Fishing Burnsville Lake
AKA: Burnsville Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Burnsville Lake, WV
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Burnsville Lake is a popular bass tournament lake as it continues to deliver nice bags of largemouth bass, as it has for several years now. Careful fisheries management by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has maintained a thriving bass fishery, providing both quantity and quality for anglers. Smallmouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers. Recent results by locals, and bass fishing tournament participants, attest to the fact that fishing for largemouth bass has been very rewarding lately. Also, there is the potential for catching a monster. Big mouth bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good options. In winter, spend your time fishing Burnsville Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Fishing for largemouth bass can range from fair to very good here, year round.
Crappie Fishing
Often overlooked due to great fishing for other species, Burnsville Lake is also a very good crappie fishing lake. In fact, many crappie fishing tournaments are held here annually. The lake is populated with both black crappie and white crappie. These two species generally school by with their own, but once located around cover, you may find that you catch both species, due to the fact they often share the same cover. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water.
Muskie Fishing
Home to the state record muskie at over 50 pounds, fishing for muskellunge in Burnsville Lake could provide a trophy fish on any given cast. Giant musky roam these waters and are aggressive eaters. Muskie fishing can bring some exciting moments to your fishing day, as big muskies are spectacular, and strong fighters. Use a strong rod in medium- to medium-heavy action, with heavy line - 20# or heavier. Because of their sharp teeth, steel leaders are highly recommended. Muskie have a big mouth so use big baits, same baits you would use for bass but in larger sizes. Topwater, spinnerbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits all work well for hungry muskie. The best time of year to chase these big fish is Spring, and then again in Fall as the water temperature starts cooling.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, muskie, sauger and saugeye at Burnsville Lake in West Virginia.
Burnsville Lake Fishing Video
Three boat launch ramps provide boat access to Burnsville Lake for boating, sightseeing and fishing. This 1,900-acre lake in central West Virginia, at Burnsville has 30 miles of shoreline. There are plenty of places to wet a line.
Burnsville Lake, in West Virginia, is a popular destination for anglers seeking a diverse range of fish species and tranquil outdoor experiences. Spanning approximately 968 acres, Burnsville Lake offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping.
One of the primary fish species that attracts anglers to Burnsville Lake is the largemouth bass. The lake has a healthy population of largemouth bass, providing anglers with exciting fishing opportunities. Largemouth bass can be found near the lake's shoreline, submerged structures, and weed beds. Anglers can employ a variety of techniques, such as casting soft plastic baits, topwater lures, or crankbaits, to entice these prized game fish.
Burnsville Lake is also known for its thriving crappie population. Anglers can target both black crappie and white crappie throughout the year. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for crappie fishing, as they move closer to the shorelines to spawn and feed. Fishing near submerged structures, such as fallen trees and brush piles, can increase the chances of landing a successful catch. Anglers often use live minnows, jigs, or small plastic baits to entice these delicious panfish.
Additionally, Burnsville Lake offers opportunities for anglers to target other popular fish species, including bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish. Bluegill and redear sunfish, commonly known as panfish, provide enjoyable fishing experiences for anglers of all ages. These fish can be found near weed beds, submerged vegetation, and along the shoreline. Channel catfish are abundant in the lake and offer thrilling battles for catfish enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Burnsville Lake in West Virginia offers a rewarding fishing experience with its diverse fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, and catfish. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, the lake provides ample opportunities for success. Boating and camping amenities further enhance the overall experience, making Burnsville Lake a popular destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene and enjoyable outdoor getaway.
Grab your tackle and fish for bass, walleye, sauger, saugeye, crappie, catfish, sunfish and muskie dwelling here. Access for fishing from shore is limited, but there are areas at both ends of the lake for this. Fishing from a boat, canoe, kayak or pontoon is a more productive way to attack this scenic fishery. A marina and three campgrounds enhance boating and camping during your stay. These waters receive little fishing pressure which results in quality fishing for those who do fish here. Bass are abundant, with many in the "big fish" category, over five pounds.
Primary fish species residing in Burnsville Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Burnsville Lake Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Aside from fishing, Burnsville Lake provides a range of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Boating is a popular pastime, with boaters enjoying the calm waters and scenic views. The lake features multiple boat ramps, allowing easy access for boating enthusiasts.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Bulltown Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Millstone Run Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Bulltown South Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, south side, off Gauley Turnpike, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Rifle Run Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, east side, off S Main Street, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Marinas
Burnsville Docks
2746 S Main St
Burnsville, WV 26335
304 853-2822
Fishing Guides On Burnsville Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a West Virginia Fishing License.
Camping facilities, including campsites equipped with amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and restroom facilities, provide opportunities for visitors to extend their stay and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Riffle Run Campground Campground - 304 853-2371
Bulltown Campground - 304 452-8006
Burnsville Lake WV Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Burnsville Lake
Riffle Run Campground
R9QR+WG
Burnsville, Northern, WV
304 853-2371
Fishing lakes in each state.
071524
Burnsville Lake in West Virginia.
WEST VIRGINIA
Information about fishing lakes in West Virginia
Fishing in central WV, for walleye, sauger, saugeye, crappie, catfish, sunfish and muskie.
