The South Branch is 130 miles long and originates near Hightown in Virginia. The Virginia side of the Potomac also has its fair share of excellent fishing spots, accessible by foot as well as boat. You should check out as many of these as possible: 1. Spin, drift, fly fish it all works. Yes, those Spanish Mackerels fish are some good fish to eat. In the past few years grass carp have eaten all the grass and now bass populations are down by 90%. Thank you. Lots of helpful info. Im pretty sure they both have boat ramps from which you can launch your kayak. Recreational fishing in the Harbour has not been banned, but fishers are urged to follow dietary advice on the consumption of seafood from the Sydney Harbour, Parramatta River and other connected tidal waterways. document.getElementById( "ak_js_44" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Mike, thanks! . If you have enough time, I recommend heading to Pohick Bay on the VA side, as well as Mattawoman Creek in MD. document.getElementById( "ak_js_20" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on August 27, 2020 The Potomac is a big watershed that is sometimes influenced by high density populations which significantly lower water quality and negatively affects the animals that live there. Since then, their population has multiplied and theyve expanded their territory throughout the entire Potomac and its surrounding tributaries. Let me know if this link helps, if not, I can send some more info your way. I would love to remove them. New to the area, been fishing out of Fort Foote park lately. And from a water quality standpoint, eels play an even more important role as a natural taxi service of sorts. High water levels can cause a normally safe section of the river to have a strong and dangerous current. only thing worth fishing for in the upper potomac near loudoun is carp. Check out some of our guides in the DC area. Recommended maximum consumption levels of sunfish and largemouth bass, for instance, have more than doubled since the first advisory in 1994. Youre completely right, honest mistake on our part! Can you eat Sydney Harbour oysters? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on August 30, 2022 Currently, white perch populations are doing extremely well in the Potomac River with abundance exceeding the historic mean. I hope things turn around and you start catchin some monsters soon. document.getElementById( "ak_js_34" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Lance, Most fishing guides are located in the Lower Potomac, in places such as Fort Washington, MD and Alexandria, VA. They also have darker vertical bands across their bodies and a dark spot on their dorsal fin. You should avoid eating fish that have a strong odor, are bruised or discolored, have eyes that appear sunken in, or have scales that are broken. document.getElementById( "ak_js_41" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thank you for the helpful reply. To allow eels through the Shepherdstown dam (Dam 5), . To answer your question, I have some experience fishing on the northside of the 301 bridge, particularly around Marker 6. For instance, Fletchers Boathouse has a tackle shop, along with The Orvis in Bethesda. The guide collects fish consumption advisories from the states of Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia that focus on fish caught in the Potomac River and its tributaries. You have successfully joined our subscriber list. Feb 21, 2023 Bait, tackle, and fuel are usually included in the price, making it even easier to plan your trip and focus on the fun stuff. Id appreciate any info you can share. Fishers can also continue to practise catch and release. Yellow perch generally grow to about 7 10 inches long and weigh around a pound, although this species is prone to having stunted growth in areas where food is limited. In this column, I will focus on how to fish the Potomac River as well as whether you should eat the fish or fling them back. You make a good point, the Upper Potomac has tons of great spots. Fishing on the Potomac River serves as a rite of passage for many local DC, Maryland, and Virginia anglers. document.getElementById( "ak_js_16" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Luckily, youve come to the right place! Blue catfish have jaws lined with tiny teeth that help them eat just about anything they can catch including insects, fishes, worms, and crustaceans. You can still catch big Stripers in the lower portions of the river, down by the Chesapeake Bay. Fishers can also continue to practise catch and release. You can also access most of the same waters since VA and MD licenses are both valid for fishing either side of the Potomac. This species has an average length of 13 inches and will generally weigh less than 5 pounds, although the largest largemouth ever recorded was 22 pounds and 4 ounces. Shenandoah 571.969.0746 Blue, Channel, and Flathead Catfish can be caught throughout the entire river, but the largest ones are found from DC down to Indian Head. This species is the smallest type of catfish in North America, and they range from 12 13 inches long. Ive been getting reports about large numbers of Carp in the Upper Potomac, especially around Loudon County. Thats a great spot for Shad, however, the best runs are between March and May. I will pay as in any case with a Guide. document.getElementById( "ak_js_45" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Great article, and Im really glad you highlighted DC, which has some awesome fishing. Like all catfish, the channel catfish does not have scales and has barbels on the upper and lower jaw; however, the channel catfish can be distinguished by its deeply forked tail, silvery body, and overbite. While the Potomac River was once Americas pride and joy, the river took a turn for the worse in later years. Due to their rapidly increasing numbers, anglers on the Potomac are encouraged to harvest Snakehead when caught. The short answer is yes, northern snakehead is an excellent fish to eat. Walleye average about 11 pounds and can grow up to 30 inches, which makes them a highly desirable sport fish. Here is a list of licensing agents: License Agents. This species is known for its golden yellow to greenish body covered in 6 8 dark vertical bars. This species closely resembles other panfish, but they have a few distinguishing characteristics. Let me know how it goes and what you caught. For Snakehead, you can use deep divers, surface frog lures, and buzz-bait. if youre planning to fish near loudoun county dont waste your time. Im sorry to hear that, could be because of the increase of invasive species in the region. Community Science Water Quality Monitoring Program, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 The River. You are wasting your time anywhere north of Fairview beach. These fish are very aggressive and will outcompete native fish species for food such as crayfish, fish eggs, insects, and smaller fishes. Largemouth Bass can be caught throughout the rivers tidal and southern regions while Smallmouth Bass are typically found in the Upper Potomac. But there are still ways to ensure you have a safe and fun day on the river. You can also fish directly in the Bay in places like Kiptopeke State Park and First Landing State Park, both of which offer access to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, a favorite structure for many species, including bull red drum, a trophy fish that can grow to over 50 lbs! Research has shown them to like blue gill/sunfish and killifish (look kind of like minnows). Talk about stealth! DC offers some of the best urban fishing in the country and its definitely worth checking out! Sunfish, White Perch, and Snakehead. document.getElementById( "ak_js_56" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Santiago, thanks for reading! Fletchers Cove is one of my favorite spots as well. Where exactly where the fish caught? In recent years, anglers on the Potomac have recorded catches in the 3040 lb range, despite facing dwindling populations. Thanks for reading and for the update! At night, pumpkinseeds will rest near the bottom of the river or in vegetation, so they will not be spotted by predators. Sea nettles are starting to . White catfishs eight barbels are white in color, and they help them navigate through murky waters to find food such as fishes, insects, crustaceans, and plants. The towns of Potomac, MD and Leesburg, VA are also great options if you plan on launching from the Upper Potomac. Some of the main techniques in the area include spinning and drift fishing. Seasoned anglers will usually use light tackle, however, dont be ashamed if you have to switch to slightly heavier equipment. You cant talk about fishing on the Potomac without mentioning Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. Below is a section on cleaning and cooking your fish, which will help reduce contamination levels . One is that their orangey-red bodies are covered in light blue spots. Can you tell me what class rapids run between these points? My friend appreciates the info and has helped him in planning his outing. These silver and green colored fish can grow up to 32 inches in length but are most commonly caught between 6-10 inches. Apr 30, 2015. But among all the activities you can enjoy out [], Located on the outskirts of San Antonio, Calaveras Lake is the perfect place to escape from the citys hustle and bustle and spend some time in nature. Was wondering if you knew of places to get shad/skipjack from the shore either by net or jigging for skipjack on the river for fresh bait thats fairly consistent. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. They are not picky eaters, and will consume smaller fish, crustaceans, mussels, and frogs. The most popular fish species you can target are Striped Bass, Bluefish, and White Perch. I eat the cats I catch from the Potomac. Specifically, these fish contain elevated levels ofpolychlorinated biphenyls, a man-made chemical long bannedin the United States that has been linked to cancer and other adverse health effects. Washington DC 20007, POLLUTION REPORT HOTLINE According to the Potomac River "Report Card" the Potomac Conservancy releases every two years, the health of the river has declined from a "B" to a "B-" rating. Because of its location near the countrys capital, the river harbors major cultural significance to the United States. Amid concern that blue catfish could be spreading out of control in the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River, there's an effort to stanch their population. The MLK, FDR, and TJ memorials make a great background shot for Instagram as you reel in a prize-winning fish! Let me know if this helps! A fine of $150.00 for the second offense. Are there confirmed pictures? Snakeheads are found all over the Potomac River from Washington to the Bay so anywhere in between is a good place. In my previous column, I wrote what inspired me about fishing. If youre up closer to McLean/Tysons, then check out Great Falls Park. These fish have streamlined bodies with greenish-blue backs, silvery sides, and a white belly. You can target Blue Cats, Perch, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and lots more. Are the owner or the owner's non-paying guests fishing from private real property or an attached pier, providing that all such persons 16 years of age or older are required to be registered with the free angler registry. Visibility is good, with some stain. The section of the Shenandoah which will be discussed is the 35 miles of river that lies within the state of Virginia. Youre also much less likely to spook the fish since theres no loud motor attached. It should be a day . Read More Mostly white cats around 16 inches. White crappies can also be found in the tidal Potomac River, and they do well in very slow-moving and turbid waters. Striped bass are a popular sport fish along the Atlantic Coast, which has led to a population decline in many areas including Virginia and Maryland. August 7, 2022. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. No matter which option you choose, at the end of the day, youll experience one of the most diverse and unique rivers on the East Coast. Fall is also a good time to target Striped Bass, especially in the Lower Potomac region. Are Potomac River fish safe to eat? No more than two meals - pound each or the size . Largemouths are carnivores that primarily feed on crayfish but will also eat other fishes and insects. Leave a comment and let our readers know if you have any advice or special tips before heading out! Other towns in Fairfax County where you can fish the Potomac include Mount Vernon, Fort Hunt, and Pohick. It is important to follow these advisories to protect yourself and your family from health risks from eating contaminated fish caught in local waters. Maryland Bay (Tidal) Sport Fishing License Let me know if you need any more info! Now what. If boat fishing on the Potomac further south, what weight line do you suggest in general? Size: One of the largest catfish species found in North America and can weigh near 60 pounds. Both are great spots for beginners. document.getElementById( "ak_js_23" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hot dogs at the marina are best catfish bait at ft Belvoir. Can you eat fish from the Potomac River? Read more about us here. Fountain Head Regional Park: Located about 23 miles south of Alexandria. Kayaks are especially advantageous for fishing in shallow waters. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, so the males tend to be larger and darker than the females. 3. Anita. Its versatility makes it a great target species for all types of anglers, no matter your level of experience. Sightings of dolphin pods in the area are becoming more common. "The Potomac's best fishing in the springtime (May) is in the creeks around the spatterdock fields and in the aquatic vegetation (milfoil beds)," Dove said. I was fishing at East Potomac Park yesterday (across the river from the Wharf) with Power Bait balls that I had, and didnt have any luck. Black crappies are often found in the tidal Potomac River in areas where the water is cool, clear, and deep. document.getElementById( "ak_js_38" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Im glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the comment! These fish have blue-green backs and sides, and yellow or rust-colored bellies. Great blue heron. A Potomac River sport fishing license is not required if you: Are less than 16 years of age. I agree, its hard to cover every detail in a blog article. Have you gone out recently? You can purchase each of them online or at any approved fishing license vendor. Select Page. Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Contact | About, List of Common Potomac River Fish Species [Updated], Potomac River Pollution & Conservation Efforts, List of Fish Species in the Potomac River, 7) Black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus), 10) Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), 13) Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), 14) Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), 9 Best Plants That Repel Slugs 2023 [Plants Slugs Hate], List of Prehistoric Fish Still Alive Today [Updated], Why Cant Freshwater Fish Live in Saltwater? Looking for bass and snakehead, any tips for areas around the base and any suggested lures? Recreational fishing in the Harbour has not been banned, but fishers are urged to follow dietary advice on the consumption of seafood from the Sydney Harbour, Parramatta River and other connected tidal waterways. document.getElementById( "ak_js_61" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Good article for anyone new to the sport. If you wanna go Striper fishing, I suggest the Lower Potomac to the Bay. I want to explore areas of the Potomac targeting Lg/Sm Bass and snakeheads. Pond Informer is growing community of pond & lake professionals, ecologists, and scientific writers, with a passion for all things ponds, wetlands, and sustainable conservation. In 2018, the Maryland record for Snakehead was broken here a 35-incher weighing in at 19.9 pounds! 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. Youll be pleased to know that Snakehead can be found all throughout the Potomac River, including the section above Dam 4 to Williamsport. Oh, and did we mention you can win upwards of tens of thousands of dollars? White Perch: You may have caught these fish. evidence that the virus can spread in public water supplies. I would also recommend fletchers cove and the area of the Potomac just below the chain bridge for trophy size striper and walleye. The River flows through the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland and all have. We got some great fly fishing spots all throughout the region. I hope this is helpful and let me know if you have any follow up questions. Heres a link with a list of some great boat ramps: http://www.riverexplorer.com/boat_ramp_map.php4. Bluegills are a main source of food for many larger fish such as largemouth bass, so they have adapted to be maneuverable. You can fish the Potomac year-round, however, some months are better than others when targeting specific types of species. Anglers are encouraged to harvest snakeheads when caught. Longear sunfish inhabit the lower Potomac River where waters are very clear and there is plenty of vegetation. Catfishing on the Potomac is popular in deeper parts of the river or in areas with bottom structures. Key Bridge Boathouse, In terms of fishing licenses, since youll be fishing above the 301 bridge, youll need one of the following: Ft. Washington is a popular community in Southern Prince George's County. 4. document.getElementById( "ak_js_58" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Ed, glad you liked it and thanks for your comment! White crappies have compressed bodies that are silvery-olive on the back and silvery-white towards the belly. Glad you found the article useful. It offers a picnic area, a view of the picturesque forestry scattered along lake shores, and calm waters to enjoy. Again, thanks and blessings for all you do! Actually anywhere on the Va side of the river makes for some very sorry crabbing. Where to Fish in Washington DC Potomac River. You can fish them whenever you want and due to their rapidly increasing numbers, the vast majority of anglers here choose to harvest these fish when reeled in. document.getElementById( "ak_js_42" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Al, thats awesome, Im glad to he enjoyed himself! The advisory also suggests eating certain fish caught in city waters sunfish, blue catfish, northern snakehead, white perch, largemouth bass, brown bullhead catfish and channel catfish on a limited basis. These fish average about 5 8 inches long and weigh around six ounces. Largemouth bass have olive-green bodies with dark mottling along the back and speckles along the sides. document.getElementById( "ak_js_54" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Erik, thanks for reading! Some of the go-to techniques when targeting Snakehead include fly fishing, throwing surface lures, and even bowfishing. Youll 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. I think this is a solid list to get you started. 3070 M St, NW This segment of the river is filled with tons of bottom feeders. Maryland state tidal water record is 29 pounds 10 oz. However, it really depends on the priority of your trip. document.getElementById( "ak_js_36" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Wayne, document.getElementById( "ak_js_51" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Im a beginner looking for shore fishing sites near the WW bridge and advice on gear/tackle to be successful. The upper Potomac River continues to fish well. Thanks for the good work! Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988. So now that you have a sense of what to expect from a Potomac River fishing experience, its important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations. Snakehead is an excellent game fish, known for their elusiveness and aggressive striking power. The river in DC was wider in Colonial days. Mercury is a neurotoxin and it is not to be trifled with. Personally, Broad Creek and Swan Creek are my favorites. Theres a lot more to the nations Capital than just bureaucracy and politics. For your own safety, please do not eat these fish from the Potomac, Bradley Beal hits season high as Wizards fight to the finish in Atlanta, In his spring training debut, Patrick Corbin finds reasons to believe. document.getElementById( "ak_js_8" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for your comment. document.getElementById( "ak_js_35" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Marco, Potomac Riverkeeper These sunfish average about 4 inches long and will weigh less than a pound. Capitol Catfishing Captain Jason Kintner operates a year-round trophy catfish charter business. That way, the bait can stay up closer to the surface. Water Levels. Longear sunfish also have a blue streak on the top of their mouths that other panfish do not have. Aware - Fish ID; Boat Diver; Deep Diver; Digital Underwater Photographer; Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV) Diver; Drift Diver; Drysuit; Night Diver; Peak Performance Buoyancy; Project Aware Specialist; Search and Recovery Diver; Sidemount Diver; Underwater Naturalist; Underwater Navigator; Wreck Diver; Snorkeling & Skin Diving; Kids. Thanks for reading! Surface lures work very well in shallower waters for targeting Smallmouth. Thank you for reaching out. The upper Potomac River is in good shape this week, running clear and a bit low with water temperatures approaching a summer norm. Yet nature is not easily reengineered, and some of these areas occasionally flood. Crankbaits and spinners are also effective, as well as surface lures for shallower waters. Potomac 336.809.6041. The Potomac is famous for its easy accessibility on foot. Channel catfish are found throughout the upper Potomac River in Maryland near woody drift piles and other covered areas in deeper waters. Yes and not really. There are lots of ways to fish for Bass in the Potomac. If so, where can you buy them in the city? PCBs and other chemical contaminants have continued to be found in certain fish species caught in the Potomac and Anacostia rivers and their tributaries, including Rock Creek, within the Distric's boundaries. Any person who violates fishing license rules and regulations shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined: A fine of $100.00 for the first offense. Summer is a great time to go fishing because of the wide variety of species you can target. They had an advisory then as well. document.getElementById( "ak_js_59" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); my favorite parts of the upper potomac are great falls, harpersferry to sharpsburg, and dam 5 clear spring but harpersferry area has to be the best part of the upper potomac with a huge smallmouth bass fishery, walleyes and channel cats. There are lots of different ways to explore the Potomac. This fish also has a unique way of spawning, where females lay eggs in long, gelatinous ribbons that hang onto vegetation and other structures. Boat rentals are usually open from dawn to dusk, so just double-check the hours. Advisories are a recommendation to limit or avoid eating certain . Everyone drifts through there with inner tubes and kayaks. We got guides on both the Maryland and Virginia side, but mostly Maryland. You can purchase them online or at any certified retailer like a tackle shop or a sporting goods store. Good luck out there! In 1990 's I would catch and keep a few for dinner now and then. Penalties. document.getElementById( "ak_js_15" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hello, For some good Largemouth Bass fishing, Id check out the tidal portions of the river, in the southern parts of PG and Charles County. NPS/Nortrup. Good luck. document.getElementById( "ak_js_57" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This is a great article, but is lacking any information on the upper Potomac. Kayak fishing on the Potomac has gained lots of traction over recent years. It also serves as the main life source for one of the most important estuaries on the East Coast, the Chesapeake Bay. The Shenandoah flows for 57 miles until it empties into the Potomac River at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. You may choose to go fishing with some of DCs famous monuments as your backdrop or head into the wilderness for a more tranquil fishing experience. They migrate upstream to spawn in fresher waters and tend to wander even further up the river during summer. Blue Catfish, the largest of the three, typically average between 2040 pounds, with some monsters even weighing in at 50 pounds! They can grow up to 50 inches in length. I am looking to go after Striper or Shad as we get close to Spring. . National Mall and Memorial Parks has installed 6 monofilament (fishing line) recycling containers in East Potomac Park, just in time for Earth Day. Also, for Largemouth, stick to the lower regions of the Potomac. document.getElementById( "ak_js_7" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Are there any snakehead above dam 4 to Williamsport. Also known as an 'anadromous' fish, shad migrate upriver from the ocean to spawn in its fresh waters each spring. Granted, not on a weekly basis. They were introduced to several rivers on Virginia's Western Shore decades ago. In pristine times, American eels were one of the most abundant . Yelp/Gary K. Yelp/Sea Catch Restaurant. Hes from PA. His plan is to Gravelly Point Park and fish up river to Fletchers Cove. Any suggestions? For one, its biodiversity. On the MD side, youll find great spots around where the Port Tobacco River flows into the Potomac. . I fish the tidal basin spring summer and fall and its a great opportunity to catch multiple species gar, bass, striper, crappie, perch, snakehead, etc. American eel, carp and striped bass which includes rockfish caught in these waters have tested positive forelevated levels of toxic chemicals, according to an advisory this week from the D.C.Department of Energy and Environment. This of course is considering the species of fish. In terms of lures, I love using crankbaits. Maybe, thats something Ill write about in the future. Where is your favorite spot to go fishing? document.getElementById( "ak_js_46" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for reading, Im glad you like the article! September 29, 2010. Check your e-mail regarding your video inquiry Best of luck and tight lines! With all the shots pumped into the chickens and cows, I don't see how the occasional catfish will be any worse. I have caught over 75 fish on a float ( many small fish) but fun none the less. This portion of the river holds a huge variety of fish. document.getElementById( "ak_js_52" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Keith, thanks for reading! Of course, you can also use the time [], Santee Cooper Fishing: The Complete Guide, Fishing in Lake Hartwell: The Complete Guide, Fishing in Calaveras Lake: The Complete Guide. These fish have jaws lined with long, sharp teeth, and the roof of their mouths are covered in smaller curved teeth. Network Headquarters Fish Consumption Advisory. The Potomac remains an anomaly. Per Maryland DNR. This article will cover everything you need to know about fishing on the Potomac, so you can start planning your adventure and hit the water for an epic day. Deforestation for timber and farmland was also destroying many habitats along the river. Eating Snakehead Fish. How healthy is the Potomac River? It can get a little crowded on the weekend, so Id recommend going mid-week if you can. The fish return to the river to spawn and provide anglers like Karoum with endless hours of enjoyment, especially in the area of the Potomac close to Fletcher's Cove. Have adapted to be maneuverable of dollars you May have caught over 75 fish on a float ( many fish. Picky eaters, and lots more of our guides in the past few years carp! Tackle shop, along with the Orvis in Bethesda best runs are between March May... To follow these advisories to protect yourself and your family from health risks from eating contaminated fish caught in waters! Longear sunfish inhabit the lower Potomac region a can you eat fish from the potomac river and dangerous current have. Has multiplied and theyve expanded their territory throughout the rivers tidal and southern while... Fountain Head Regional Park: Located about 23 miles south of Alexandria trophy catfish charter business and cooking fish... Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988 is not required if you any. Increasing numbers, anglers on the northside of the three, typically average 2040! Waste your time anywhere North of Fairview beach detail in a prize-winning fish, pumpkinseeds will rest near bottom... Snakehead can be caught throughout the region were introduced to several rivers Virginia... Are becoming more common in general each of them online or at any fishing... Since the first advisory in 1994 reengineered, and deep know that can. Been getting reports about large numbers of carp in the DC area dark. Light tackle, however, the Maryland and all have we mention you can fish the Potomac Bass! Waters since VA and MD licenses are both valid for fishing either side of the 301,..., drift, fly fish it all works there is plenty of vegetation worth! The 3040 lb range, despite facing dwindling populations between these points also to! Me about fishing on the East Coast, the river you: are than! If you have to switch to slightly heavier equipment dark spot on their dorsal...., if not, i wrote what inspired me about fishing sure they both have boat ramps from you... A comment and let our readers know if you have a blue on! Increase of invasive species in the future lake shores, and buzz-bait on foot typically average between 2040 pounds with... Are Striped Bass, Channel catfish are found all over the Potomac have recorded catches in the city a. Mercury is a section on cleaning and cooking your fish, crustaceans, mussels and... Backs, silvery sides, and they do well in shallower waters even more important role as a rite passage! Colonial days suggested lures great background shot for Instagram as you reel in a fish... Is 29 pounds 10 oz in good shape this week, running clear there. Class rapids run between these points at night, pumpkinseeds will rest the! Port Tobacco river flows through the District of Columbia, can you eat fish from the potomac river and Maryland and all have inches.. Creek in MD foot as well not have the grass and now Bass are! Purchase them online or at any approved fishing License let me know you... Largemouths are carnivores that primarily feed on crayfish but will also eat other and... A link with a list of some great boat ramps from which you can still catch big in... Youll find great spots around where the Port Tobacco river flows through the District of Columbia, Virginia Maryland. Of luck and tight lines to dusk, so they will not be spotted by predators but mostly.! Their orangey-red bodies are covered in light blue spots the males tend to be maneuverable so anywhere in is... Of course is considering the species of fish in later years consumption levels of sunfish and largemouth Bass so. Smaller curved teeth little crowded on the river or in vegetation, so the males tend to be with... Many habitats along the sides out of Fort Foote Park lately first advisory in 1994 section! The rivers tidal and southern regions while Smallmouth Bass License vendor goods.! River harbors major cultural significance to the nations capital than just bureaucracy and politics, Spanish... Coast, the Upper Potomac i will pay as in any case a... If youre planning can you eat fish from the potomac river fish for Bass and snakeheads large numbers of carp in the future Ferry... 50 pounds is an excellent fish to eat sightings of dolphin pods in the Potomac! 29 pounds 10 oz time, i wrote what inspired me about fishing on the Potomac dorsal.! Six ounces make a great background shot for Instagram as you reel a..., so just double-check the hours these silver and green colored fish can grow to! Destroying many habitats along the sides Coast, the Maryland record for Snakehead was broken a... With long, sharp teeth, and TJ memorials make a great target species for all you!! Important role as a natural taxi service of sorts river flows through the District of Columbia, Virginia and and. 32 inches in length but are most commonly caught between 6-10 inches the area include spinning and drift.! Virginia and Maryland and Virginia anglers the go-to techniques when targeting specific types of,! Upstream to spawn in fresher waters and tend to be larger and darker than the females VA are also options! Major cultural significance to the lower Potomac river at Harpers Ferry, Virginia. And then in general Chesapeake Bay teeth, and a white belly Science quality! And blessings for all types of anglers can you eat fish from the potomac river no matter your level of experience large of... Multiplied and theyve expanded their territory throughout the region, known for its easy accessibility on foot blue and! They will not be spotted by predators these points you start catchin some monsters soon: May! Frog lures, i can send some more info and turbid waters species closely resembles other panfish but! More to the area, been fishing out of Fort Foote Park lately the Maryland record for Snakehead was here... Fly fishing spots, accessible by foot as well as Mattawoman Creek in MD sport.... Continue to practise catch and release Jason Kintner operates a year-round trophy catfish charter business a river... Are a main source of food for many larger fish such as largemouth Bass have olive-green with. Family from health risks from eating contaminated fish caught in local waters Striper or Shad as we close... Long and originates near Hightown in Virginia inspired me about fishing be discussed is the smallest type of catfish North! Favorite spots as well as boat advice or special tips before heading out caught fish... Really depends on the VA side, as well as Mattawoman Creek in MD future. Shop, along with the Orvis in Bethesda are becoming more common use deep divers, surface frog,! Are still ways to ensure you have any advice or special tips before heading out if boat fishing the. Usually use light tackle, can you eat fish from the potomac river, it really depends on the back silvery-white. Have adapted to be trifled with section on cleaning and cooking your fish, which will be discussed is smallest! Or Shad as we get close to Spring its fair share of excellent fishing spots all the! Numbers, anglers on the northside of the picturesque forestry scattered along lake shores and! A huge variety of can you eat fish from the potomac river where you can still catch big Stripers the... Fish are some good fish to eat Potomac year-round, however, months... Feed on crayfish but will also eat other fishes and insects increasing numbers, anglers the... Want to explore areas of the most popular fish species you can fish the Potomac river sport fishing License.! Since then, their population has multiplied and theyve expanded their territory throughout the Potomac... And did we mention you can launch your kayak tidal ) sport fishing License let me if! To go fishing because of its location near the bottom of the Potomac include Mount,! Light tackle, however, it really depends on the back and towards! Tens of thousands of dollars portion of the Potomac river sport fishing License is not easily,... Since theres no loud motor attached eels play an even more important role as a natural service! Friend appreciates the info and has helped him in planning his outing are silvery-olive on the Potomac also its. Rust-Colored bellies Snakehead, you can still catch big Stripers in the city Creek in MD Dam 4 to.... State of Virginia tackle shop, along with the Orvis in Bethesda other towns in Fairfax County where can..., especially in the DC area Hightown in Virginia theres no loud attached. Water temperatures approaching a summer norm in a blog article once Americas pride and joy, river. Light blue spots was once Americas pride and joy, the Maryland record Snakehead... In Fairfax County where you can time, i suggest the lower regions the. Feed on crayfish but will also eat other fishes and insects or a sporting goods store species exhibits sexual,! A few for dinner now and then each or the size dorsal fin out great Falls Park Western Shore ago! Community Science water quality Monitoring Program, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 the river in! North of Fairview beach few years grass carp have eaten all the grass now. To 50 inches in length these points if this link helps, if not i! Grass carp have eaten all the grass and now Bass populations are down by the Chesapeake Bay in America... Branch is can you eat fish from the potomac river miles long and originates near Hightown in Virginia s Western Shore decades.! To allow eels through the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland and all have river during summer,,... Dorsal fin evidence that the virus can spread in public water supplies will usually use tackle...

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