Governor Patrick Morrisey announced on March 30 the launch of the 2026 Gold Rush trout stockings, inviting anglers nationwide to participate in one of West Virginia’s annual outdoor events.
The Gold Rush event is significant for local communities and families, aiming to encourage outdoor activity and promote tourism in the state. The initiative also highlights efforts to support recreational fishing and showcase West Virginia’s natural resources.
The event will run through April 11, with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources stocking 50,000 golden trout across 69 lakes and streams. Among these are 100 tagged fish that offer anglers a chance to win one of eleven prize packages by registering their catch online. Prizes include a resident lifetime fishing license, stays at West Virginia State Park lodges, and state park gift cards. A special feature this year is the Governor’s Prize trout, which will be stocked on the first day and offers an additional prize package for those who catch it.
“This is one of the most exciting times of the year for anglers in West Virginia,” Governor Morrisey said. “Gold Rush is about more than fishing; it’s about getting families outdoors, supporting our local communities, and showcasing everything our state has to offer. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for the first time, we invite anyone fishing West Virginia waters to take part.”
Morrisey added that “the Governor’s Prize adds another level of excitement, and it could be claimed for the first time this year,” expressing anticipation over who might claim this special reward.
While Governor Morrisey leads current initiatives like Gold Rush focused on community engagement through outdoor recreation programs for youth and families—a tradition championed by U.S. Sen. Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) according to the official website—Justice himself has served as governor with an emphasis on economic growth according to his official biography. Justice was later elected as a U.S. senator from West Virginia according to his official website, bringing experience as a lifelong resident into his role as reported by his office. His background includes undergraduate studies and an MBA from Marshall University according to his official biography, where he also captained the golf team according to Senate records.
Justice serves on several committees related to community development while overseeing Justice Family Farms—a business that supports stable employment—and revitalized The Greenbrier Resort through investments making it a venue for professional golf tournaments according to his official website.
As preparations continue throughout April for further fish stockings statewide, officials say they hope these efforts will inspire more people—both residents and visitors—to enjoy what West Virginia’s outdoors have to offer.
