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Californiafishing inWest Virginia
Low Cost — nonresident annual under $50

West Virginia

Non-Resident License
$37.00
Resident Rate
$19.00
License Year
Calendar year or as specified
Age Exemptions
Under 15 exempt; Residents 65-69 $10; Residents 70+ free lifetime license

License Fees & Short-Term Options (What You'll Pay)

A nonresident annual fishing license in West Virginia costs $37.00. For comparison, West Virginia residents pay $19.00. Short-term options: 1 Day Nonresident: $3.00. The license year runs Calendar year or as specified.

How to Purchase (Online, Vendor, or Mobile App)

Purchase your West Virginia fishing license online at https://wvdnr.gov/buy-a-license/. Valid ID; Lifetime Fishing License $315; phone purchase at (304) 558-2758. Licenses are administered by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR).

Who Fishes Free (Age & Disability Exemptions)

Under 15 exempt; Residents 65-69 $10; Residents 70+ free lifetime license. Always check the official West Virginia website for the most current exemption details and any additional categories that may qualify.

Required Stamps & Endorsements (Trout, Salmon, Saltwater, etc.)

Trout Stamp $10 (required for stocked trout waters); National Forest Stamp may be required in some areas. Be sure to purchase any required stamps or endorsements before heading out, as they are often checked during enforcement.

Seasons & Bag Limits (When You Can Fish and How Many)

Fishing seasons in West Virginia: Year-round for most species; trout stocking seasons vary. Bag limits: Trout: 6/day most waters; Bass: varies; check regulations. Always consult the current West Virginia fishing regulations for the most up-to-date season dates and limits, as they can change annually.

Key Rules to Know Before Casting

350+ authorized retail agents statewide; specific catch-and-release trout streams. For the complete set of rules including gear restrictions, size limits, and special waters, visit the official West Virginia fish and wildlife website.

Border Water & Reciprocal Agreements (Where Your Home License Works)

West Virginia has the following border water or reciprocal agreements: Ohio River with Ohio/Kentucky; Potomac River with Maryland/Virginia; New River border areas. California is not directly included in these agreements, so a standard nonresident license is required.

Official State Fish & Wildlife Source

For the most current regulations, license prices, and season dates, visit the official West Virginia fishing page at https://wvdnr.gov/fishing/. To purchase a license online, visit https://wvdnr.gov/buy-a-license/.

West Virginia Fish & Wildlife: https://wvdnr.gov/fishing/
Buy West Virginia License: https://wvdnr.gov/buy-a-license/
Law last updated: 2025Row last reviewed: May 9, 2026

License fees and requirements are subject to change. Always verify current fees on the official state fish & wildlife website before purchasing. Data reflects 2025-2026 rates where available.