|
Visitors and anglers fishing at 11 areas within the state parks system are more likely to catch a catfish this summer thanks to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources' stocking of catchable-size channel catfish in parks waters.
"DNR stocked catfish the week of May 16 and another stocking is planned the week of June 6," according to Chris O'Bara, DNR fisheries biologist.
Fish stocked are from three-quarter to two pounds. The first stocking of 9,000 pounds of fish, or 12,000 individuals, was transported and released in good shape at 27 lakes that included several designated state park areas.
The catfish stocking program provides fishing opportunities at easy accessible lakes. Generally, areas with camping opportunities are chosen for stocking.
Lakes stocked at state parks, forests and wildlife management area included: Cedar Creek State Park Lake (Gilmer Co.), Chief Logan State Park Lake (Logan Co.), Coopers Rock (State Forest) Lake (Monongalia Co.), North Bend State Park Pond (Ritchie Co.), Pipestem State Park Lake (Summers Co.), Tomlinson Run State Park Lake (Hancock Co.), and Watoga State Park Lake (Pocahontas Co.). Cacapon State Park Lake (Morgan Co.) will be stocked during the week of June 6.
Tagged channel catfish will be stocked into Berwind Lake (McDowell Co.), Laurel Lake (Mingo Co.), and Little Beaver State Park Lake (Raleigh Co.). Anglers who catch a tagged fish are asked to return tag or tag numbers along with information on the date of capture, if the fish was kept or released, and the name and address of the angler, to WVDNR, 2311 Ohio Ave, Parkersburg, WV 26101. Anglers also can call in the information (304-420-4550) or provide the information via email dnrfishtags@wv.gov
Bret Preston, Asst. DNR Chief for Warmwater Fisheries Management, and superintendents at West Virginia's state parks recognize the catfish stocking program as a way to encourage families to participate in outdoor activities.
"Fishing is a lifetime sport. Catfishing is just pure fun and entertainment for youngsters and families. For park visitors and area residents, this stocking program is a welcomed recreational resource," said Steve Jones, Supt. at North Bend State Park.
Free Fishing Days in West Virginia are June 11 -12, 2011. For information about West Virginia's state park system and activities, visit www.wvstateparks.com
For fishing regulations, license purchases, and other WV Division of Natural Resource information, visit www.wvdnr.gov
| 
