Fishing the Elk River from Corton Lodge: Did You Know Professional Guides Can Take You Straight from the Lodge?
Did you know some of the best fishing on the entire Elk River starts right at Corton Lodge—and that you can be taken out by professional fishing guides directly from our private launch? With Family Tradition Outfitters operating guided trips from the property, guests have the rare opportunity to fish with seasoned experts who know every bend, shoal, and hidden spot on the river. From trophy musky to hard-fighting smallmouth bass, the action is just steps away from your door.
For those who love the tug of a line and the rush of the river, Corton Lodge offers something truly special. Sitting directly on the Elk River with its own private boat launch, the lodge gives guests immediate access to one of West Virginia’s most legendary fishing stretches.
Just two miles south of the famed Elkhurst Shoals and about a mile north of Queen Shoals, this section of the river has long been known as a prime location for fishing. Whether you’re casting for musky, walleye, smallmouth bass, catfish, or other native species, this is water worth exploring.
A River with a Legacy
The Elk River begins at Slatey Fork, West Virginia, and winds its way southwest until it joins the Kanawha River in Charleston. Along the way, it nourishes a thriving ecosystem and a strong fishing tradition.
In fact, the access point at what is now Corton Lodge was once home to the Elk River Musky Club, which used the launch from 1984 to 2024. For forty years, the club held annual tournaments here, drawn by the river’s abundant musky population—a species so prized that anglers often call them “the fish of 10,000 casts.”
Local fisherman Brayden Rollyson, one of the most respected anglers in the Clendenin area, sums it up best:
“The Corton Lodge river access is the best fishing launch on the Elk River.”
Generations of Fishing Knowledge
The Rollyson family has been fishing these waters for generations. Today, Family Tradition Outfitters LLC, owned and operated by Brayden, his uncle Justin, and cousins Andrew and Coltin, carries that heritage forward.
They run a professional fishing outfitter service offering half-day and full-day guided trips right from the Corton Lodge launch. Whether you’re looking for trophy musky, hard-fighting smallmouth, or delicious walleye, they’ll put you on the fish.
Justin, the elder statesman of the family, explains:
“We love that we’re able to launch fishing tours from Corton Lodge. We have deep roots in West Virginia and love bringing people here to catch trophy fish. It’s truly an honor—and it’s our passion.”
Options for Every Angler
Family Tradition Outfitters offers fishing trips in a couple of exciting ways:
- Jet Boat Fishing – Perfect for up to three guests, their boats are specially outfitted with jet motors designed to navigate the shoals and shallow sections of the river.
- Fishing Kayaks – For a more personal and adventurous experience, they also provide Jackson fishing kayaks, either for guided tours or for rent.
No matter your preference, you’ll experience the Elk River up close and personal, with the added benefit of seasoned guides who know every bend and shoal.
Peace, Adventure, and Trophy Fish
Since opening in June 2025, Corton Lodge has quickly become more than just a place to stay—it’s a gateway to the Elk River itself. With its unmatched access, historic fishing legacy, and partnership with Family Tradition Outfitters, the lodge is the ideal base for anyone wanting to experience West Virginia’s great outdoors.
From musky hunters to casual anglers, fishing the Elk River from Corton Lodge is an adventure that connects you to the water, the land, and the deep traditions of Appalachia.
Questions & Contacts
For guided fishing trips and outfitter services, contact:
Justin Rollyson – Family Tradition Outfitters
📞 (304) 206-5677
✉️ familytraditionog@gmail.com
For lodging details, availability, and bookings, contact:
Ryan Stamm – Corton Lodge
📞 (980) 540-6222
✉️ ryanstamm5@gmail.com
