For part two of our “staycation” vacation series, we travel to Wild, Wonderful West Virginia. Elk Springs Resort (www.sites.google.com/site/elkspringsresortwv/) is just that, a resort. And a beautiful one it is. Located in the towering Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia and just a few miles from great skiing at Snowshoe Mountain, the famed Elk River comes from the limestone here and begins its trek down the mountains, offering world class trout fishing along the way. There are two fantastic fisheries available here- the Elk River itself and the spring creek. Daron and Lisa Dean and their crew have done an unbelievable job of managing the trout fishing on their property.

Whatever water that you decide to fish during your stay here, you cannot go wrong. The trout here are some of the most beautiful that I have ever seen with bright, vivid coloration and their size will take your breath away. There are several cabins available for rent and also a lodge on the property, with the spring creek within view of the wrap around porch. I’ve stayed in the lodge and had a great time, even with the steady rain that marred the trip. The trout didn’t seem to mind though, and were still biting in spite of the downpour. Watching T.V., shooting pool and shooting the breeze with friends are some great memories that I took home, besides those made fishing, of course.

The Deans have hosted outings for Project Healing Waters, and I can tell you that more than a few Veterans have left there with sore arms and great memories of their time there. There is a new fly shop and restaurant on site, so you can fill your belly and your fly box all under the same roof. If you go to visit Elk Springs Resort, watch out for Ellie May. She’s the young lady that ties awesome TINY flies and she has taken Curtis to the woodshed in their impromptu on-stream contests seen on Fly Rod Chronicles.
I don’t think that you can go wrong with making Elk Springs a must-visit location for a fishing getaway.

Chris Rowland-Fly Rod Chronicles Pro Staff