West Virginia Fishing License Guide (2026)
West Virginia requires a fishing license for anyone 15 years or older. The Mountain State is a trout fishing paradise with stocked streams, trophy smallmouth bass on the New and Greenbrier Rivers, and catfish on the Ohio River. Senior license is just $3!
Official WV Website →15+
Min Age
Yes
Free Days
$19
Resident/yr
$47
Non-Res/yr
💰 License Costs (2026)
Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Resident (Class B) Calendar year (Jan 1 – Dec 31) | $19 |
| 1-Day Resident | $3 |
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Annual Non-Resident | $47 |
| 10-Day Non-Resident | $25 |
| 3-Day Non-Resident | $16 |
| 1-Day Non-Resident | $7 |
Senior & Special Licenses
| License Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Senior License (65+) $3 — one of cheapest in nation | $3 |
Additional Stamps & Permits
| Stamp | Price | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Trout Stamp (Class O) Required for trout fishing in designated trout waters — $15 | $15 | Required |
| Conservation Stamp (Class CS) Required with all fishing licenses — $15 | $15 | Required |
📍 Where to Buy
Explore all West Virginia purchase options →📅 Timing & Free Fishing Days
Free Fishing Days 2026
Jun
6
License Validity
👤 Age Requirements & Exemptions
👶
Under 15 Exemption
👴
Senior Discount (65+)
🎖️
Military on Leave & Disabled Vets
✅
Landowner Exemption
⚖️ Penalties for Fishing Without a License
$20–$
500
misdemeanor
🔧 How to Get Your License
-
1
Visit the Official Portal
-
2
Select Your License Type
-
3
Complete Payment & Download