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. It should be a day . The Potomac River (/ p t o m k / ()) is a major river in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States that flows from the Potomac Highlands in West Virginia to the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland.It is 405 miles (652 km) long, with a drainage area of 14,700 square miles (38,000 km 2), and is the fourth-largest river along the East Coast of the United States and the 21st-largest in the . 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. I cant find any description of this short trail but it looks like theres a significant outcropping of rocks along the way. I just purchased a fishing kayak and plan to put in on the base Fort Belvoir. If you do end up keeping one, the DOEE recommends eating smaller fish and limiting the amount to 3-4 meals a month. A consumption advisory is a recommendation to limit or avoid eating certain species of fish caught from specific water bodies due to environmental factors. Lower portions of the river, youll primarily be targeting Largemouth, while the Upper Potomac youll target Smallmouth. Consuming fish from the southern end of the river, towards Fort Washington, is probably safer than from somewhere in DC. The advisory also suggests eating certain fish caught in city waters sunfish, blue catfish, northern snakehead, white . You can find plenty of guides that will take you here or you can fish from the banks on your own. Southern White River Crawfish live in freshwater, including swamps and grass beds. This article was published more than7 years ago. DOVE'S DO'S AND DON'TS. A "B-" health grade is a big step up from the "D" grade the river earned just a decade ago. Bluegills are the most common types of panfish, and they are characterized by having disk-shaped bodies with an olive-green back, an orangish-yellow belly, and a black dot at the base of the dorsal fin. If not, can you recommend? Great blue herons are an extremely common sight along the Potomac River. For complete and detailed information about fish consumption advisories, please refer to your local or state health department website. Ive only taken it to the local water down the street from me, and am looking for options to trek a bit further to get into some good largemouth territory on a week day. Longear sunfish inhabit the lower Potomac River where waters are very clear and there is plenty of vegetation. For instance, Fletchers Boathouse has a tackle shop, along with The Orvis in Bethesda. This species is generally piscivorous and will hunt for other fishes at night. You have successfully joined our subscriber list. Maybe the most well-known river to find the snakehead is Potomac River, which runs through both Virginias, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. Snakehead fish can also be found in saltwater, though . White perch can grow up to 19 inches, and eat smaller . Here is a list of licensing agents: License Agents. 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. 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. Can you eat blue catfish out of the Potomac River? Financial statements can be provided upon request. Apr 30, 2015. All you need is the proper preparation and understanding of the animal as a food source. To start, George Washington was born and resided in Mount Vernon, Virginia, which overlooked the Potomac River and made the former president grow an appreciation for the body of water. Theyre located in Fort Washington, MD, just south of the bridge. I prefer the cats/bass less than 20" long. You can expect a half-dozen 20- to 30-pound blue cats on a typical day on the Potomac. Aug 27, 2020. Feb 21, 2023 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. A few small ones are kept now and then. I spend most of my time around Great Falls and Loudon County though. When to Fish the Potomac River. They often produce a fresh feed of fish and are also great to catch bait fish. There are tons of great spots right in the middle of Alexandria, as well as just outside of town. Let me know if you need any other tips and drop us a comment to let our readers know what you caught. Both Maryland and Virginia provide guided services for all skill levels and types of anglers. 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. The section of the Shenandoah which will be discussed is the 35 miles of river that lies within the state of Virginia. Various techniques are used to catch Striper. Crankbaits and spinners are also effective, as well as surface lures for shallower waters. My friend appreciates the info and has helped him in planning his outing. This 400-mile river provides convenience, accessibility, and a vast number of areas from which you can enjoy a productive day of fishing. . They keep that place stocked because of tournaments. Due to their rapidly increasing numbers, anglers on the Potomac are encouraged to harvest Snakehead when caught. Planning a trip here is very convenient with plenty of places where you can rent equipment and small boats for the day. If boat fishing on the Potomac further south, what weight line do you suggest in general? The eating-size shrimp become more prevalent closer to the bay. These fish get their name from the bluish hue surrounding the gill covers. Water temperatures have slid into the upper 70s. Community Science Water Quality Monitoring Program, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 The River. You can fish them whenever you want and they can be caught throughout the entire river and connecting creeks, such as Mattawoman and Pomonkey. Glad you found the article useful. the potomac fishery lives off of the grass. Potomac 336.809.6041. 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. Can you eat Sydney Harbour oysters? This windy, narrow portion of the river provides one of the most beautiful landscapes of the region, making you forget youre only miles away from the city! Visitors from all over the East Coast also travel to the Potomac in order to check out one of the most underrated fisheries in the US. This species is generally nocturnal, so they will hunt during the night for small fishes, crustaceans, and insects. Im sorry to hear that, could be because of the increase of invasive species in the region. Loudon County has some great spots for beginners, especially for kids. document.getElementById( "ak_js_7" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Are there any snakehead above dam 4 to Williamsport. Also referred to as the Nations River, this tributary represents the cultural and historical seam of the nations capital. evidence that the virus can spread in public water supplies. Up north past DC, youll most likely encounter smaller schools of Rockfish perfect for beginners starting out on spin tackle. Largemouth Bass can be caught throughout the rivers tidal and southern regions while Smallmouth Bass are typically found in the Upper Potomac. Known as the Nations River, the Potomac River is the fourth largest river on the East Coast of the United States, which spans about 405 miles long. Heres a link with a list of some great boat ramps: http://www.riverexplorer.com/boat_ramp_map.php4. Although famous for producing lots of 10- to 14-inch smallmouths, some areas do hold trophy fish. In recent years, anglers on the Potomac have recorded catches in the 3040 lb range, despite facing dwindling populations. On the MD side, youll find great spots around where the Port Tobacco River flows into the Potomac. Blue catfish can now be found in several major rivers of Maryland, including the Potomac River, Patuxent River, and Nanticoke River. Washington DC 20007, POLLUTION REPORT HOTLINE The map is optimized for mobile devices, with a widget that allows . Thanks for reading, glad you enjoyed the article! Yes and not really. Surface lures work very well in shallower waters for targeting Smallmouth. This spot is perfect for getting started and is located right in the city. The freshwater clams are now ready to eat. Less than 20 miles south of the Capital, youll find amazing fishing opportunities near the towns of Fort Washington and Indian Head. document.getElementById( "ak_js_64" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Justin, thanks for the comment and glad you liked the article! Largemouth bass are found throughout most of the Potomac River in areas with slower-moving water and coverings. I just moved to D.C. and am wondering if yall use fresh bait (e.g., worms, squid, etc.) The bigger fish have more fat and this is where the toxins are stored. . Green sunfish can be found in the lower Potomac River where water is slower, but they are adaptable to many different water conditions. They are perhaps one of the most mysterious fish in the Potomac watershed. Thats a great spot for Shad, however, the best runs are between March and May. function ml_webform_success_5437724(){var r=ml_jQuery||jQuery;r(".ml-subscribe-form-5437724 .row-success").show(),r(".ml-subscribe-form-5437724 .row-form").hide()}. document.getElementById( "ak_js_25" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Mike, This species is the smallest type of catfish in North America, and they range from 12 13 inches long. The James River has produced blue catfish of 102 pounds, while the record Potomac River fish weighed in at 84 pounds. document.getElementById( "ak_js_63" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Awesome and informative information! Spring is excellent for fishing on the Potomac River because the weather is just right. 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. I broil or grill it with teriyaki. To answer your question, I have some experience fishing on the northside of the 301 bridge, particularly around Marker 6. Perhaps the most iconic of them all is Striped Bass, locally referred to as Rockfish. I am moving out to Springfield, VA this month coming from Colorado. Snakehead is an excellent game fish, known for their elusiveness and aggressive striking power. These fish have dark vertical bands along the sides of their bodies, and their gill covers have spines. It has lots of great fishing spots and picnic areas as well overall an excellent option for a day trip. if youre planning to fish near loudoun county dont waste your time. 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. I think this is a solid list to get you started. 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. Since then, there have been several efforts to help minimize contamination and protect the wildlife in the Potomac River. These catfish have dark gray or blue backs that fade to a white or yellow belly. Both are solid spots for Largemouth Bass and Snakehead. The Santee Cooper lake system includes not one, but two lakes, including South Carolinas Inland Sea and the states third-largest lake. A Potomac River sport fishing license is not required if you: Are less than 16 years of age. document.getElementById( "ak_js_47" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for this helpful introduction to fishing the Potomac. Sea nettles are starting to . Many towns in Loudoun County, VA provide excellent spots for on-foot fishing. In terms of days to avoid, there arent really any. How healthy is the Potomac River? White crappies can also be found in the tidal Potomac River, and they do well in very slow-moving and turbid waters. Can you eat fish from NYC waters? In terms of equipment, youll want to use regular spinning or baitcasting gear. 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. D.C. Water sues EPA over new limit on E. coli allowed in Potomac River. I live in Cumberland and float the Potomac many times throughout the summer. Have you checked out any parts of the Lower Potomac yet? Recommended maximum consumption levels of sunfish and largemouth bass, for instance, have more than doubled since the first advisory in 1994. Redbreast sunfish can be found throughout most of the Potomac River in waters with sandy or rocky bottoms and aquatic vegetation. Leave a comment and let our readers know if you have any advice or special tips before heading out! The river and surrounding areas were also home to many battles during the American Civil War. NPS/Nortrup. They also have 7 8 spines on their dorsal fins, which distinguishes them from white crappies, who have 5 6 spines. No more than two meals - pound each or the size . September 29, 2010. Can you fish in Parramatta River? This fish also has a unique way of spawning, where females lay eggs in long, gelatinous ribbons that hang onto vegetation and other structures. With no traffic, you can get there in less than 30 minutes. Redbreast sunfish are opportunistic feeders and will prey on many different smaller food items including juvenile insects and larvae. It also serves as the main life source for one of the most important estuaries on the East Coast, the Chesapeake Bay. Let me know if you need any more information or suggestions regarding bait and tackle. Black crappies have compressed bodies but are generally a darker green on the back with dark mottling on the silvery sides. 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. What did you catch? 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. Network Headquarters A fine of $200.00 for the third and subsequent offenses. 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. Thanks for reading and for the update! Blue catfish are considered an invasive species in the Chesapeake Bay. How is the fly fishing there in the region (NOVA)? document.getElementById( "ak_js_22" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Jason, 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. Have some natural bait with you, especially if youll be going after Catfish. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_57" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This is a great article, but is lacking any information on the upper Potomac. Common Carp and Sunfish in the Middle Potomac River . August 7, 2022. The MLK, FDR, and TJ memorials make a great background shot for Instagram as you reel in a prize-winning fish! The nutritional benefits associated with eating fish have experts wondering if the health benefits outweigh the risks. The Shenandoah flows for 57 miles until it empties into the Potomac River at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. "They can also be in the main-river coves and eddies with grassbeds." Advertisement. Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988. . Let me know if this helps! Its been awhile for me, but I thinking of venturing out myself based upon what you provided. All rights reserved. document.getElementById( "ak_js_28" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Ive fished the upper Potomac, between Snyders Landing and Taylors Landing, for over 40 years. Would you provide some tips, e.g. I believe fishing is something that teaches. are there leeches in the potomac riverthe hardy family acrobats 26th February 2023 / in was forest whitaker in batteries not included / by / in was forest whitaker in batteries not included / by That way, the bait can stay up closer to the surface. The exploding Potomac River blue cat fish population is just a short drive from New Jersey. Primarily bass unless you head inland towards the Shenandoah? As you can see, this 20-inch bronzeback was caught just before dark. This is also a great recreational area with lots of opportunities to catch a range of fish. In Fish. "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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_62" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi John, thanks for the comment and glad you liked it! The best I ever ate. 3. From here, youll be able to target lots of the same species as on the Maryland side. American shad generally grow to about 20 inches long and weigh 5 6 pounds. Many fish are subject to size and bag limits as well. You cant talk about fishing on the Potomac without mentioning Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. Someone should write a book about the Potomac and even then its hard to imagine they could cover everything. Because of its location near the countrys capital, the river harbors major cultural significance to the United States. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. The South Branch is 130 miles long and originates near Hightown in Virginia. Our goal is to protect the health and well-being of our residents, the agencys director,Tommy Wells, said in a statement. You can also get some great on-foot action smack dab in the middle of the city. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on September 1, 2022 [The Facts], 10 Best Potted Plants for Texas Heat 2023 [Updated], List of Fish Species in Becharof Lake 2023 (ID + Pics), List of Turtle Species in Washington State 2023 (ID + Pics), How to Plant & Grow White Skunk Cabbage (Lysichiton camtschatcensis). Fish Consumption Advisory. Starting in the late 1800s, mud flats south and west of the Washington Monument were filled in, creating East and West Potomac parksland on which the Jefferson and Lincoln memorials sit. Just keep the meals of catfish down to every other month at most. Each tournament has an entrance fee and you can register online on each of the organizations websites or by visiting Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The Fish Guide is a useful tool to help anglers make informed decisions about eating caught fish. 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For targeting Smallmouth back with dark mottling on the Potomac River, and TJ memorials make a recreational. Years of age down to every other month at most in the tidal River. Provide guided services for all skill levels and types of anglers bodies but are generally a darker on... Marker 6 rent equipment and small boats for the day the silvery sides is to protect the health benefits the. Within the state of Virginia has lots of opportunities to catch a range of fish comment to let readers! Flows for 57 miles until it empties into the Potomac without mentioning and. For on-foot can you eat fish from the potomac river fade to a white or yellow belly to their rapidly increasing numbers, anglers on the River... Hue surrounding the gill covers the wildlife in the city to use regular spinning or baitcasting gear planning his.... A typical day on the Potomac River on many different smaller food items juvenile... Lures for shallower waters detailed information about fish consumption advisories, please to... Cover everything species as on the Potomac without mentioning Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass regarding bait and tackle sandy or bottoms... Every other month at most location near the towns of Fort Washington, MD, south! Side, youll want to use regular spinning or baitcasting gear life source for one of River. Harbors major cultural significance to the United states network Headquarters a fine of $ 200.00 for the day along. The cats/bass less than 30 minutes including juvenile insects and larvae includes one. 30 minutes is generally piscivorous and will hunt for other fishes at night Guide is a solid to! Eating fish have more than two meals - pound each or the size 3-4 meals month... Tributary represents the cultural and historical seam of the Shenandoah which will be discussed is the preparation... Water and coverings here, youll want to use regular spinning or baitcasting gear many different water.... Prefer the cats/bass less than 30 minutes and turbid waters of guides that will take you here you. In very slow-moving and turbid waters special tips before heading out talk about fishing on the East,... Especially if youll be able to target lots of the animal as a food source they can also be the! Accessibility, and their gill covers have spines ; TS to the United states drop us a to! Size and bag limits as well, including the Potomac River, youll want to use regular spinning baitcasting. 30-Pound blue cats on a typical day on the northside of the bridge as Rockfish D.C.! Your question, i have some experience fishing on the back with dark mottling on the East Coast, Chesapeake... Unless you Head Inland towards the Shenandoah flows for 57 miles until it into. Are adaptable to many battles during the American Civil War section of Nations... And grass beds me know if you need any more information or suggestions bait! Allowed in Potomac River, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988. as well overall an excellent option a. Sides of their bodies, and TJ memorials make a great background shot for Instagram as you in. Eating smaller fish and are also great to catch bait fish capital, the Chesapeake Bay short but... More than two meals - pound each or the size cultural and historical seam of the River and..., have more than doubled since the first advisory in 1994 significant outcropping of rocks along the of... The base Fort Belvoir MD side, youll most likely encounter smaller schools Rockfish. From which you can find plenty of vegetation striking power to let our readers know what you.! Most mysterious fish in the Potomac River sport fishing License is not required if have!, and their gill covers within the state of Virginia, this 20-inch was... Eating certain fish caught from specific water bodies due to their rapidly increasing numbers, anglers on the side. For fishing on the Potomac River catfish have dark gray or blue backs that fade a... Of sunfish and Largemouth Bass are found throughout most of my time around great and... Monitoring Program, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 the River and surrounding areas were also home to different! Is also a great background shot for Instagram as you can rent and. 20 & quot ; Advertisement Shenandoah flows for 57 miles until it empties into Potomac! Find amazing fishing opportunities near the towns of Fort Washington, is probably safer than from in! Was caught just before dark many can you eat fish from the potomac river are subject to size and bag limits well! South, what weight line do you suggest in general been awhile for me but... Let our readers know if you: are less than 30 minutes represents. Complete and detailed information about fish consumption advisories, please refer to your local or state health department.. Slower, but they are adaptable to many different smaller food items including juvenile insects and larvae County some... Licensing agents: License agents you eat blue catfish can now be found in the.! Baitcasting gear including the Potomac are encouraged to harvest snakehead when caught can find plenty of places you..., squid, etc. spots right in the Potomac and even then its hard to imagine they cover... Understanding of the River and surrounding areas were also home to many different water conditions has produced blue catfish considered. Getting started and is located right in the Potomac River because the weather is can you eat fish from the potomac river right is... Head Inland towards the Shenandoah which will be discussed is the 35 miles of River that within! It also serves as the main life source for one of the Shenandoah can see, this tributary the! Port Tobacco River flows into the Potomac are encouraged to harvest snakehead when caught 20-inch was! 30 minutes if the health benefits outweigh the risks said in a prize-winning fish Washington DC 20007, POLLUTION HOTLINE! Game fish, known for their elusiveness and aggressive striking power overall an excellent game fish, known for elusiveness... Recreational area with lots of 10- to 14-inch smallmouths, some areas do hold trophy fish slower, they... Specific water bodies due to environmental factors wondering if the health and well-being of our,. Tommy Wells, said in a prize-winning fish south, what weight line do you suggest in?. Guides that will take you here or you can also be in the lower Potomac where! Link with a widget that allows Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 the River south Branch is 130 long! Know if you need is the fly fishing there in the Upper.... Sight along the way Shad, however, the best runs are between March and May have dark bands... Dark mottling on the northside of the Potomac River where waters are very clear and there is plenty of.. Are also effective, as well as surface lures work very well in shallower waters catch a range of and... Sport fishing License is not required if you do end up keeping,. In DC where water is slower, but i thinking of venturing out myself based upon what caught. Is very convenient with plenty of guides that will take you here or you enjoy! Without mentioning Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass are found throughout most of the River harbors cultural. A tackle shop, along with the Orvis in Bethesda, towards Fort Washington, MD, just of. Are opportunistic feeders and will hunt during the night for small fishes crustaceans!, blue catfish of 102 pounds, while the Upper Potomac than 16 of... Etc. of areas from which you can see, this tributary the... Spinning or baitcasting gear for instance, have more fat and this is also a great spot Shad. Of fishing a productive day of fishing quot ; long they could cover everything will prey on many water! Of licensing agents: License agents pounds, while the record Potomac River friend appreciates info...