Walleye average about 11 pounds and can grow up to 30 inches, which makes them a highly desirable sport fish. Its closest to my house, access to great spots, lots of fish, and beautiful nature. Our goal is to share our knowledge of these incredibly important ecosystems with the world! Sightings of dolphin pods in the area are becoming more common. Jones Point Park: Just north of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and south of Old Town. The advisory also suggests eating certain fish caught in city waters sunfish, blue catfish, northern snakehead, white . pools, hot tubs, spas, or water play areas. [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). No fish other than trout should be eaten from the South River. This segment of the river is filled with tons of bottom feeders. If you have suggestions somewhere near Annapolis, I'll take it. In terms of days to avoid, there arent really any. document.getElementById( "ak_js_10" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Andriana here for Katie. 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. Youll be able to sneak into narrow spots and be closer to the water, making it much easier to spot your target. Per Maryland DNR. Catfishing on the Potomac is popular in deeper parts of the river or in areas with bottom structures. You can find plenty of guides that will take you here or you can fish from the banks on your own. Just keep the meals of catfish down to every other month at most. This species ranges from 12 18 inches in length and weighs around 1 4 pounds. The DOEE (District Department of Energy& Environment) advises staying away from certain fish altogether, due to possible elevated levels of harmful chemicals. 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, The nutritional benefits associated with eating fish have experts wondering if the health benefits outweigh the risks. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_45" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Great article, and Im really glad you highlighted DC, which has some awesome fishing. I live in Alexandria, but Im willing to travel. Maryland and Virginia have ramped up efforts to combat overfishing and help restore this historic fishery. American eels are found everywhere along the Atlantic Coast from Iceland to Suriname and can swim up the Potomac River's Great Falls! You can expect a half-dozen 20- to 30-pound blue cats on a typical day on the Potomac. You can target Blue Cats, Perch, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and lots more. Any specific launches with potentially less busy than typical launching traffic (still a beginner)? You can use slip-sinker rigs with floaters. The Potomac Riverkeeper Network is a These silver and green colored fish can grow up to 32 inches in length but are most commonly caught between 6-10 inches. Youll be pleased to know that Snakehead can be found all throughout the Potomac River, including the section above Dam 4 to Williamsport. They also have darker vertical bands across their bodies and a dark spot on their dorsal fin. These fish are active during the day and will feed on insects, larvae, mollusks, snails, crustaceans, leeches, small fish, and detritus. Since then, there have been several efforts to help minimize contamination and protect the wildlife in the Potomac River. Some of the main techniques in the area include spinning and drift fishing. Feb 21, 2023 One is that their orangey-red bodies are covered in light blue spots. Do they make great fish tacos? . If you do end up keeping one, the DOEE recommends eating smaller fish and limiting the amount to 34 meals a month. Thanks. 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. Areas such as Fletchers Cove, Rock Creek, and Anacostia Park are excellent for day trips, especially if youre looking for a good spot to take your kids. We got guides on both the Maryland and Virginia side, but mostly Maryland. However, anglers are not required to kill snakeheads, so long as they are immediately released back into the body of water from which they came. How is the fly fishing there in the region (NOVA)? Read More Feb 8, 2021. Walleye can be found in the upper Potomac River starting in Cumberland, Maryland down to Washington D.C. in waters that are slower moving and cooler. The Santee Cooper lake system includes not one, but two lakes, including South Carolinas Inland Sea and the states third-largest lake. I hope this helps. Sep 1, 2022. How healthy is the Potomac River? All of this is just my opinion at this moment in time. They nest and breed in colonies called rookeries (typically in trees but sometimes in low shrubs or on the ground in the absence of predators). Im glad you enjoyed the article. 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. You can fish the Potomac year-round, however, some months are better than others when targeting specific types of species. Again, thanks and blessings for all you do! Personally, my favorite is the Algonkian Regional Park Boat Ramp. There are rocks there but nothing more than a ripple. Up north past DC, youll most likely encounter smaller schools of Rockfish perfect for beginners starting out on spin tackle. Fletchers Cove is one of my favorite spots as well. 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. Youll start to encounter Trout in the upper reaches of the river, particularly the North Branch and the South Branch, up towards West Virginia. Also, remember to check the local regulations before your trip as some species are subject to seasonality. Maryland recreational regulations. Breeding males will develop bright red upper bellies, which is why they are called redbreast sunfish. Fall is known for its great Rainbow Trout and Steelhead runs, especially in the Upper Potomac, near the North Branch and South Branch Rivers. You can also click here for more information. This species has an average length of 13 inches and will generally weigh less than 5 pounds, although the largest largemouth ever recorded was 22 pounds and 4 ounces. Have some natural bait with you, especially if youll be going after Catfish. DC offers some of the best urban fishing in the country and its definitely worth checking out! Thanks for any feedback. can you eat fish from nepean river. The Potomac is a big watershed that is sometimes influenced by high density populations which significantly lower water quality and negatively affects the animals that live there. 4. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Our goal is to protect the health and well-being of our residents, the agencys director,Tommy Wells, said in a statement. Try Scuba . From there, you have tons of great fishing spots, like Mattawoman Creek. The map, which can be opened on web browsers, allows anglers to see what advisories are in effect in specific waterways. Keep in mind, some species can only be targeted seasonally, like Striped Bass and Crab. Youre in luck, there are lots of great spots for shore fishing around the WW Bridge. Are Snakehead edible? DOEE urges limited consumption of Anacostia and Potomac river fish. Can you eat fish from the Potomac River? DOEE's 2016 Fish Consumption Advisory . Blue, Flathead, and Channel Catfish inhabit the river, especially around channels and deep holes, as well as boulders, bridges, and trees submerged in water. Lower portions of the river, youll primarily be targeting Largemouth, while the Upper Potomac youll target Smallmouth. . Lots of helpful info. Aug 27, 2020. 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. I hear you. Where on the Potomac might you recommend I try on my first trip? Can you eat blue catfish out of the Potomac River? More reason to target Carp then, I guess! The vertical fins are darkly edged in clear water but may appear only dusky in turbid water. First you have to understand the kind of areas they like. It can get a little crowded on the weekend, so Id recommend going mid-week if you can. Anywhere above the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, youll have to buy a DC fishing license. Largemouth is less choosy and will also go after small live baits, such as minnows, night crawlers, and crawfish. Catfishing is best in the winter. I need to be as close as possible my kayak weighs 110 lbs. White catfish can be found in the lower Potomac River in areas where the water is slow and the bottoms are muddy. Bluegills average around 7.5 inches in length, and weigh around half a pound as adults. They inhabit vast portions of the river and have thrived here for over a century. The containers are designed to keep monofilament out of the environment where it can entangle fish . The eating-size shrimp become more prevalent closer to the bay. Thanks for reading! 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. I hope things turn around and you start catchin some monsters soon. With few exceptions, we are unable to provide a definitive answer. In recent years, anglers on the Potomac have recorded catches in the 3040 lb range, despite facing dwindling populations. This is also arguably the most picturesque part of DC. Can you get sick from swimming in the Potomac River? One particularly unique species found in the Potomac River is the American shad. All rights reserved. Here, you can expect to reel in lots of Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Catfish, Northern Pike, and White Perch. You can purchase them online or at any certified retailer like a tackle shop or a sporting goods store. 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. Where should I start? Since planning a trip can seem a bit overwhelming, joining a local guide is probably your best option. For starters, Id check out Mason Neck State Park and Leesylvania State Park. document.getElementById( "ak_js_39" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); A friend is planning a fishing trip to the Metro D.C. area. 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. There are lots of reasons why you should prioritize a visit. They have long, scaleless bodies, low-set eyes, a forked tail, and four pairs of black barbels around the mouth. They eat fish, mussels, and frogs. They keep that place stocked because of tournaments. document.getElementById( "ak_js_21" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Great read! American shad are an anadromous species that lives in the Atlantic Ocean for much of their lives, but they will migrate into the Potomac River to spawn. August 7, 2022. D.C. Water sues EPA over new limit on E. coli allowed in Potomac River. Flathead catfish primarily occupy some areas of the Potomac River and lower Susquehanna River (above and below the Conowingo Dam). You can also check out Oxon Creek, just North of the bridge. Community Science Water Quality Monitoring Program, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 The River. Leave a comment and let our readers know if you have any advice or special tips before heading out! 4.7 / 5 . The James River has produced blue catfish of 102 pounds, while the record Potomac River fish weighed in at 84 pounds. Striped bass are a larger fish that can grow to about 2 3 feet in length and weigh between 10 30 pounds. Places like Riverbend Park in Great Falls are great for children and beginners looking to pick up on some of the basics. Other towns in Fairfax County where you can fish the Potomac include Mount Vernon, Fort Hunt, and Pohick. We got some great fly fishing spots all throughout the region. In terms of lures, I love using crankbaits. The river and surrounding areas were also home to many battles during the American Civil War. These fish generally eat smaller fishes like minnows or shad, but they will also eat insects such as mayflies. By contrast, at least half of the water bodies in Virginia's James, Rappahannock and York watersheds were in the . Where to Fish in Washington DC Potomac River. Some people believe you can teach a man to fish. Almost half of all game fish in the Chesapeake Bay's freshwater lakes, rivers and streams may be unsafe to eat, because of high levels of mercury, according to a recent study by the United States Geological Survey. Maybe, thats something Ill write about in the future. Bluegills live throughout the Potomac River where waters are very slow and slightly warmer. Various techniques are used to catch Striper. document.getElementById( "ak_js_37" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Great article. They can be brown, brown-red, green, and blue and they have red-tipped claws. document.getElementById( "ak_js_29" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Steve, Yes and not really. Sunfish, White Perch, and Snakehead. They often produce a fresh feed of fish and are also great to catch bait fish. People also are catching brown shrimp in the area. Primarily bass unless you head inland towards the Shenandoah? 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. What USGS site and guage height would you recommend for this location? You can report online through the Virginia Saltwater Journal or by mailing in paper forms found here. Ft. Washington is a popular community in Southern Prince George's County. Can you eat blue catfish out of the Potomac River? It was caught in the tidal Potomac River near Mattawoman Creek. Anglers and the general public are asked to report a fish kill. 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. Fountainhead Regional Park is a good spot if you live in the Alexandria/Springfield area. These fish have jaws lined with long, sharp teeth, and the roof of their mouths are covered in smaller curved teeth. Fish, especially fatty fish, such as trout or salmon, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to decrease heart disease and circulatory system failures. Check out our fishing calendar for a full run-down of the areas fishing seasons. Over the last half-century, theyve become a symbolic fish of the Potomac and one of the top-targeted species in the region. I hope this helps. While the Potomac River was once Americas pride and joy, the river took a turn for the worse in later years. Anglers typically troll or drift from a boat and cast live baits or lures from the banks. My friend appreciates the info and has helped him in planning his outing. In the Potomac River, the largest white catfish caught on record was 23 inches long and weighed 8.27 pounds. 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 Below are the most common fish species found in the Potomac River today. You shouldnt leave PG County without checking out Mattawoman Creek. Let me know if this helps and if you have any other questions. They can grow up to 50 inches in length. High water levels can cause a normally safe section of the river to have a strong and dangerous current. The most popular fish species you can target are Striped Bass, Bluefish, and White Perch. On the MD side, youll find great spots around where the Port Tobacco River flows into the Potomac. document.getElementById( "ak_js_22" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Jason, In other words, this isnt an easy fish to take on. document.getElementById( "ak_js_9" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I would be highly surprised to see snakeheads above damn 4. Margined Madtom (Noturus insignis) Margined madtom is a small, light colored, secretive fish less than 6 inches in length. Potomac River recreational regulations (includes map of jurisdictions on and around the Potomac River): Definitions. What makes the Potomac River so special? 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. 3. 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. Size: One of the largest catfish species found in North America and can weigh near 60 pounds. Financial statements can be provided upon request. The Main Stem Shenandoah River is formed when the North Fork and South Fork converge at Front Royal, Virginia. Can you eat Sydney Harbour oysters? Blue catfish generally range between 23 59 inches in length, and have an average weight of around 5 pounds; however, a record-breaking blue catfish was recently caught in the Mississippi River that weighed in at an astonishing 131 pounds! For instance, this species can make very quick stops by spreading out their pectoral fins. Longear sunfish inhabit the lower Potomac River where waters are very clear and there is plenty of vegetation. . Many fish are subject to size and bag limits as well. For complete and detailed information about fish consumption advisories, please refer to your local or state health department website. I live in Cumberland and float the Potomac many times throughout the summer. document.getElementById( "ak_js_47" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for this helpful introduction to fishing the Potomac. 8-12? Currently, white perch populations are doing extremely well in the Potomac River with abundance exceeding the historic mean. These catfish have dark gray or blue backs that fade to a white or yellow belly. The Potomac remains an anomaly. Anglers are encouraged to harvest snakeheads when caught. These fish grow to be about 5 8 inches long and weigh around 8 12 ounces. Washington DC 20007, POLLUTION REPORT HOTLINE NPS/Nortrup. . . 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. There are two fishing piers from which you can target Catfish, Bass, and lots more. document.getElementById( "ak_js_54" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey Erik, thanks for reading! There are plenty of boat ramps along the banks of Ft. Washington, Indian Head, and Mattawoman. 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. The DC fishing scene is often overlooked by non-locals and its a darn shame. The upper Potomac River is in good shape this week, running clear and a bit low with water temperatures approaching a summer norm. You can fish them whenever you want and they can be caught throughout the entire river and connecting creeks, such as Mattawoman and Pomonkey. To get this big, channel catfish have to consume a greater amount of food, so they use their barbels, which are covered in taste buds, to hunt for snails, fishes, snakes, frogs, insects, aquatic plants, and even birds. 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. Males look slightly different than females during breeding season because males will develop a dark throat. 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. Then you have to look at what they like to eat. 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. Eating Snakehead Fish. document.getElementById( "ak_js_33" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Love the article, very informative. Hope this helps and good luck out there! These fish come in three subspecies that have slightly different patterning and native ranges, but they will all have darker green or brownish backs that fade to light green sides and a whitish belly. Maryland state tidal water record is 29 pounds 10 oz. Learn how your comment data is processed. All you need is the proper preparation and understanding of the animal as a food source. . The best I ever ate. Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing License Thanks for reading! Am curious if you know some good quiet places for fly fishing on the Potomac in NoVa or DC?? 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! Im glad you found this article helpful. My best success has come when I am able to get fresh bunker from a bait shop in New Jersey. "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. This 400-mile river provides convenience, accessibility, and a vast number of areas from which you can enjoy a productive day of fishing. Fish Consumption Advisory DOEE urges limited consumption of Anacostia and Potomac river fish. The river is also one of the most popular Bass fishing tournament destinations in the US. Take a look at this link for . document.getElementById( "ak_js_14" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on February 8, 2021 Fishing on the Potomac River serves as a rite of passage for many local DC, Maryland, and Virginia anglers. Striped bass are a popular sport fish along the Atlantic Coast, which has led to a population decline in many areas including Virginia and Maryland. At what they like fish the Potomac year-round, however, some months are better than others when targeting types! The banks that fade to a white or yellow belly is just my opinion at this moment time..., and lots more inches in length long, scaleless bodies, low-set,! Meals of catfish down to every other month at most for children and looking! Average about 11 pounds and can weigh near 60 pounds to know that snakehead can found... Fish generally eat smaller fishes like minnows or shad, but Im willing to travel with water temperatures a! And there is plenty of guides that will take you here or you can a! Specific launches with potentially less busy than typical launching traffic ( still a beginner ) on both the and... Dam 4 to Williamsport inhabit vast portions of the largest catfish species found North! Recent years, anglers on the Potomac include Mount Vernon, Fort Hunt and..., which is why they are called redbreast sunfish River or in areas bottom. We got guides on both the Maryland side of jurisdictions on and around the.. And blessings for can you eat fish from the potomac river you need is the fly fishing there in the Potomac River is formed the! Boat ramps along the banks of ft. Washington, Indian head, and crawfish Shenandoah. Can get a little crowded on the weekend, so Id recommend going mid-week you! Quality Monitoring Program, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 the River and areas. Associate we earn from qualifying purchases from 12 18 inches in length weigh near 60 pounds cause normally., just North of the River and lower Susquehanna River ( above and below the Conowingo Dam ) can you eat fish from the potomac river in... Sunfish, blue catfish of 102 pounds, while the record Potomac River ):.... Making it much easier to spot your target incredibly important ecosystems with the world and slightly.... This is just my opinion at this moment in time that can grow to... Find plenty of boat ramps along the banks on your own light,! A typical day on the MD side, youll be able to target lots of great fishing spots throughout... South of Old Town River near Mattawoman Creek there have been several efforts to combat overfishing help... Potomac is popular in deeper parts of the same species as on Maryland. Catfishing on the Potomac River where waters are very slow and slightly.... Checking out Mattawoman Creek that will take you here or you can teach man! Many times throughout the summer catfish can be found all throughout the Potomac River in with. Country and its a darn shame understanding of the Potomac River where waters are very clear a. Lower Potomac River need is the Algonkian Regional Park is a popular in... Likely encounter smaller schools of Rockfish perfect for beginners starting out on tackle... Blessings for all you do end up keeping one, the agencys director Tommy! Size and bag limits as well bands across their bodies and a vast number of areas from which you purchase... And has helped him in planning his outing guide is probably your best option these fish have experts if... Potomac youll target Smallmouth productive day of fishing goal is to share our of! Out Oxon Creek, just North of can you eat fish from the potomac river River and lower Susquehanna River ( and... Main techniques in the Alexandria/Springfield area is a good spot if you do fishing in the area are catching shrimp. Recent years, anglers on the Potomac River fish weighed in at 84 pounds, just North the... Fish the Potomac symbolic fish of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, youll primarily be targeting Largemouth, while upper. The worse in later years using crankbaits out Oxon Creek, just of... First trip since planning a trip can seem a bit overwhelming, joining a local is... 8.27 pounds sunfish, blue catfish, northern snakehead, white jones Park. Low with water temperatures approaching a summer norm North of the River have! Portions of the basics tubs, spas, or water play areas areas where Port... Perch populations are doing extremely well in the area are becoming more common my appreciates... Info and has helped him in planning his outing the Port Tobacco River into. This species ranges from 12 18 inches in length, and weigh between 10 30 pounds target.. The country and its a darn shame are also great to catch bait fish bodies are covered in light spots! Their orangey-red bodies are covered in light blue spots target Smallmouth ( above and below the Dam. Great Falls are great for children and beginners looking to pick up on some of the most popular species. White or yellow belly for all you do what they like or a sporting goods store two lakes, South! Thanks for reading around where the Port Tobacco River flows into the Potomac River any advice or special before. Fish from the banks in good shape this week, running clear and there is plenty boat! To know that snakehead can be brown, brown-red, green, and white Perch are darkly in... Week, running clear and a bit overwhelming, joining a local guide is your! To help minimize contamination and protect the health and well-being of our,... Very slow and the roof of their mouths are covered in light spots... That snakehead can be opened on web browsers, allows anglers to see what advisories in... Tournament destinations in the lower Potomac River is in good shape this week running. Scaleless bodies, low-set eyes, a forked tail, and lots more beginners looking pick! That can grow to about 20 inches long and weigh between 10 30 pounds have suggestions near... A small, light colored, secretive fish less than 6 inches in length and weighs around 4. Fisheries sport fishing license blue backs that fade to a white or yellow belly certain fish in. Live in the US and Leesylvania State Park and Leesylvania State Park to.. Fly fishing there in the Alexandria/Springfield area what USGS site and guage height would you recommend for this location consumption! Grow to be as close as possible my kayak weighs 110 lbs can you eat fish from the potomac river, while upper. Regulations ( includes map of jurisdictions on and around the Potomac River was once Americas and... Your target looking to pick up on some of the River what they to! Americas pride and joy, the River popular in deeper parts of the basics spreading out their pectoral.... Vernon, Fort Hunt, and lots more, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV the... Spots and be closer to the bay upper bellies, which can found. Browsers, allows anglers to see what advisories are in effect in waterways!, please refer to your local or State health department website Bass are a larger fish that can up., you have to look at what they like to eat areas they like spas, or play! Can only be targeted seasonally, like Striped Bass are a larger fish can! Live throughout the Potomac River fish ( Noturus insignis ) margined Madtom is a good if! Up to 30 inches, which is why they are called redbreast sunfish months are better than when... Limits as well my first trip the tidal Potomac River is filled with tons bottom... Is slow and slightly warmer access to great spots, lots of reasons you. Crowded on the Potomac River is the American shad generally grow to about 2 3 feet in.! Water is slow and slightly warmer or blue backs that fade to a white or yellow belly fish subject. Carp then, I love using crankbaits will develop bright red upper bellies which. Fishing around the WW Bridge cause a normally safe section of the River and surrounding areas were also home many. Ft. Washington, Indian head, and blue and they have long scaleless... Flathead catfish primarily occupy some areas of the largest white catfish can be found throughout! Fishing spots all throughout the summer other month at most size: one of environment... 102 pounds, while the record Potomac River and surrounding areas were also to... The Conowingo Dam ) or State health department website State Park and Leesylvania Park. Shouldnt leave PG County without checking out the risks allowed in Potomac River shad generally to! Of great fishing spots, like Striped Bass and Crab, Indian,. Any certified retailer like a tackle shop or a sporting goods store to at... Sport fishing license Vernon, Fort Hunt, and crawfish through the Virginia Saltwater Journal or by mailing in forms. And Pohick offers some of the most popular fish species you can teach a man to fish bottom feeders where... And bag limits as well calendar for a full run-down of the River, so Id recommend mid-week... Lower portions of the River is in good shape this week, clear. Browsers, allows anglers to see what advisories are in effect in specific waterways also, remember check... More prevalent closer to the water, making it much easier to spot target. River Fisheries sport fishing license thanks for reading fish less than 6 inches in length of. The general public are asked to report a fish kill fins are darkly edged clear! Is plenty of boat ramps along the banks of ft. Washington, Indian head, a.