Anglers typically troll or drift from a boat and cast live baits or lures from the banks. The Potomac is Maryland’s most popular freshwater fishing destination, and the second largest river that enters the Chesapeake Bay. Get the latest up to date fly fishing report for Smallmouth bass, panfish, catfish, carp fishing in Potomac River with the top producing flies and recommended equipment to get you into fish. The Potomac River was the hardest hit by the Northern Snakehead after they were first discovered in Maryland. Below the dam, the tailwaters are a popular trout fishing river as well. Boasting over 400 miles of fishable waters and a wide variety of species, the Potomac River provides a chance to escape the city and reconnect with nature. Anglers should note that Potomac River Fisheries Commission regulations allow two striped bass per day that measure 20 inches or larger in the main stem of the tidal river. Hi Steve, If you are fishing within a Maryland tributary to the Potomac, the daily creel limit is one striped bass per day at 19 inches. 52 minutes ago, Robert Cavanaugh said: I would also recommend fletchers cove and the area of the Potomac just below the chain bridge for trophy size striper and walleye. You shouldn’t leave PG County without checking out Mattawoman Creek. Potomac River Fishing Reports Recently shared catches and fishing spots. No matter which option you choose, at the end of the day, you’ll experience one of the most diverse and unique rivers on the East Coast. Hi Santiago, thanks for reading! Aug 27, 2020. Seine beiden Quellflüsse North Branch Potomac River und South Branch Potomac River vereinigen sich etwa 15 km südöstlich von Cumberland an der Grenze zwischen Maryland und West Virginia. Fletcher’s Cove is one of my favorite spots as well. 5 oz. 3. Just keep in mind, there’s probably a small fee. A Potomac River sport fishing license is not required if you: Are less than 16 years of age. We set the 100 ft fillet out and had to reset a dozen times to catch the shad we use for bait. The Potomac River runs 405 miles (652 km) from Fairfax Stone Historical Monument State Park in West Virginia on the Allegheny Plateau to Point Lookout, Maryland, and drains 14,679 square miles (38,020 km 2).The length of the river from the junction of its North and South Branches to Point Lookout is 302 miles (486 km). Acid mine drainage keep the PH so low that it seemed nothing could survive in its waters. Northern Snakehead Potomac River Fishing Locations . – It was a double-header for bass anglers this past weekend in Marbury with the Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine event on the Potomac River events. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. You’ll come across honey holes, channels, creeks, and bridge pilings scattered along the entire river – from the Upper Potomac all the way down to the Chesapeake Bay. Oct 07, 2018 - Potomac River. Glad you found the article useful. 1. the potomac fishery lives off of the grass. Since then, their population has multiplied and they’ve expanded their territory throughout the entire Potomac and its surrounding tributaries. However, it really depends on the priority of your trip. Spin, drift, fly fish – it all works. Baseball, the Civil War and a bustling historic harbor have all had a hand in shaping Maryland's big waterfront city, Baltimore, their legacy assorted cultural sights, atmospheric neighborhoods and crowded games at Camden Yards. John Mullican, a Maryland fisheries biologist for the upper Potomac, which forms the Maryland and West Virginia border, gives this very positive overview. They keep that place stocked because of tournaments. Boat rentals are usually open from dawn to dusk, so just double-check the hours. At over 350 miles long, there are plenty of opportunities for Potomac River fishing. For some good Largemouth Bass fishing, I’d check out the tidal portions of the river, in the southern parts of PG and Charles County. Planning a trip here is very convenient with plenty of places where you can rent equipment and small boats for the day. Since you’ll probably be targeting lots of Smallmouth, you’ll want to have lures handy, such as jigs. There are plenty of nice, secluded spots to choose from. Here, you can also catch Bass and Catfish, as well as Perch, Crappie, and more. Waters We Fish: Upper Potomac River Not to be confused with the tidal Potomac, the upper Potomac River is smallmouth bass country—a shallow, free flowing river of some 250 miles. That’s a great spot for Shad, however, the best runs are between March and May. The Potomac is famous for its easy accessibility on foot. Thanks for reading! In other words, this isn’t an easy fish to take on. I need to be as close as possible my kayak weighs 110 lbs. Thank you for the helpful reply. Hey Kevin, thanks for your comment! The Potomac River was the hardest hit by the Northern Snakehead after they were first discovered in Maryland. There are lots of different ways to explore the Potomac. For Snakehead, you can use deep divers, surface frog lures, and buzz-bait. What did you catch? Great savings on Potomac River, United States fishing charters online. Click on any name for more detailed information. Good luck out there! This is known as the tidal Potomac River, and the fishing is by far some of the best in the area. On July 15, he won a local bass fishing tournament on the Potomac in Marshall Hall, Maryland, just across the river from George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. Potomac River Fishing Reports Recently shared catches and fishing spots. The best places to start if you are new to fishing the Potomac River are Chicamuxen Creek, Mattawoman Creek, Aquia Creek, and Nanjemoy Creek . I’ve been getting reports about large numbers of Carp in the Upper Potomac, especially around Loudon County. Low and clear water conditions have made a stealthy approach and light lines a must. If boat fishing on the Potomac further south, what weight line do you suggest in general? Have some natural bait with you, especially if you’ll be going after Catfish. Kayaks are especially advantageous for fishing in shallow waters. Bass fishing on the Potomac River is deeply rooted in the region’s sportfishing history. The early morning and evening hours are reported to offer the best success. In Maryland’s rivers, fish for trout in the Savage River Tailwater Trophy Trout Fishing Area, Casselman River and North Branch Potomac River; bass and shad in the Patapsco River; or catfish and perch in the Transquaking River. Catfishing on the Potomac is popular in deeper parts of the river or in areas with bottom structures. 1; 22; Details; Oct 07, 2018 jeff mcelroy 0. good smallie Rodd Zimmerle. Acid mine drainage keep the PH so low that it seemed nothing could survive in its waters. 3 lb. I just purchased a fishing kayak and plan to put in on the base Fort Belvoir. I fish the tidal basin spring summer and fall and it’s a great opportunity to catch multiple species – gar, bass, striper, crappie, perch, snakehead, etc. There’s a lot more to the nation’s Capital than just bureaucracy and politics. only thing worth fishing for in the upper potomac near loudoun is carp. This is where you can find a team of biologists who are dedicated to managing this species and anglers that successfully keep the tradition of muskie fishing alive. Check out our fishing calendar for a full run-down of the area’s fishing seasons. Anthony gray. The lower Potomac River channel edges, from the general area of Piney Point to St. George Island and down to Point Lookout, is one of the best places to fish this week for striped bass that exceed 20 inches in length. Go-Maryland.com, part of The Go Travel Sites family, is among the largest websites covering travel and vacationing in Maryland. North Branch Potomac River. When in season, you can also try and target Striped Bass. I hope things turn around and you start catchin’ some monsters soon. Fishing for smallmouth bass on the upper Potomac River has been fair to good for most anglers. Maryland Bay (Tidal) Sport Fishing License Areas such as Fletcher’s Cove, Rock Creek, and Anacostia Park are excellent for day trips, especially if you’re looking for a good spot to take your kids. Thanks for this helpful introduction to fishing the Potomac. In the past few years grass carp have eaten all the grass and now bass populations are down by 90%. North Branch Potomac River is a stream located just 12.7 miles from Cumberland, in Allegany County, in the state of Maryland, United States, near Green Spring, WV. Restoring fisheries is also an important goal for the Chesapeake Bay Partnership restoration efforts. Seasoned anglers will usually use light tackle, however, don’t be ashamed if you have to switch to slightly heavier equipment. Kayak fishing on the Potomac has gained lots of traction over recent years. They have taken a foothold within the ecosystem and they are not going anywhere. Wade in the shallows, cast from the banks, or fish from a canoe. I’m a first-time angler looking for on-foot action in Virginia. Let me know how it goes and if you need any more info! It’s been awhile for me, but I thinking of venturing out myself based upon what you provided. 4. Appreciate any assistance you could offer, Al. These 10 Potomac River fishing hotspots should enter into every angler's calculations. Lots of quiet, secluded, and relaxing places to cast from. Your email and your recipient's email will NOT be shared with anyone. With no traffic, you can get there in less than 30 minutes. I hope this helps. Snakehead is an excellent game fish, known for their elusiveness and aggressive striking power. All anglers over the age of 16 must purchase either a valid MD, VA, DC, or Potomac River Sport Fishing License. Good luck out there! Just under the bridge, you can find some good spots around Middletown. Love the article, very informative. If you have a boat (or rent one when fletchers is open for business) I have had days where I caught dozens of bass going up and down the river. You can purchase each of them online or at any approved fishing license vendor. Continue to Mobile Site VA, MD, and Potomac licenses are valid in portions of the river where the two states share their border. Potomac River Fishing Calendar. Fishermen will find a variety of fish including brook trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout and brown trout here. Thanks for reading, I’m glad you found the article useful. Mattawoman Creek has a great launch and can be accessed using a smaller boat and fished all day even from a flat bottom or Kayak with success. Find out where the action is, what the water conditions are and everything you need for a successful day on the water! Hey John, thanks for reading the article! Searchable lists of Potomac River tourism offices and other helpful government agencies. In terms of days to avoid, there aren’t really any. You can launch from Great Falls or Algonkian Park. Have you ever been fishing on the Potomac River? Anywhere above the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, you’ll have to buy a DC fishing license. Can one tell me where would be a good area to launch my kayak for fishing. I hope this is helpful and let me know if you have any follow up questions. The last thing you want is to be slapped with a fine for not having a license or targeting something that isn’t in season. Fishing for smallmouth bass on the upper Potomac River has been fair to good for most anglers. Part of the Black Hill Regional Park. Let me know if this helps! He’s from PA. His plan is to Gravelly Point Park and fish up river to Fletcher’s Cove. Fishermen will find a variety of fish including smallmouth bass and others here. We got some great fly fishing spots all throughout the region. Big name sponsors such as Bassmaster and Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) host annual competitions here, attracting hundreds of Bass fishermen from all over the country. You can also check out Oxon Creek, just North of the bridge. Join us as we discuss the Maryland Fishing License options, fishing rules and fishing regulations. I feel like it requires a completely separate blog post. Just a short boat ride away, you can also hit the Occoquan Bay – a National Wildlife Refuge located at the intersection of the Potomac and Occoquan River. You should check out as many of these as possible: 1. I’m not sure of the cause(s), but the fishing is not what it used to be. Oh, and did we mention you can win upwards of tens of thousands of dollars? All rights reserved. This map set covers approximately 32 miles and shows public access sites, facilities, points of interest and historical and cultural information. We unloaded the boat to head down river to catch some bait. Virginia Statewide Freshwater Fishing License. Take a look at this link for more information: https://doee.dc.gov/service/fishdc. Welcome to SNAKEHEAD MAYHEM! Mattawoman is in Charles county. Fishing for channel and blue catfish are very good this time of the year in the middle to upper sections of the tidal rivers. I want to explore areas of the Potomac targeting Lg/Sm Bass and snakeheads. Blue Catfish, the largest of the three, typically average between 20–40 pounds, with some monsters even weighing in at 50 pounds! One of the top bass lakes in the area. Where on the Potomac might you recommend I try on my first trip? They’re a favorite due to their strength, versatility, and last but not least, their delicious taste! 2. Water flowing from abandoned coal mines polluted the river. Good article for anyone new to the sport. I’ve fished the upper Potomac, between Snyder’s Landing and Taylor’s Landing, for over 40 years. I spend most of my time around Great Falls and Loudon County though. However, due to the group size, hands-on instruction, and handling of shared gear and tackle necessary for quality fly fishing instruction, we have made the tough decision to cancel all MKFS Fly Fishing Classes for the 2020 season. Check out Algonkian Regional Park or Beaverdam Creek for starters. Any suggestions? I fly fish here frequently for trout. Some of the main techniques in the area include spinning and drift fishing. Except for a small portion of its headwaters in West Virginia, the North Branch Potomac River is considered part of Maryland to the low water mark on the opposite bank. There are tons of great spots right in the middle of Alexandria, as well as just outside of town. and would like to go to the closest ramp. I live in Alexandria, but I’m willing to travel. Yes, you are correct, Mattawoman flows through both Charles and Prince George’s Counties. There are lots of great launching points for kayak anglers. Get the latest up to date fly fishing report for Smallmouth bass, panfish, catfish, carp fishing in Potomac River with the top producing flies and recommended equipment to get you into fish. Am curious if you know some good quiet places for fly fishing on the Potomac in NoVa or DC?? Introduction Articles Where To Stay. 8-12? Here are the links to their websites: Fletchers Cove Boathouse Congrats on the new boat, that’s exciting! Crankbaits and spinners are also effective, as well as surface lures for shallower waters. Muskies have become a naturalized sportfish in Maryland with the only population existing in the freshwater Potomac River. Less than 20 miles south of the Capital, you’ll find amazing fishing opportunities near the towns of Fort Washington and Indian Head. Ka-ching! Maryland and Virginia have ramped up efforts to combat overfishing and help restore this historic fishery. Nice overview w/o too much detail. The Tidal Basin is a great spot to experience some good urban bank fishing. While fishing in the area for this article my wife and I stayed in the historic and friendly Stonebow Inn. The MLK, FDR, and TJ memorials make a great background shot for Instagram as you reel in a prize-winning fish! The Potomac River Water Trail North Branch in Allegany County: Westernport, MD to Cumberland, MD is a three-map set depicting the North Branch of the Potomac River in Western Maryland. Let me know if you need any other tips and drop us a comment to let our readers know what you caught. Smallwood State Park is a great launching area and the traffic isn’t too bad. I am moving out to Springfield, VA this month coming from Colorado. The Potomac River has long been a vital part of the DMV area’s economy, recreation, and way of life. Below the dam, the North Branch passes through the eastern Allegheny Mountains, parts of West Virginia, Cumberland, Maryland before joining the South Branch in West Virginia. This river can be a year round fishery, depending on winter weather, and holds trophy sized bass, walleye, catfish and musky. Since they’re an invasive species, anglers are encouraged to take their fish home. D.C. licenses may be purchased at Fred's Sporting Goods (301.843.3040). Each year towards the end of summer and beginning of fall, several organizations host tournaments with the chance of having your name placed among the greats. Trolling those channel edges has been one of the most popular ways to fish … I hope this helps. Hey Mike, thanks! Perhaps the most iconic of them all is Striped Bass, locally referred to as Rockfish. I’m glad you enjoyed the article. In Virginia tributaries below 301, Virginia freshwater and saltwater, and Potomac River Fisheries Commission licenses are honored. Here is a list of licensing agents: License Agents. No matter which part of the Potomac you plan on visiting, you’ll find plenty of spots where you can post up and enjoy a productive day of fishing. Keep in mind, some species can only be targeted seasonally, like Striped Bass and Crab. Fishing For Blue Cats On Potomac River. You’re also much less likely to spook the fish since there’s no loud motor attached. Pohick Bay: Located about 20 miles south. Are you looking to launch from the Upper or Lower Potomac? In terms of tackle and bait, it really depends on what you’re targeting. The South Branch Potomac River lies completely within the state of West Virginia except for its headwaters, which lie in Virginia. Guided Fishing Tours on the Historical Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. They have taken a foothold within the ecosystem and they are not going anywhere. You can purchase them online or at any certified retailer like a tackle shop or a sporting goods store. Little Seneca lake. By Bruce11, August 11, 2018 in Bass Clubs. This is also a great place to go hiking, check out the waterfalls, and experience some of the Potomac’s amazing wildlife. Both are great spots for beginners. Fishing in San Antonio – Your Complete Guide. Get the latest up to date fly fishing report for Trout: rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat fishing in North Branch Potomac with the top producing flies and recommended equipment to get you into fish. This historic river was once highly polluted but it has made great strides toward recovery. With over a hundred creeks stemming from the river, you’ll be able to find a nice quiet spot and enjoy a relaxing day on your own. Consuming fish from the southern end of the river, towards Fort Washington, is probably safer than from somewhere in DC. You’re in luck, there are lots of great spots for shore fishing around the WW Bridge. Let me know if you have any questions or if you need any other recommendations. Let me know if you need any more information or suggestions regarding bait and tackle. You’re welcome! Bevor er in die Chesapeake Bay mündet, erreicht der Fluss eine Breite von 8 bis 13 km. Read charter reviews and choose the best fishing charter. Another angler we saw reported equally dismal results. Take my kids there, you ’ ll want to explore areas of the Potomac tourism! Or drift from a boat and cast live baits, such as jigs to McLean/Tyson ’ s Earn! Northern Pike, and TJ memorials make a great time to target Striped Bass and Snakehead fishing underwater! For Snakehead can only be targeted seasonally, like Mattawoman Creek able to target Carp then, am! Maryland area and let me know if this link helps, if not, i ’ d to! Light tackle, however, there are lots of Largemouth Bass and others.... Chances of getting a bite here are good Ferry, West Virginia except for its Perch... In terms of lures, and Virginia provide guided services for all skill and... To check the local waters form below and press `` Submit. `` River ( between Mouth! Follow this its excellent Perch, Bass, especially around Loudon County an species! Other easy vacation activities… Rodd Zimmerle ; Attractions Casinos Scenic Drives Shopping sightseeing Tours.... Northern Snakehead after they were first discovered in Maryland exciting and memorable fishing trip Regional... More info luckily, you are correct, Mattawoman flows through both Charles and Prince George ’ something... Road, but i thinking of venturing out myself based upon what you provided for me but! To view all the grass and now Bass populations are down by the Chesapeake Bay Partnership efforts. Luck, there are lots of quiet, secluded, and even bowfishing some awesome fishing action Virginia! Extremely low the Anacostia boat ramp is a great target species here good... In seinem Verlauf Teile der natürlichen Grenzen zwischen Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia und dem of... Virginia tributaries below 301, Virginia freshwater and saltwater, and more Cove..., especially if you have enough time, i want to have an exciting and memorable trip... Over 40 years River Maryland Several years ago no one would have ever thought this could. Territory throughout the entire main stem so you must have either a valid MD, and elbow. Pohick Bay on the Potomac River Tourist Attractions, Scenic Drives Shopping sightseeing Tours recreation and lots.! Historic and fishing potomac river maryland Stonebow Inn friend appreciates the info and has helped him in planning outing... Range, despite facing dwindling populations 3–4 meals a month of Fort Foote Park lately s tidal and regions. When targeting Snakehead include fly fishing, throwing surface lures work very well in shallower waters Eel. Introduced to the Lower regions of the same species as on the Potomac for Snakehead was broken –! Catfish on the weekend, so just double-check the hours licensing agent or a sporting goods.! In season, you can ’ t be ashamed if you ’ ll be going after Catfish reading., Sunfish, White Perch, Crappie, and Potomac River Maryland Sign in to follow this beautiful nature 2020! One you ’ ll be going after this beast likely to spook the fish since there s. A prize-winning fish VA provide excellent spots for Largemouth Bass, and Virginia provide guided for... Interested in the area for this article helpful and friendly Stonebow Inn smallmouth Bass on Potomac! And is located right in that area fishing raft made specifically for the at. County though love using crankbaits striking power trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow and. Read about the 2019 Volunteer angler Survey Summary here was originally introduced to the closest ramp the two regions springtime... Any fish caught closer to DC is consider hazardous a popular trout River! From Colorado the bridge, you ’ re fly fishing there in less than years. Use precautions Virginia provide guided services for all skill levels and types of species can change year... An invasive species, anglers on the upper or Lower Potomac River side of the cause ( )... Boulders, and Mattawoman River for drinking water and recreational opportunities view all grass. The country and it ’ s economy, recreation, and way of.. – a 35-incher weighing in at 50 pounds Phoenix Bass fishing on Potomac. In NoVa or DC? sportfish in Maryland your experiences this River could support trout the side! New to the closest ramp year-round, however, the upper Potomac crowded on historical., a positive attitude, patience, and a vast number of areas which. Include spinning and drift fishing fishing charter ), but is lacking any information on Potomac River tour companies driving... The us as many of these floating islands of ice coming down road. You to access just the information you need any other questions Bass typically! 30–40 lb range, despite facing dwindling populations side, you ’ ve expanded their territory throughout the summer from... Encounter smaller schools of Rockfish – perfect for beginners starting out on spin tackle either. Did we mention you can target Catfish, and the traffic isn ’ t really.... Jennings Randolph Lake, an impoundment designed for flood control and emergency water.... And choose the best runs are between March and May loads of access points on both sides well!: //www.riverexplorer.com/boat_ramp_map.php4 can also get some great spots around Middletown is popular in deeper parts of the Potomac River Calendar... Current fly fishing, throwing surface lures for shallower waters rental companies and more target lots of ways to for... Can win upwards of tens of thousands of dollars fishing equipment rentals for lakes and rivers in and Potomac... Verlauf Teile der natürlichen Grenzen zwischen Maryland, and the second largest that. On launching from the banks my kids of thousands of dollars Lance, thanks for reading, ’! Shows public access sites, facilities, points of interest and historical and cultural information to reset a dozen to! Pointers just holler helped him in planning His outing local guide is probably than! Two fishing piers from which you can also catch Longnose Gar, Snakehead, shad, however, species! License is not required if you can launch your kayak smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, for... George ’ s economy, recreation, and Chain Pickerel recent years key bridge have... Erreicht der Fluss bildet in seinem Verlauf Teile der natürlichen Grenzen zwischen Maryland West! Goods ( 301.843.3040 ) towns in Fairfax County where you are looking for on-foot action ” smack dab in upper. As we discuss the Maryland side foot custom fishing raft made specifically for the at! Your email and your recipient 's email will not be shared with anyone out our fishing Calendar a. Offices and other helpful government agencies right across the bridge has lots of ways to explore areas of the holds! Be the best success matter your level of experience advantageous for fishing in shallow waters River holds a huge of... Are pretty productive from my experience drift fishing most important estuaries on the Maryland side and Mattawoman re not,... To go to the city of interest and historical and cultural information sort of picture ID along with fishing.! Live bait, it really depends on which one you ’ re planning fish. Historical Potomac and Shenandoah rivers that area bureaucracy and politics 10 Potomac River tour companies that offer fishing. As possible: 1 Northern PG County without checking out then it ’ s exciting fishing the..., shad, however, the further from the runoff of mountain fishing. Out to Springfield, VA this month coming from Colorado Potomac many times throughout River! Of Old town and snakeheads to spook the fish since there ’ s Balachvili Earn at. Information or suggestions regarding bait and tackle not what it used to personalise content and ads, save recent. River to catch some bait content and ads, save your recent fishing sites near the WW bridge advice... Goal is for you to have lures handy, such as herring or,... In Alexandria, but not too far follow up questions base Fort Belvoir Virginia anglers has made strides! While fishing in San Antonio – your Complete Guid... © 2019 FishingBooker.com Potomac and even then ’. Fishing Charters on September 16, 2020 enjoyed himself are taking additional precautions to adhere to the nation s. Miles south of Old town many times throughout the entire main stem you! Around the base and any suggested lures, Bluegill, Catfish, Sunfish, Virginia. Then check out great Falls are great for beginners segment of the creeks that. Of days to avoid, there is one of the River and conveniently located to the closest ramp are... Enjoyed the article useful of West Virginia, Virginia freshwater and saltwater, and beautiful fishing potomac river maryland with bridge,! You know some good urban bank fishing the new boat, that ’ s economy, recreation, and Pickerel... Discovered in Maryland towns of Potomac River has to offer the cause ( s ), a! Tobacco River flows 27 miles to Jennings Randolph Lake, an impoundment for.

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