Fishing Tygart Lake

AKA: Tygart Reservoir

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Boat Launch Ramps
Marinas
Local Fishing Guides
Tygart Lake Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Tygart Lake, WV

Popular Fish Species Tygart Lake, WV

Largemouth Bass

Tygart Lake offers good fishing for quality largemouth bass. Lately the fishing here for bass has been improving. Some big bass roam Tygart Lake, thanks to excellent fisheries management by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, as well as the availability of extensive cover for both baitfish and bass. When the bite is good, bass typically move shallow and are quite aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Tygart Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Smallmouth bass also reside here in good numbers and size.

Black Crappie

Local anglers find black crappie in good numbers throughout Tygart Lake, and the crappie are averaging a very good size this year. Crappie fishing is currently excellent, and they are running in sizeable schools. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home.

Walleye

Thanks to good fisheries management by WV DNR, a healthy population of walleye are thriving in the waters of Tygart Lake this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower and closer to shore. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, staying close by schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, yellow perch, muskie and northern pike at Tygart Lake in West Virginia.

As an integral part of Tygart Lake Sate Park, Tygart Lake is at the heart of this outdoor recreation paradise. The lake covers 1,700 surface acres and has over 30 miles of shoreline. The park and lake is located in the northeast part of the state.

Tygart Lake, nestled in the picturesque mountains of West Virginia, is a popular fishing destination that offers anglers a peaceful and scenic fishing experience. With a surface area of approximately 1,750 acres, Tygart Lake provides ample opportunities for anglers to cast their lines and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

One of the most sought-after fish species in Tygart Lake is the largemouth bass. The lake's diverse structure, including submerged structures, fallen trees, and weed beds, creates an ideal habitat for largemouth bass to thrive. Anglers can target these prized game fish using various techniques such as casting plastic worms, crankbaits, or topwater lures. The lake's calm waters and abundant cover make it a perfect spot for bass fishing enthusiasts to pursue their passion.

Tygart Lake is also home to other popular fish species, including crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Crappie, both black and white, can be found near submerged structures and brush piles. Anglers can use jigs, live minnows, or small crankbaits to entice these delicious panfish. Bluegill, known for their feisty nature, provide enjoyable fishing experiences for anglers of all ages. The lake's shallow areas and weed beds are prime locations to target these voracious feeders. Catfish, such as channel catfish, can be caught using cut bait, stink baits, or live baits. Tygart Lake offers ample opportunities for catfish enthusiasts to land some impressive catches.

Anglers planning to fish at Tygart Lake should be aware of fishing regulations and obtain a valid fishing license. It's important to follow size and creel limits, as well as any special regulations in place to protect the fishery and maintain the natural balance of the lake's ecosystem.

Tygart Lake in West Virginia offers a serene fishing experience with its popular fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Whether you're casting a line from the shore or exploring the calm waters by boat, Tygart Lake provides ample opportunities for anglers to enjoy their favorite fishing pursuits. Its boating and camping amenities further enhance the overall outdoor experience, making it a favored destination for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking solace and connection with the beauty of West Virginia's landscapes.

This fishery sits in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, at Grafton and offers swimming, camping, boating and fishing are all popular here, as well as hiking and other activities. Fishing enthusiasts will find bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, perch, white bass, muskie and pike all residing in this impoundment of the Tygart Valley River. Marinas, camping, stores and restaurants are all convenient to visitors, and rental boats are available for fishing, boating and sight seeing. There are several public boat launch ramps, as well as areas to portage kayaks or canoes. Much of the shoreline is available for fishing from the bank.

Primary fish species residing in Tygart Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Tygart Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to fishing, Tygart Lake offers boating and camping opportunities. Boaters can explore the calm waters of the lake, enjoying the scenic views and the tranquility of nature. The lake allows motorized boating activities, making it a great place for water skiing, tubing, or simply cruising around the lake.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Tygart Lake Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats and pontoon boats
304 265-3974

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Pleasant Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, southwest side, off Lower Pleasant Creek Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Tygart Lake Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the lake, off Bath House Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with street parking.

Marinas

Tygart Lake Marina
Tygart Lake State Park
Grafton, WV 26354
304 265-3974

Fishing Guides On Tygart Lake

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Tygart Lake Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a West Virginia Fishing License.

Camping facilities, including campgrounds equipped with amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, and hiking trails, are available nearby, providing opportunities for visitors to extend their stay and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings.