CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) today announced that West Virginia’s Free Fishing Days will return June 7-8 and encouraged anglers and their families to take advantage of this annual opportunity to fish for free in public lakes, streams and rivers around the state.
“One of the best things about Free Fishing Days is how it brings people together,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “Whether you’re introducing your kids to fishing for the first time or getting back out on the water with friends, this weekend is all about making memories in West Virginia’s great outdoors.”
Free Fishing Days Derbies
As part of Free Fishing Days, the WVDNR will host fishing derbies at the Bowden Fish Hatchery and Little Beaver State Park on June 7. The events are free to attend and intended for youth anglers ages 3-14. Participants must be registered by an adult in order to participate and win prizes.
The Little Beaver State Park derby is scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon. Registration will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m., and kids should bring their own fishing gear. A limited amount of bait will be provided.
As part of the festivities at the Bowden Fish Hatchery, the WVDNR will also celebrate the derby’s 30th anniversary. The Bowden Fishing Derby is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Registration will start at 7:30 a.m., followed by the following hour-long fishing sessions based on grade level.
- Preschool and Kindergarten: 8-9 a.m.
- First and Second Grade: 9-10 a.m.
- Third-Fifth Grade: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
- Sixth-Eighth Grade: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
“The Bowden Fishing Derby has become a cherished tradition for many families and parents who participated when they were young anglers are bringing their kids back to carry on the tradition,” said Jim Hedrick, hatchery program manager for the WVDNR. “As we celebrate the derby’s 30th anniversary, we hope to continue this legacy for years to come and inspire the next generation of anglers.”
In recent years, the WVDNR has made significant improvements at the Bowden Hatchery, including an expansion from 40 to 60 fish rearing units. This upgrade, completed in 2023, has increased the facility’s capacity by 100,000 pounds of trout annually, which has enhanced trout stocking across the state.
Anglers 15 and older who enjoy Free Fishing Days and want to continue fishing after this weekend are encouraged to purchase or renew their fishing license at WVfish.com. For more information about West Virginia’s Free Fishing Days, visit WVdnr.gov/free-fishing-days.
