Introduction
Fishing is an occupation for many and a favorite hobby for some people. However, some countries like the US and UK need you to get a fishing license if you want to do fishing either as a hobby or as an occupation. West Virginia is one such state in the US where you should get a fishing license. So keep scrolling to know more about fishing licenses and their procedure in West Virginia.Do you looking for how to get fishing license in West Virginia and the cost for this license, then this article will help you with this.The type of fishing license are given below.
Fishing license
To regulate the fishing practices, the state government introduced a fishing license. Getting a fishing license is compulsory in almost all the states of the US. Before you go fishing, a fishing license is the first thing that you will need to keep in mind. A fishing license is introduced to avoid exploitation and collapse of the sea or the particular water ecosystem.
With the increasing population in America, to preserve fishing for the future generation, the government introduced the fishing license. The introduction of fishing licenses also put limitations on the species you could fish and the number of fishes you could fish. Moreover, the amount collected from the fishing license will go to funds to improve fisheries.
A Fishing License in West Virginia
Undoubtedly West Virginia is one of the best spots to go fishing. There are many beautiful places for fishing in West Virginia. If you are an angler or just do fishing as a hobby, you should have your fishing license in either case.
A fishing license is compulsory for everyone above 15 years of age in Virginia. You can apply for a fishing license online through the official website of the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources Website. In addition, there are about 180 online retailing license stores in West Virginia that will help you in getting a fishing license. There are many online apps and websites today that will easily help you in getting a fishing license.
Types of Fishing Licenses in West Virginia
Before getting a fishing license it is important to know the type of licenses available and what type of license you will need depending on the purpose. Below is the list of types of licenses in West Virginia:
- Annual fishing license – You can go fishing throughout the year with this fishing license. You need to renew your license every year.
- Annual sportsman fishing for ages 18 through 64 – License you should get if you are participating in any big games.
- Junior sportsman fishing for ages 15 to 17 – For junior people who are participating in fishing games
- Trout fishing stamp – It is a license mostly required for anglers who fish trout and salmon.
- Conservation stamp – All licensed anglers should have this license too.
- One-day fishing license – You can get a one-day fishing license if you are going fishing once in a blue moon or are a non-resident of West Virginia.
- Five-day fishing license – Similar to a one-day fishing license, you can also get a five-day fishing license in West Virginia.
- National fishing license – Only if you are going to fish on a national spot.
- Special fishing license – Issued for persons with life-threatening conditions.
- Senior lifetime hunting and fishing license – This license will be helpful for people above 65 years of age.
- Lifetime permit for fishing – If your profession is fishing, you can get lifetime licenses depending on your need.
Cost of Fishing License in West Virginia
The cost depends on the type of license that you want to get.
| Type of License | For residents | For non-residents |
| Annual fishing license | $19 | $37 |
| Annual Sportsman Fishing for ages 18 through 64 | $35 | $35 |
| Junior sportsman fishing for ages 15 to 17 | $16 | $16 |
| Trout fishing stamp | $10 | $16 |
| Conservation stamp | $5 | $13 |
| One-day fishing license | $3 | $3 |
| Five-day fishing license | $8 | Not applicable |
| National fishing | $2 | $2 |
Fishing Rules and Regulations in West Virginia
- You should know the daily restrictions on numbers according to the individual species.
- Be familiar with the special areas and the regulations for fishing.
- It is illegal to use any explosives on the water.
- Don’t mix any poisonous mixtures in the water.
- Spearfishing is not allowed in marked swimming areas and areas with heavy traffic of boats.
Conclusion
If you are new to fishing it is better to know the rules of your state before you go fishing. Be responsible for protecting the sea ecosystem also. Help the government by notifying them of any poachers. Be aware of the regulations of fishing in each state.
FAQs
1.Should I get a license even for one day?
If you are going to fish for only one day, you should get a one-day fishing license.
2.How can I apply for a fishing license online?
You can go to the official natural resources website for each state to apply for a fishing license.
3.What is better, a lifetime fishing license or a temporary fishing license?
If you are an angler, who fish regularly, it is better to get a lifetime fishing license.
