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Taylorsville Wildlife Management Area adventures

Taylorsville Wildlife Management Area Adventures

Taylorsville Wildlife Management Area is a diverse natural habitat in West Virginia offering fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and hunting opportunities across varied terrain and forested landscapes.

1,035
Acres Protected
10
Miles of Trails
12,000
Annual Visitors
1978
Year Established

About Taylorsville Wildlife Management Area

 

Taylorsville Wildlife Management Area (WMA), located in Harrison County, West Virginia, encompasses a blend of mixed hardwood forests, open fields, and riparian zones along the West Fork River watershed. The area is managed primarily for wildlife conservation and outdoor recreation, supporting a vibrant array of species including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, small game, and waterfowl. Popular among anglers, Taylorsville Lake, which is closely connected with the WMA, provides excellent fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish. The terrain ranges from gentle river bottomlands to rolling hills, offering a variety of habitats and scenic spots for exploration. The WMA has a history rooted in conservation efforts spearheaded by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, focusing on maintaining healthy wildlife populations and sustainable hunting opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking local trails, exploring wildlife viewing blinds, and using the WMA as a base for water-based activities on adjacent waters. Due to its proximity to small communities and easy accessibility, it serves both casual day visitors and dedicated outdoor enthusiasts. Key features include seasonal bird migrations, managed timber harvests promoting habitat health, and opportunities for regulated trapping and hunting. Taylorsville WMA attracts outdoorspeople who value a quiet, less developed natural space with abundant wildlife and fishing prospects.

Highlights

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Taylorsville Lake – a prime fishing and boating destination

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Diverse forest and river habitats supporting game and non-game species

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Seasonal birdwatching hotspots, including waterfowl migrations

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Quiet backcountry trails connecting to remote hunting grounds

Notable Natural Features

Taylorsville Lake

A 1,750-acre reservoir offering bass, crappie, and catfish fishing with several boat ramps and shoreline access points.

West Fork River Corridor

Riparian habitat featuring mature hardwood trees and serving as an important wildlife travel corridor.

Managed Timberlands

Sections of actively managed forest enhancing habitat diversity for game species and promoting sustainable land use.