Big Ditch Lake – WMA-Webster

Cowen, WV

(388 acres) Webster County. Located one-half mile from Cowen on County Route 30, 15 miles southwest of Webster Springs. Big Ditch is located in a valley with moderate side slopes offering small game, waterfowl and bow hunting. HUNTING IS LIMITED DUE TO THE SIZE OF THE AREA.

The lake was built in 1969 with a maximum depth of 16 feet and an average depth of 5 feet. The lake is usually clear; however, summer growth of aquatic weeds can be a nuisance to shoreline anglers. Picnic facilities, foot trails, pit toilets, drinking water, and boat launching facilities are available. Electric motors only are allowed. Camping and the use of live minnows for bait are prohibited.

Big Ditch Lake is a 55-acre warm water impoundment located 1 mile west of Cowen in Webster County. The lake is part of the 380-acre Big Ditch Wildlife Management Area and is accessible from WV Route 20. Big Ditch Lake provides a warmwater fishery for largemouth bass, tiger musky, black crappie, bluegill, green sunfish, channel catfish, and carp. Growth of bass, crappie, and bluegill is fair and the lake provides good catches of these species. Growth and catches of channel catfish have been excellent. Six artificial fish attractors have been placed in the lake and are marked for fisherman use. Fishing accommodations provided for the physically disabled.

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