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Potomac Fishing Report – August 26, 2022

Fishing Report

The Shenandoah system’s North and South forks rare low, clear, and fishable. The summer pattern has anglers on the North and South forks catching fish in the early morning and hitting shaded current areas during the day. Anglers are finding smallmouth and catfish. The mountain trout streams in the national park are low but trout are responding to evening hatches of insects and moths flying around the streams.

Little Girl Fishing at Little Seneca Lake

In the South Branch Potomac, smallmouth bass are being taken in the river around Petersburg. The river is low and clear, so follow the summertime mantra of long casts and very slow retrieves.

The North Branch Potomac and Savage rivers are reporting decent action in the trout management areas. The North Branch may be hard to fish from some banks due to the Jennings Randolph release this weekend. The ICPRB trout monitoring program on the North Branch is continuing with good success in tracking tagged trout.

The upper Potomac River continues to produce nice fish this year. Water temperatures are around 80 degrees with good clarity. The low water levels seem even lower in the stretch from Point of Rocks to the Monocacy/ Nolands Ferry, where aquatic grass stands are strongly established. The area is still generally passable by boat, but just barely, according to some users. The grasses provide habitat for bass, baitfish, and other creatures, and is contributing to great water clarity this year. The usual access points are all fishable, with a range of smallmouth bass including the occasional 20-inch fish. Anglers are using soft plastics, spinnerbaits, and stick worms to probe rock gardens with currents and eddies. Treefalls and other structure are secondary targets. Low-light times are best to find fish seeking cooler temperatures. Channel catfish and flathead catfish can be taken with live bait.

The metro area is in typical summer pattern, with anglers targeting bridge pilings, riprap, docks, and other structure, preferably in the shade. The area around Key Bridge provides a break from the crowds. Casting plastics and crankbaits to bridge pilings can bring a strike by smallmouth, largemouth, or striped bass. Washington Channel walls and drop-offs are productive. Snakeheads can be found in the lower Anacostia, Some nice bass are being found in the spoils area and the docks at National Harbor.

The tidal Potomac is fishing about the same with early morning and evening periods of moving water providing the best conditions. Channels and deep holes are the home of large blue catfish that can be taken with cut or live bait. Largemouth bass fishing remains good with anglers targting docks and structure until the gras beds fill in at Mattawoman and downstream. The Mattawoman lilly and spatterdock stands are producing largemouth bass and snakeheads, which can also be found lurking in the grass beds at the heads of tidal creeks. Grass beds in Pohick Bay and Chicamuxen Creek are producing some nice fish. Floating mats of detached or dying aquatic grass hold crayfish and provide shade for bass holding below, and penetrating the mats with plastics can bring some good bites. Stick worms fished very slowly are always good bets in the summer heat.

Fishing activity around Colonial Beach is picking up, with some nice catches of striped bass in the 30-inch range. Anglers also are finding some nice Spanish mackerel and bluefish, along with some large spot and croaker. The salty water also is hosting high numbers of sea nettles. There was a report of a bull shark being caught in a catfish net north of Mathias Point. The river’s summer dissolved oxygen problem is about average for this time of year, and depths below 15 feet in the main channel may not have enough oxygen to comfortably hold fish. Blue catfish are readily available.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers are landing some nice Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and red drum. Croaker, white perch, and kingfish are still being taken around Cornfield Harbor. Bluefish are common, and anglers are casting in the shallows for speckled trout. And of course there are blue catfish.

Be careful on the water this weekend. Be mindful of the hazards of abundant sun and high temperatures on both you and your quarry. Handle all fish to be returned quickly and with care.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, National Bass Guides, Shallow Water Fishing Adventures, and  Machodoc Creek Marina, Inc.

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Potomac Fishing Report – August 19, 2022

Fishing News

Striped Bass Closure

The striped bass fishery on the tidal Potomac mainstem is closed until August 21.  Virginia striped bass season is closed until October 4. Maryland embayments to the Potomac are open to striped bass fishing. This conservation measure was enacted because hot weather and low oxygen this time of year creates tough conditions for striped bass to survive catch and release – and this high mortality impacts the future of our fishery. Although the season has reopened, water temperatures remain high, and anglers should play all fish quickly and minimize the time fish are out of the water before release.

REPORTS

The Shenandoah system’s North and South forks remain clear and fishable, and not much has changd during the previous week. Mountain trout streams in Shenandoah National Park are fishing well with the temperature moderating. It still pays to visit early in the morning to catch wary trout at their most active.

Both the North and South forks are holding some nice smallmouth bass and channel catfish. The slow pace has been boosted a bit from the slightly higher flows and cooler temperatures.

In the South Branch Potomac, smallmouth bass are being taken in the river around Petersburg as the region cools. Early morning will be the best time to chase smallies in the cooler water.

The North Branch Potomac and Savage rivers are at decent flows and temperatures, but we have not seen any reports from the past week. The trout management areas fish pretty steadily, however. The ICPRB trout monitoring program  on the North Branch has had to share focus with staff monitoring the Shenandoah for harmful algae blooms.

The upper Potomac River continues to fish well. Water temperatures have slid into the upper 70s. Visibility is good, with some stain. Water levels are near median. While the summer patten still holds, the slide in temperature is bringing some larger smallmouth bass into the action. Good fishing can be had from any of the major access points, including Lander, Point of Rocks, Brunswick, and Whites Ferry. As grass beds grow and levels remain low, traditional boats will have difficulty navigating some areas. Canoes, kayaks, and wading will open up a lot of river over traditional boats. Soft plastics, buzzbaits, stick worms, and small crankbaits can take fish from boulders and rock gardens in the main channel, the downstream edge of grass beds, and downed trees or other structure. Costs need to be accurate and retrieves slow and deliberate. Early morning and evening remain the best times to entice a bite. Channel catfish and flathead catfish can be taken with live bait.

The metro area holds lots of different structure, but aquatic grass production has not been great this season. The area around Key Bridge is productive but uncrowded. In the District, bridge pilings house largemouth, smallmouth, and striped bass. Channel and blue catfish will take live or cut bait. Areas with an armored shoreline, such as Washington Channel, will hold a mix of fish. Snakeheads are an added feature in the lower Anacostia. Soft plastics and crankbaits will find bass at the pilings, docks, and riprap structure. Some nice bass are being found in the spoils area and the docks at National Harbor.

The tidal Potomac remains in summer mode, and anglers are rewarded when fishing very early in the morning or at night. Blue catfish are in the deeper holes, waiting for a line with cut or live bait. The river channel off Fort Washington is particularly productive. Largemouth bass are being taken at the mouth of Piscatawy Creek. Downstream, Mattowman Creek lilies and spatterdock hold a mix of largemouth bass and snakeheads. Grass beds downstream in the embayments are popular spots. Pohick Bay , Aquia, and Chckamuxen creeks are fishing well. Floating frogs over gass beds is catching some nice bass, while the shallower creek heads with grass are yielding snakeheads. Stick worms fished very slowly remain a good tactic. Soft plastics and buzzbaits at grass beds edges can be effective. Leeesylvania has been fishing well.

Fishing activity around Colonial Beach is slow but picking up. Striped bass can be taken in the Maryland embayments, but the Potomac and Virginia embayments remain closed. Anglers are seeing a lot more sea nettles as the dry conditions bring more bay saltwater up the river. Spanish mackerel are being taken in the relatively clear 82 degree water. Catches of large white perch are being reported. Blue catfish are readily available.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers are flanding some nice Spanish mackerel and red drum. Croaker, white perch, and kingfish are being taken around Cornfield Harbor. Bluefish are common, and anglers are casting in the shallows for speckled trout. And of course there are blue catfish. Crabbing has been going pretty well.

Be careful on the water this weekend. Be mindful of the hazards of abundant sun and high temperatures on both you and your quarry. Handle all fish to be returned quickly and with care.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, National Bass Guides, Shallow Water Fishing Adventures, and  Machodoc Creek Marina, Inc.

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Potomac Fishing Report – August 12, 2022

Young boy with a fishing pole sitting on a rock in the Shenandoah River.The Shenandoah systems’ North and South forks remain clear and fishable. Recent rains have bumped water levels slightly but they will quickly return to normal for this time of year. The rains will moderate water temperatures somewhat. Both the North and South forks of the Shenandoah are producing smallmouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. The fishing is slow, a typical summer. Officials continue to monitor the North Fork for effects from harmful algae blooms. The ICPRB is assisting in this effort. Daybreak and dusk are the best times to fish. A variety of lures can be effective if fished slowly and carefully. Mountain trout streams are low but fishable.

Low water and higher temperatures are making for a slowdown in fishing along the South Branch Potomac. Anglers report some smaller smallmouth scattered throughout the system.

The North Branch Potomac and Savage rivers are fishing well in the trout management areas. Water temperatures have moderated from the storms, bringing some relief for fish and anglers. The ICPRB staff are continuing to cooperatively monitor fish and conditions in the North Branch to inform efforts to improve the productivity of these important fisheries.

The upper Potomac River continues to fish well. The summer pattern has bass spread out, and smaller fish seem to be the most active. Water temperatures are holding in the low-80s. Smallmouth bass and channel catfish can be caught from any of the major access points along the river, including Point of Rocks, Lander, and Whites Ferry. As grass beds continue to grow low summer and fall stream levels will limit the range of boats. Anglers using kayaks or canoes or wading will be able use more of the river. It will pay them to fish daybreak or dusk when the fish will be more active. Soft plastics, creature baits, and small crankbaits worked very slowly can take fish, along with stick worms worked slowly on the bottom. Look for rocks in the middle of the river or current eddies where fish wait for bait to pass by. Channel catfish and flathead catfish can be taken with live bait

The metro area has waters carrying some mud and stain from recent storms with water temperatures in the mid-80s. Fish in the early morning and evening. Washington Channel’s grass and drop-offs harbor bass.  Bridge pilings throughout the district provide good targets. Cast plastics or crankbaits to the shady areas of the pilings to entice a strike. Buzzbaits and other surface lures can bring nice strikes in low light. Some nice snakeheads are being taken in the lower Anacostia, along with channel and blue catfish.

The tidal Potomac is in typical summer mode with temperatures in the mid-80s, with slow fishing. Moderating temperatures will make it a little more pleasant for anglers, but fish will still be sluggish. Blue and channel catfish will continue to take live or cut bait fished in deeper holes or channel bottoms. A boat or two can usually be seen along the channel near Fort Washington in search of 40- plus pound blue cats. Bass anglers are finding some fish at the mouth of Piscatway and in the spatterdock and lilies in Mattawoman Creek. Anglers are sometimes crowding the grass beds downstream. Pohick Bay is a popular spot with lots of habitat. Dragging a floating frog lure across the beds at low moving water can bring exciting strikes. At higher water, anglers can probe the bed edges with a variety of buzzbaits, crankbaits, and plastics.  The snakeheads are in the grass as well, with some protecting their young after recent spawns. Aquia, Chicamuxen, and Pomunkey creeks all have extensive grass beds.

Fishing activity around Colonial Beach remains slow. The mainstem Potomac remains closed for striped bass fishing. Anglers are finding some large white perch. Catfish are in the main channel bottom. Sea nettles continue to encroach on the region. A good population of spot and baitfish, portend a nice fall season for stripers. Crabbing is improving.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers are finding large spot, and white perch, Anglers are finding Spanish mackerel and large red drum around Cedar point. Speckled trout are being taken around aquatic grass in the morning and evening. There are reports of a few Cobia near Point Lookout Crabbing is getting much better. Blue catfish are always available.

Be careful on the water this weekend. Be mindful of the hazards of abundant sun and high temperatures on both you and your quarry. Handle all fish to be returned quickly and with care.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, National Bass Guides, Shallow Water Fishing Adventures, and  Machodoc Creek Marina, Inc.

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ICPRB’s Fishing Report – July 1, 2022

The Shenandoah system is fishing well. The water is clear and both the North and South forks are fishable. Water clarity will call for some stealth, and the low light of early morning and evening will increase the odds of a nice trout or smallmouth bass. Good reports of smallmouth bass are coming from the Bentonville-Front Royal area of the South Fork. Sunfish, catfish and largemouth bass round out the opportunities. The mountain trout streams are warming with some hatches occurring.

Anglers on the South Branch Potomac are finding some nice smallmouth bass in the deeper pockets as fish concentrate in these areas.Young boy stands with a fishing pole on a rock next to the Shenandoah River.

The North Branch Potomac and Savage rivers continue to produce rainbow and brown trout. Water temperatures are rising, and ICPRB biologists are tracking some North Branch trout to observe their response to warming water. The study can help inform management decisions on coldwater releases from Jennings Randolph and Savage reservoirs.  Most of the action is upstream of Pinto.

The upper Potomac River is in summer mode, with decreasing water levels and some stain. Water temperatures are about 80 degrees. Visibility is about two feet in most areas. Early morning is a good time to try some topwater poppers and buzzbaits. The section from Edwards Ferry to Dickerson is fishing well. Lander, Point of Rocks with its stargrass beds, and Brunswick are good access spots. Rock gardens and structure are great locations and the fish are spread out. Soft plastic ploppers and tubes are good baits to explore rocky bottoms. The Monocacy River is fishing well from the mouth to the Route 28 crossing. Smallmouth bass sunfish, and channel and flathead catfish are all biting.

In the tidal Potomac, the lack of grass beds has anglers hitting docks and wood structure on moving tides with a variety of soft plastic and crankbaits. The 80-degree water is carrying some stain. The visibility of about two feet improves near any grass beds. The National Harbor area is producing some largemouth bass. Anglers are finding bass in the cuts and channels around Belle Haven. Piscataway is producing some nice fish. The deep channel that runs past Fort Washington is heaven for those seeking monster blue catfish, whose population continues to grow at a concerning rate.

The fish may be somewhat wary in the area after last weekends bass tournament. Run out of Mattawoman Creek, 149 anglers competed and many caught good numbers of fish. The grassbeds downstream were heavy targets for the pros. That said, the pads and other vegetation in the creek is a good place to look for bass and snakeheads. Downstream, Pohick Bay, Aquia Creek, and Dogue Creek have nice beds of grass worth targeting, as well as some of the mats of broken grasses that create floating islands that hold fish underneath. Snakehead fishing is very active at the heads of tidal creeks with grassbeds in shallow water. Floating a frog lure over the beds on a moving tide can produce some great topwater strikes, that require some finesse and braided line to get them out of the thicket.

Anglers in the Colonial Beach area are enjoying very good striped bass fishing this year, and it may be related to the huge numbers of menhaden (bunker) and other baitfish frequenting the area. Anglers are trolling, jigging and live-lining for the fish. A small number of them have been caught with sores but overall the fish seem to be active and healthy. Anglers also are catching some white perch, and croaker. The water continues to carry a green tint, but no algae blooms have been reported.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers continue to report very good catches of stripers at the mouth and up in the St. Mary’s  River. The channel from St. Georges to Piney Point is a hot spot. Some nice fish have been taken around Cobb Island. Anglers are trolling channel edges, jigging, and live-lining spot, which are readily available along with other baitfish. The warming water will begin to stress striped bass, and anglers are encouraged to handle fish carefully so that returnees can live to fight another day and contribute to future stocks. Some cobia, croaker , and red drum are being taken and some anglers are finding some small flounder. Some dolphins are beginning to show up at the river’s mouth. Crabbing remains a slow process.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, National Bass Guides, Shallow Water Fishing Adventures, and  Machodoc Creek Marina, Inc.

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ICPRB’s Fishing Report – June 24, 2022

Maryland is considering some changes to fishing regulations. Public comment is invited. A little boy is holding up a fishing pole with a fish on the hook.

The Shenandoah system is fishing well. On the South Fork, anglers are finding some nice smallmouth bass, sunfish, and catfish between Luray and Front Royal. Some musky and carp are in the mix. The mountain trout streams are running well and clear with some hatches occurring.

The South Branch Potomac is pleasing anglers with good flows and quality smallmouth bass and sunfish particularly around Petersburg, W.Va. The North Branch Potomac and Savage rivers continue to produce rainbow and brown trout. Water temperatures are in the mid-50s. Stocked areas still have a few fish.  Most of the action is upstream of Pinto.

The upper Potomac River is running somewhat low and clear. Nice smallmouth bass are being caught in many areas. There is a good topwater bite in the early morning and evening. During the day, anglers are focusing on ledges and rock gardens in the middle of the river. Good access can be found in Brunswick, Point of Rocks, Whites Ferry, and Lander. Anglers are using soft plastic baits fished slowly down in the rocks and structure that creates eddies in the flow. Stick worms are a favorite with some anglers. A number of anglers have said that the smallmouth bite has been some of the best in recent memory. Flathead and channel catfish are biting, and few anglers have reported catching some large musky.

In the metro area, anglers are picking up some nice bass upstream of Key Bridge. Bridge pilings in the District are being targeted for a mix of largemouth, smallmouth, and striped bass. Plastic baits dropped around the pilings are producing some nice fish. Docks and other structure also hold fish during the day, when they can hide form the bright sunlight. The Washington Channel is producing bass at the seawall and in the grass beds.

In the tidal Potomac, Anglers are finding bass along the docks at National Harbor with soft plastics, buzz baits, and crank baits. The tidal guts and channels around Belle Haven Marina are producing some nice bass and snakeheads. Blue catfish in the 40-pound range are common catches in the channel off Fort Washington, and just about everywhere else that anglers probe with cut bait. (Using blue cats as cut bait is a good way to help control the population of this huge fishery.) The spatterdock and other grass beds in Mattawoman Creek are popular. Grass beds become much more lush downstream of Pohick Bay, and become a focus for largemouth bass. Hollow frogs and other topwater baits dragged across the beds bring strikes. Crank baits, plastics, and ploppers can catch fish at the edges of the beds, particularly in moving water. Spawning snakeheads are thick in the heads of tidal creeks with good grass.

Anglers in the Colonial Beach area are seeing some of the best striped bass action in years. Anglers are casting jigs and trolling to catch fish, with anglers getting their quota in a couple of hours of effort. The stipers seem to be reacting the huge numbers of baitfish, primarily bunker (menhaden). Successful anglers will keep an eye on the sky and water to find schools of baitfish that the stripers are concentrated around. White perch and croaker are being caught as well. Visibility is good and the water carries a green stain in some areas.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers are reporting good catches of striper at the mouth and up in the St. Mary’s  River. Much like in Colonial Beach, anglers are taking fish by jigging, trolling, and live-lining spot. Fishing the steep edges of the channel from St. Georges to Piney Point is a perennial favorite. Anglers finding schools of baitfish around Smith Point are taking some nice stripers. The catch incudes some red drum and speckled trout. Even at times when nothing else is biting, there always are blue catfish everywhere. Crabbing is slow.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, National Bass Guides, and Shallow Water Fishing Adventures.

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Potomac River Fishing Report – September 3, 2021

Boy fishing at sunset. Large river in the background.The Shenandoah and South Branch Potomac basins are full and are running at or near record levels for this time of year. Please check local water conditions before venturing out, and don’t go if there is any doubt. The muddy water will be difficult to fish, but larger, dark-colored baits will likely work best. Fishing should be much improved after levels recede and water clears. The high flows may scour algae blooms from the area, and reduced water temperatures will not be conducive to their regrowth. Mountain streams in the Shenandoah will clear quickly and the lower temperatures should get the trout engaged.

Trout management areas on the North Branch Potomac should fish well after water levels decrease. Fly fishermen will enjoy the cooler temperatures and elevated water levels. The ICPRB continues to assist the Maryland Department of Natural Resources with creel surveys and data collection that will help in future management decisions.

The upper Potomac River will be very high and muddy for the next several days, making fishing difficult. The feeder creeks and streams will clear first and so may be better areas to fish. Before the storms, the river from Seneca to the Mouth of the Monocacy was fishing well, particularly rock formations in the middle of the river. Panfish and some crappies tributary creeks were being caught on beetle spins and spinner baits. Topwater baits and chattering lures may be a good bet in the muddy water.

Fishing will be difficult in the metropolitan Potomac, with increasing sediment and debris making its way from upstream. The water is quite high at Fletcher’s Boathouse. Before the storm, anglers were successfully targeting wood structure, docks, and bridge pilings with plastic tube baits on light jig heads in the District. Some largemouth bass were taken in the coves around Wilson Bridge.

Downstream in the tidal Potomac, anglers are finding some largemouth bass and snakeheads off Piscataway and in Mattowoman Creek. The tidal creeks will clear before the river, and snakeheads and largemouth bass should be biting after the storm in the significantly cooler water. Blue catfish are taking cut bait off the bottom in the main channel around Fort Washington and downstream. To the river’s mouth. Anglers are finding some fish off National Harbor and near Belle Haven Marina. Grass beds downstream should be productive, but as the water cools for the fall the beds will begin to die off and anglers will be looking to hard structure to find fish.

Water in the Colonial Beach area currently is running clearer, and anglers are finding a lot of striped bass, including some fairly large fish. Spanish mackerel are being caught in large numbers, although they will eventually head south as the water cools. Blue catfish are a common catch in the area. White perch and spot are plentiful. Water temperatures in this area have dropped to the low 80s. Conditions may decline in coming days as the mud and debris comes from upstream.

Those conditions continue down to the river’s mouth, where anglers are trolling and jigging for striped bass along the shipping channels. Spanish mackerel are being taken in good numbers. Some large red drum are found around Point Lookout, Anglers continue to find some nice cobia although they are thinning out. Sea nettles are thick in the river from the mouth up to Colonial Beach. Crabbing remains slow. The area of low dissolved oxygen on the river bottom should keep anglers fishing above 25 feet to avoid the dead zone.


This is the final edition of the Fishing Report for the year. It has been our privilege to bring you these recreation reports that also highlight some basin and ICPRB issues. None of this would be possible without the help of our river watchers who keep us informed. We welcome your comments and suggestions on how we can make this product more useful in the future. The fall season in the basin offers wonderful fishing, boating, and touring opportunities, and judging by the full parks, residents are taking advantage of those opportunities. Please use our natural resources wisely, and help others you meet to become better stewards of our precious natural resources. 

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, Potomac River Fisheries CommissionNational Bass GuidesShallow Water Fishing Adventures, and Machodoc Creek Marina.

See you on the river!

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Potomac River Fishing Report – August 6, 2021

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Silhouette of a young boy fishing at sunset.Shenandoah basin water levels are extremely low and clear with some algae blooms. Conditions have changed little from last weekend, and smallmouth bass and catfish can be found in both the North and South forks with the best times being early morning and evening as fish respond to even a couple of degrees lower temperature. Fish will concentrate in shady areas and deeper pools. Mountain streams in Shenandoah National Park producing some trout for anglers who can sneak up on them in the clear water.

The South Branch Potomac is running very low and clear, with water temperatures in the mid-80s. Wading or shore fishing deeper holes where fish concentrate is the best bet for finding some smallmouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. The cooler waters of the North Branch Potomac’s trout management waters are home to some nice brown and rainbow trout. The ICPRB continues to assist the Maryland Department of Natural Resources with creel surveys and data collection that will help in future management decisions.

As in other areas of the basin, the upper Potomac River is getting tougher to fish as temperatures remain high and flow levels decrease. The water is very clear except where spots of algae foul the water. Early morning hours are best when water temperatures a re coolest, and wary fish are hunkered down in deeper areas of the main river where shade and structure, such as boulders and rock gardens concentrate fish. Use of less-visible monofilament lines with topwater lures or soft plastics will catch fish.  Seneca, Brunswick, and Whites Ferry provide access to some productive water and wading the river will be less frustrating than trying to navigate the shallows by boat. Small plastics dropped to a shady bottom in current and fished very slow can produce some nice bass. There is a high population of baitfish in the river down to its mouth, making it tougher for anglers.

The DNR is planning for a supplemental stocking in some areas of the river. For more information, visit the smallmouth bass stocking webpage.

Fishing in the metropolitan Potomac remains slow. Visibility is good and water temperatures are in the mid-80s. Bridge pilings, docks, and other structure can be fished with stick worms, soft plastics, and crankbaits. Fletchers Boat House is reporting some catfish and the occasional striped bass. The Washington Channel is holding blue catfish and largemouth bass. Patchy grass beds can be targeted for bass on a moving tide. Tidal currents will be strong this weekend due to the new moon.

Downstream, bass, like anglers, are seeking cooler water and shade. Docks and shaded areas holding bass will chase slowly worked stick worms or whopper ploppers. The weekend’s cloudy conditions will help anglers using drop shot techniques to lure the fish from structure. Mattawoman Creek grass beds continue to give up some nice bass, and blue catfish seem to be most anywhere. Main river grass beds downstream hold some fish at the edges at low tide. Pohick Bay coves hold some nice bass. Snakeheads are lurking in grass beds and structure at the heads of tidal creeks. Fish stick worms and chatterbaits over the grass beds, and the edges as water lowers. Swim baits work well around hard structure. Pohick Bay coves are home to some nice bass, snakeheads, and blue catfish.

The Potomac River mainstem in Maryland and its Virginia tidal tributaries are closed to striped bass fishing through August 20. Maryland tidal tributaries to the Potomac are now open to striper fishing.

Colonial Beach is reporting a lot of baitfish and striped bass, which can only be targeted in the Maryland tributaries of the Potomac. Spanish mackerel can be found up to the Route 301 Bridge and anglers are trolling and jigging for them. Large spot and blue catfish abound. Sea nettles have appeared in force and can foul gear and crab pots. Anglers also are finding bluefish and speckled trout.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers are taking Spanish mackerel and speckled trout. Cobia are being taken in chum slicks, which can also attract cownose rays. Bluefish are around to strip the baits of those fishing for other species. Crabbing has improved somewhat.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, Potomac River Fisheries CommissionNational Bass GuidesShallow Water Fishing Adventures, and Machodoc Creek Marina.

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Potomac River Fishing Report – July 23, 2021

The Shenandoah basin water levels are low and clear and some areas have some algae. Anglers are catching smallmouth bass and catfish in both the North and South forks. The mainstem is fishing fair for smallmouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. Mountain streams are very low and clear, so anglers will need some stealth to avoid spooking the fish. River temperatures are in the low- to mid-80s

The South Branch Potomac is running very low and clear, with water temperatures in the mid-80s. In areas with enough water, smallmouth bass and catfish are taking slowly fished lures. The North Branch Potomac is somewhat cooler. Trout management areas continue to produce some rainbow and brown trout in the mornings. The ICPRB continues to assist the Maryland Department of Natural Resources with creel surveys that will help in future management decisions.

The upper Potomac River remains low, slow, and clear, with water temperatures in the low- to mid-80s. Lander, Brunswick, and Whites Ferry provide access to some productive water. The best fishing by far is in the very early morning that provides some great topwater fishing with poppers and other small topwater baits. Target faster moving water. As morning continues, some smallmouth bass can be taken by fishing stick worms or small plastic baits fished very slowly. The bite is very light, making it easy to miss a gentle strike. Some nice smallmouth were taken from upstream of Whites Ferry and around Dickerson. The mouth of the Monocacy is green from algae, which is found in spots along the Potomac.

The MD DNR is planning for a supplemental stocking in some areas of the river. For more information, visit the smallmouth bass stocking webpage.

Fishing in the metropolitan Potomac remains slow. Anglers are targeting bridge pilings, docks, and other structure with stick worms, soft plastics, and crankbaits. The Washington Channel is holding some blue catfish.  Hydrilla is growing in some areas, and fishing the bed edges where found can be productive. All baits should be fished slowly in the warm water, which is in the mid-80s.

Downstream, bass are seeking cooler water and shade. Morning high tides allow anglers to target grass beds in moving water in incoming and outgoing tides. Fort Washington Channel holds huge blue catfish, and the mouth of Piscataway Bay has some largemouth bass. Grass beds become more established downstream. Mattawoman Creek vegetation holds some bass and snakeheads. Pohick Bay has some nice bass and snakeheads. The early morning hours are the most productive. The very light and slow bite is easier to pick up with lures fished very slowly.

Cooler daybreak water temperatures allow for topwater fishing both around grass beds and other structure. Later in the day fish shady spots under docks or floating debris mats. The tidal creeks on both sides of the river are holding some nice bass. Fish stick worms and chatterbaits over the grass beds, and the edges as water lowers. Swim baits work well around hard structure.

Pohick Bay coves and shorelines hold bass and snakeheads. Blue catfish are common, with 40-50 pound fish a common catch for those targeting them. Snakehead catches are increasing with spawning over for now.

The Potomac River is closed to striped bass fishing through August 20.

Fishing is slow in the Colonial Beach area, with water clear with a green tint and temperatures in the low- to mid-80s. Anglers are taking some bluefish, croaker, spot, and some nice white perch, along with blue catfish. Puppy drum have moved into the area. Sea nettles are showing up in greater numbers. Avoid bottom fishing in the main channel where the summertime depleted oxygen zone is forming.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers continue to see nice bites of Spanish mackerel and speckled trout. Cobia are being taken in chum slicks. Bluefish are around to strip the baits of those fishing for other species. Crabbing remains tough.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, Potomac River Fisheries CommissionNational Bass GuidesShallow Water Fishing Adventures, and Machodoc Creek Marina.

Little boy sitting on a bench reaching for bait. A lake is in the background.

 

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Potomac River Fishing Report – July 16, 2021

Striped Bass

The Potomac River and its tidal tributaries are now closed to striped bass fishing. Maryland’s tidal tributaries are closed to striped bass fishing from July 16 through July 31 to preserve the species during high temperature days. Virginia tributaries of the Potomac are closed until October 4. The tidal Potomac mainstem is closed for striped bass through August 20.

Fishing the Potomac

In the Shenandoah basin, water levels are low and clear and some areas have some algae. Anglers are finding smallmouth bass in both the North and South forks. The mainstem is fishing well with smallmouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. Mountain streams remain low and clear, so anglers will need to sneak up on these fish.

The South Branch Potomac is running low and clear, with water temperatures in the mid-80s. Smallmouth bass and catfish are taking slowly fished lures. The North Branch Potomac ‘s cooler waters (near 60) continues to produce some nice rainbow and brown trout downstream of Jennings Randolph Reservoir. Trout management and put-and-take areas continue to produce. The ICPRB continues to assist the Maryland Department of Natural Resources with creel surveys that will help in future management decisions.

The upper Potomac River is low, slow, and clear, with water temperatures in the low- 80s. Lander and Brunswick are popular access points that produce smallmouth bass and channel and flathead catfish. The segment from Seneca to the mouth of the Monocacy river continues to fish well, with the cooler water temperatures at dawn being best. Anglers on the water early enough will find great topwater fishing in the shallow water over rock gardens mid channel. Later in the morning, slowly fished stick worms, soft plastics, and swim baits will bring some fish. The Edwards Ferry area is fishing well. The DNR is planning for a supplemental stocking in some areas of the river. For more information, visit the smallmouth bass stocking webpage.

Fishing in the metropolitan Potomac remains slow. Anglers are having success at bridge pilings, docks, and other structure with stick worms, soft plastics, and crankbaits. The Washington Channel remains a good spot, with a mix of largemouth bass and catfish along the channel dropoff.  Hydrilla is emerging in some areas, and the edges of those patches are good bets. All baits should be fished slowly in the warm water, which is in the mid-80s.

Downstream, bass are seeking cooler water and hiding from the sun. Aquatic grasses are doing better than in previous years, with the larger be

ds downstream of Piscataway Bay. The river is likely to be crowded this weekend, as major tournaments will be fishing out of both National Harbor and Smallwood State Park. More than 300 boats will be involved, and area boat ramps may be crowded early in the morning on Saturday.

Cooler daybreak water temperatures allow for topwater fishing both around grass beds and other structure. Later in the day fish shady spots under docks or floating debris mats. The tidal creeks on both sides of the river are holding some nice bass. Fish stick worms and chatterbaits over the grass beds, and the edges as water lowers. Swim baits work well around hard structure.

Pohick Bay coves and shorelines hold bass and snakeheads. Blue catfish are common, with 40-50 pound fish a common catch for those targeting them. Snakehead catches are increasing with spawning over for now.

Fishing has slowed somewhat in the Colonial Beach area, with water clear and temperatures in the low- to mid-80s. Anglers are reporting catches of bluefish, croaker, spot, and white perch, along with the ever-present blue catfish. People also are catching brown shrimp in the area. The eating-size shrimp become more prevalent closer to the bay. Sightings of dolphin pods in the area are becoming more common. Sea nettles are starting to show their tentacles. Avoid bottom fishing in the area as the summertime depleted oxygen zone is forming.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers continue to see nice bites of Spanish mackerel and speckled trout. Cobia are becoming more common, with anglers fishing live eels in chum slicks. Bluefish are around to strip the baits of those fishing for other species. Crabbing remains tough.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, Potomac River Fisheries CommissionNational Bass GuidesShallow Water Fishing Adventures, and Machodoc Creek Marina.

 

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Potomac Fishing Report – June 11, 2021

Saturday is a Maryland Free fishing day.

Friday’s rain will bring additional mud, trash, and debris to waterways further reducing visibility. The rain will helpfully cool water temperatures, which have reached the low 80s, stressing some fish. After the water clears, the cooler temperatures should help the bite. The wet conditions won’t make for the best fishing conditions for the weekend.

On the North Brach Potomac, the bite has been slow, but cooler temperatures should help those seeking trout. Higher water levels may be problematic for this weekend, depending on how much rain falls. Anglers on the South Branch Potomac will welcome a boost to river flows, but the water likely will be stained by inflows. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has stocked the Savage Reservoir with 50,000 walleye fry. The Shenandoah system was fishing well for smallmouth bass and catfish, and the increased flow and cooler water temperatures should improve fishing once conditions settle.

Action on the upper Potomac River has slowed, but should eventually improve with the cooler water temperatures. Smallmouth bass fishing was good in many areas, and anglers are reporting that fishing is notably improved from the last couple of seasons. Aquatic grasses are returning after a multi-year absence, and a nice stand of water stargrass is growing at Point of Rocks. The aquatic grasses provide habitat for the fish and their prey, and help improve water clarity. The DNR recently stocked the upper Potomac with 40,000 walleye fry. From the mouth of the Monocacy River downstream to Little Seneca, smallmouth bass can be found mid river, and anglers are fishing stick worms and landing some nice-size fish after careful sets on light bites. Flathead catfish can be found near dams, and some large musky are being taken. The DNR is studying mortality levels of these large predators after warm water catches. Lots of sunfish are in the river, along with channel catfish and some large carp. Many of these species are feasting on the cicadas, a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Increased numbers of anglers are noticeable on the weekends. Some anglers are using cicada-colored lures to increase their odds, and some people are using the cicadas themselves as bait.

The metropolitan area Potomac also is a busy place with increased numbers of anglers and boaters. Upcoming tournaments on the upper tidal river add to the numbers. Anglers in the District are taking largemouth bass at bridge pilings and on the seawall at the Washington Channel, as well as a few striped bass. Crappies are biting around docks and channel edges. Downstream, some bass are being found around the mouth of Piscataway Bay. The channel edge off Fort Washington is home to very large blue catfish, which are becoming a dominant species on the tidal river. Behemoths of 50 pounds are frequently caught. Snakeheads are guarding balls of fry in weedy shallows, and will strike lures invading their nurseries. Aquatic grasses are continuing to emerge, mostly south of Piscataway, and those beds are prime targets. Anglers are using stick worms and weedless baits to penetrate the beds at low water. Bass can be lured out of the beds by fishing the edges of the beds during an outgoing tide. The bite has been light, and a gentle touch is needed to set the hook.

Some algae blooms have been reported from Leonardtown down to Point Lookout, and dissolved oxygen is decreasing in the river bottom. Still, some nice catches of striped bass can be had in the Colonial Beach area.

Near the river’s mouth, anglers are finding some nice striped bass in the shallows in the morning and evening. Trolling, jigging, and live lining for striped bass is successful along the channel edges around St. Georges. Spot and white perch are available for live lining using circle hooks. Red drum, speckled trout, and croaker are being caught as well. Crabbing remains slow but is improving.

We are grateful to the many river watchers who contribute to this effort. Particular thanks go to the state departments of natural resources, Potomac River Fisheries Commission, National Bass Guides, Shallow Water Fishing Adventures, and Eagle Aquatics.

A little boy is holding up a fishing pole with a fish on the hook.