The Kanawha River, a tributary of the Ohio River, is home to a variety of fish species. These include:
Key Facts
- Fish Species: The Kanawha River supports a diverse range of fish species, including:
- Smallmouth bass
- Musky
- Walleye
- Sauger
- Channel catfish
- Flathead catfish
- Blue catfish
- Sunfish
- Suckers
- Fishing Locations: There are several popular fishing locations along the Kanawha River, including:
- Kanawha Falls: Known for its walleye fishing during the early spring spawning runs
- Loop Creek: Offers a variety of fishing attracting habitats, such as creek outflow, rocky outcrops, shallow riffles, and a railroad bridge
- Montgomery: A city-owned facility under the Rt. 61 bridge provides boat launching ramps and parking
- Fishing Access: There are public fishing areas and facilities along the Kanawha River that provide access for fishing and other recreational activities. Some notable locations include:
- Kanawha Falls Public Fishing Area: Provides access for fishing and other recreation near Glenn Ferris
- Montgomery: City-owned facility under the Rt. 61 bridge with boat launching ramps and parking
- Smallmouth bass
- Musky
- Walleye
- Sauger
- Channel catfish
- Flathead catfish
- Blue catfish
- Sunfish
- Suckers
Popular Fishing Locations
Several popular fishing locations are found along the Kanawha River, including:
- Kanawha Falls: Known for its walleye fishing during the early spring spawning runs
- Loop Creek: Offers a variety of fishing-attracting habitats, such as creek outflow, rocky outcrops, shallow riffles, and a railroad bridge
- Montgomery: A city-owned facility under the Rt. 61 bridge provides boat launching ramps and parking
Fishing Access
Public fishing areas and facilities along the Kanawha River provide access for fishing and other recreational activities. Notable locations include:
- Kanawha Falls Public Fishing Area: Provides access for fishing and other recreation near Glenn Ferris
- Montgomery: City-owned facility under the Rt. 61 bridge with boat launching ramps and parking
Sources
- Kanawha River – www.daybreakfishing.com
- Variety of fish species thriving in Kanawha River | Outdoor Pursuits | wvgazettemail.com
- Kanawha River Fish Advisory
FAQs
What types of fish can I catch in the Kanawha River?
The Kanawha River supports a diverse range of fish species, including smallmouth bass, musky, walleye, sauger, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, sunfish, and suckers.
Where are the best fishing spots on the Kanawha River?
Popular fishing locations along the Kanawha River include Kanawha Falls (known for its walleye fishing during the early spring spawning runs), Loop Creek (which offers a variety of fishing-attracting habitats), and Montgomery (where a city-owned facility under the Rt. 61 bridge provides boat launching ramps and parking).
Is there public access for fishing on the Kanawha River?
Yes, there are public fishing areas and facilities along the Kanawha River that provide access for fishing and other recreational activities. Notable locations include the Kanawha Falls Public Fishing Area (near Glenn Ferris) and the city-owned facility in Montgomery under the Rt. 61 bridge.
What are the fishing regulations for the Kanawha River?
Fishing regulations for the Kanawha River vary depending on the species of fish being targeted. It is always advisable to check with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for the most up-to-date regulations.
Is it safe to eat fish from the Kanawha River?
The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) has issued a fish consumption advisory for the Kanawha River due to elevated levels of dioxin in certain fish species. The advisory recommends limiting consumption of catfish, suckers, hybrid striped bass, and carp to one meal per month. Other fish species can be consumed more frequently, but it is recommended to keep only smaller fish, eat only skinless and boneless filets, and remove dark meat from the sides and fat from the belly and top of the fish.