WV Fishing Without a License — Penalties & Fines (2026)

WV fishing penalties: misdemeanor $20–$500 + 10-100 days jail. Equipment confiscation. Report: (304) 558-2784.

Fishing without a license in West Virginia is a misdemeanor with serious penalties. At $19 annual + $15 conservation stamp, the fine far exceeds the cost.

WV Violations

ViolationClassificationFine Range
No fishing licenseMisdemeanor$20 – $500 + 10-100 days jail
Missing conservation stampMisdemeanor$20 – $200
Missing trout stampMisdemeanor$20 – $200
Over bag/size limitMisdemeanor$100 – $500 per fish

Equipment confiscation: Officers may confiscate fishing equipment used in violations.

Report Violations

Call WVDNR Enforcement: (304) 558-2784. Anonymous tips accepted — rewards available.

Get your WV fishing license today →