logo ×

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Fishing

Are you in Preston Country for the weekend and want to spend some time with your hook and reel? Or, are you a seasoned fisherman just wanting to test new waters? Either way, Mountaineer Country offers a variety of fishing opportunities and experiences for anglers at any stage.

There is no shortage of public fishing lakes, creeks, and streams in the Monongalia, Preston and Taylor County area. With more than 150 species, angling enthusiasts gear up year round to catch the state’s best!

Beautifully transparent mountain streams and long, lazy rivers are perfect for canoeing, whitewater rafting, fishing, and kayaking. The Cheat River and Big Sandy Creek have become prime locations for whitewater rafting and kayaking enthusiasts, producing rapids ranging from class III to class V. For beginners wanting to experience a similar thrill, Little Sandy is more your game.

Avid Fishermen will want to check out the Cabela’s King Kat Fishing Tournament & Kid’s Fishing Rodeo and the WV Bass Tournament. Anglers love the backwaters of Little Sandy Creek and Cheat Lake!

Preston County Public Fishing & Boating Access Site:  Big Sandy Creek, Rhine, Creek, Cheat River- Macomber, Newburgh Lake.

Preston County Fishing Charters, and Guides:  Potomac Guide Services, Spring Creek Outfitters, Terrapin Bay Fishing Guides

You can buy your West Virginia fishing license in person from an approved West Virginia fish and game license agent, but it is even easier to purchase your fishing license online from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Once you have your WV fishing license, you can start fishing for species like smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, northern pike or muskellunge.

Information on WV Fishing License http://www.wvdnr.gov/fishing/license.shtm

Apply for a one day fishing license https://www.wvhunt.com/

Wolf Creek

Stocked each month February through May, Wolf Creek is home to trout.

Cheat River

Boat access and angler fishing are welcome at Cheat River, where smallmouth bass, spotted bass, and channel catfish reside.

Rhine Creek

Stocked once each month February through May, Rhine Creek is where trout reside.

Newburg Lake

Stocked once each month February through May, Newburg Lake is filled with trout.

Big Sandy Creek

Stocked once in February and once every two weeks March through May, Big Sandy Creek holds trout.

Upper Deckers Creek

Angler fishing is allowed at Upper Deckers Creek where bluegills reside and boat access is welcomed.