For the first time in decades, Tiger Trout are being stocked in West Virginia.
2021 is the year for fishing in West Virginia, especially when it comes to trout. While Gold Rush, the intense stocking of Golden Rainbow Trout in late March and early April, has ended, you still have the chance to catch these gorgeous fish, as well as Brook, Brown, Rainbow, and for the first time in decades, Tiger Trout. Through the months of April and May, this unique cross between a Brook and Brown trout is being stocked throughout the state by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.
Tiger Trout get their name for the special markings along their body, resembling a tiger’s stripes. These fish are a rare occurrence in nature, so the WV Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) have raised them in their hatcheries. 25,000 Tiger Trout will be stocked along with the usual species of trout at a rate of 10% in scheduled stockings around West Virginia. Some are even trophy size, weighing in at four pounds ( MetroNews Staff). This would be a catch to remember.
Trout fishing can be as easy as casting a hook in with some trout bait, or getting more active with the use of spinners and spoons. Depending on the stream’s or lake’s regulations, you must be aware of catch and release rules, the use of barbs, or a limited number of catches per day. In the state of West Virginia, you must also make sure you have your fishing license with a certified trout stamp, which can be bought online at https://www.wvdnr.gov/fishing/license.shtm. If you are not a resident of West Virginia, but are a full time student, you still qualify for a resident-priced license!
While stockings are happening all over our wild and wonderful state, remember that there are opportunities right here in Morgantown. Mason Lake, Cooper’s Rock Trout Pond and Westover Park Lake are some of the locations that have been stocked and will continue to be, so do not wait to get your gear and head over for a day of fishing! You could be lucky enough to reel in a rare, trophy-sized, Tiger Trout.
About the Author
Alexandria is a senior at WVU with a passion for writing. She is an English major with a dual emphasis in creative writing and professional writing and editing. Alex is and has always been obsessed with reading and writing and is hoping to become an editor and a published author one day. Since coming to WVU, she has been involved each year in the Calliope Undergraduate Literary Magazine, and recently has begun focusing on writing about the wildness and wonder of West Virginia.