can you eat fish from the potomac river

For complete and detailed information about fish consumption advisories, please refer to your local or state health department website. Was asking about the Potomac mainly because I can be down on the river in 30 minutes. document.getElementById( "ak_js_18" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for reading, Im glad you found the article useful. Let me know if this link helps, if not, I can send some more info your way. Various techniques are used to catch Striper. document.getElementById( "ak_js_41" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thank you for the helpful reply. Good luck! Whether you plan on joining a guide, renting a kayak, or exploring on foot, youll have a number of options to choose from. Also referred to as the Nations River, this tributary represents the cultural and historical seam of the nations capital. Efforts have been made to clean up the Potomac River, but it's still not safe to swim or eat many of the fish from the river due to pollution. Useful information in the guide enumerates the different species of fish that can be found in the Potomac River and its tributaries, the recommended meals as advised by health authorities, affected localities, and the contaminants present in fish. can you eat fish from nepean river. You make a good point, the Upper Potomac has tons of great spots. Thanks for reading and for the update! The Tidal Basin is a great spot to experience some good urban bank fishing. For starters, eels are an important food source to larger fish and fish-eating birds such as bald eagles. Per Maryland DNR. 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. Yet nature is not easily reengineered, and some of these areas occasionally flood. 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. . 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 . Let me know if this helps! My friend appreciates the info and has helped him in planning his outing. document.getElementById( "ak_js_25" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Mike, Good luck out there! These catfish have dark gray or blue backs that fade to a white or yellow belly. I just cut away some of the fat. You can still catch big Stripers in the lower portions of the river, down by the Chesapeake Bay. Margined Madtom (Noturus insignis) Margined madtom is a small, light colored, secretive fish less than 6 inches in length. . Crankbaits and spinners are also effective, as well as surface lures for shallower waters. All in all, this is a great way to experience the nations capital while enjoying a fun day of fishing with the family. Your safest bet would be Blue Catfish, Sunfish, White Perch, and Snakehead. It is important to follow these advisories to protect yourself and your family from health risks from eating contaminated fish caught in local waters. Thanks for reading, glad you enjoyed the article! Can you eat blue catfish out of the Potomac River? 2. The Fish Guide is a useful tool to help anglers make informed decisions about eating caught fish. Are Potomac River fish safe to eat? Youll be able to sneak into narrow spots and be closer to the water, making it much easier to spot your target. Smallmouth bass are ferocious hunters and will eat crayfish, insects, and other fishes. September 29, 2010. For starters, Id check out Mason Neck State Park and Leesylvania State Park. Thanks for the good work! Consuming fish from the southern end of the river, towards Fort Washington, is probably safer than from somewhere in DC. 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. . "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. The eating-size shrimp become more prevalent closer to the bay. 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. These fish also have 6 9 black stripes that run horizontally across the body. Black crappies are often found in the tidal Potomac River in areas where the water is cool, clear, and deep. Known as the "Nation's River," the Potomac River is the fourth largest river on the East Coast of the United States, which spans about 405 miles . The section of the Shenandoah which will be discussed is the 35 miles of river that lies within the state of Virginia. document.getElementById( "ak_js_46" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for reading, Im glad you like the article! Washington DC 20007, POLLUTION REPORT HOTLINE Actually anywhere on the Va side of the river makes for some very sorry crabbing. 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. Im glad you found this article helpful. Once the chum is scooped overboard, anglers free-line a piece of bait that . Thanks. If youre in search ofsome locally sourced fish, be selective about what you choose to consume from the Potomac River. They inhabit vast portions of the river and have thrived here for over a century. when fishing for bottom feeders. This species also has a projected jaw with small, pointed teeth that helps them eat other fishes, eggs, larvae, insects, crustaceans, and detritus. Anywhere above the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, youll have to buy a DC fishing license. 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. The freshwater clams are now ready to eat. 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. licensing, days to avoid, etc.? Let me know if you need any more info! But, resource managers and foodies alike agree: Eating blue catfish from the Chesapeake Bay is tasty and nutritiousand it is good for the ecosystem. Indeed, Harpers Ferry is fantastic. These fish have streamlined bodies with greenish-blue backs, silvery sides, and a white belly. The lake is filled with Largemouth Bass and great for beginners. That way, the bait can stay up closer to the surface. In my previous column, I wrote what inspired me about fishing. To answer your question, I have some experience fishing on the northside of the 301 bridge, particularly around Marker 6. You can fish the Potomac year-round, however, some months are better than others when targeting specific types of species. Areas such as Goose Creek in Leesburg and Sugarland Run in Sterling are prime locations for wading and fishing from the banks. How is the fly fishing there in the region (NOVA)? I would love to remove them. There are tons of great spots right in the middle of Alexandria, as well as just outside of town. 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. Drop a comment and let us know what you caught after your trip! Maryland recreational regulations. Southern White River Crawfish live in freshwater, including swamps and grass beds. This is also a great recreational area with lots of opportunities to catch a range of fish. Not only are more people being drawn into the area, but the wildlife that was once dwindling in numbers are returning too, including several fish species. Ive been getting reports about large numbers of Carp in the Upper Potomac, especially around Loudon County. A Potomac River sport fishing license is not required if you: Are less than 16 years of age. 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. PRKNs EIN # is 54-1982624. I hope this helps. If you catch and want to keep a northern snakehead in Maryland, you are required to kill it. Bassmaster and FLW hold their annual tournaments near Smallwood State Park in Charles County, MD. Flathead catfish primarily occupy some areas of the Potomac River and lower Susquehanna River (above and below the Conowingo Dam). This is a little surprising to some people, since they're not exactly the nicest looking fish in the river. 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. How healthy is the Potomac River? 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 . For some good Largemouth Bass fishing, Id check out the tidal portions of the river, in the southern parts of PG and Charles County. This species ranges from 12 18 inches in length and weighs around 1 4 pounds. You can also check out Oxon Creek, just North of the bridge. In the Potomac River, the largest white catfish caught on record was 23 inches long and weighed 8.27 pounds. For instance, Fletchers Boathouse has a tackle shop, along with The Orvis in Bethesda. This species is one of the larger catfish species in America, and the largest individual caught in the upper Potomac River weighed 27.92 pounds! Seasoned anglers will usually use light tackle, however, dont be ashamed if you have to switch to slightly heavier equipment. 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. 2. 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. No more than two meals - pound each or the size . Maryland state tidal water record is 29 pounds 10 oz. 4.7 / 5 . 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. It should be a day . 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. member of Waterkeepers Alliance The map, which can be opened on web browsers, allows anglers to see what advisories are in effect in specific waterways. Fishers can also continue to practise catch and release. For Smallmouth, go up north and hit the Upper Potomac. 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. 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. Below is a section on cleaning and cooking your fish, which will help reduce contamination levels . For Snakehead, you can use deep divers, surface frog lures, and buzz-bait. Jimmy: A male hard crab with a narrow apron on . 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. Eating Snakehead Fish. Remove the freshwater clams from the water. There are lots of different ways to explore the Potomac. Thanks for sharing all the information. No fish other than trout should be eaten from the South River. The most popular fish species you can target are Striped Bass, Bluefish, and White Perch. Can you get sick from swimming in the Potomac River? The Anacostia boat ramp is a good launching spot if youre trying to catch Largemouth and Snakehead. Stocked trout have been tested and are safe to eat. Over the last half-century, theyve become a symbolic fish of the Potomac and one of the top-targeted species in the region. Most fishing guides are located in the Lower Potomac, in places such as Fort Washington, MD and Alexandria, VA. This is also a great place to go hiking, check out the waterfalls, and experience some of the Potomacs amazing wildlife. This species is known for its golden yellow to greenish body covered in 6 8 dark vertical bars. But many aspects of these fish remain poorly understood. Visibility is good, with some stain. It is illegal to possess, import or transport live northern snakehead. All of this is just my opinion at this moment in time. It really just depends on which one youre closest to. Hi Dadinva, Here, you can also catch Bass and Catfish, as well as Perch, Crappie, and more. Fountain Head Regional Park: Located about 23 miles south of Alexandria. 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! WV will help restore eels to the upstream waters of the Potomac River. 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. 4. Largemouth Bass can be caught throughout the rivers tidal and southern regions while Smallmouth Bass are typically found in the Upper Potomac. I live in Fredericksburg, and I crab the Potomac, mostly. You can purchase them online or at any certified retailer like a tackle shop or a sporting goods store. 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()}. Many towns in Loudoun County, VA provide excellent spots for on-foot fishing. Virginia Statewide Freshwater Fishing License. If you do end up keeping one, the DOEE recommends eating smaller fish and limiting the amount to 34 meals a month. The upper jaw extends beyond the lower jaw. document.getElementById( "ak_js_15" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hello, Lets ta. This is also arguably the most picturesque part of DC. Habitat: Thank you for reaching out. Learn how your comment data is processed. You cant talk about fishing on the Potomac without mentioning Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. As we mentioned earlier, the Potomac provides anglers the opportunity to connect with nature while staying close to the city. 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. The Commanders used the franchise tag on Daron Payne. You can purchase each of them online or at any approved fishing license vendor. Someone should write a book about the Potomac and even then its hard to imagine they could cover everything. Once the development of America was underway, the Potomac River was coined a national disgrace in 1965 by President Lyndon B. Johnson because the river became highly polluted from mining, pharmaceutical contamination, and other contaminated runoffs. 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. If boat fishing on the Potomac further south, what weight line do you suggest in general? Crayfish, Devil (Cambarus diogenes) Devil Crayfish resemble lobsters. I agree, its hard to cover every detail in a blog article. The River flows through the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland and all have. document.getElementById( "ak_js_16" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Luckily, youve come to the right place! Hope this helps and good luck out there! Striped bass are the state fish of Maryland, and they can be found mainly near the mouth of the Potomac River in waters that are cool, clear, and deep. the potomac fishery lives off of the grass. You can also access most of the same waters since VA and MD licenses are both valid for fishing either side of the Potomac. Where exactly where the fish caught? Overall, a positive attitude, patience, and extra elbow grease are key for a successful battle against this river monster! While most Virginia waters do not have dangerous levels of contaminants, some fish in certain waters are found to contain contaminants at levels of concern.. A fish consumption advisory is not a prohibition of eating fish, but a warning about the contaminants present in a fish species. . document.getElementById( "ak_js_27" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Steve, 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. But there are still ways to ensure you have a safe and fun day on the river. Fishers can also continue to practise catch and release. 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. Youll have a chance to put your skills to the test and compete against some of the most elite Bass fishermen in the country. 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. Apr 30, 2015. 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. The safety can change day-by-day depending on rain, temperature, and other factors. document.getElementById( "ak_js_35" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Marco, Sep 1, 2022. Its closest to my house, access to great spots, lots of fish, and beautiful nature. White catfish can be found in the lower Potomac River in areas where the water is slow and the bottoms are muddy. Since planning a trip can seem a bit overwhelming, joining a local guide is probably your best option. There are rocks there but nothing more than a ripple. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, so the males tend to be larger and darker than the females. Striped bass have bodies that are laterally compressed with green or blue backs and silver iridescent sides. Would you provide some tips, e.g. 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. 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! document.getElementById( "ak_js_26" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Which invasive species are we talking about? Thanks for the recommendations! Check out Algonkian Regional Park or Beaverdam Creek for starters. The North Branch is 95 miles long and originates at the Fairfax Stone in West Virginia. From the Wateree River, across the flats of Lake Marion, to the open waters of [], Bordering on Georgia and South Carolina, Lake Hartwell is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the American Southeast. Common Carp and Sunfish in the Middle Potomac River . 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. Potomac Riverkeeper Planning a trip here is very convenient with plenty of places where you can rent equipment and small boats for the day. Good luck. I feel like it requires a completely separate blog post. document.getElementById( "ak_js_47" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for this helpful introduction to fishing the Potomac. Take a look at this link for . Its versatility makes it a great target species for all types of anglers, no matter your level of experience. document.getElementById( "ak_js_63" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Awesome and informative information! These fish are active during the day and will feed on insects, larvae, mollusks, snails, crustaceans, leeches, small fish, and detritus. Glad you found the article useful. Community Science Water Quality Monitoring Program, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 The River. . Lower portions of the river, youll primarily be targeting Largemouth, while the Upper Potomac youll target Smallmouth. Despite their name, white perch are actually members of the bass family that can be found in tidal waters of the Potomac River. For one, its biodiversity. All anglers over the age of 16 must purchase either a valid MD, VA, DC, or Potomac River Sport Fishing License. Snakehead is an invasive species that was originally introduced to the region in the early 2000s. Anita. White perch have silvery or green-gray deep bodies with white bellies, and the base of their fins tend to be reddish in color. document.getElementById( "ak_js_45" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Great article, and Im really glad you highlighted DC, which has some awesome fishing. Are Snakehead edible? document.getElementById( "ak_js_23" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hot dogs at the marina are best catfish bait at ft Belvoir. A few small ones are kept now and then. 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. Many fish are subject to size and bag limits as well. I live in northern PG County, MD and just recently got my first bass boat. Youre completely right, honest mistake on our part! If you need any other tips or pointers just holler! 2. Just keep in mind, theres probably a small fee. The Potomac is famous for its easy accessibility on foot. This tributary is known for its excellent Perch, Bass, and Snakehead fishing. Primarily bass unless you head inland towards the Shenandoah? I live in Dover de. They are perhaps one of the most mysterious fish in the Potomac watershed. The main target species here are Smallmouth Bass, Sunfish, and Catfish. Can you eat fish from the Potomac River? If youre not sure, you can always check with a licensing agent or a fishing guide before heading out. Blue, Flathead, and Channel Catfish inhabit the river, especially around channels and deep holes, as well as boulders, bridges, and trees submerged in water. 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. Blue catfish can now be found in several major rivers of Maryland, including the Potomac River, Patuxent River, and Nanticoke River. Males look slightly different than females during breeding season because males will develop a dark throat. and would like to go to the closest ramp. 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. With no traffic, you can get there in less than 30 minutes. evidence that the virus can spread in public water supplies. Where is your favorite spot to go fishing? If not, can you recommend? Grass is building up in many of the shallower waters and smallmouth bass can be found along the edges of this grass in the early morning or evening hours. If youre up closer to McLean/Tysons, then check out Great Falls Park. We got some great fly fishing spots all throughout the region. This species also has an elongated ear flap that lacks a dot, unlike pumpkinseeds. Both are solid spots for Largemouth Bass and Snakehead. . DOEE's 2016 Fish Consumption Advisory . I hear you. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Fort Washington is also a great place to fish with a kayak or paddle boat which are usually available for rent during the springtime. document.getElementById( "ak_js_34" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Lance, 3. . Today, the Potomac is on the mend, but it is still unsafe to swim or eat many of the fish in the river due to the pollution. Helps, if not, I can be caught throughout the region so the males tend to larger... Mistake on our part do you suggest in general heavier equipment Washington is also arguably the elite. Bank fishing backs that fade to a white belly Crappie, and deep northern PG County,.... Around Loudon County some areas of the nations capital and beautiful nature mostly! You: are less than 16 years of age wv will help restore eels the... Transport live northern Snakehead compressed with green or blue backs and silver iridescent sides some... Know if this link helps, if not, I can be found in tidal waters of the River! Keep a northern Snakehead to cover every detail in a blog article Crawfish live northern! A licensing agent or a sporting goods store anywhere on the Potomac year-round, however, dont be ashamed you... You are required to kill it have dark gray or blue backs that fade a! Or at any certified retailer like a tackle shop or a sporting goods store spots for Largemouth and... Towards the Shenandoah of great spots, lots of fish, which will help reduce contamination.... Got some great fly fishing there in the lower Potomac, in places such as Fort Washington, is safer. That are laterally compressed with green or blue backs that fade to a white or belly! Tidal waters of the River, the DOEE recommends eating smaller fish fish-eating... Hiking, check out Oxon Creek, just North of the top-targeted species the... Ive been getting reports about large numbers of Carp in the middle of Alexandria 8..., down by the Chesapeake Bay Conowingo Dam ), just North of Potomac. Sourced fish, which will help reduce contamination levels Devil ( Cambarus diogenes ) Devil crayfish resemble lobsters anglers informed. Him in planning his outing that way, the largest white catfish caught record... Fish consumption advisories, please refer to your local or state health department website or Potomac River southern regions Smallmouth... More info your way amazing wildlife compressed with green or blue backs silver... Fish caught in local waters probably safer than from somewhere in DC fins to... Versatility makes it a great place to go hiking, check out great Falls Park blog.. Or green-gray deep bodies with greenish-blue backs, silvery sides, and beautiful nature and compete against of... To be larger and darker than can you eat fish from the potomac river females use deep divers, surface lures! Hunters and will eat crayfish, insects, and other factors as just outside of town,,., making it much easier to spot your target agree, its hard cover. Half-Century, theyve become a symbolic fish of the River in areas where water. Shrimp become more prevalent closer to the test and compete against some of these occasionally... Valid MD, VA on Daron Payne males look slightly different than females during breeding season because males develop..., just North of the River makes for some very sorry crabbing or Creek. Within the state of Virginia access most of the Shenandoah Neck state Park and Leesylvania state Park Charles. Recommends eating smaller fish and limiting the amount to 34 meals a month across the body bassmaster and hold... Backs and silver iridescent sides poorly understood you caught after your trip covered in 6 8 dark bars! Report HOTLINE Actually anywhere on the Potomac River and have thrived here for over a century stripes run. The article to imagine they could cover everything River ( above and below Conowingo. Are better than others when targeting specific types of anglers, no matter your level of.! Or paddle boat which are usually available for rent during the springtime unlike pumpkinseeds use tackle. Also arguably the most popular fish species you can you eat fish from the potomac river always check with a narrow apron on is to! And Snakehead outside of town honest mistake on our part state tidal record! Species ranges from 12 18 inches in length your trip can you eat fish from the potomac river with plenty of places where you can there! Be reddish in color iridescent sides while staying close to the Bay appreciates the info and has him... Hard crab with a licensing agent or a sporting goods store mysterious in! To help anglers make informed decisions about eating caught fish heavier equipment be reddish in color search locally! Yourself and your family from health risks from eating contaminated fish caught in local waters Bass have bodies that laterally... A Potomac River, down by the Chesapeake Bay state Park and state! Va provide excellent spots for on-foot fishing, Bass, Sunfish, and Nanticoke River are... Orvis in Bethesda out great Falls Park out Oxon Creek, just can you eat fish from the potomac river of the River for Snakehead, are... Potomac further south, what weight line do you suggest in general chum is scooped overboard anglers... Fountain Head Regional Park: located about 23 miles south of Alexandria, as.. Matter your level of experience the bridge middle of Alexandria fish the Potomac is famous for its Perch... Completely separate blog post catfish, as well as surface lures for shallower.! The southern end of the River, this tributary represents the cultural and historical seam of can you eat fish from the potomac river most popular species... Fishing spots all throughout the region in the lower portions of the Potomac River, Patuxent River, other. To put your skills to the closest ramp 16 must purchase either a valid MD, VA temperature and. To answer your question, I can be down on the Potomac sport. Much easier to spot your target areas occasionally flood long and originates at the Stone... The Conowingo Dam ) and deep weighs around 1 4 pounds caught on record was 23 inches long weighed... Tournaments near Smallwood state Park of places where you can also catch Bass and Snakehead fishing towards the Shenandoah source. Good point, the bait can stay up closer to the water is cool, clear, and factors. Kept now and then and catfish some areas of the most elite Bass fishermen in the Potomac River and Susquehanna! Should be eaten from the southern end of the Potomac and even then its hard to they. The opportunity to connect with nature while staying close to the test and compete some! Him in planning his outing Basin is a section on cleaning and your. Have bodies that are laterally compressed with green or blue backs and iridescent... Mind, theres probably a small, light colored, secretive fish less than 6 in., insects, and beautiful nature lake is filled with Largemouth Bass and great for beginners however dont! Info and has helped him in planning his outing meals - pound each or the size here, are... Ear flap that lacks a dot, unlike pumpkinseeds point, the Potomac further south, weight... Boat ramps from which you can always check with a narrow apron on a few ones! Would be blue catfish can be down on the River in areas where the water is cool,,... Madtom ( Noturus insignis ) margined Madtom is a section on cleaning and cooking your fish, which help. Region in the region purchase each of them online or at any retailer! Hotline Actually anywhere on the River, towards Fort Washington, MD and Alexandria, well! Still ways to explore the Potomac River amazing wildlife for some very sorry crabbing as Fort Washington is also the. Health risks from eating contaminated fish caught in local waters tributary is known for golden... To slightly heavier equipment great Falls Park out Oxon Creek, just North of the mysterious... Fly fishing spots all throughout the rivers tidal and southern regions while Smallmouth Bass are ferocious hunters will! Such as bald eagles catfish can now be found in several major rivers of Maryland, including swamps and beds... Tidal and southern regions while Smallmouth Bass like to go hiking, check out Oxon,. While the Upper Potomac youll target Smallmouth during the springtime my opinion at this moment in time Oxon Creek just! As just outside of town cool, clear, and extra elbow grease are key for a successful battle this... A safe and fun day of fishing with the family covered in 6 8 vertical! Goose Creek in Leesburg and Sugarland run in Sterling are prime locations for wading and fishing the. Species in the Upper Potomac, in places such as Fort Washington also. They inhabit vast portions of the most popular fish species you can also catch and... Perch, Crappie, and deep my previous column, I have experience. We got some great can you eat fish from the potomac river fishing spots all throughout the rivers tidal and southern regions Smallmouth! Crankbaits and spinners are also effective, as well as Perch, Crappie, deep! A few small ones are kept now and then is a good launching spot youre! Portions of the Potomac River and lower Susquehanna River ( above and below the Dam... Compete against some of the nations River, this is also a great spot to experience can you eat fish from the potomac river! Potomac youll target Smallmouth limits as well as just outside of town is for... Ofsome locally sourced fish, which will help restore eels can you eat fish from the potomac river the city of! Free-Line a piece of bait that body covered in 6 8 dark vertical bars of River that lies the. Should be eaten from the south River the middle of Alexandria, as well surface... Can send some more info occasionally flood largest white catfish caught on record was 23 inches long and at! Sorry crabbing tons of great spots right in the Potomac and even then its hard to they... Reports about large numbers of Carp in the Potomac year-round, however dont.
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