West Virginia License Price Calculator
How Much Is a Fishing License in West Virginia?
A West Virginia resident annual fishing license costs $19.00. Non-residents pay $37.00 for the same annual license.
A standard West Virginia license does not cover trout — anglers need a separate Class O trout stamp (or a lifetime Class O-L trout license) even when holding the state's popular all-in-one Class X resident license. (West Virginia Code)
West Virginia Fishing License Price Table (2026)
| License Type | Resident | Non-Resident | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $19.00 | $37.00 | Resident annual |
| 5-Day (Resident) | N/A | N/A | Short-term option |
| Trout Stamp | $10.00 | $16.00 | See notes below |
| Youth (Under 16) | Free | Free | Most states exempt young anglers |
The Base Price Is Cheap, But Non-Resident Add-Ons Stack Up
West Virginia's $19 resident annual license is genuinely one of the lowest base prices nationally. Non-residents, though, may face a $13 conservation stamp on top of the $37 base license, plus a $16 trout stamp if targeting trout — add-ons that change the real comparison.
A 5-Day Resident Option Fills the Gap Below Annual
For residents who don't want a full annual license but need more than a single day, West Virginia offers a 5-day license option — a middle-ground choice most short-term visitors don't realize exists.
West Virginia Fishing Seasons & Bag Limits (2026)
These are West Virginia's default statewide season windows and bag/size limits for the most commonly targeted species. Many individual lakes, rivers, and reservoirs carry their own special regulations that override these defaults — always confirm the rules for your specific water before you fish.
| Species | Season | Min. Size | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trout | Year-round on most waters; major stockings Jan–May plus fall stockings | 7" min. | 6/day |
| Bass (most waters) | Year-round (New River has a 14–22" protected slot) | Varies by water | 6/day |
| Walleye | Year-round | No statewide min. | 8/day |
| Muskie | Year-round | 30" min. | 1/day |
Where to Buy a West Virginia Fishing License Locally
In addition to the official state portal linked above, West Virginia fishing licenses are typically available at Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and Dick's Sporting Goods locations statewide, along with independent bait & tackle shops. Call ahead if you need a specific license type (combination, lifetime, or trout stamp) since not every retail counter carries every product.
West Virginia Fishing License — FAQs
How much is a West Virginia fishing license?
A resident annual license costs $19.00. Non-residents pay $37.00.
Do I need a trout stamp in West Virginia?
Yes, for stocked trout: $10 for residents, $16 for non-residents, in addition to the base license.
What is West Virginia's non-resident conservation stamp?
An additional $13 fee that may apply to non-resident anglers on top of the base license.
Is there a multi-day option short of the full annual?
Yes, West Virginia offers a 5-day resident license for those who don't need a full year.
Where can I buy a West Virginia fishing license?
Online through the WVDNR Electronic License System, in person at 350+ retail agents, or by phone.