Disclaimer

BE PREPARED

Fishing is an inherently dangerous sport. The freestone rivers of West Virginia are filled with moss covered slippery stones that can cause falls. Wading shoes that grip wet surfaces are very helpful. These streams also have swift currents and deep areas that can cause submersions, especially in high water conditions. Always wear a life vest when wading. It is also advisable to use a wading staff to provide better balance on shore and in the water.

Know and accept your limitations before fishing in West Virginia’s rugged and remote mountain terrain. Trout streams, and especially native brookie streams are often in the most remote and rugged parts of the state. Getting around is often very strenuous and dangerous. The mountain sides and streams have many cliffs and other obstacles that must be dealt with in safe ways. Do not take chances! It is best to take the time to walk around these obstacles. The difficulty of accessing a stream is always relative to the individual’s abilities and current conditions, so use the size and difficulty designations cautiously.

Always have a good topographical map and survival gear with you when hiking in the mountains. It is easy to get lost, and in many places there may not be another person around for many miles. Always have a partner with you when in the back country. Make sure your orienteering skills are sufficient for the situation, and have a good compass with you at all times. Brookie hunters are well advised to become experts at mountain orienteering and survival tactics. Avoid private property.

The information from this book and on the maps contained in this book have been gathered from various sources and agencies for use by the general public, and from personal experience. The authors and Go Fish Media cannot accept any responsibility for errors, omissions, or accuracy. By using these maps and other information contained in this book, you are accepting any and all maps/data and information you receive “as is” and without any warranty or representation whatsoever, express or implied, whether for accuracy, timeliness, completeness, fitness for a particular purpose or otherwise. However, notification of any errors will be greatly appreciated

Use your own good judgment and always err on the side of caution.