West Virginia DNR has came up with an interesting idea for WV anglers around the state. In 2022, the West Virginia DNR is introducing the Master Angler Program to help promote fishing in the state. The program is aimed towards acknowledging anglers for their catches on a range of species.

The Master Angler Program is broken down in separate categories for different species of fish. Each time someone catch’s all species in the category they complete the “Slam”. In example; if you catch a 12” largemouth, spotted and smallmouth bass along with taking a photo with the fish with a time stamp and completing the application (application link below) you complete the “Black Bass Slam”. Each slam must be completed within one calendar year. Applications must be filled out and mailed.

If individuals complete all the “Slams” they will be awarded a West Virginia Master Angler Award.

In my opinion, I definitely think it’s something cool and new for fishermen in the state. Maybe not really challenging for some  of the slams for some fishermen, but definitely could be interesting trying to catch a few of those on the list. Most of these species I see on the list I’ve accidentally caught and I’m sure we can all relate to that. For me I’ll participate in it and try to complete as many as I can (probably most of them will be on accident) but otherwise I’ll give it a shot.

What is your thoughts on the new program and what “Slam(s)” do you plan on trying to complete this year?

You can find all the information here: https://wvdnr.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/2021.12.08-DNR-Master-Angler-Rules-Application.pdf