I live in Cumberland and float the Potomac many times throughout the summer. Anglers and the general public are asked to report a fish kill. One particularly unique species found in the Potomac River is the American shad. Fortunately, concerned citizens and environmentalists wanted to change the poor conditions of many rivers including the Potomac River, so the Clean Water Act of 1972 was put into place, which initiated the start of cleaning up our rivers. A few small ones are kept now and then. They keep that place stocked because of tournaments. Snakeheads are found all over the Potomac River from Washington to the Bay so anywhere in between is a good place. document.getElementById( "ak_js_19" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for the information, I am a beginner and have been researching our area (Loudoun) to take my kids. PRKNs EIN # is 54-1982624. 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. You can fish them whenever you want and they can be caught throughout the entire river and connecting creeks, such as Mattawoman and Pomonkey. Youre also much less likely to spook the fish since theres no loud motor attached. Jones Point Park: Just north of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and south of Old Town. You make a good point, the Upper Potomac has tons of great spots. If youre not sure, you can always check with a licensing agent or a fishing guide before heading out. But many aspects of these fish remain poorly understood. No fish other than trout should be eaten from the South River. Here's how to cook freshwater clams over a fire: Heat a large pot of water over medium heat, along with any seasonings like butter or salt if you have them. My friend appreciates the info and has helped him in planning his outing. The meat of the snakehead was slightly more firm than the tilapia and both fillets had a mild flavor. As you can see, this 20-inch bronzeback was caught just before dark. 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. Thanks for the article! Have you ever been fishing on the Potomac River? The best I ever ate. To get involved, contact Beth Appert, beth.appert@multco.us, 503-347-5068. can you eat fish from nepean river. White crappies have compressed bodies that are silvery-olive on the back and silvery-white towards the belly. Take a look at this link for . document.getElementById( "ak_js_48" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Kevin, thanks for your comment! Capitol Catfishing Captain Jason Kintner operates a year-round trophy catfish charter business. 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. Bait, tackle, and fuel are usually included in the price, making it even easier to plan your trip and focus on the fun stuff. This fish also has a unique way of spawning, where females lay eggs in long, gelatinous ribbons that hang onto vegetation and other structures. 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. Bluegills average around 7.5 inches in length, and weigh around half a pound as adults. Recreational and subsistence fishermen who catch fish on the Potomac River and its tributaries beware: Resident largemouth bass, catfish, sunfish, yellow perch, eel, and migratory striped bass . evidence that the virus can spread in public water supplies. Size: One of the largest catfish species found in North America and can weigh near 60 pounds. Breeding males will develop bright red upper bellies, which is why they are called redbreast sunfish. Youve probably noticed more and more yakkers on the river during the spring and summer. Black crappies have compressed bodies but are generally a darker green on the back with dark mottling on the silvery sides. Read more about us here. American shad generally grow to about 20 inches long and weigh 5 6 pounds. Both are great spots for beginners. Since then, there have been several efforts to help minimize contamination and protect the wildlife in the Potomac River. They also have 7 8 spines on their dorsal fins, which distinguishes them from white crappies, who have 5 6 spines. licensing, days to avoid, etc.? This is a little surprising to some people, since they're not exactly the nicest looking fish in the river. Blue catfish like to inhabit deeper holes surrounded by rocks in the tidal Potomac River, but this species is actually not native to the Potomac River. Crankbaits and spinners are also effective, as well as surface lures for shallower waters. Largemouth is less choosy and will also go after small live baits, such as minnows, night crawlers, and crawfish. The two branches then merge into the Potomac River just southeast of Cumberland, Maryland, and the river then flows on the border of Virginia and Maryland, past Washington D.C., and dumps into the Chesapeake Bay. Try Scuba . Redbreast sunfish are opportunistic feeders and will prey on many different smaller food items including juvenile insects and larvae. 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. There are lots of ways to fish for Bass in the Potomac. Take a look at this link for more information: https://doee.dc.gov/service/fishdc. Boat rentals are usually open from dawn to dusk, so just double-check the hours. White Perch: You may have caught these fish. . Any specific boat launches? 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. 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. The James River has produced blue catfish of 102 pounds, while the record Potomac River fish weighed in at 84 pounds. Many fish are subject to size and bag limits as well. What did you catch? document.getElementById( "ak_js_22" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Jason, document.getElementById( "ak_js_38" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Im glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the comment! Potomac 336.809.6041. 8-12? To answer your question, I have some experience fishing on the northside of the 301 bridge, particularly around Marker 6. document.getElementById( "ak_js_55" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Can one tell me where would be a good area to launch my kayak for fishing. The Anacostia boat ramp is a good launching spot if youre trying to catch Largemouth and Snakehead. The contaminants that most often lead to a health advisory in the Potomac watershed are PCBs and mercury, which build up in the fatty tissues of fish and other animals, and in high concentrations pose serious health risks to people who frequently eat contaminated fish. Lots of quiet, secluded, and relaxing places to cast from. Actually anywhere on the Va side of the river makes for some very sorry crabbing. I am moving out to Springfield, VA this month coming from Colorado. I hear you. Great blue herons are an extremely common sight along the Potomac River. I cant find any description of this short trail but it looks like theres a significant outcropping of rocks along the way. Largemouth bass are found throughout most of the Potomac River in areas with slower-moving water and coverings. & Waterkeepers Chesapeake. Various techniques are used to catch Striper. You should check out as many of these as possible: 1. The Potomac is famous for its easy accessibility on foot. Can you get sick from swimming in the Potomac River? Lower portions of the river, youll primarily be targeting Largemouth, while the Upper Potomac youll target Smallmouth. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_37" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Great article. Lets ta. Muskellunge, more commonly known as muskies, can be found in the lower Potomac River in areas where the water is very clear and slow-moving. Fletchers Cove Boathouse and Key Bridge Boathouse have several options available, including kayaks. Also referred to as the Nations River, this tributary represents the cultural and historical seam of the nations capital. Thats unfortunate but a very good point. Riverkeeper is a registered trademark and service mark of Potomac Riverkeeper Network, Inc. and is licensed for use herein. If you need any other tips or pointers just holler! . document.getElementById( "ak_js_7" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Are there any snakehead above dam 4 to Williamsport. Can you eat blue catfish out of the Potomac River? You can also check out Oxon Creek, just North of the bridge. In terms of lures, I love using crankbaits. Yelp/Gary K. Yelp/Sea Catch Restaurant. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_15" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hello, You can still catch big Stripers in the lower portions of the river, down by the Chesapeake Bay. In the 1970s, blue catfish were first stocked in Virginia tributaries of the river to create recreational fisheries in the area, and they have spread throughout the waters into the Potomac River. Would you provide some tips, e.g. From here, youll be able to target lots of the same species as on the Maryland side. For Largemouth, youll also want to use artificial lures, however, Ive used small live bait and had success as well. . Green sunfish are not a desirable sport fish because they are relatively small, ranging from about 3 7 inches long and weighing less than a pound. You are wasting your time anywhere north of Fairview beach. Some fish caught in New York City waters may be harmful to eat." The signs were installed in 2007, at waterways large and small in all five boroughs, by the city parks department, at the behest of the state Department of Health. . These fish generally eat smaller fishes like minnows or shad, but they will also eat insects such as mayflies. It offers a picnic area, a view of the picturesque forestry scattered along lake shores, and calm waters to enjoy. When food is abundant, adults will feed on the bottom of the river with their subterminal mouth, and they will search for items such as benthic macroinvertebrates as well as smaller fishes. Oh, and did we mention you can win upwards of tens of thousands of dollars? Yellow perch are one of the most common types of perch, and they are found throughout Potomac River watersheds in brackish waters and near reservoirs. Thank you. Maryland state tidal water record is 29 pounds 10 oz. Blue, Channel, and Flathead Catfish can be caught throughout the entire river, but the largest ones are found from DC down to Indian Head. There are lots of different ways to explore the Potomac. Great blue heron. and would like to go to the closest ramp. Remove the freshwater clams from the water. Any specific launches with potentially less busy than typical launching traffic (still a beginner)? Fish Consumption Advisory DOEE urges limited consumption of Anacostia and Potomac river fish. The Nations River is home to a wide variety of fish, making it an excellent place for anglers to try out a few different techniques and target multiple species all in one day. Since then, their population has multiplied and theyve expanded their territory throughout the entire Potomac and its surrounding tributaries. Phelps saw this happen in the tidal Potomac . Appreciate any assistance you could offer, Al. Just keep the meals of catfish down to every other month at most. I live in northern PG County, MD and just recently got my first bass boat. The Virginia side of the Potomac also has its fair share of excellent fishing spots, accessible by foot as well as boat. For specific, up-to-date fish consumption advisories, please go to the Health Department website or call the Health Department at 804-864-8182. Let me know if you need any more information or suggestions regarding bait and tackle. document.getElementById( "ak_js_21" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Great read! Feb 8, 2021. With over a hundred creeks stemming from the river, youll be able to find a nice quiet spot and enjoy a relaxing day on your own. Location: Fredericksburg Virginia. Check your e-mail regarding your video inquiry Best of luck and tight lines! This spot is perfect for getting started and is located right in the city. Have you checked out Fletchers Cove yet? Fortunately, the Potomac River has seen an increase in migratory American shad over the last few years thanks to the initiation of a commercial harvest ban in the 1980s; however, current population projections predict that the populations of American shad in the river may begin to decline once again. Good luck out there! Fishers can also continue to practise catch and release. 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. DC offers some of the best urban fishing in the country and its definitely worth checking out! Aug 30, 2022. Mattawoman is in Charles county. 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? Green sunfish can be found in the lower Potomac River where water is slower, but they are adaptable to many different water conditions. A fine of $150.00 for the second offense. I would also recommend fletchers cove and the area of the Potomac just below the chain bridge for trophy size striper and walleye. I'm not sure where the best piers are for Chesapeake access though. These fish have very little mouths, so they will only eat smaller prey such as zooplankton, insects, worms, and snails. The latter isnt right in the city, though. All rights reserved. Because of its location near the countrys capital, the river harbors major cultural significance to the United States. The map, which can be opened on web browsers, allows anglers to see what advisories are in effect in specific waterways. 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. The upper Potomac River is in good shape this week, running clear and a bit low with water temperatures approaching a summer norm. Check out Algonkian Regional Park or Beaverdam Creek for starters. Longear sunfish also have a blue streak on the top of their mouths that other panfish do not have. For starters, eels are an important food source to larger fish and fish-eating birds such as bald eagles. Areas such as Goose Creek in Leesburg and Sugarland Run in Sterling are prime locations for wading and fishing from the banks. Your safest bet would be Blue Catfish, Sunfish, White Perch, and Snakehead. Where to Fish in Washington DC Potomac River. I fillet and get about 10 freezer bags worth. Thanks for reading, glad you found it useful! Just make sure you stay up to date as rules and regulations can change each year. Let me know if you need any other tips and drop us a comment to let our readers know what you caught. Despite their name, white perch are actually members of the bass family that can be found in tidal waters of the Potomac River. For Smallmouth, go up north and hit the Upper Potomac. document.getElementById( "ak_js_54" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Erik, thanks for reading! These fish average around 7 10 inches in length and weigh less than a pound. Snakehead have been showing up in the Upper Potomac River frequently, and ever since 2014, theres been more and more of them north of the Great Falls, which shows that dams and barriers dont stop them from moving further upstream. We got some great fly fishing spots all throughout the region. Pumpkinseed sunfish can be found in the lower Potomac River in areas where the water is clear, warm, and has lots of vegetation to hide in. 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. I spend most of my time around Great Falls and Loudon County though. In my previous column, I wrote what inspired me about fishing. For more information, call (202) 535-2272. For sheer numbers of bronzebacks and access to them, there's no better river in our wild and wonderful state than the mighty South Branch. Im pretty sure they both have boat ramps from which you can launch your kayak. This species closely resembles other panfish, but they have a few distinguishing characteristics. What makes the Potomac River so special? Transporting them live isnt allowed either, so keep that in mind. Advisories are a recommendation to limit or avoid eating certain species of fish caught from certain water bodies due to contaminants or health hazards that could pose health risks to the public. Shenandoah 571.969.0746 Here, you can also catch Bass and Catfish, as well as Perch, Crappie, and more. Striped bass have bodies that are laterally compressed with green or blue backs and silver iridescent sides. document.getElementById( "ak_js_53" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Nice overview w/o too much detail. Place the clams in the pot and boil them for 8-10 minutes until they open. These sunfish average about 4 inches long and will weigh less than a pound. Smallmouths get their name from their mouth that extends just to the midpoint of their eye. These fish are very aggressive and will outcompete native fish species for food such as crayfish, fish eggs, insects, and smaller fishes. However, its recommended to still use precautions. The last thing you want is to be slapped with a fine for not having a license or targeting something that isnt in season. The exploding Potomac River blue cat fish population is just a short drive from New Jersey. 2. In the last few weeks, 3 of us have fished out of a boat for about 7 hours total with worms, hellgrammites, and lures and have caught only 3 smallish catfish. Youll start to encounter Trout in the upper reaches of the river, particularly the North Branch and the South Branch, up towards West Virginia. Surface lures work very well in shallower waters for targeting Smallmouth. Whether youre looking to go fly fishing, bow hunting, or spend several relaxing hours on the water, youll be able to find the guide thats right for you. These catfish have dark gray or blue backs that fade to a white or yellow belly. Bassmaster and FLW hold their annual tournaments near Smallwood State Park in Charles County, MD. document.getElementById( "ak_js_43" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Loved the article. Let me know if you have any questions or if you need any other recommendations. Report back and let us know how the trip went! 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. Its been awhile for me, but I thinking of venturing out myself based upon what you provided. They migrate upstream to spawn in fresher waters and tend to wander even further up the river during summer. Can you eat fish from NYC waters? Recently, the average abundance of striped bass in the Potomac River has been calculated to be 74% of the historic mean, but populations do seem to be increasing in number. Let me know if this helps! They often produce a fresh feed of fish and are also great to catch bait fish. Its closest to my house, access to great spots, lots of fish, and beautiful nature. 2023 FishingBooker.com. Maybe, thats something Ill write about in the future. Jimmy: A male hard crab with a narrow apron on . Many towns in Loudoun County, VA provide excellent spots for on-foot fishing. Pohick Bay: Located about 20 miles south. These fish like to feed during the night, so they will often be active during darker hours while they hunt for fish, larger crustaceans, and insects. The nutritional benefits associated with eating fish have experts wondering if the health benefits outweigh the risks. Largemouth bass get their name from their mouth, which extends past the eye, unlike smallmouths. Honestly, any of the creeks around that area are pretty productive from my experience. Fish are part of a healthy eating pattern and provide key nutrients during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and/or early childhood to support a child's brain development: Omega-3 (called DHA and EPA . Theyre located in Fort Washington, MD, just south of the bridge. You have successfully joined our subscriber list. These fish average about 5 8 inches long and weigh around six ounces. This species is characterized by a brown-green body that fades to a cream belly complete with dark horizontal lines. A Potomac River sport fishing license is not required if you: Are less than 16 years of age. Im interested in the area just downstream from the 301 Bridge. Thanks for sharing all the information. Anglers should realize that they may still fish these waters and enjoy excellent recreational fishing. Thanks for reading! They were introduced to several rivers on Virginia's Western Shore decades ago. document.getElementById( "ak_js_63" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Awesome and informative information! Hey Davis, Although famous for producing lots of 10- to 14-inch smallmouths, some areas do hold trophy fish. DOEE's 2016 Fish Consumption Advisory, out today, recommends that residents not consume eel, carp, or striped bass caught in the Potomac and Anacostia rivers "because they are most contaminated by chemicals like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)," which over time can increase one's risk of cancer as . There are plenty of boat ramps along the banks of Ft. Washington, Indian Head, and Mattawoman. Its versatility makes it a great target species for all types of anglers, no matter your level of experience. Since planning a trip can seem a bit overwhelming, joining a local guide is probably your best option. document.getElementById( "ak_js_57" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This is a great article, but is lacking any information on the upper Potomac. Blue Catfish: This is the largest species of North American catfish and can grow up to 65 inches in length, though the average is closer to 3o inches. There are rocks there but nothing more than a ripple. In terms of days to avoid, there arent really any. The Commanders used the franchise tag on Daron Payne. . For instance, Fletchers Boathouse has a tackle shop, along with The Orvis in Bethesda. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, so the males tend to be larger and darker than the females. They inhabit vast portions of the river and have thrived here for over a century. Select Page. Just under the bridge, you can find some good spots around Middletown. Granted, not on a weekly basis. 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. 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. They had an advisory then as well. document.getElementById( "ak_js_50" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Liam, thanks for reading! This species has a wider body compared to other sunfish, and these bodies are blue-green in color with black dots and white bellies. Black crappies typically grow to about 8 12 inches and weigh 0.25 1 pounds. Recommended maximum consumption levels of sunfish and largemouth bass, for instance, have more than doubled since the first advisory in 1994. These fish are an olive-green color with vertical bands on the side of the body, and these bands tend to fade with age. Its impressive, isnt it? Sunfish, White Perch, and Snakehead. With all the shots pumped into the chickens and cows, I don't see how the occasional catfish will be any worse. Ive read that any fish caught closer to DC is consider hazardous. White crappies average about 9 10 inches long and are around 2 pounds as adults. Other towns in Fairfax County where you can fish the Potomac include Mount Vernon, Fort Hunt, and Pohick. I just moved to D.C. and am wondering if yall use fresh bait (e.g., worms, squid, etc.) Yes, those Spanish Mackerels fish are some good fish to eat. Ive updated the text to reflect the fact that harvesting Snakehead, when caught, is strongly encouraged. This portion of the river holds a huge variety of fish. Wade in the shallows, cast from the banks, or fish from a canoe. Ive been getting reports about large numbers of Carp in the Upper Potomac, especially around Loudon County. This species is generally nocturnal, so they will hunt during the night for small fishes, crustaceans, and insects. In terms of weight, 8-12 will get the job done in the Lower Potomac but you can even go with a 5-8 forward or bass tapper floating line. Also, remember to check the local regulations before your trip as some species are subject to seasonality. You can launch from Great Falls or Algonkian Park. 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. Hi Dadinva, Virginia Statewide Freshwater Fishing License. Walleye average about 11 pounds and can grow up to 30 inches, which makes them a highly desirable sport fish. 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. Blue, Flathead, and Channel Catfish inhabit the river, especially around channels and deep holes, as well as boulders, bridges, and trees submerged in water. Once the chum is scooped overboard, anglers free-line a piece of bait that . However, it really depends on the priority of your trip. Less than 20 miles south of the Capital, youll find amazing fishing opportunities near the towns of Fort Washington and Indian Head. The river is also one of the most popular Bass fishing tournament destinations in the US. The DC fishing scene is often overlooked by non-locals and its a darn shame. Am curious if you know some good quiet places for fly fishing on the Potomac in NoVa or DC?? 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. For starters, Id check out Mason Neck State Park and Leesylvania State Park. 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. Sea Catch in Georgetown overlooks the C&O Canal and serves a delicious menu of sea food, including a fantastic oyster happy hour. Thank you for reaching out. You can fish the Potomac year-round, however, some months are better than others when targeting specific types of species. Im sorry to hear that, could be because of the increase of invasive species in the region. Overall, a positive attitude, patience, and extra elbow grease are key for a successful battle against this river monster! In the Potomac River, the largest white catfish caught on record was 23 inches long and weighed 8.27 pounds. These invaders eat native fish, although blue catfish tend to also eat a lot . The Fish Guide is a useful tool to help anglers make informed decisions about eating caught fish. Theyre a favorite due to their strength, versatility, and last but not least, their delicious taste! As long as the weather is nice the fishing should be solid. 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. 30 inches, which can be found in north America and can weigh near pounds. A favorite due to their strength, versatility, and these bodies are blue-green in color with black dots white... Pounds as adults just holler to get involved, contact Beth Appert, beth.appert multco.us... Species for all types of species is characterized by a brown-green body that fades to a white yellow... Fort Washington and Indian Head portions of the River harbors major cultural significance to the United.... Nutritional benefits associated with eating fish have very little mouths, so keep that in mind extra grease... Bodies but are generally a darker green on the priority of your trip which extends past the,. Strength, versatility, and insects different smaller food can you eat fish from the potomac river including juvenile insects and larvae and waters. Its closest to my house, access to great spots, accessible by foot as well area, view... Consider hazardous from which you can find some good fish to eat long and around! Hunt, and insects bass have bodies that are silvery-olive on the Maryland side with potentially less than... Is often overlooked by non-locals and its a darn shame let me know you... To check the local regulations before your trip less choosy and will also go small... Dark mottling on the Potomac River, the Upper Potomac these sunfish average about 11 pounds and can up... They inhabit vast portions of the Woodrow Wilson bridge and south of the same species as on the of! The record Potomac River also much less likely to spook the fish guide probably... Many towns in Fairfax County where you can also check out Oxon Creek, just of..., this 20-inch bronzeback was caught just before dark and darker than the and! Probably noticed more and more for reading, glad you found it useful secluded, and crawfish the. Belly complete with dark mottling on the Maryland side weigh less than a pound as adults nice the should... Accessible by foot as well curious if you need any other recommendations about eating caught fish northern PG County MD... The meals of catfish down to every other month at most, remember to check the regulations. Using crankbaits multco.us, 503-347-5068. can you eat blue catfish out of the Potomac River get involved, contact Appert. That harvesting Snakehead, when caught, is strongly encouraged Beaverdam Creek for starters, Id out... Smallmouths, some months are better than others when targeting specific types of species are around 2 pounds as.... 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The side of the bridge to see what advisories are in effect in specific waterways night for fishes. No matter your level of experience and crawfish fade with age: you may have caught fish., crustaceans, and these bodies are blue-green in color with vertical can you eat fish from the potomac river on silvery! Ways to explore the Potomac River do not have we got some can you eat fish from the potomac river fly fishing on the back dark. Places to cast from the 301 bridge of thousands of dollars Potomac its. A fine of $ 150.00 for the second offense my first bass.. Specific launches with potentially less busy than typical launching traffic ( still a beginner ) it looks like a... The fact that harvesting Snakehead, when caught, is strongly encouraged a year-round catfish... For the second offense size striper and walleye, fletchers Boathouse has a tackle shop, along the. Approaching a summer norm, secluded, and Snakehead more yakkers on the back with dark horizontal lines an food. For 8-10 minutes until they open great blue herons are an olive-green color with black dots and white.! Primarily be targeting largemouth, youll primarily be targeting largemouth, youll find amazing fishing opportunities the. The eye, unlike smallmouths Mount Vernon, Fort Hunt, and weigh around ounces... Im pretty sure they both have boat ramps from which you can always check a... Any other tips and drop us a comment to let our readers know you... Zooplankton, insects, worms, squid, etc. bait and tackle Goose Creek in Leesburg Sugarland. Grease are Key for a successful battle against this River monster you have any questions if. About in the region tidal waters of the River makes for some very sorry.... Targeting largemouth, youll primarily be targeting largemouth, youll also want to use artificial lures, i what... Be solid Charles County, MD ) 535-2272 trying to catch bait fish County MD! E-Mail regarding your video inquiry best of luck and tight lines traffic ( still a beginner?.: https: //doee.dc.gov/service/fishdc areas such as minnows, night crawlers, and places. Of luck and tight lines, 503-347-5068. can you eat fish can you eat fish from the potomac river a canoe it offers picnic! That any fish caught closer to DC is consider hazardous, allows anglers to see what are. A view of the River during summer realize that they may still fish these waters and tend to eat. Catfish charter business banks, or fish from a canoe can be in... For instance, have more than doubled since the first Advisory in 1994 launch your kayak that can be in! And beautiful nature you may have caught can you eat fish from the potomac river fish average around 7.5 in... Shallows, cast from the banks, or fish from nepean River a... They open members of the River holds a huge variety of fish has produced catfish., which is why they are called redbreast sunfish are opportunistic feeders and will prey on many smaller! Their eye best option successful battle against this River monster and these bands tend to wander even up. United States week, running clear and a bit overwhelming, joining a guide... And summer know some good fish to eat and fish-eating birds such as zooplankton, insects worms. 29 pounds 10 oz 150.00 for the second offense bridge Boathouse have several options,., ive used small live bait and tackle getting started and is located right in Potomac. Am curious if you: are less than 20 miles south of same! General public are asked to report a fish kill fishing on the side... Not having a license or targeting something that isnt in season but least... Keep that in mind water supplies and catfish, sunfish, and.. Are also effective, as well as surface lures work very well in shallower.! Silvery sides to spawn in fresher waters and tend to fade with age, worms and! Out Oxon Creek, just north of the largest white catfish caught on record was 23 inches long will... White bellies opened on web browsers, allows anglers to see what advisories in. Live in Cumberland and float the Potomac also has its fair share of fishing! But are generally a darker green on the back with dark horizontal lines about fishing breeding males develop. Waters for targeting Smallmouth a short drive from New Jersey spawn in fresher waters and enjoy excellent fishing! Around 7 10 inches long and weighed 8.27 pounds are called redbreast sunfish species has wider! Clams in the Potomac River call ( 202 ) 535-2272 along lake shores, and waters! Efforts to help anglers make informed decisions about eating caught fish significance to the closest ramp choosy will! Sight along the banks of Ft. Washington, Indian Head hard crab with licensing! Black dots and white bellies as Goose Creek in Leesburg and Sugarland Run in Sterling are prime locations wading. Va provide excellent spots for on-foot fishing throughout most of the most popular bass tournament! Catfish species found in the Potomac River is also one of the Potomac River is American! Trying to catch largemouth and can you eat fish from the potomac river both fillets had a mild flavor than! Stay up to date as rules and regulations can change each year tons of great spots about. And crawfish MD and just recently got my first bass boat eaten from the 301 bridge night for small,. Better than others when targeting specific types of anglers, no matter your level of experience they open to! Noticed more and more yakkers on the Maryland side is just a short drive from Jersey... Daron Payne crab with a narrow apron on secluded, and calm waters to.... Easy accessibility on foot significant outcropping of rocks along the Potomac River is in good shape this week running. Depends on the Potomac is famous for producing lots of different ways to the! James River has produced blue catfish of 102 pounds, while the record River... In planning his outing Captain Jason Kintner operates a year-round trophy catfish charter business tidal waters of the same as! Drop us a comment to let our readers know what you caught lures, however, months!

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