The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources will begin fall trout stockings during the weeks of Oct. 16 and Oct. 23.
The state’s second annual Monster Trout Contest will also return during the same time.
During those two weeks, the DNR will stock more than 40,000 pounds of trophy-size and monster trout in 43 lakes and streams around the state.
Of that total, 35,000 pounds of trout weighing 1-2 pounds and 6,500 pounds of monster trout weighing 3-6 pounds will be stocked.
Out of the monster trout, five fish will have tags that can be redeemed for a grand prize.
Anglers who catch one of the five tagged fish and submit a photo with the tag number will be eligible to win a weekend cabin stay at a West Virginia State Park or a Cabela’s prize package.
Entries must be submitted by Friday, Nov. 17.
“We’re excited to bring back our Monster Trout Contest for a second year and continue to provide anglers and their families some of the best fishing experiences in the country,” DNR director Brett McMillion said.
“These stockings will go by quickly, but anglers should expect ideal trout fishing conditions to continue for several weeks, especially in larger streams and lakes where trout have more room to disperse.”