You can help ensure your own fishing enjoyment on the Monongahela by adopting what is know as "angling ethics." Angling ethics basically are unwritten laws by which people show respect and courtesy to each other and to the resource when on the water. As the forest streams and lakes become more crowded with the expected increase in fishing pressure, abiding by these rules will become even more important. The following guidelines will help you develop your own code of conduct:

• Practice safe fishing. Try to not hook your neighbor when casting!
• Give your fellow angler plenty of "elbow room."
• When you cross a stream be sure it's not immediately upstream from someone fishing.
• Respect the resource! Pick up any leftover fishing line, pop bottles and other trash.
• Obey fishing laws. To fish on the forest you will need a basic fishing license, Conservation stamp, Forest stamp, and if you're fishing for trout, a Trout stamp. Keep a copy of the WV Fishing Regulations with you at all times.
• Take a kid fishing, invite your friends, help others learn to fish and teach them about the code of ethical fishing.
• Practice Catch and Release fishing. Released fish live on to give others the opportunity to catch the "Big One."

For more information on fishing in West Virginia contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.