Gold Rush is returning to state parks with more trout and more stocking locations.

West Virginia’s golden rainbow trout has lured anglers to the Mountain State with hopes of finding gold in these hills. During the week of April 1-6, 2019, the chance of reeling in this prized trout will be even better when the West Virginia Gold Rush returns to dozens of lakes and streams across the state.

Unlike regular trout stockings that include a mixture of golden rainbow and regular rainbow trout, these stockings will include only golden rainbow trout, making this a truly special fishing experience you don’t want to miss.

To celebrate this exciting event, we’re offering 15 percent off lodge room and cabin stays between now and April 8. Book online and use offer code GOLD at checkout.

Gold Rush is the fishing event of the year

Imagine seeing a pristine fishing stream rushing with gold channels, shimmering like the sun. That’s what you and your family can expect to see during Gold Rush week when thousands of golden rainbow trout are released on Saturday, April 6.

Lakes and streams in and near several state parks and forests will be receiving a stocking on April 6 include Babcock, Blackwater Falls, Cacapon, Cass Scenic Railroad, North Bend, Pipestem, Stonewall Resort and Watoga. Many offer overnight accommodations and will have special programs to make your trip even more exciting. Other parks and forests receiving Gold Rush stockings during the week include Cedar Creek, Chief Logan, Coopers Rock, Little Beaver, Seneca, Tomlinson Run and Tygart Lake. The full list of stockings is available at wvgoldrush.com.

Several golden rainbow trout with a yellow tag also will be released. If you catch one, the tag can be redeemed for an exclusive West Virginia Gold Rush T-shirt. Instructions for getting the free shirt are available on the Gold Rush website.

Start planning your trip today

So, pick your favorite park or find one close to you, and don’t forget to bring the kids. Catching their first fish is exciting. But catching a golden rainbow as their first fish — well, that’s unforgettable.

And remember, all anglers 15 and older need to have a West Virginia fishing license with a current trout stamp and a valid form of identification while fishing. If you don’t have one, you can buy one online at wvfish.com.