WV Gold Rush is returning to North Bend State Park and others for the seventh year in a row. West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has set statewide stockings during the end of March through beginning of April. Stocking at North Bend State Park will be in the tailwaters of the Hughes River.

West Virginia’s golden rainbow trout is prized by anglers young and old for its unmistakable, bright-yellow color.

These fish were selectively and successfully bred by West Virginia Division of Natural Resources biologists over several years and introduced to the public in 1963 as part of West Virginia’s centennial celebration.

Decades later, the West Virginia golden rainbow trout has been a popular sport fish, reeling in anglers from all over the country.

Unlike regular trout stockings, which include a mixture of golden rainbow and regular rainbow trout, this stocking will include only golden rainbow trout, making this a truly special fishing experience you don’t want to miss.

Imagine seeing a pristine fishing stream rushing with gold channels, shimmering like the sun. That’s what you and your family can expect to see during Gold Rush week when thousands of golden rainbow trout are released throughout West Virginia.

Several golden rainbow trout with a yellow tag also will be released. If you catch one, the tag can be redeemed for an exclusive West Virginia Gold Rush t-shirt. Instructions for getting the free shirt are available on the Gold Rush website .

Start planning your trip today and don’t forget to bring the kids. Catching their first fish is exciting, but catching a golden rainbow as their first fish — well, that’s unforgettable.

Remember, all anglers age 15 and older need to have a West Virginia fishing license with a current trout stamp and a valid form of identification while fishing. If you don’t have one, you can buy one online at wvfish.com.

North Bend State Park offers overnight accommodations and will have special programs during this event.