CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) announced the winners of the 2026 West Virginia Gold Rush giveaway.
“We want to congratulate these seven lucky anglers for their incredible catches and extend our thanks to every angler who participated in this year’s Gold Rush,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion.
The Gold Rush is an annual stocking event that celebrates the state’s golden rainbow trout and encourages families and anglers of all ages to enjoy West Virginia’s fishing opportunities. During the annual event, the WVDNR stocked 50,000 golden rainbow trout at 69 lakes and streams around the state. Out of these golden trout, 100 received a numbered yellow tag. Eligible anglers who caught a golden trout with one of these tags, reported the tag number to the WVDNR and submitted a photo of themselves with the fish were entered into a prize drawing. A complete list of winners is provided below.
Resident Lifetime Fishing License
- Steven Frank of Rupert, W.Va.
State Park Cabin Stay
- Norman Thaxton of Charleston, W.Va.
- Jordan Irons of Monaca, Pa.
- Nathan Smith of Upper Tract, W.Va.
State Park Gift Card
- Allen Ayers II of Smithville, W.Va.
- Dylan Young of Beckley, W.Va.
- Lariah Mayle of Bristol, W.Va.
Click here to view winning photos.
For more information about trout stockings, anglers should check pages 6-7 in the 2026 Fishing Regulations Summary at WVdnr.gov/fishing-regulations.
All anglers 15 years and older are required to have a West Virginia fishing license and a valid form of identification while fishing in the state of West Virginia. Trout stamps are required for those fishing for trout. Anglers are also encouraged to upgrade their fishing experience by opting for a collectible license card. Licenses and stamps may be purchased online at WVfish.com.
