Guide To The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In West Virginia

All about fishing for flathead, blue and channel catfish in WV

Flatheads, channel and blue catfish swim in many of the waters in West Virginia. Most of the big ones tend to be caught in rivers and the lakes tend to serve up the best eating catfish. Find catfish in ponds, creeks, rivers and lakes across the state including major lakes like Beech Fork Lake, Bluestone Lake, Burnsville Lake, Cheat Lake, East Lynn Lake, Jennings Randolph Lake, Moncove Lake, Mount Storm Lake, O’Brien Lake, Stonewall Jackson Lake, Summersville Lake and Tygart Lake.

Click the images and links above for species details.

What's the best bait for catfish in West Virginia?

Choose from the top 5 all-time catfish baits and try them on local waters. Appealing to the keen sense of smell and taste could turn a so-so day into a memorable event.

West Virginia State Record Catfish

The state record channel catfish was caught from Patterson Creek.

The state record flathead catfish came from the Little Kanawha River.

The state record blue catfish came out of the Ohio River.

Caught by Amber Rae Jones, at Kanawha river near the boat ramp in Poca, this West Virginia Channel Catfish weighed in at 8 pounds and was 25" long.

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. Catfish are found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers throughout West Virginia. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Catfish Fishing Video

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Additional catfishing information resources.

Catfish Conservation Group

U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments

Planet Catfish

Information for states with catfish.