Potomac River Fishing Charters

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Potomac River: 20 fishing charters available

Showing 1 - 10

Angler's choice

Listing image

21 ft

Up to 2 people

The Fishing Detective Guide Agency

5.0/5 (75 reviews)
Woodbridge
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency is located in Marbury and offers to show you a memorable time in these waters. Capt. Kenneth will do his best to make sure you have a fun day full of fishing.

"Ken is a fantastic guide! He took my 13 year old son and I out for a half day excursion on a tidal creek of the Potomac." —⁠ Jason,
Trips from
US $285
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18 ft

Up to 6 people

Capital Blues Fishing Charters

5.0/5 (32 reviews)
Arlington
Book your next trip with Capital Blues Fishing Charters and experience a world-class Blue Catfish fishery right in our nation’s capital! Trip hours can be customized—just ask! Families who love fishing together will be glad to know that kids a

"My partner and I hired Owen to show us the ropes when it comes to fishing the Potomac, and we certainly got our money’s worth." —⁠ Tod,
Trips from
US $355
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28 ft

Up to 6 people

Capt. Brian with Thomason Tradition

4.8/5 (32 reviews)
Leonardtown
Enjoy a day on the water with Capt. Brian Thomason, in his new 28’ Sportsman 282 TE, named Second Chance. He will always try his best to provide a top-notch light tackle fishing charter.

"We went out as a group of three and had the time of our lives." —⁠ Rick,
Trips from
US $500
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26 ft

Up to 6 people

C&S Charter And Guide Services

5.0/5 (22 reviews)
Montross
C&S Charter And Guide Services is located in Montross and offers to show you a memorable time in these waters. Capt. Chad will do his best to make sure you have a fun day full of fishing.

"Chad and his son adjusted our trip because of high winds. Chad..." —⁠ James,
Trips from
US $330
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27 ft

Up to 4 people

Beach Bum Charters

4.7/5 (1 review)
King George
If fishing in King George is on your bucket list, look no further than Beach Bum Charters. With Captain Wyatt at the helm, you’ll benefit from years of knowledge and experience.

"Captain Wyatt was great for novices and with kids. Overall was a great experience, and I would recommend it!" —⁠ Gilbert,
Trips from
US $550
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46 ft

Up to 35 people

Backdraft Charter Fishing – Welcome

5.0/5 (2 reviews)
Compton
Ready to go fishing on the Potomac River? Look no further than Backdraft Charter Fishing! With Captain Doug Collison at the helm, you’ll benefit from years of knowledge and experience.

"We had the best family fishing trip Capt Doug & Kenny were 100% professional, worked well together and kept us entertained." —⁠ Trish, Maryland
Trips from
US $800
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26 ft

Up to 4 people

Desperate Measures Guide Service

4.9/5 (13 reviews)
Dameron
Based out of Dameron, Maryland Desperate Measures Guide Service is your ticket to world class Light Tackle and Fly Fishing on the Chesapeake Bay. Capt. Cole will do his best to make sure you have a fun day full of fishing.
Trips from
US $650
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17 ft

Up to 2 people

Indian Head Charters

Indian Head
Make the most of your time in Indian Head and go fishing with Indian Head Charters. These waters are known for Largemouth Bass, Snakehead, and more – with any luck, you'll have tight lines in no time.
Trips from
US $375
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26 ft

Up to 5 people

Salty Siren Fishing (Southern Bay)

Ridge
Salty Siren Fishing is your ticket to a memorable time on the Chesapeake Bay. We split the season between our Southern Bay location in Ridge, MD, and our Northern Bay location in Pasadena, MD.
Trips from
US $650
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20 ft

Up to 5 people

On DeK Outdoors Bowfishing Charter

5.0/5 (1 review)
Woodbridge
If bowfishing in Woodbridge is on your bucket list, look no further than On DeK Outdoors Bowfishing Charter. Having logged many hours in these waters, Captain Matthew is prepared to show you a great adventure.

"Great time. Seen more fish than your group could ever shoot." —⁠ Josh, ME
Trips from
US $850

Half-day fishing trips in Potomac River

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21 ft

up to 2

Half-day fishing trips
Fishing the historic Potomac River has never been easier. Join Potomac Joe’s Fishing Service for a day and see what brings anglers across the whole country to this area. The most important thing for any angler is how bountiful these waters are, but

trips from

US $325

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19 ft

up to 2

Half-day fishing trips
KJ's Outdoor Adventures is located in King George and offers to show you a memorable time in these waters. Launch Ramps vary based on fishing location. Potomac will be either: Fairview Beach Yacht Club, Hope Springs Marina, Leesylvania State Park. Up

trips from

US $300

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26 ft

up to 3

Half-day fishing trips
Captain Darnell Greenways’ Prime Time Charters has been a favorite choice of many anglers fishing the coast of Maryland. On his first listing, Capt. Darnell offers a variety of fishing trips out of Stevensville, with season ending at the end of Dece

trips from

US $400

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26 ft

up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
C&S Charter And Guide Services is located in Montross and offers to show you a memorable time in these waters. Capt. Chad will do his best to make sure you have a fun day full of fishing. This involves 4 to 8-hour trips, mainly fishing for Bass, depen

trips from

US $220

Listing image

28 ft

up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
Enjoy a day on the water with Capt. Brian Thomason, in his new 28’ Sportsman 282 TE, named Second Chance. He will always try his best to provide a top-notch light tackle fishing charter. Fishing is his passion, and he truly enjoys his time spent on

trips from

US $500

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18 ft

up to 6

Half-day fishing trips
Book your next trip with Capital Blues Fishing Charters and experience a world-class Blue Catfish fishery right in our nation’s capital! Trip hours can be customized—just ask! Families who love fishing together will be glad to know that kids a

trips from

US $355

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21 ft

up to 2

Half-day fishing trips
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency is located in Marbury and offers to show you a memorable time in these waters. Capt. Kenneth will do his best to make sure you have a fun day full of fishing. This involves 4-hour trips, mainly fishing for Snakehead and

trips from

US $285

Top Targeted Species in Potomac River

Catfish
Catfish
River
+3
Striped Bass
Striped Bass
River
+3
White Perch
White Perch
River
+1
Snakehead
Snakehead
Lake
+1
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass
River
+1
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Lake
+1
Yellow Perch
Yellow Perch
River
+2
Crappie
Crappie
River
+1

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Potomac River

What are the best private fishing charters in Potomac River?

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Potomac River are:

How much does it cost to go charter fishing in Potomac River?

The average price for a private 4 hour Potomac River fishing trip is US $427, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $588 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in Potomac River are good for families?

Fishing charters in Potomac River that received great reviews from families are:

What are the top fish species I can catch in Potomac River?

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Potomac River are:

What are the top fishing techniques in Potomac River?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Potomac River are:

What are the top types of fishing in Potomac River?

The top 3 types of fishing in Potomac River are:

Do Potomac River fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

Many fishing charters in Potomac River provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

Who are the best rated captains in Potomac River?

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Potomac River are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Potomac River?

Who are the top awarded captains in Potomac River?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in Potomac River?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Potomac River are:

  • 4-hour fishing trips – US $300
  • 5-hour fishing trips – US $600
  • 6-hour fishing trips – US $602
  • 7-hour fishing trips – US $525
  • 8-hour fishing trips – US $558

Fishing in Potomac River

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.

Potomac River

5/5
Based on 29,146 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Potomac River Fishing Seasons

January

Most of the fish are sluggish this time of year but Catfishing is still solid. Target them under bridges and use a slip-sinker rig to get them out of their holes.

February

Largemouth Bass and Crappie fishing can reap some rewarding catches, especially in areas between Alexandria and Fort Washington. Catfishing is solid in many spots throughout the river as well.

March

As spring rolls around, the fishing really starts to heat up. Likely catches this month include Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, as well as Brown and Rainbow Trout.

April

As the water temperatures start to warm up, the fishing only gets better! In April you can expect to catch Snakehead, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Rainbow and Brown Trout, and Catfish.

May

May marks the beginning of Striper season. This fish is the pride and joy of the Potomac. You can target them throughout the river but head to the delta for the really big ones!

June

June is a pretty busy time in the nation’s capital, so be sure to plan your trip ahead of time. The fishing is great too. Striped Bass, Crappie, Perch, Snakehead, and Catfish are just some of the fish you can target this month.

July

Plan a trip around the Fourth of July and watch the Independence Day fireworks on the National Mall. When it comes to fishing, you can expect to catch Striped Bass, Rainbow Trout, Crappie, Snakehead, and Perch.

August

Head to the mouth of the river for a change of pace and target the likes of Cobia, Flounder, Redfish, and Black Drum. Plan a crabbing trip with the family for some famously delicious Maryland Blue Crab!

September

Fall is a great time for fishing on the Potomac River. In September, you’ll most likely be targeting Striped, Largemouth, and Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Perch, Snakehead, and Catfish.

October

Striped Bass and Crappie fishing remain hot throughout the fall. You can also target large numbers of Catfish and Snakehead in many spots along the river.

November

As the water temperatures cool off, so does the fishing. Lots of fish become lazy, except for Striped Bass, Catfish, and Crappie. You can also find solid numbers of Largemouth Bass near rocky or gravely banks of the river.

December

Cities and towns along the river are filled with holiday cheer! Plan your trip around Christmas time and be sure to check out the National Christmas Tree along with many other wintertime festivities.

Potomac River Fishing Calendar

Bass (Largemouth)Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Smallmouth)Bass (Smallmouth)
Bass (Striped)Bass (Striped)
Brown TroutBrown Trout
CatfishCatfish
CrabCrab
CrappieCrappie
Perch (Silver)Perch (Silver)
Perch (White)Perch (White)
Perch (Yellow)Perch (Yellow)
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
SnakeheadSnakehead

What anglers said about fishing in Potomac River

Mostly only rockfish available this early in June. We were unable to find puppy drum or speckled trout
5.0/5
Mostly only rockfish available this early in June. We were unable to find puppy drum or speckled trout
Rick G.
Rick G.
Be prepared to learn a lot and be active-bass fishing is a sport for a reason. Put your thinking cap on and reap the rewards with Ken!
5.0/5
Be prepared to learn a lot and be active-bass fishing is a sport for a reason. Put your thinking cap on and reap the rewards with Ken!
Donald S.
Donald S.
Yes. Please read my review, I’ve done charter boats for years he’s is great with young anglers
5.0/5
Yes. Please read my review, I’ve done charter boats for years he’s is great with young anglers
Kenny K.
Kenny K.
Ask questions about what to expect. Capt. Chad is right on the river and knows the conditions. Plenty of room for 3 and boat will allow 6.
5.0/5
Ask questions about what to expect. Capt. Chad is right on the river and knows the conditions. Plenty of room for 3 and boat will allow 6.
Charles B.
Charles B.
You should book at trip with Captain Owen and catch the biggest catfish of your life!
5.0/5
You should book at trip with Captain Owen and catch the biggest catfish of your life!
Taylor F.
Taylor F.
October is cooler so just bring/wear layers for the boat ride between fishing locations
5.0/5
October is cooler so just bring/wear layers for the boat ride between fishing locations
Matthew H.
Matthew H.
Great experience and beautiful day-wish we would have been able to catch more fish. Our boat was kind of tight for 6 fisherman, but i understand they just got a bigger boat for future outings.
4.3/5
Great experience and beautiful day-wish we would have been able to catch more fish. Our boat was kind of tight for 6 fisherman, but i understand they just got a bigger boat for future outings.
Lee D.
Lee D.
It can be hot as balls but we lucked out with the weather. Captain Tim gave us a full briefing the night before which did a great job of managing our expectations.
5.0/5
It can be hot as balls but we lucked out with the weather. Captain Tim gave us a full briefing the night before which did a great job of managing our expectations.
Rich B.
Rich B.
Fishing is seasonal, as well as the type of fish that may be more prevalent because they may/may not be in their season
5.0/5
Fishing is seasonal, as well as the type of fish that may be more prevalent because they may/may not be in their season
James R.
James R.
Dress warmly, it was chilly earlier in the day. The marina is easy to find.
5.0/5
Dress warmly, it was chilly earlier in the day. The marina is easy to find.
Susan K.
Susan K.
Use a guide, such as Rich Johnson who is knowledgeable of the local conditions and can get them on the fish much faster than trying to fish on their own .
5.0/5
Use a guide, such as Rich Johnson who is knowledgeable of the local conditions and can get them on the fish much faster than trying to fish on their own .
David K.
David K.

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Potomac River?

The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Ken had us on fish right away. He had a great knowledge of the river and where to find them.
Mark S.
Mark S.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
My husband and I had a great time with Ken. He was patient, engaging and taught us a lot. He knew exactly where to go and how to find the fish. We would highly recommend him and this experience. We will be fishing when him again soon.
Glenn C.
Glenn C.
Capt. Brian with Thomason Tradition
Capt. Brian with Thomason Tradition
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Captain Brian was top notch. We were out only 4 hours and caught our limit in rock bass. Had a great time on the water. The boat was clean and in excellent condition. I'm ready for round 2...
Gary G.
Gary G.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
I can’t say enough positive things about Capt Ken. Very knowledgeable, worked hard get three snakeheads in the boat, and all around nice guy. Would recommend without reservation.
Peter F.
Peter F.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Ken is the true professional. The knowledge that he has of that body of water to be able to put people on fish is awesome. He knows how to cater to his customers, from the beginner to the more advanced angler. I highly recommend Ken - my last 3 trips were all 5-star experiences. Thanks Ken!
Brian W.
Brian W.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
My boyfriend and I spent a wonderful afternoon fishing with Ken. We caught lots of fish (including on the very first cast!) and throughly enjoyed the experience. Ken is so nice and patient, and ensured we both had a great time at our different experience levels. He took lots of photos and sent them to us afterwards. I have no doubt we will be booking another trip soon!
Jordyn L.
Jordyn L.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Capt. Ken Penrod made my son’s first fishing trip a blast! He was patient, personable, and made learning the basics fun, not frustrating. My son even caught the only fish of the trip—a nice largemouth bass. We’ll be booking with Capt. Penrod again!
Aaron W.
Aaron W.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
This is the 2nd time I used Ken. He is a great guide. Super knowledgeable and great conversation to boot. We had a blast. I will definitely book him for my next trip.
Pedro O.
Pedro O.
Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Our family of 4 including 2 teenagers enjoyed our morning on the river. Captain Owen was fun and easy to talk to. He made it his mission to find us fish. Which we did. I would definitely recommend if you need a break from typical DC tourist spots.
Amy C.
Amy C.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
I booked an afternoon of fishing on the Potomac for my husband's birthday. Captain Ken was so knowledgeable and had already scooped out the locations. First cast caught a fish! My husband caught at least 10 and even me, having never fished, tried and caught 2. He gave my husband all kinds of useful tips and made the experience so fun and easy. Will definitely book again the next time we want to go out!
Lindsay N.
Lindsay N.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
From the moment we boarded the boat, Captain Ken was a consummate professional. Very knowledgeable about the area, the fish and their habits, and just so personable! He helped us fish for bass using two different types of lures in two different locations, and we caught fish on every lure in every location. Wonderful way to spend an early summer morning on the Potomac. We’ll definitely be back! Thank you for a great time, Captain Ken.
Heidi L.
Heidi L.
Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
We booked a 4 hour trip for my 9 year old's birthday. None of us had any fishing experience and Captain Owen made it so easy for us to show up and have a great time. We all caught several fish, even our 5 year old! The boat was comfortable and safe - Captain was very attentive to making sure we were safe even in crazy dc holiday weekend traffic. Our kids can't wait to go again. I highly recommend Capital Blues!
Carolyn W.
Carolyn W.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
If you are a bass fisherman and want some great guiding and great gear, this is the man for you. Ken explained the science behind the tides, weather, water conditions and how it relates to bass behavior and what bait we should throw. We caught 15 bass, and four of those were easily between four and five lbs. I will be a repeat customer for sure!
Donald S.
Donald S.
Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Captain Owen really made this a great fishing experience for me and and family. He had all the equipment and knew exactly where to go to catch fish. We all caught some nice blue cats, several of them over 10 pounds. To have this kind of fishing experience in the shadow of the DC monuments is quite remarkable. Capt. Owen has an impressive knowledge of the rich history of the area, making the trip even more entertaining. We can’t wait to book our next trip. Thank you Captain Owen!
Richard L.
Richard L.
FishThePotomac - Grady White 330 Express
FishThePotomac - Grady White 330 Express
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Couldn’t have asked for a better day on the water. Can’t wait to book again with Capt Tim
Timothy M.
Timothy M.
FishThePotomac - Grady White 330 Express
FishThePotomac - Grady White 330 Express
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Beautiful boat, company, equipment and all around wonderful time. Captain Tim was awesome. Can’t wait to book again.
Alicia R.
Alicia R.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
My wife Joelle and I had a great time catching lots of largemouth bass with Captain Ken on a Friday afternoon. Ken knew right where to find fish. He was super patient with Joelle who is a little less experienced. She caught fish and had a blast. This was my second successful outing with Ken. Highly recommended!
David H.
David H.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
My trip with Captain Penrod was amazing. He was patient and knowledgeable. I appreciated his expectation management. He showed me new techniques and I caught fish!
Michael B.
Michael B.
Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Convenient and flexible schedule! Great fishing experience for my son and I. Caught some monster fish running up river. (Fishing north of Chain Bridge, you’d never know you are in the city!!) Gained a lot of knowledge about the history of the area! Our Guide was prepared and methodical, a master angler. Owen, thank you for a great fishing trip and your service to our country!!
Terrance B.
Terrance B.
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
The Fishing Detective Guide Agency
Fishing charter in Potomac River
5.0/5
Thank you, Captain Ken! My son and I had a great morning on the bay with you fishing. We learned a lot and had fun.
Jerry W.
Jerry W.