigs, spinnerbaits |
| Largemouth Bass | Year-round | Topwater lures, plastic worms, crankbaits |
Whether you’re in search of an action-packed day battling smallmouth bass or a relaxing angling experience surrounded by breathtaking scenery, Summersville Lake delivers it all. With its abundance of fish species, clear waters, and diverse fishing opportunities, it’s no wonder that Summersville Lake is regarded as one of the best fishing lakes in West Virginia. So, grab your fishing kayak, pack your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on Summersville Lake!
Conclusion
West Virginia offers a wide range of kayak fishing spots, making it a paradise for anglers seeking thrilling adventures and bountiful catches. Whether you prefer the tranquil ambiance of small lakes or the excitement of exploring majestic rivers, there is something for everyone in this beautiful state.
From the hidden gem of Upper Mud River Lake, known for its abundance of bass and muskie, to the standout bass fishing lakes of Sleepy Creek and South Mill Lake in District 2, each location offers a unique angling experience. District 4 boasts the must-visit destinations of Stephens Lake, where you can target pre-spawn bass, and Plum Orchard Lake, renowned for its lily pads and weed beds.
The Greenbrier River provides a picturesque setting for kayakers and small boat anglers to float and wade, switching between trout fishing in the headwaters and targeting smallmouth and largemouth bass downstream. And let’s not forget the thrilling adventures that await on the New River, where specially designed kayaks allow anglers to navigate the whitewater rapids and catch hard-fighting smallmouth bass.
Summersville Lake, with its crystal-clear waters and diverse fish species, proves to be a fisherman’s paradise. Whether you’re seeking perch, walleye, smallmouth bass, or largemouth bass, this lake offers excellent fishing opportunities and unforgettable memories.
So pack your kayak and fishing gear, and set off on an angling journey through West Virginia. With its abundant fishing spots, breathtaking landscapes, and a variety of fish species, this state truly deserves its reputation as one of the best fishing destinations in the country.
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