05/02/2026
Tune into West Virginia Metro News or your local radio station this morning at 7:00am to listen to Chris Lawrence and I talk fishing, Trout Fest and everything outdoors.
This is an awesome event that we love sponsoring. Excellent opportunity for the kids to get on some trout, not to mention the possibility to win big money for catching fish!
📣 WV Trout Fest 2026 Schedule Released! 🎣🎶
The Pendleton County Chamber of Commerce is excited to officially announce the full schedule for WV Trout Fest 2026, taking place May 1–2 in Franklin, West Virginia!
WV Trout Fest is a long-standing, free, family-friendly festival celebrating trout fishing, outdoor recreation, and Appalachian culture. This year’s event is shaping up to be one of our best yet, with a full weekend of activities for all ages.
🎣 Trout Rodeo – Saturday morning
🎤 Live Music All Weekend – featuring regional favorites and headliner Soda Pop Gypsies
🍽 Trout Dinner – a local favorite you won’t want to miss
🛍 Vendors & Community Activities – throughout the weekend
🧸 Kids Kare Conservation Area – Family-friendly fun for all ages throughout the day
📅 Schedule Highlights:
Friday, May 1
4:00–8:00 PM – Trout Rodeo Registration
4:00-8:00 PM - Vendors Open
5:00-7:00 PM - Trout Dinner
5:00 - 7:00 PM - Cam Simmons Plays during Trout Dinner
6:00–8:00 PM – "Hooked on Talent" Open Mic on the Trout Fest Stage
Saturday, May 2
6:30–11:00 AM – Trout Rodeo Registration
7:00 AM–12:00 PM – Trout Rodeo
9:00 AM - 8:00 PM - Vendors Open
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Raymond's Gymnastics
12:00–2:00 PM – Joe Crites
2:30–4:00 PM – Jonathan Zinn
5:30–7:30 PM – Soda Pop Gypsies (Headliner)
There’s something for everyone, whether you’re casting a line, enjoying live music, or just spending time with family and friends in beautiful Pendleton County.
📍 Location: Franklin, WV
💲 Admission: FREE
👉 Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and come experience everything WV Troutfest has to offer!