If you think you know all about the Resort at Glade Springs, think again.
by: Carter Seaton
What's that old saying? "The more things change, the more they remain the same." That's certainly true at The Resort at Glade Springs. If your last visit to the 4,100-acre mountain resort near Beckley, West Virginia was just a year ago, you need to return to see what's new. And if it's been two or more years, you are in for a big, big surprise. The overall serenity and relaxed ambience are exactly as you remembered from your last trip, however. That much remains the same.
But... In the late 1960s, the Glade Springs Land Company bought an old farm tract in Daniels, WV and its president, Austin Caperton, Jr., retained George Cobb, a renowned golf course designer, to plan a course around which residential lots could be sold. The coal boom of the 1970s brought property buyers in droves; a second golf course was cleared and the road system installed. But just as new acreage was being added, the boom ended, tax laws changed and interest rates skyrocketed. By 1980 Glade Springs had been sold – one of several ownership changes over the next decade.
Today the property is owned by two separate companies: EMCO Hospitality Inc. controls the Resort at Glade Springs and all resort amenities, while Arkansas-based Cooper Land Development owns hundreds of wooded acres used for home sites as well as two new golf courses. The two companies work together "to make it one big community," according to Cathy Smith, one of Cooper's on-property sales representatives.
So, if you think you know all about the Resort at Glade Springs, think again. Completed in 2006, the Glade Springs Inn & Conference Center still has that new-car smell and now engulfs the original Welcome Center. The Inn's new registration lobby, 52 guest rooms, 12,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, Rotunda Restaurant and Lobby Bar all have a stylish European flair.
From the intimate Governor's Room to the spacious Bright Ballroom, the Conference Center offers a wide range of event options: from mini-seminars to banquets for 250, from coffee-breaks to weddings. Each large room can be sub-divided and features state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and nearby ADA-compliant restrooms. The Governor's Conference on Tourism – the largest gathering so far – was held at the resort in 2007. Free wireless Internet is available across the resort.
"It took someone with Elmer Coppoolse's vision to pull off what we have now," says Rebecca Blaine, Director of Retail, Memberships and Promotions for the resort.
Mr. Coppoolse is the Chairman and CEO of EMCO Hospitality Inc. Coppoolse is European and his touch is evident in the center's architecture and décor. All the guest rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed. Gas fireplaces, wet bars, DVD players, balconies and jacuzzis are included in the suites.
Although most of the stand-alone lodging options are older than the Inn, nearly all have been recently renovated under Coppoolse's watchful eye. The décor is often Greenbrier-esque – think large floral patterns and plaid wallpapers. These Executive Suites, Lodges, Manor Houses and Villas can accommodate groups from four to 40. Flexible floor plans make them ideal for family vacations, church groups, corporate retreats, wedding parties, conference VIPs or reunions. Most have fully equipped kitchens, living rooms with a gas fireplace, and a central meeting room. Some are equipped with a washer and dryer; one has a pool table, outdoor jacuzzi and BBQ, a surround sound entertainment system and a stone terrace.
On most winter days, even at full capacity, the Glade is quiet. The skiers and dedicated snow-bunnies have hopped the free shuttle to Glade Springs' sister property, Winterplace, only 20 minutes away. But after the slopes close, the Glade comes alive. It's then that the newly-renovated Leisure Center is the place to be. The 10-lane bowling alley pulses with neon lights and the rumble of friendly competition while a big screen TV and snack bar occupy those waiting their turn on the lanes.
Although the actual building was completed decades ago, Mr. Coppoolse has touched it, too. Blaine says over half of it was redesigned in 2006. In the lobby, huge windows overlook the bowling alley, indoor swimming pools and exercise rooms below. The unique pool offers a sloped-beach entrance on one side and a narrow lap pool on the other. Beyond the bowling alley are basketball and tennis courts, a video game arcade, and a toddlers' corner. The locker area includes steam rooms, a sauna and a whirlpool. New to this level is the exercise room. Before the renovations, several stationary machines occupied the U-shaped corridor that now houses the video arcade. Today, in one brightly lighted room, the full gamut of aerobic equipment stands alongside Nautilus strength-training equipment. Several flat panel television sets offer your choice of programming. And, if free weights are your thing, the room behind the mirrored dividing wall houses more Nautilus machines, benches and a full rack of weights.
Above the weight room is Spa Orange, a luxurious spa offering every pampering treatment you can imagine: massages, body polishes, wraps, hand and foot treatments, facials, complimentary teas and snacks. It even smells soothing. Use of the new spa has doubled since it reopened in 2007, and it's no wonder. You can be relaxed, rejuvenated, and refinished, all in one visit. Plus, you can take home the spa's special products to prolong its decadent pleasures.
In the spring, summer and autumn the center of activity shifts outdoors. By day the horseshoe pits, volleyball and tennis courts come alive and bonfires blaze on the Town Square each night. Hikers head to the hills and the young-at-heart embark on organized scavenger hunts. The outdoor pool behind Small Talk Café is filled, as is the children's playground. And, the really adventuresome head to the barn – one of the most popular spots on the grounds.
Here, Gary Critchley manages the resort's Equestrian Center, home to 65 horses – all personally raised by Gary. His "babies" are mostly sure-footed quarter horses, "better suited for trail riding," he says. "In a day's time we can easily do 75-125 people. That's not uncommon. On a good day, I can handle 200-300 people. The horses are constantly rolling," he beams.
But, rotating the horses on and off the 60 acres of pastureland gives them a much-needed rest and ensures a better mount for his customers. Each trail ride is guided by Gary, his wife, or a member of his dedicated staff. The 16-25 miles of mostly flat trails wind through many undeveloped areas of the resort offering breathtaking vistas of its hills, valleys and streams. Rides vary from 45 minutes to three hours. An adventure to the New River includes a catered lunch. This summer, the Center will offer something new – six hour fishing trips on horseback.
"These will allow riders to stop at the stocked creek, fish a while, ride to the next big hole and fish some more," Critchley says. "Bobby Bower (the resort's outdoor adventure specialist) and I will get together. He knows the holes and I know the horses."
Elegant carriage rides, Percheron pulled wagon rides and pony rides for the kids are also available.
Bobby Bower is the go-to-guy for off-site adventures, too. You dream it up; he'll plan it: whitewater rafting, guided mountain bike tours, a trip to the Hatfield-McCoy Recreational area, rock climbing, fly fishing or sporting clay shooting. Tamer trips to Tamarack or Pipestem State Park also can be arranged.
The Resort at Glade Springs is also a golfer's dream. The Cobb Course, designed by the creator of the par 3-course at Augusta National, is an award winning 18-hole course. A million dollar upgrade in 2003 enhanced the traditional course while retaining its original flat terrain, gradually rolling tree-lined fairways and large greens. The course boasts eight lakes, a 200-foot elevation change, and unsurpassed beauty. And there's a driving range just outside the clubhouse. Named by Washington Golf Monthly as one of the 100 Must Play Courses of the Mid-Atlantic, awarded 4 1/2 stars by Golf Digest and acclaimed by Golf Magazine in 2007 as the #1 course in West Virginia, the Cobb Course has been home to the West Virginia Open, the U.S. Open qualifier and the NCAA National Championships. Resort professional Jim Jamieson offers 15 summer courses for golfers of all ages and abilities. Jamieson is the former director of golf at The Greenbrier and a lead instructor at the John Jacobs Golf School in Arizona.
Although the core of the Cobb Course Clubhouse was built in 1973, it has also seen extensive renovations. In 2006 Coppoolse added Bunkers Sport Bar to the existing structure, which also provided space for a new ladies locker room, golf cart pick-up area and Cobb's Corner for golfers' food-on-the-go. Richly paneled and welcoming, Bunkers has 13 televisions sets, including those at tableside, two pool tables, a casual menu and a Sunday brunch to die for. One wall features caricatures of familiar sports figures, most of them from WVU; but according to Ms. Blaine, "There will be a Marshall person on this wall by the end of the year," she says. "You can quote me on that."
On the second floor, Glade's Bar offers a cozy spot for drinks before or after dinner. Next door the Grill Restaurant overlooks the golf course and the woods beyond. Here again, the décor in the semi-circular space has Coppoolse's touch. Sleek dark furniture with oriental styling is complemented by black napkins, table coverings and draperies. Each table is set with a gleaming white place cloth and dinnerware, a subtle amber candle and a feather centerpiece.
Chef Jim Anderson's mark is obvious too. At the resort since last October, he's made bringing the standard of service, food quality and consistency to four or five star level his stated goal. Judging by the presentation of his specials, the friendliness of his staff and the creativity of the menu items, he's well on his way. One dessert, the Chocolate Hemisphere, is so good "you can't eat for yelling about it," as they say. Even the stand on which the chocolate orb – formed over a balloon and frozen – rests is edible.
You say it sounds like you won't want to leave? Actually, you don't have to. Cooper Land Development offers a number of ways to make this your vacation home or new permanent residence. In 2006, Phase I of the Village was completed around Chatham Lake and includes Stonehaven Golf Course, which had opened three years earlier. An 18-hole course as well, Stonehaven offers a rugged terrain and smaller greens. Many of the one-third acre lots front the quiet lake, which is available for fishing or boating to all the Glade's residents. While building is progressing, many sold lots remain undeveloped, waiting for the owner to retire and make his move. The Glade Springs Golf & Country Club offers property owners and non-residents the opportunity to purchase a membership to enjoy the amenities at the resort.
Currently Phase II of the Village is underway, with a third golf course, Woodhaven, scheduled to open across Glade Creek Gorge in 2009. Planned with spectacular gorge views and huge rock formations, this course will have its own clubhouse, driving range, swimming pool, tennis courts and a small restaurant. Lots in this residential area come with views of the gorge or the golf course.
The Village at Glade Springs is not just for retirees, either; it's a bustling family-friendly community. With Camp Glade, organized activities, the family-friendly Leisure Center, a stocked lake and woods full of wildlife, what child wouldn't want to grow up here? And what parent could resist, either?
According to history, the first spa in the United States was in West Virginia – at Berkeley Springs. But for years the best-kept spa-secret in the state may have been the Resort at Glade Springs. However, if Elmer Coppoolse keeps reinventing the place, the secret won't stay secret much longer.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Friday, March 4, 2011
West Virginia Trout Stocking Feb. 2011
February 28, 2011
Blackwater River
East Fork Greenbrier River
Knapps Creek
Little River East Fork Greenbrier River
Spruce Knob Lake
Summit Lake
Watoga Lake
February 25, 2011
Lost River
Mill Creek Reservoir
Trout Run
Waites Run
February 24, 2011
Brandywine Lake
Brushy Fork Lake
Buffalo Creek (Brooke)
Bullskin Run
Cacapon Park Lake
Castleman Run Lake
Evitts Run
Middle Creek
Middle Wheeling Creek Lake
Mill Creek of Opequon Creek
Opequon Creek
Rocky Marsh Run
Thomas Park Lake
February 23, 2011
Blackwater River
Buffalo Fork Lake
Clear Fork of Tug
East Fork Greenbrier River
Glade Creek of New River
Greenbrier River
Laurel Creek (Clay)
Little River East Fork Greenbrier River
Marsh Fork
South Branch (Smoke Hole)
February 22, 2011
Boley Lake
Glade Creek of Mann
Laurel Creek (Fayette)
Mill Creek (Fayette)
Rhine Creek
Wolf Creek
February 18, 2011
Anawalt Lake
Glady Fork
North Fork of Anthony Creek
North Fork of South Branch
Rockhouse Lake
Spruce Laurel Fork
February 17, 2011
Dillons Run
Edwards Run
Fort Ashby Reservoir
Gandy Creek
Laurel Fork (Randolph) at bridge on Rt. 33 only
Mill Creek of South Branch
New Creek
North Fork of Cherry River
North Fork of Patterson Creek
Right Fork of Buckhannon River
Rollins Lake
South Branch (Franklin)
South Fork of Cherry River
Wallback Lake
February 16, 2011
Back Fork of Elk River
Desert Fork
Elk River
Jennings Randolph Tailwaters
Knapps Creek
Lower Cove Run
Moores Run
Potts Creek
South Fork of Potts Creek
Spruce Knob Lake
Sugar Creek
Summit Lake
Warden Lake
Watoga Lake
February 15, 2011
Fitzpatrick Lake
Little Beaver Lake
Meadow Creek of New River
Milligan Creek
Shavers Fork (Bemis)
Shavers Fork (lower)
February 14, 2011
Anthony Creek
Buffalo Creek (Logan)
Long Marsh Run
Mill Run (Berkeley)
Poorhouse Pond
Tilhance Creek
Tuscarora Creek
February 11, 2011
Dry Fork (Tucker, Randolph)
Little Kanawha River
Middle Fork River
Right Fork of Little Kanawha River
February 10, 2011
Fall Run
French Creek Pond
Horseshoe Run
Laurel Fork of Holly River
Left Fork of Holly River
Red Creek
Tygart Tailwaters
February 9, 2011
Big Clear Creek
Big Sandy Creek
Coopers Rock Lake
Hills Creek
Indian Creek
Kings Creek
Little Clear Creek
New Creek
North Fork of Lunice Creek
North Fork of Patterson Creek
Rich Creek (Monroe)
Right Fork of Middle Fork
Tomlinson Run
Tomlinson Run Lake
Tygart Headwaters
February 8, 2011
Clover Run
Conaway Run Lake
Curtisville Lake
Dunkard Fork Lake
Lost River
North Fork of Fishing Creek
North Fork of South Branch (C&R)
North River
South Fork of Fishing Creek
Trout Run
Waites Run
February 7, 2011
Beech Fork Tailwaters
Bullskin Run
Burnsville Tailwaters
Cacapon Park Lake
Chief Logan Pond
East Lynn Tailwaters
Evitts Run
Gandy Creek
Laurel Fork (Randolph) at bridge on Rt. 33 only
Laurel Fork Lake
Lick Creek Pond
Middle Creek
Mill Creek of Opequon
Opequon Creek
Rocky Marsh Run
Stonewall Jackson Tailwaters
Sutton Tailwaters
Wayne Dam
West Fork Twelvepole
February 4, 2011
Cherry River
Deer Creek (Pocahontas)
Dog Run Lake
East Fork Greenbrier River
Horse Creek Lake
Jimmy Lewis Lake
Little River East Fork Greenbrier River
Pipestem Lake
Seneca Lake
Shavers Fork (Bemis)
Shavers Fork (C&R) Stuarts Park Recreation Area
Shavers Fork (lower)
Spruce Knob Lake
Summersville Tailwaters
Teter Creek Lake
February 3, 2011
Anthony Creek
Berwind Lake
Buckhannon River
Dry Fork (McDowell)
Elk River
Kimsey Run Lake
Left Fork of Right Fork of Buckhannon River
Meadow Creek of Anthony Creek
Panther Creek
R.D. Bailey Tailwaters
February 2, 1011
Bear Rocks Lake
Clear Fork of Guyandotte River
Deer Creek (Nicholas)
Dunloup Creek
Laurel Creek of Cherry River
Newburg Lake
Paint Creek
Paw Paw Creek
Pinnacle Creek (lower section)
South Branch (Smoke Hole)
Summit Lake
Wheeling Creek
Whiteday Creek
February 1, 2011
Camp Creek
East River
Hopkins Fork
Knapps Creek
Mash Fork
Mason Lake
North Fork of South Branch
Pond Fork
South Branch (Franklin)
South Mill Creek Lake
Tuckahoe Lake
Watoga Lake
Blackwater River
East Fork Greenbrier River
Knapps Creek
Little River East Fork Greenbrier River
Spruce Knob Lake
Summit Lake
Watoga Lake
February 25, 2011
Lost River
Mill Creek Reservoir
Trout Run
Waites Run
February 24, 2011
Brandywine Lake
Brushy Fork Lake
Buffalo Creek (Brooke)
Bullskin Run
Cacapon Park Lake
Castleman Run Lake
Evitts Run
Middle Creek
Middle Wheeling Creek Lake
Mill Creek of Opequon Creek
Opequon Creek
Rocky Marsh Run
Thomas Park Lake
February 23, 2011
Blackwater River
Buffalo Fork Lake
Clear Fork of Tug
East Fork Greenbrier River
Glade Creek of New River
Greenbrier River
Laurel Creek (Clay)
Little River East Fork Greenbrier River
Marsh Fork
South Branch (Smoke Hole)
February 22, 2011
Boley Lake
Glade Creek of Mann
Laurel Creek (Fayette)
Mill Creek (Fayette)
Rhine Creek
Wolf Creek
February 18, 2011
Anawalt Lake
Glady Fork
North Fork of Anthony Creek
North Fork of South Branch
Rockhouse Lake
Spruce Laurel Fork
February 17, 2011
Dillons Run
Edwards Run
Fort Ashby Reservoir
Gandy Creek
Laurel Fork (Randolph) at bridge on Rt. 33 only
Mill Creek of South Branch
New Creek
North Fork of Cherry River
North Fork of Patterson Creek
Right Fork of Buckhannon River
Rollins Lake
South Branch (Franklin)
South Fork of Cherry River
Wallback Lake
February 16, 2011
Back Fork of Elk River
Desert Fork
Elk River
Jennings Randolph Tailwaters
Knapps Creek
Lower Cove Run
Moores Run
Potts Creek
South Fork of Potts Creek
Spruce Knob Lake
Sugar Creek
Summit Lake
Warden Lake
Watoga Lake
February 15, 2011
Fitzpatrick Lake
Little Beaver Lake
Meadow Creek of New River
Milligan Creek
Shavers Fork (Bemis)
Shavers Fork (lower)
February 14, 2011
Anthony Creek
Buffalo Creek (Logan)
Long Marsh Run
Mill Run (Berkeley)
Poorhouse Pond
Tilhance Creek
Tuscarora Creek
February 11, 2011
Dry Fork (Tucker, Randolph)
Little Kanawha River
Middle Fork River
Right Fork of Little Kanawha River
February 10, 2011
Fall Run
French Creek Pond
Horseshoe Run
Laurel Fork of Holly River
Left Fork of Holly River
Red Creek
Tygart Tailwaters
February 9, 2011
Big Clear Creek
Big Sandy Creek
Coopers Rock Lake
Hills Creek
Indian Creek
Kings Creek
Little Clear Creek
New Creek
North Fork of Lunice Creek
North Fork of Patterson Creek
Rich Creek (Monroe)
Right Fork of Middle Fork
Tomlinson Run
Tomlinson Run Lake
Tygart Headwaters
February 8, 2011
Clover Run
Conaway Run Lake
Curtisville Lake
Dunkard Fork Lake
Lost River
North Fork of Fishing Creek
North Fork of South Branch (C&R)
North River
South Fork of Fishing Creek
Trout Run
Waites Run
February 7, 2011
Beech Fork Tailwaters
Bullskin Run
Burnsville Tailwaters
Cacapon Park Lake
Chief Logan Pond
East Lynn Tailwaters
Evitts Run
Gandy Creek
Laurel Fork (Randolph) at bridge on Rt. 33 only
Laurel Fork Lake
Lick Creek Pond
Middle Creek
Mill Creek of Opequon
Opequon Creek
Rocky Marsh Run
Stonewall Jackson Tailwaters
Sutton Tailwaters
Wayne Dam
West Fork Twelvepole
February 4, 2011
Cherry River
Deer Creek (Pocahontas)
Dog Run Lake
East Fork Greenbrier River
Horse Creek Lake
Jimmy Lewis Lake
Little River East Fork Greenbrier River
Pipestem Lake
Seneca Lake
Shavers Fork (Bemis)
Shavers Fork (C&R) Stuarts Park Recreation Area
Shavers Fork (lower)
Spruce Knob Lake
Summersville Tailwaters
Teter Creek Lake
February 3, 2011
Anthony Creek
Berwind Lake
Buckhannon River
Dry Fork (McDowell)
Elk River
Kimsey Run Lake
Left Fork of Right Fork of Buckhannon River
Meadow Creek of Anthony Creek
Panther Creek
R.D. Bailey Tailwaters
February 2, 1011
Bear Rocks Lake
Clear Fork of Guyandotte River
Deer Creek (Nicholas)
Dunloup Creek
Laurel Creek of Cherry River
Newburg Lake
Paint Creek
Paw Paw Creek
Pinnacle Creek (lower section)
South Branch (Smoke Hole)
Summit Lake
Wheeling Creek
Whiteday Creek
February 1, 2011
Camp Creek
East River
Hopkins Fork
Knapps Creek
Mash Fork
Mason Lake
North Fork of South Branch
Pond Fork
South Branch (Franklin)
South Mill Creek Lake
Tuckahoe Lake
Watoga Lake
March 4, 2011
Lower New River Watershed pollution discussed
By Taylor Kuykendall
Register-Herald Reporter The Register-Herald
Several people met Thursday to learn about the quality of water flowing through the Lower New River Watershed and what they can do to help clean it up.
The meeting was held to gather input on the draft report of the “Lower New River — State of the Watershed” publication by the New River Clean Water Alliance and Downstream Strategies. According to the report, high levels of fecal coliform in the tributaries of the New River contribute to high levels of the pollutant in the Lower New River during high-flow events.
Fecal coliform is one indicator of human-disease-causing pathogens in fecal matter.
Erin St. John, program manager of the National Parks Conservation Association’s West Virginia field office, said the final report would be out this spring.
“After the New River was listed as impaired ... it was kind of a call to action,” St. John said. “It got us thinking about how we can take advantage of all the people who really care about this place and this river. We all want to see it clean.”
According to the report, nearly 270 miles of Lower New River streams are impaired by fecal coliform.
Don Striker, superintendent of the New River Gorge, told the audience that clean water is an integral element of future environmental health.
“In the National Park Systems, our mission is to protect our most special places for our grandchildren’s grandchildren,” Striker said. “It’s really a long-term mission, a long-term view of the world.”
Clean water, and its isolation from sewage systems, Striker said, is a fundamental skill humans developed for survival.
“The first thing, when civilizations are setting themselves up, is to figure out what’s clean water,” Striker said. “What’s the separation of water and sewer. We, as Americans, tend to take that for granted all the time, especially those of us that are at the top of the watershed.”
Fritz Boettner, of Downstream Strategies, an environmental consulting company based in Morgantown, said the problem is large but manageable. One proposed solution, he said, is to establish a network of citizens who can monitor the water quality and gather more data.
“A lot of these problems do typically exist at high-flow events,” he said. During low-flow events, “There were no exceedances at all. Nothing above water-quality criteria.”
When the water starts to rise, however, fecal coliform levels begins to rise as well, sometimes up to a hundred to five hundred times standard levels, he said. The problems, Boettner pointed out, are largely localized.
“We have leaking sewer pipes, basically, aged infrastructures that are leaking instead of going to the treatment facility. We have stormwater runoff,” Boettner said. “As places get more urban, more ‘paved over,’ so to speak, it picks up a lot of pollutants, shoves it into the stormwater drains, and off into the rivers and creeks it goes. There’s also failing septic systems. One thing in West Virginia is that due to its geology and soils, it’s never a great place for traditional septic systems.”
Piney Creek in Beckley, Wolf Creek in Oak Hill and Arbuckle Creek in Oak Hill are currently the primary sub-watersheds the group is targeting.
Jeremiah Johnson, of the Beckley Sanitary Board and the Piney Creek Watershed Association, said funding for cleaning up the Lower New River Watershed and its constituent watersheds may be the greatest challenge.
“There are a lot of problems ... and we can solve them,” Johnson said. “We do have solutions as professionals, but a lot of times it’s a funding issue.”
He said many of the problems stem from an antiquated way of dealing with sewage and stormwater. The problems from infrastructure built decades ago persist today.
“They were solving a 1920s problem. A problem with sanitation — basically getting their wastewater off their property and into the creek,” Johnson said. “That was okay at that point. Stormwater runoff wasn’t much different. Some days, I think 1920s thinking is still the same today.”
He added that another challenge is dealing with the sheer volume of water to be treated after significant rainfall events. Beckley already treats about 6 million gallons, on average, per day, he said.
“An inch of rainfall will put 28 to 30 million gallons of runoff through the system,” Johnson said. “I don’t care what you have, it becomes pretty hard to manage that amount of water and to treat it and not create downstream problems. So we’ve got our work cut out for us as a region.”
Community action, Johnson reiterated, is the key to cleaning up the area watersheds and getting attention brought to the issue.
“The wheel that squeaks gets the attention,” Johnson said. “We’ve got to squeak collectively.”
— E-mail: tkuykendall@register-herald.com
Lower New River Watershed pollution discussed
By Taylor Kuykendall
Register-Herald Reporter The Register-Herald
Several people met Thursday to learn about the quality of water flowing through the Lower New River Watershed and what they can do to help clean it up.
The meeting was held to gather input on the draft report of the “Lower New River — State of the Watershed” publication by the New River Clean Water Alliance and Downstream Strategies. According to the report, high levels of fecal coliform in the tributaries of the New River contribute to high levels of the pollutant in the Lower New River during high-flow events.
Fecal coliform is one indicator of human-disease-causing pathogens in fecal matter.
Erin St. John, program manager of the National Parks Conservation Association’s West Virginia field office, said the final report would be out this spring.
“After the New River was listed as impaired ... it was kind of a call to action,” St. John said. “It got us thinking about how we can take advantage of all the people who really care about this place and this river. We all want to see it clean.”
According to the report, nearly 270 miles of Lower New River streams are impaired by fecal coliform.
Don Striker, superintendent of the New River Gorge, told the audience that clean water is an integral element of future environmental health.
“In the National Park Systems, our mission is to protect our most special places for our grandchildren’s grandchildren,” Striker said. “It’s really a long-term mission, a long-term view of the world.”
Clean water, and its isolation from sewage systems, Striker said, is a fundamental skill humans developed for survival.
“The first thing, when civilizations are setting themselves up, is to figure out what’s clean water,” Striker said. “What’s the separation of water and sewer. We, as Americans, tend to take that for granted all the time, especially those of us that are at the top of the watershed.”
Fritz Boettner, of Downstream Strategies, an environmental consulting company based in Morgantown, said the problem is large but manageable. One proposed solution, he said, is to establish a network of citizens who can monitor the water quality and gather more data.
“A lot of these problems do typically exist at high-flow events,” he said. During low-flow events, “There were no exceedances at all. Nothing above water-quality criteria.”
When the water starts to rise, however, fecal coliform levels begins to rise as well, sometimes up to a hundred to five hundred times standard levels, he said. The problems, Boettner pointed out, are largely localized.
“We have leaking sewer pipes, basically, aged infrastructures that are leaking instead of going to the treatment facility. We have stormwater runoff,” Boettner said. “As places get more urban, more ‘paved over,’ so to speak, it picks up a lot of pollutants, shoves it into the stormwater drains, and off into the rivers and creeks it goes. There’s also failing septic systems. One thing in West Virginia is that due to its geology and soils, it’s never a great place for traditional septic systems.”
Piney Creek in Beckley, Wolf Creek in Oak Hill and Arbuckle Creek in Oak Hill are currently the primary sub-watersheds the group is targeting.
Jeremiah Johnson, of the Beckley Sanitary Board and the Piney Creek Watershed Association, said funding for cleaning up the Lower New River Watershed and its constituent watersheds may be the greatest challenge.
“There are a lot of problems ... and we can solve them,” Johnson said. “We do have solutions as professionals, but a lot of times it’s a funding issue.”
He said many of the problems stem from an antiquated way of dealing with sewage and stormwater. The problems from infrastructure built decades ago persist today.
“They were solving a 1920s problem. A problem with sanitation — basically getting their wastewater off their property and into the creek,” Johnson said. “That was okay at that point. Stormwater runoff wasn’t much different. Some days, I think 1920s thinking is still the same today.”
He added that another challenge is dealing with the sheer volume of water to be treated after significant rainfall events. Beckley already treats about 6 million gallons, on average, per day, he said.
“An inch of rainfall will put 28 to 30 million gallons of runoff through the system,” Johnson said. “I don’t care what you have, it becomes pretty hard to manage that amount of water and to treat it and not create downstream problems. So we’ve got our work cut out for us as a region.”
Community action, Johnson reiterated, is the key to cleaning up the area watersheds and getting attention brought to the issue.
“The wheel that squeaks gets the attention,” Johnson said. “We’ve got to squeak collectively.”
— E-mail: tkuykendall@register-herald.com
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Monday, June 21, 2010
WV Catch and Release Streams / Fly Fishing Only
Back Fork of Elk River − Webster County
4-mile section beginning 2 miles upstream from Webster Springs and extending upstream. Access by county routes 24 and 24/3.
Blackwater River − Tucker County
3.5-mile section from the county Route 29/1 bridge in Blackwater Falls State Park downstream to the mouth of the North Fork.
Clear Fork of the Guyandotte River − Wyoming County
1-mile section from the R.D. Bailey WMA manager’s residence downstream to the state Route 6 bridge. Season: October 1 − May 31. General regulations apply June 1 − September 30.
Cranberry River − Webster, Pocahontas and Nicholas counties
A 4.3-mile section from the junction of the North and South forks downstream to the low water bridge at Dogway Fork. Access by foot on National Forest Route 76 from the Cranberry Glades parking area.
And a Nicholas County 1.2-mile section from the Woodbine Recreation Area downstream to Camp Splinter (Jakeman Run). Access by National Forest Route 76 from Richwood.
Elk River − Randolph County
2-mile section from the Elk Springs Campground downstream to Rose Run bridge. Access by county Route 49 off state Route 15 about 4 miles west of Valley Head.
Glade Creek of New River − Raleigh County
3-mile section from the mouth upstream to the National Park Service foot bridge. Access by Glade Creek Road off state Route 41.
Middle Wheeling Creek − Ohio County
1.2-mile section from just above the upper limits of Middle Wheeling Creek Lake upstream to mouth of Gillespie Run. Access by county Route 39/6.
Season: October 1 − May 31. General regulations apply June 1 − September 30.
North Branch of Potomac River − Grant and Mineral counties
See the 2006 Maryland Fishing Regulations for special regulations on the North Branch of the Potomac and Potomac Rivers.
North Fork of Cherry River - Nicholas County
1.8-mile section extending upstream from Richwood’s water supply dam to first state Route 39 bridge. Access by state Route 39.
North Fork of Cranberry River − Pocahontas County
.25-mile section from the mouth upstream to the limestone treatment dam. Access by foot on National Forest Route 76.
North Fork of the South Branch − Pendleton County
.75-mile section at the mouth of Seneca Creek near Seneca Rocks Visitors Center. Access by county Route 28/3 at junction of state Route 28 and U.S. Route 33 at Seneca Rocks.
Paint Creek − Fayette County
2-mile section from mouth of Skitter Creek upstream to mouth of Milburn Creek. Access is by county Route 15.
Shavers Fork of Cheat River − Randolph County
5.5-mile section in Monongahela National Forest, north of U. S. Route 250, from the mouth of Whitmeadow Run downstream to the mouth of McGee Run. Access by National Forest Route 92, which intersects U.S. Route 250 four miles west of Cheat Bridge.
Slatyfork section of Elk River − Pocahontas County
4.6-mile section from the junction of Big Spring and Old Field forks downstream to the mouth of Dry Branch including Props Run and Big Run. Access by foot from county routes 219/2 on the north and 219/12 on the south.
South Branch of the Potomac River − Pendleton County
1-mile section beginning 2 miles below U.S. Route 220 at Eagle Rock and extending downstream. Access by county Route 2.
Williams River − Pocahontas County
2-mile section beginning 2 miles below Tea Creek and extending downstream. Access by National Forest Route 86.
Fly-fishing-Only
Buffalo Creek of New River − Fayette County
Main stream and all tributaries of Buffalo Creek. Access by foot from county Route 25.
Dogway Fork of the Cranberry − Webster, Pocahontas and Greenbrier counties
Main stream and all tributaries of Dogway Fork. Access by foot on National Forest Route 78.
Milligan Creek − Greenbrier County
Marked area about 1 mile north of U.S. Route 60 from the county Route 60/15 bridge extending downstream about .33 mile to a fence crossing.
Red Run of Dry Fork − Tucker County
Main stream and all tributaries of Red Run. Access by foot from state Route 72 and National Forest Route 13.
Second Creek − Greenbrier and Monroe counties
Marked 1.5-mile section on the Monroe/Greenbrier county line at Rodgers Mill.
Thorn Creek − Pendleton County
Marked .5-mile section beginning approximately 3 miles above the mouth. Access is by county Route 20.
Visit www.profishwv.com for guided fishing information
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
WV DNR Fishing Report June 2010
BEECH FORK
The reservoir is at summer pool. For more information call the Beech Fork Corps of Engineers office at 304-525-4831. Reports of a few bass and bluegill boated recently by anglers. Trout were recently stocked on May 6, completing the spring stockings for the year for the Beech Fork tailwaters.
BLUESTONE
Spring is here some fish species are beginning to spawn as the water warms. Crappie are showing up on brush piles, flooded timber or downed trees where they will spawn. They will hit small minnows or doll flies. Bass may be caught off rocky points and around downed trees using live bait and artificials such as spinnerbaits and plastic worms. Anglers should look for points that have some cover such as stumps, logs, or weed beds. Try slow rolling a spinnerbait, bumping off the stumps. Some hybrid striped bass may be caught using large minnows. Anglers should try spots such as the mouth of Indian Creek or up the Bluestone Arm as these fish, even though mostly infertile, still make mock spawning runs upstream. Smallmouth bass are being caught in the tailwaters. Successful anglers are using tube jigs in pumpkinseed or motor oil colors. Anglers should be careful wading and wear your personal flotation devices.
BURNSVILLE
The lake is at summer pool and clear. Fishing is good. Bass are active as they move towards shallow water to spawn. Sunfish and crappie have been caught around cover with small jigs and live bait. The tailwaters were stocked May 24. For more information call Corps of Engineers at 304-853-2398.
EAST LYNN
The reservoir is at summer pool. Both the outflow and the reservoir are clear with a surface temperature of 72F degrees. For more information call the Corps of Engineers recorded message at 304-849-9861. Trout were recently stocked on May 6, completing the spring stockings for the year for the East Lynn tailwaters. Try rooster tails, mepps spinners, joe's flies and various flies during the upcoming week. Due to higher temperatures the trout will be more active and will readily hit a spinner or moving lure this time of the year. A spinner is a great way to cover water while targeting active fish. Sometimes a small split shot crimped 6-9" above spinner will help get the lure down in deeper pools, while removing it in faster water will enable the angler to not get hung up as much. Target deep pockets, root wads and boulder piles that offer hiding places for trout. As the season progresses fish more during the early morning and late evening.
R.D. BAILEY
With the waters warming up, fish are beginning to spawn. Crappie are congregating near the habitats where they spawn such as around standing timber and brush piles and they will hit small minnows. For artificials, use doll flies in white and yellow. Spotted bass are hitting plastic jigs in crawfish colors. The spotted bass will be found along the rocky drops with points with downed trees another good spot to try. Hybrid striped bass will be making a mock spawning run up stream in April and May so anglers may want to concentrate their efforts in the upper lake. The trout stocked in the tailwaters are still providing good fishing. Best baits are corn, salmon eggs, and small jigs.
STONECOAL LAKE
The lake is at summer pool and clear. Fishing is great. Bass are in about 5 to 10 feet of water. Sunfish and crappie have been caught around cover using minnows and live bait. Lots of reports of trout being caught in all areas of the lake from boat and shore. Try power bait and spinners.
STONEWALL JACKSON
The lake is at summer pool and milky. Fishing is great. Bass are active as they move towards shallow water to spawn. Sunfish and crappie have been caught around cover with small jigs and live bait. The tailwaters were stocked May 24. Before heading to the lake please contact Corps of Engineers at 304-269-7463.
SUMMERSVILLE
The lake is at summer pool and clear. Bass are active as they move towards shallow water to spawn. Sunfish and crappie have been caught around cover. Try the upper end of the lake for walleye. Trout were stocked in the tailwaters on May 17. If you are looking for a back country trout fishing experience hike down in and enjoy. For more information call Corps of Engineers at 304-872-5809.
SUTTON
The lake is at summer pool and clear. Fishing is great. Bass are moving up to spawn. Crappie and bluegill have also been caught around standing timber with small jigs and live bait. The tailwaters are normal and clear. It was stocked May 24. Before heading to the lake please call Corps of Engineers at 304-765-2705.
TYGART LAKE
The lake has been at the summer level for the past week. Walleye move into shallow water at dusk to feed. During the day try using jigs and minnows in 30 to 50 feet depths. Smallmouth bass can be caught using crankbaits or tube jigs along the shoreline. Look for white bass at the head of coves or the upper part of the lake. Fish for crappie in the fish shelters between the boat ramps at the marina.
Walleye numbers are as high as they will be for the year in the tailwater, and this is the best place in northern West Virginia to fish for them. There are also lots of trout in the tailwater. Walleye fishing is best during higher flows (1,500 to 5,000 cubic feet per second) and trout fishing is best at low flows (less than 1,000 cubic feet per second). Call the Corps of Engineers telephone hotline at 304-265-5953 for daily lake and tailwater conditions.
NORTHERN WEST VIRGINIA
OHIO RIVER (NEW CUMBERLAND, PIKE ISLAND, AND HANNIBAL POOLS AND TAILWATERS)
The river is a normal seasonal flow and water temperatures are rising because of the warmer nights. Lock and dam tailwaters are the place to fish for all species. Hybrid striped bass and white bass will move in and out of the tailwaters and can be caught using a variety of baits including chicken liver. Walleye and sauger are also attracted to the currents at lock and dam tailwaters. During normal or low flows, walleye and sauger will start feeding about an hour before sunset and then throughout the night. Jigs with minnows are particularly good baits but 3-inch plastic grubs will also be productive. White or chartreuse are good colors.
MONONGAHELA RIVER -The lock and dam tailwaters are the best areas to fish for all species now that the river is at a normal seasonal level. Sauger and walleye are always attracted to the currents at lock and dam tailwaters. A good area for bank fishermen is the calm water at the approach to the locks on the Westover side of the river. During normal flows, start fishing about an hour before sunset because sauger and walleye will begin feeding at dusk. Jigs with minnows are particularly good baits but 3-inch plastic grubs will also be productive. White or chartreuse are good colors. Channel and flathead catfish are abundant throughout the river. Start practicing for the Cabela's King Cat tournament on June 26 at Morgantown.
CHEAT LAKE
The embayments at the Cheat Lake Park will warm up faster than the main lake and are good areas for bank anglers to catch catfish, sunfish and largemouth bass. Now is the time to fish for big bass. Cheat Lake has been one of the top lakes for bass fishing tournament success for the past 5 years. The smallmouth bass population is expanding throughout the lake. Keep track of the lake elevation and predicted daily changes in elevation on the Cheat Lake website at www.cheatlaketoday.com.
Try the tailwater fishing pier for walleye and sauger. Jigs with minnows or 3-inch power grubs are the best baits. White or chartreuse are good colors. Start fishing at dark when sauger and walleye begin feeding. The pier is located entirely in West Virginia about 25 minutes from Morgantown. Take U.S. Rt. 119 from Morgantown to Point Marion, PA, turn right after crossing the Cheat River and proceed 4 miles to Cheat Dam. The parking lot is in Pennsylvania but the entire pier is in West Virginia. The pier is lighted for night fishing and is handicapped accessible.
EASTERN PANHANDLE
SOUTH BRANCH AND CACAPON RIVERS
Flows in most streams and rivers throughout the eastern panhandle are near normal and in great fishing condition. The water is clear and water temperatures are around 70. Anglers have been extremely successful fishing for smallmouth bass near the head of pools. Many smallmouth bass in the South Branch have been tagged as part of a fish movement and fish health study. If you catch a tagged fish, please clip off the tag and return it to DNR for a reward. Anglers are asked to clip the tag at the insertion into the fish and provide the DNR either the tag or tag number, and information on the date the fish was caught and if the fish was harvested or released. Information can be mailed to the WVDNR, 2311 Ohio Ave, Parkersburg, WV 26101, or provide information by e-mail to fishtags@wvdnr.gov .
Anglers have been doing exceptionally well fishing for trout in stocked streams. Many streams are receiving weekly trout stocking through the end of the month. Up-to-date information regarding trout stocking can be found online at http://www.wvdnr.gov/Fishing/Stocking/DailyStock.shtm or by calling the hunting and fishing hotline at (304) 558-3399. Hunting and fishing license can be purchased online at https://www.wvhunt.com/wizard/hflw000.asp and digital copies of the hunting and fishing regulations are also available online.
NORTH BRANCH RIVER
The flows in the North Branch are currently near 500 cfs but are projected to drop to 300 cfs by the weekend. Anglers fishing for trout have been doing extremely well and lots of big fish are being caught. No additional white water releases will be conducted on the North Branch this year. Flows in the North Branch can be monitored by watching the USGS stream gages or the Jennings Randolph website (www.nab.usace.army.mil/recreation/jenran/recinfo.htm).
SMALL IMPOUNDMENTS
Bass, bluegill and catfish are biting in small impoundments and anglers are catching largemouth bass on topwater lures. Recent biological surveys indicate lots of bass, many over 4 pound, and several large catfish. Many small impoundments are receiving bi-weekly trout stockings and angles have been catching lots of nice trout. Check the fishing regulations to determine small impoundments trout stockings frequency.
Jennings Randolph Lake Jennings Randolph Lake is currently at conservation pool. The WV and Maryland boat ramps are open for the season. Don't forget you purchase a seasonal pass for boat launching either from the MDDNR on the MD side of the lake or the Corp of Engineers on the WV side. Anglers at Jennings Randolph are catching smallmouth bass and trout. Jennings Randolph Lake has a dedicated phone line for up-to-date recreational information (304) 355-2890. Recreational information can also be found at www.nab.usace.army.mil/recreation/jenran/recinfo.htm.
MT. STORM LAKE
Anglers at Mt. Storm should target hybrid striped bass, black bass, and walleye. Fish can be caught throughout the lake and many anglers do well fishing with chicken livers near the discharges. Anglers are still catching great creels of walleye and striped bass as well as largemouth and smallmouth bass. Walleye are being caught by trolling night crawlers. The public boat launch is accessible and the courtesy dock has been repaired.
CENTRAL WEST VIRGINIA
Water levels are normal and clear. June is a great time to introduce a child to fishing, also free fishing weekend is approaching (June 12-13). You do not need a fishing license to fish regardless of your age during eh free fishing weekend. The weather is nice and fish are very active. If you are looking for a place to go please check fishing regulations and the WVDNR website for a list of public access or call your local WVDNR district office for some advice and a place to take a youngster fishing. If going alone, always tell someone where you are going and when you will return. Check the DNR webpage for statewide trout stockings and updated fishing information. www.wvdnr.gov .
SOUTHERN WEST VIRGINIA
May is the final month for trout stockings, so anglers that want to trout fish are encouraged to get out there and get their fill the next few weeks! Anglers should check this year's fishing regulations to see which waters will be stocked. For a more up-to-date list, please call the hotline at 558-3399 or check online at www.wvdnr.gov. The New and Greenbrier rivers are in pretty good shape and anglers can catch smallmouth bass using tube jigs or spinnerbaits. Best spots are just below a shoal or rapid or in any eddy. Anglers may also want to try their luck at Kanawha Falls for musky or hybrid stripers (use big chubs and large white jigs for bait) or lake anglers can find some excellent bass and bluegill fishing at Plum Orchard Lake and Pipestem Lake. Best baits are plastic worms fished slowly along the bottom; spinnerbaits are also good choices for the bass while the bluegill will take small jigs, red worms, or other small live baits.
SOUTHWESTERN WEST VIRGINIA
LOWER OHIO AND KANAWHA RIVERS
Fishing is very good along the navigable rivers and their locks for multiple species (bass, drum, walleye, sauger, hybrids). Check locations visually or check online for flow levels http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt prior to fishing rather than wasting a trip.
GUYANDOTTE AND COAL RIVERS
Reports of a few white bass, largemouth and muskie caught near the upper and lower falls.
POCA RIVER
No recent reports.
ELK RIVER
A few catches of muskie, smallmouth, and walleye reported. The WVDNR is conducting a muskie study on the Elk River currently. If an angler keeps a muskie with what appears to be a metal tag on the dorsal fin, please contact the district office in Pt. Pleasant immediately (304-675-0871). We would like to gather information (total length = tip of snout to maximum length with the tail fin lobes squeezed together, location of capture, tag number) from the tagged fish. Flyers have been placed at put-ins, and in small tackle/convenient stores along the Elk River in Braxton, Clay, and Kanawha counties. Your participation is much appreciated.
MUD RIVER
Reports of muskie and bass caught recently. WVDNR surveys on Upper Mud recently revealed excellent populations of black bass in the main lake (Upper Mud). There are two public access sites and various facilities available for anglers and families at Upper Mud Lake and WMA. Give Upper Mud (river or lake) a try soon for a successful fishing trip or a family picnic/fishing trip.
SMALL IMPOUNDMENTS
Trout stockings are over for the spring, but trout still remain for the savvy angler. Fish early and late and try techniques not used by other anglers. Spinners or small lures are great alternatives to try during warmer weather. Warmwater fish such as bass, bluegill, and catfish will bite better in our small impoundments with rising water temperatures also. Try your favorite lures and bait for bass and bluegill. A number of impoundments were recently stocked with catchable sized channel catfish within the last few weeks, refer to the memo at the end of the fishing reports or call your local district office for further information. Many of these impoundments have been stocked with large and smaller (fingerling-sized) catfish over the past few years so there is always a good chance of catching a very large catfish as well. For catfish, try chicken livers, hot dogs, bubble gum and even soap! Shelled shrimp available at any grocery store is also a good choice as is a "gob" of nightcrawlers fished on the bottom. Liver and prepared 'stink' baits work well also. Take a kid or someone new to fishing out during a warmer day and let them experience the fun as well! Remember, free fishing days are scheduled for June 12 and 13, get out with your family and friends.
RESERVOIRS
Check the USACOE website (http://www.lrh.usace.army.mil/) and the USGS website (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt) for reservoir and tailrace conditions. Fishing in area reservoirs is good to excellent right now. Conditions are close to optimal for many preferred gamefish. Fishing can be good anytime as long as anglers key on the proper bait, habitat, preferred temperature range, and recognize what the fish are doing. For example bass and panfish should be spawning soon (if not already in some waterbodies). For bass target staging areas, and deep water adjacent to shallow spawning flats. Once you do have success try to evaluate why you caught a fish and try to establish a pattern that might help explain why you were successful. If you are able to establish a pattern further success may only be a cast away. For example in reservoirs a good springtime pattern for bass is to locate and fish old roadbeds. Old roadbeds create a variation in habitat and/or structure and offer a preferred shallow flat area bass like to spawn on. Therefore, old submerged roadbeds can be bass magnets in the spring. Try this pattern and/or find your own, this is one of the fun parts of fishing. Early in the am, late, and during overcast skies try using topwater for bass around structure. You might be rewarded with a great topwater strike. To target walleye and saugeye concentrate during the low light periods of dusk and dawn and/or fish at night using shad imitations and jigs around rocky points and drop-offs. Hybrids can also be taken on shad imitating lures or minnows in Beech Fork and East Lynn. Concentrate your effort during low light or under darkness for these brutish fish.
Finally, during this time of the year a cold snap can make it seem like fish have got lockjaw all of a sudden. Remember to slow your presentation down under these conditions and maybe even try bait rather than artificials. Another tip is to concentrate on habitat warmed by the sun. Once the weather becomes nice again for a few days and water temperatures rise go back to a faster and more erratic presentation using various lures. As we progress into the summer carp can be found in the shallow backwater areas of reservoirs spawning. Anglers can target these strong fighting fish with either bows or with rod and reel.
RIVERS AND STREAMS -Check the USGS website (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt) for river/stream conditions and check local landings visually before wasting a trip. Streams/rivers are warming up and offer great fishing right now for various species across the state. A spinnerbait slow rolled off of structure and timber is a great lure to try. White and chartreuse are two preferred colors for bass. In many small tackle shops one may purchase a card with an internal rig and a matching needle used to thread the rig into a minnow. These are deadly on many gamefish! Give them a try, especially during higher flows after a brief rainstorm. For catfish, use stink baits and cut baits for channels, and live bait and/or fresh cut bait for flatheads. Muskie anglers should try inline spinners, large spinnerbaits and large glide or crank baits. Many have reported excellent catches recently now that the spawn is over and fish are on the prowl trying to regain strength lost spawning. Paint Creek, Pond Fork, and Spruce Laurel Fork were all recently stocked with trout, check the online stocking guide or call 304-558-3399.
WEST-CENTRAL WEST VIRGINIA
This is an excellent time to fish Ohio River Tail-waters. Anglers fishing below the Belleville and Willow Island dams are catching sauger, white bass, hybrid striped bass, and a few other species. Lead headed jigs with twister tails (white or chartreuses), which are fished along the bottom, are the lure of choice. Clever anglers are tipping their jig hooks with minnows. Fishing for white bass can be quite good this time of year and medium-sized white spinners work well. Hybrid striped bass are being caught on the surface, and agitator bobbers, and large surface plugs work well for these top water feeders. Best spots to fish these areas include eddies and back-current sections, and anywhere that river flows are unusual.
Also along the Ohio River this year, fishing for black bass (largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass) has been excellent. Bass anglers are using spinner-baits, rubber worms, jig-and-pig type combos, and shad colored crank baits. Largemouth are being caught along embayments, and the smallmouth and spots are being taken from the river.
Fishing for largemouth bass in area lakes has been very good. Slowly fished rubber worms or jig-and-pig combos, and spinner baits are good terminal tackle choices. As the water warms surface baits will also be productive. Area lakes with good angling opportunities include Mountwood in Wood County, Conaway Run in Tyler County, Charles Fork in Roane County, North Bend Lake in Ritchie County, and Woodrum, Elk Fork, and O'Brien lakes in Jackson County. Fishing for bluegill in our small lakes is also good this time of year. Small baits and lures work well for these panfish.
This is also a good time to fish for catfish in area waters. Most public lakes have good channel catfish populations. Night crawlers, chicken liver or prepared catfish baits fished along the bottom are always a good method for catfish. Adult catfish were recently stocked into several area lakes. These include Conaway Run Lake in Tyler County; Cedar Creek State Park Lake in Gilmer County; Mountwood Lake and Fort Neal Pond in Wood County; North Bend State Park Pond in Ritchie County, Turkey Run Lake in Jackson County, and the Wirt County Pond. Also, the slowly moving and muddier water that is found in the upper potions of lakes, just after rain events, are great places to find channel catfish.
Larger stream and rivers hold channel catfish, but flathead or mud catfish are also available to catfish anglers. Tactics used in lakes work well for channels in these streams, but flatheads prefer live bait. Large minnows that are fished along deeper areas is the trick for these large catfish.
Musky streams are not expected to be fishable this weekend.
Catchable Channel Catfish Stockings
West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has stocked over 6,700 catchable-size channel catfish during the week of May 17. Fish will be 3/4 to 2 pounds in size and were reared at either the Apple Grove State Fish Hatchery or purchased from a private vendor. Twenty-three lakes located throughout the state will be stocked. Lakes to be stocked are: Anawalt Lake, Barboursville Lake, Berwind Lake, Cedar Creek State Park Lake, Chief Logan State Park Lake, Conaway Run Lake, Coopers Rock Lake, French Creek Pond, Handley Pond, Hurricane Lake, Krodel Lake, Laurel Lake, Little Beaver State Park Lake, Mason Lake, Mountwood Lake, North Bend State Park Pond, Parker Hollow Lake, Pendleton Lake at Blackwater Falls State Park, Pipestem State Park Lake, Tomlinson Run Lake, Wallback Lake, Watoga State Park Lake and Wirt County Pond.
The reservoir is at summer pool. For more information call the Beech Fork Corps of Engineers office at 304-525-4831. Reports of a few bass and bluegill boated recently by anglers. Trout were recently stocked on May 6, completing the spring stockings for the year for the Beech Fork tailwaters.
BLUESTONE
Spring is here some fish species are beginning to spawn as the water warms. Crappie are showing up on brush piles, flooded timber or downed trees where they will spawn. They will hit small minnows or doll flies. Bass may be caught off rocky points and around downed trees using live bait and artificials such as spinnerbaits and plastic worms. Anglers should look for points that have some cover such as stumps, logs, or weed beds. Try slow rolling a spinnerbait, bumping off the stumps. Some hybrid striped bass may be caught using large minnows. Anglers should try spots such as the mouth of Indian Creek or up the Bluestone Arm as these fish, even though mostly infertile, still make mock spawning runs upstream. Smallmouth bass are being caught in the tailwaters. Successful anglers are using tube jigs in pumpkinseed or motor oil colors. Anglers should be careful wading and wear your personal flotation devices.
BURNSVILLE
The lake is at summer pool and clear. Fishing is good. Bass are active as they move towards shallow water to spawn. Sunfish and crappie have been caught around cover with small jigs and live bait. The tailwaters were stocked May 24. For more information call Corps of Engineers at 304-853-2398.
EAST LYNN
The reservoir is at summer pool. Both the outflow and the reservoir are clear with a surface temperature of 72F degrees. For more information call the Corps of Engineers recorded message at 304-849-9861. Trout were recently stocked on May 6, completing the spring stockings for the year for the East Lynn tailwaters. Try rooster tails, mepps spinners, joe's flies and various flies during the upcoming week. Due to higher temperatures the trout will be more active and will readily hit a spinner or moving lure this time of the year. A spinner is a great way to cover water while targeting active fish. Sometimes a small split shot crimped 6-9" above spinner will help get the lure down in deeper pools, while removing it in faster water will enable the angler to not get hung up as much. Target deep pockets, root wads and boulder piles that offer hiding places for trout. As the season progresses fish more during the early morning and late evening.
R.D. BAILEY
With the waters warming up, fish are beginning to spawn. Crappie are congregating near the habitats where they spawn such as around standing timber and brush piles and they will hit small minnows. For artificials, use doll flies in white and yellow. Spotted bass are hitting plastic jigs in crawfish colors. The spotted bass will be found along the rocky drops with points with downed trees another good spot to try. Hybrid striped bass will be making a mock spawning run up stream in April and May so anglers may want to concentrate their efforts in the upper lake. The trout stocked in the tailwaters are still providing good fishing. Best baits are corn, salmon eggs, and small jigs.
STONECOAL LAKE
The lake is at summer pool and clear. Fishing is great. Bass are in about 5 to 10 feet of water. Sunfish and crappie have been caught around cover using minnows and live bait. Lots of reports of trout being caught in all areas of the lake from boat and shore. Try power bait and spinners.
STONEWALL JACKSON
The lake is at summer pool and milky. Fishing is great. Bass are active as they move towards shallow water to spawn. Sunfish and crappie have been caught around cover with small jigs and live bait. The tailwaters were stocked May 24. Before heading to the lake please contact Corps of Engineers at 304-269-7463.
SUMMERSVILLE
The lake is at summer pool and clear. Bass are active as they move towards shallow water to spawn. Sunfish and crappie have been caught around cover. Try the upper end of the lake for walleye. Trout were stocked in the tailwaters on May 17. If you are looking for a back country trout fishing experience hike down in and enjoy. For more information call Corps of Engineers at 304-872-5809.
SUTTON
The lake is at summer pool and clear. Fishing is great. Bass are moving up to spawn. Crappie and bluegill have also been caught around standing timber with small jigs and live bait. The tailwaters are normal and clear. It was stocked May 24. Before heading to the lake please call Corps of Engineers at 304-765-2705.
TYGART LAKE
The lake has been at the summer level for the past week. Walleye move into shallow water at dusk to feed. During the day try using jigs and minnows in 30 to 50 feet depths. Smallmouth bass can be caught using crankbaits or tube jigs along the shoreline. Look for white bass at the head of coves or the upper part of the lake. Fish for crappie in the fish shelters between the boat ramps at the marina.
Walleye numbers are as high as they will be for the year in the tailwater, and this is the best place in northern West Virginia to fish for them. There are also lots of trout in the tailwater. Walleye fishing is best during higher flows (1,500 to 5,000 cubic feet per second) and trout fishing is best at low flows (less than 1,000 cubic feet per second). Call the Corps of Engineers telephone hotline at 304-265-5953 for daily lake and tailwater conditions.
NORTHERN WEST VIRGINIA
OHIO RIVER (NEW CUMBERLAND, PIKE ISLAND, AND HANNIBAL POOLS AND TAILWATERS)
The river is a normal seasonal flow and water temperatures are rising because of the warmer nights. Lock and dam tailwaters are the place to fish for all species. Hybrid striped bass and white bass will move in and out of the tailwaters and can be caught using a variety of baits including chicken liver. Walleye and sauger are also attracted to the currents at lock and dam tailwaters. During normal or low flows, walleye and sauger will start feeding about an hour before sunset and then throughout the night. Jigs with minnows are particularly good baits but 3-inch plastic grubs will also be productive. White or chartreuse are good colors.
MONONGAHELA RIVER -The lock and dam tailwaters are the best areas to fish for all species now that the river is at a normal seasonal level. Sauger and walleye are always attracted to the currents at lock and dam tailwaters. A good area for bank fishermen is the calm water at the approach to the locks on the Westover side of the river. During normal flows, start fishing about an hour before sunset because sauger and walleye will begin feeding at dusk. Jigs with minnows are particularly good baits but 3-inch plastic grubs will also be productive. White or chartreuse are good colors. Channel and flathead catfish are abundant throughout the river. Start practicing for the Cabela's King Cat tournament on June 26 at Morgantown.
CHEAT LAKE
The embayments at the Cheat Lake Park will warm up faster than the main lake and are good areas for bank anglers to catch catfish, sunfish and largemouth bass. Now is the time to fish for big bass. Cheat Lake has been one of the top lakes for bass fishing tournament success for the past 5 years. The smallmouth bass population is expanding throughout the lake. Keep track of the lake elevation and predicted daily changes in elevation on the Cheat Lake website at www.cheatlaketoday.com.
Try the tailwater fishing pier for walleye and sauger. Jigs with minnows or 3-inch power grubs are the best baits. White or chartreuse are good colors. Start fishing at dark when sauger and walleye begin feeding. The pier is located entirely in West Virginia about 25 minutes from Morgantown. Take U.S. Rt. 119 from Morgantown to Point Marion, PA, turn right after crossing the Cheat River and proceed 4 miles to Cheat Dam. The parking lot is in Pennsylvania but the entire pier is in West Virginia. The pier is lighted for night fishing and is handicapped accessible.
EASTERN PANHANDLE
SOUTH BRANCH AND CACAPON RIVERS
Flows in most streams and rivers throughout the eastern panhandle are near normal and in great fishing condition. The water is clear and water temperatures are around 70. Anglers have been extremely successful fishing for smallmouth bass near the head of pools. Many smallmouth bass in the South Branch have been tagged as part of a fish movement and fish health study. If you catch a tagged fish, please clip off the tag and return it to DNR for a reward. Anglers are asked to clip the tag at the insertion into the fish and provide the DNR either the tag or tag number, and information on the date the fish was caught and if the fish was harvested or released. Information can be mailed to the WVDNR, 2311 Ohio Ave, Parkersburg, WV 26101, or provide information by e-mail to fishtags@wvdnr.gov .
Anglers have been doing exceptionally well fishing for trout in stocked streams. Many streams are receiving weekly trout stocking through the end of the month. Up-to-date information regarding trout stocking can be found online at http://www.wvdnr.gov/Fishing/Stocking/DailyStock.shtm or by calling the hunting and fishing hotline at (304) 558-3399. Hunting and fishing license can be purchased online at https://www.wvhunt.com/wizard/hflw000.asp and digital copies of the hunting and fishing regulations are also available online.
NORTH BRANCH RIVER
The flows in the North Branch are currently near 500 cfs but are projected to drop to 300 cfs by the weekend. Anglers fishing for trout have been doing extremely well and lots of big fish are being caught. No additional white water releases will be conducted on the North Branch this year. Flows in the North Branch can be monitored by watching the USGS stream gages or the Jennings Randolph website (www.nab.usace.army.mil/recreation/jenran/recinfo.htm).
SMALL IMPOUNDMENTS
Bass, bluegill and catfish are biting in small impoundments and anglers are catching largemouth bass on topwater lures. Recent biological surveys indicate lots of bass, many over 4 pound, and several large catfish. Many small impoundments are receiving bi-weekly trout stockings and angles have been catching lots of nice trout. Check the fishing regulations to determine small impoundments trout stockings frequency.
Jennings Randolph Lake Jennings Randolph Lake is currently at conservation pool. The WV and Maryland boat ramps are open for the season. Don't forget you purchase a seasonal pass for boat launching either from the MDDNR on the MD side of the lake or the Corp of Engineers on the WV side. Anglers at Jennings Randolph are catching smallmouth bass and trout. Jennings Randolph Lake has a dedicated phone line for up-to-date recreational information (304) 355-2890. Recreational information can also be found at www.nab.usace.army.mil/recreation/jenran/recinfo.htm.
MT. STORM LAKE
Anglers at Mt. Storm should target hybrid striped bass, black bass, and walleye. Fish can be caught throughout the lake and many anglers do well fishing with chicken livers near the discharges. Anglers are still catching great creels of walleye and striped bass as well as largemouth and smallmouth bass. Walleye are being caught by trolling night crawlers. The public boat launch is accessible and the courtesy dock has been repaired.
CENTRAL WEST VIRGINIA
Water levels are normal and clear. June is a great time to introduce a child to fishing, also free fishing weekend is approaching (June 12-13). You do not need a fishing license to fish regardless of your age during eh free fishing weekend. The weather is nice and fish are very active. If you are looking for a place to go please check fishing regulations and the WVDNR website for a list of public access or call your local WVDNR district office for some advice and a place to take a youngster fishing. If going alone, always tell someone where you are going and when you will return. Check the DNR webpage for statewide trout stockings and updated fishing information. www.wvdnr.gov .
SOUTHERN WEST VIRGINIA
May is the final month for trout stockings, so anglers that want to trout fish are encouraged to get out there and get their fill the next few weeks! Anglers should check this year's fishing regulations to see which waters will be stocked. For a more up-to-date list, please call the hotline at 558-3399 or check online at www.wvdnr.gov. The New and Greenbrier rivers are in pretty good shape and anglers can catch smallmouth bass using tube jigs or spinnerbaits. Best spots are just below a shoal or rapid or in any eddy. Anglers may also want to try their luck at Kanawha Falls for musky or hybrid stripers (use big chubs and large white jigs for bait) or lake anglers can find some excellent bass and bluegill fishing at Plum Orchard Lake and Pipestem Lake. Best baits are plastic worms fished slowly along the bottom; spinnerbaits are also good choices for the bass while the bluegill will take small jigs, red worms, or other small live baits.
SOUTHWESTERN WEST VIRGINIA
LOWER OHIO AND KANAWHA RIVERS
Fishing is very good along the navigable rivers and their locks for multiple species (bass, drum, walleye, sauger, hybrids). Check locations visually or check online for flow levels http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt prior to fishing rather than wasting a trip.
GUYANDOTTE AND COAL RIVERS
Reports of a few white bass, largemouth and muskie caught near the upper and lower falls.
POCA RIVER
No recent reports.
ELK RIVER
A few catches of muskie, smallmouth, and walleye reported. The WVDNR is conducting a muskie study on the Elk River currently. If an angler keeps a muskie with what appears to be a metal tag on the dorsal fin, please contact the district office in Pt. Pleasant immediately (304-675-0871). We would like to gather information (total length = tip of snout to maximum length with the tail fin lobes squeezed together, location of capture, tag number) from the tagged fish. Flyers have been placed at put-ins, and in small tackle/convenient stores along the Elk River in Braxton, Clay, and Kanawha counties. Your participation is much appreciated.
MUD RIVER
Reports of muskie and bass caught recently. WVDNR surveys on Upper Mud recently revealed excellent populations of black bass in the main lake (Upper Mud). There are two public access sites and various facilities available for anglers and families at Upper Mud Lake and WMA. Give Upper Mud (river or lake) a try soon for a successful fishing trip or a family picnic/fishing trip.
SMALL IMPOUNDMENTS
Trout stockings are over for the spring, but trout still remain for the savvy angler. Fish early and late and try techniques not used by other anglers. Spinners or small lures are great alternatives to try during warmer weather. Warmwater fish such as bass, bluegill, and catfish will bite better in our small impoundments with rising water temperatures also. Try your favorite lures and bait for bass and bluegill. A number of impoundments were recently stocked with catchable sized channel catfish within the last few weeks, refer to the memo at the end of the fishing reports or call your local district office for further information. Many of these impoundments have been stocked with large and smaller (fingerling-sized) catfish over the past few years so there is always a good chance of catching a very large catfish as well. For catfish, try chicken livers, hot dogs, bubble gum and even soap! Shelled shrimp available at any grocery store is also a good choice as is a "gob" of nightcrawlers fished on the bottom. Liver and prepared 'stink' baits work well also. Take a kid or someone new to fishing out during a warmer day and let them experience the fun as well! Remember, free fishing days are scheduled for June 12 and 13, get out with your family and friends.
RESERVOIRS
Check the USACOE website (http://www.lrh.usace.army.mil/) and the USGS website (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt) for reservoir and tailrace conditions. Fishing in area reservoirs is good to excellent right now. Conditions are close to optimal for many preferred gamefish. Fishing can be good anytime as long as anglers key on the proper bait, habitat, preferred temperature range, and recognize what the fish are doing. For example bass and panfish should be spawning soon (if not already in some waterbodies). For bass target staging areas, and deep water adjacent to shallow spawning flats. Once you do have success try to evaluate why you caught a fish and try to establish a pattern that might help explain why you were successful. If you are able to establish a pattern further success may only be a cast away. For example in reservoirs a good springtime pattern for bass is to locate and fish old roadbeds. Old roadbeds create a variation in habitat and/or structure and offer a preferred shallow flat area bass like to spawn on. Therefore, old submerged roadbeds can be bass magnets in the spring. Try this pattern and/or find your own, this is one of the fun parts of fishing. Early in the am, late, and during overcast skies try using topwater for bass around structure. You might be rewarded with a great topwater strike. To target walleye and saugeye concentrate during the low light periods of dusk and dawn and/or fish at night using shad imitations and jigs around rocky points and drop-offs. Hybrids can also be taken on shad imitating lures or minnows in Beech Fork and East Lynn. Concentrate your effort during low light or under darkness for these brutish fish.
Finally, during this time of the year a cold snap can make it seem like fish have got lockjaw all of a sudden. Remember to slow your presentation down under these conditions and maybe even try bait rather than artificials. Another tip is to concentrate on habitat warmed by the sun. Once the weather becomes nice again for a few days and water temperatures rise go back to a faster and more erratic presentation using various lures. As we progress into the summer carp can be found in the shallow backwater areas of reservoirs spawning. Anglers can target these strong fighting fish with either bows or with rod and reel.
RIVERS AND STREAMS -Check the USGS website (http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/rt) for river/stream conditions and check local landings visually before wasting a trip. Streams/rivers are warming up and offer great fishing right now for various species across the state. A spinnerbait slow rolled off of structure and timber is a great lure to try. White and chartreuse are two preferred colors for bass. In many small tackle shops one may purchase a card with an internal rig and a matching needle used to thread the rig into a minnow. These are deadly on many gamefish! Give them a try, especially during higher flows after a brief rainstorm. For catfish, use stink baits and cut baits for channels, and live bait and/or fresh cut bait for flatheads. Muskie anglers should try inline spinners, large spinnerbaits and large glide or crank baits. Many have reported excellent catches recently now that the spawn is over and fish are on the prowl trying to regain strength lost spawning. Paint Creek, Pond Fork, and Spruce Laurel Fork were all recently stocked with trout, check the online stocking guide or call 304-558-3399.
WEST-CENTRAL WEST VIRGINIA
This is an excellent time to fish Ohio River Tail-waters. Anglers fishing below the Belleville and Willow Island dams are catching sauger, white bass, hybrid striped bass, and a few other species. Lead headed jigs with twister tails (white or chartreuses), which are fished along the bottom, are the lure of choice. Clever anglers are tipping their jig hooks with minnows. Fishing for white bass can be quite good this time of year and medium-sized white spinners work well. Hybrid striped bass are being caught on the surface, and agitator bobbers, and large surface plugs work well for these top water feeders. Best spots to fish these areas include eddies and back-current sections, and anywhere that river flows are unusual.
Also along the Ohio River this year, fishing for black bass (largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass) has been excellent. Bass anglers are using spinner-baits, rubber worms, jig-and-pig type combos, and shad colored crank baits. Largemouth are being caught along embayments, and the smallmouth and spots are being taken from the river.
Fishing for largemouth bass in area lakes has been very good. Slowly fished rubber worms or jig-and-pig combos, and spinner baits are good terminal tackle choices. As the water warms surface baits will also be productive. Area lakes with good angling opportunities include Mountwood in Wood County, Conaway Run in Tyler County, Charles Fork in Roane County, North Bend Lake in Ritchie County, and Woodrum, Elk Fork, and O'Brien lakes in Jackson County. Fishing for bluegill in our small lakes is also good this time of year. Small baits and lures work well for these panfish.
This is also a good time to fish for catfish in area waters. Most public lakes have good channel catfish populations. Night crawlers, chicken liver or prepared catfish baits fished along the bottom are always a good method for catfish. Adult catfish were recently stocked into several area lakes. These include Conaway Run Lake in Tyler County; Cedar Creek State Park Lake in Gilmer County; Mountwood Lake and Fort Neal Pond in Wood County; North Bend State Park Pond in Ritchie County, Turkey Run Lake in Jackson County, and the Wirt County Pond. Also, the slowly moving and muddier water that is found in the upper potions of lakes, just after rain events, are great places to find channel catfish.
Larger stream and rivers hold channel catfish, but flathead or mud catfish are also available to catfish anglers. Tactics used in lakes work well for channels in these streams, but flatheads prefer live bait. Large minnows that are fished along deeper areas is the trick for these large catfish.
Musky streams are not expected to be fishable this weekend.
Catchable Channel Catfish Stockings
West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has stocked over 6,700 catchable-size channel catfish during the week of May 17. Fish will be 3/4 to 2 pounds in size and were reared at either the Apple Grove State Fish Hatchery or purchased from a private vendor. Twenty-three lakes located throughout the state will be stocked. Lakes to be stocked are: Anawalt Lake, Barboursville Lake, Berwind Lake, Cedar Creek State Park Lake, Chief Logan State Park Lake, Conaway Run Lake, Coopers Rock Lake, French Creek Pond, Handley Pond, Hurricane Lake, Krodel Lake, Laurel Lake, Little Beaver State Park Lake, Mason Lake, Mountwood Lake, North Bend State Park Pond, Parker Hollow Lake, Pendleton Lake at Blackwater Falls State Park, Pipestem State Park Lake, Tomlinson Run Lake, Wallback Lake, Watoga State Park Lake and Wirt County Pond.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
2010 Gauley Season Dates
2010 Gauley Season
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