Fishing has been a big part of the Potomac River's economy, recreation, and way of life throughout history. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the river or an action-packed adventure, there's a little bit of something in store for everyone!
A variety of species inhabit the Potomac River, including Striped Bass (locally referred to as Rockfish), Snakehead, Perch, Catfish, and Trout. You'll also find fisheries that hold solid numbers of Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Walleye, Muskellunge, Pike, and Freshwater Eel.
There are plenty of Potomac River fishing guides that provide a wide variety of packages, designed to meet your specific needs. Shorter trips are perfect for beginners, while longer trips are great for those looking to cover more ground and target a wider variety of fish.
Some towns to check out when planning your fishing trip are Washington, DC and Alexandria, VA. These cities in the middle of the Potomac have easy access to both the upper and lower part of the river. You can also find guides on the Potomac-Chesapeake Bay Delta. Trips around Tall Timbers and Leonardtown, MD are ideal for combining river and bay fishing. These are also great spots to go crabbing – an extremely fun activity for the whole family!
Rules & Regulations
If you're over the age of 16, you'll need to obtain a valid fishing license, regardless of whether you're fishing in MD, VA, or DC. Keep in mind, certain species are subject to seasonality and cannot be targeted at certain times of the year. Just be sure to check with your guide before heading out as each state has its own specific laws and regulations that you'll have to pay attention to.