What You'll Find at Newell Rod and Gun Club Lake

Newell Rod and Gun Club Lake is a small, managed impoundment in Fayette County that holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The lake sits on private club grounds, so access is restricted to members and their guests—you cannot simply show up and fish. If you have a connection to someone with membership, or if the club runs a public fishing day, this is a solid option for bass and panfish within Fayette County.

The lake is shallow to moderate in depth with typical structure for a club pond: some downed timber, vegetation along the banks, and a dam at one end. Water quality is generally good, and the club maintains the property actively. Largemouth bass run small to medium, with occasional larger fish taken in spring and fall. Bluegill are plentiful and reliable, especially for anglers bringing kids or practicing light tackle.

Key Takeaways

  • Newell Rod and Gun Club Lake requires membership or an invitation from a member to fish; it is not open to the general public.
  • The lake holds largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish, with bluegill being the most consistent catch for visiting anglers.
  • Spring and fall are the best seasons for bass activity; summer can be slow during midday heat.
  • Contact the Fayette County Parks and Recreation office or local bait shops for information about membership or public fishing events.

Access and Membership

Access to Newell Rod and Gun Club Lake depends entirely on club membership status. The club is a private organization, and fishing privileges are reserved for members and their invited guests. Membership typically involves an annual fee and may require a waiting period or sponsor recommendation, though exact terms vary by year and club policy.

If you do not have a personal connection to a member, your best option is to contact the Fayette County Parks and Recreation Department or local tackle shops in Fayette to ask whether the club hosts public fishing days or community events. Some private clubs open their waters once or twice a year for youth fishing clinics or community outreach. These events are announced locally and may not appear online.

Best Seasons and What to Target

Spring (April through May) is prime time for largemouth bass at Newell. Water temperatures climb into the 60s and 70s, and bass move shallow to spawn and feed. Fish the banks with crankbaits, soft plastics, and topwater lures early and late in the day. Bluegill also spawn in spring and are aggressive on small jigs and live crickets.

Fall (September through October) brings a second strong bite for bass as water cools and fish feed heavily before winter. Summer can be productive early and late in the day, but midday heat pushes bass deep and slows the bite. Winter fishing is possible but slow; most anglers focus on bluegill and catfish during cold months if they fish at all.

Tackle and Techniques That Work

For largemouth bass, bring a medium-power spinning or baitcasting rod with 8- to 12-pound line. Crankbaits in shad patterns, soft plastic worms in 4- to 6-inch lengths, and topwater plugs all produce. Fish the dam structure, any visible timber, and the deeper edges of vegetation. Early morning and late afternoon are most reliable.

Bluegill respond to small jigs (1/16 to 1/8 ounce) tipped with live crickets or small minnows, or to tiny spinners. A light spinning rod and 4- to 6-pound line make bluegill fishing fun and keep the fight lively. Catfish can be caught on chicken liver, cut shad, or prepared stink baits fished on the bottom near the dam or deeper holes, usually in evening and night hours.

What to Bring and What to Know

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water—the lake offers little shade in midday. A small cooler keeps drinks cold and fish fresh. If you are a guest, confirm with your member host what the club's rules are regarding catch limits, live bait use, and boat launching. Some clubs restrict to catch-and-release only; others allow harvest within state limits.

Parking is typically on club grounds, and launching a boat may or may not be permitted depending on membership tier and club policy. Ask before you arrive. The lake is small enough that shore fishing is viable from most banks, so a boat is not required to have a good day.

Nearby Water and Alternatives

If you cannot gain access to Newell, Fayette County has other public options worth exploring. Tygart Lake (a larger Army Corps impoundment) is open to the public and holds similar species with more consistent access. Several smaller public ponds and streams in the county offer bluegill and bass as well. Check with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for a current list of public waters in Fayette.

The New River, which runs through Fayette, holds smallmouth bass and musky in its deeper pools and is open to public fishing. Access points vary, so research before you go. Local tackle shops in Fayetteville can point you to the best public spots if club membership is not an option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Newell Rod and Gun Club Lake without being a member?

No, the lake is private and restricted to members and their guests. If you know someone with membership, ask them to invite you. Otherwise, contact Fayette County Parks and Recreation to learn whether the club hosts public fishing events or community days.

What is the best time of year to fish here?

Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are most productive for largemouth bass. Bluegill bite well year-round but are most aggressive in spring and early summer. Summer midday fishing is slow; fish early and late.

Do I need a boat to fish Newell?

No. The lake is small enough that shore fishing works well from most banks. Confirm with your member host whether boat launching is permitted before you bring one.

What species are in the lake?

Largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish are the main species. Bass run small to medium; bluegill are plentiful and reliable. Catfish are present but less commonly targeted.

What are the state fishing regulations for West Virginia?

West Virginia requires a fishing license for anyone 15 and older. Seasons, size limits, and catch limits vary by species and water body. Check the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website for current regulations before you fish.