West Virginia’s biggest Gold Rush Giveaway announced by Governor Justice
CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) — Governor Justice announced that the 2024 West Virginia Gold Rush will be bigger than ever.
The West Virginia Gold Rush returns on April 1, 2024, and there will be five times the chances to win prizes. 2024 marks the seventh year of the event, which started in April 2018. Since the beginning of the event, additional chances to win prizes, more golden rainbow trout, and more stocking locations were added by Governor Justice.
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As a lifelong angler, there’s nothing that brings me more joy than to announce the return of this incredible event. The West Virginia Gold Rush not only showcases the breathtaking beauty of our natural landscapes but also highlights the world-class fishing opportunities our state offers. From avid anglers to families looking for a fun outdoor activity, I want to encourage everyone to participate in this exciting event and help make this year’s Gold Rush the best one yet.
Governor Justice
69 streams and lakes across West Virginia, including waters in or near 15 state parks and forests, will be stocked with more than 50,000 golden rainbow trout by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) from April 1, 2024 through April 13, 2024. Information about stocking locations and other details about the Gold Rush can be found here.
Photo Courtesy: Governor Justice Photo Courtesy: Governor Justice Photo Courtesy: Governor Justice
Gold Rush wouldn’t be what it is today without the leadership of Gov. Justice and his commitment to enhancing the angling experience in our state. As we celebrate the seventh anniversary of the Gold Rush, we look forward to seeing all of the ways this exciting event helps recruit the next generation of anglers and helps us keep West Virginia’s outdoor traditions alive and well for years to come.
Brett McMillion | West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Director
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500 of the 50,000 golden rainbow trout will have a numbered tag, which is five times the number of tagged trout than previous years. Those who catch a tagged trout can enter the tag number here for the opportunity to win one of five free West Virginia lifetime fishing licenses, a one-night stay at a state park or forest cabin or a $25 West Virginia State Parks gift card. People who report catching a tagged golden rainbow trout during the Gold Rush event can receive exclusive Gold Rush merchandise from the WVDNR.
West Virginia fishing licenses with a current trout stamp, as well as a valid form of identification, are required for anglers 15-years-old and up who fish during the Gold Rush event, and anglers are reminded to follow the fishing regulations in the Mountain State. Stamps and licenses can be bought here.
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