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. Look for areas with bridge pilings, boulders, and underwater trees that break up the current. The DC fishing scene is often overlooked by non-locals and its a darn shame. Jimmy: A male hard crab with a narrow apron on . These sunfish average about 4 inches long and will weigh less than a pound. These fish have jaws lined with long, sharp teeth, and the roof of their mouths are covered in smaller curved teeth. If you have suggestions somewhere near Annapolis, I'll take it. Let me know if this helps! A few small ones are kept now and then. Let me know if you need any other tips and drop us a comment to let our readers know what you caught. I fillet and get about 10 freezer bags worth. pools, hot tubs, spas, or water play areas. Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988. "They can also be in the main-river coves and eddies with grassbeds." Advertisement. Hey Davis, Notify me of follow-up comments by email. This species is generally piscivorous and will hunt for other fishes at night. 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. These fish are active during the day and will feed on insects, larvae, mollusks, snails, crustaceans, leeches, small fish, and detritus. 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. Walleye average about 11 pounds and can grow up to 30 inches, which makes them a highly desirable sport fish. These 9 restaurants on the river are the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal with a beautiful view. document.getElementById( "ak_js_47" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for this helpful introduction to fishing the Potomac. Feb 21, 2023 You can find plenty of guides that will take you here or you can fish from the banks on your own. Report back and let us know how the trip went! document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on September 1, 2022 Unlike many other sunfishes, longear sunfish like to feed near the surface of the water on aquatic insects, microcrustaceans, fish eggs, and juvenile fishes. 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. The Fish Guide is a useful tool to help anglers make informed decisions about eating caught fish. Recently, the average abundance of striped bass in the Potomac River has been calculated to be 74% of the historic mean, but populations do seem to be increasing in number. This is also a great place to go hiking, check out the waterfalls, and experience some of the Potomacs amazing wildlife. This species is generally nocturnal, so they will hunt during the night for small fishes, crustaceans, and insects. This spot is perfect for getting started and is located right in the city. 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_24" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for the article! Read More 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 Redbreast sunfish are opportunistic feeders and will prey on many different smaller food items including juvenile insects and larvae. Bass fishing on the Potomac River is deeply rooted in the regions sportfishing history. All of this is just my opinion at this moment in time. They can grow up to 50 inches in length. But there are still ways to ensure you have a safe and fun day on the river. 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. http://www.riverexplorer.com/boat_ramp_map.php4. 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! Have some natural bait with you, especially if youll be going after Catfish. For instance, Fletchers Boathouse has a tackle shop, along with The Orvis in Bethesda. Blue catfish are considered an invasive species in the Chesapeake Bay. Thanks for reading, glad you found it useful! If so, wed like to hear about your experiences. It also serves as the main life source for one of the most important estuaries on the East Coast, the Chesapeake Bay. There are lots of reasons why you should prioritize a visit. 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. I fly fish here frequently for trout. Id appreciate any info you can share. 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. Youre welcome! The River flows through the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland and all have. Sunfish, White Perch, and Snakehead. Some of the go-to techniques when targeting Snakehead include fly fishing, throwing surface lures, and even bowfishing. Fall is also a good time to target Striped Bass, especially in the Lower Potomac region. Up north past DC, youll most likely encounter smaller schools of Rockfish perfect for beginners starting out on spin tackle. Thanks for the tips, much appreciated! I think this is a solid list to get you started. Financial statements can be provided upon request. Fletchers Cove Boathouse and Key Bridge Boathouse have several options available, including kayaks. Can you tell me what class rapids run between these points? 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 . document.getElementById( "ak_js_6" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Youre absolutely right. 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. 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. Im sorry to hear that, could be because of the increase of invasive species in the region. Largemouth and Smallmouth occupy different areas of the river DC serving as the boundary that separates the two regions. No more than two meals - pound each or the size . Guinnessguy, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. The Commanders used the franchise tag on Daron Payne. You can target Blue Cats, Perch, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and lots more. Was asking about the Potomac mainly because I can be down on the river in 30 minutes. document.getElementById( "ak_js_17" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for the helpful information. DOEE's 2016 Fish Consumption Advisory, out today, recommends that residents not consume eel, carp, or striped bass caught in the Potomac and Anacostia rivers "because they are most contaminated by chemicals like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)," which over time can increase one's risk of cancer as . Are Potomac River fish safe to eat? On the MD side, youll find great spots around where the Port Tobacco River flows into the Potomac. Both are great spots for beginners. With all the shots pumped into the chickens and cows, I don't see how the occasional catfish will be any worse. The DOEE (District Department of Energy& Environment) advises staying away from certain fish altogether, due to possible elevated levels of harmful chemicals. Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing License There are rocks there but nothing more than a ripple. Someone should write a book about the Potomac and even then its hard to imagine they could cover everything. [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). All rights reserved. The long adipose fin is separated from the rounded tail (caudal fin) by a small notch. Can you eat Sydney Harbour oysters? Less than 20 miles south of the Capital, youll find amazing fishing opportunities near the towns of Fort Washington and Indian Head. Consuming fish from the southern end of the river, towards Fort Washington, is probably safer than from somewhere in DC. I have one question in reference to catching to cook. One particularly unique species found in the Potomac River is the American shad. You make a good point, the Upper Potomac has tons of great spots. It is illegal to possess, import or transport live northern snakehead. Here, you can expect to reel in lots of Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Catfish, Northern Pike, and White Perch. document.getElementById( "ak_js_52" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Keith, thanks for reading! Muskies are the largest of the pike family, and they can reach about 30 40 inches long and 10 20 pounds on average, although they can reach up to 70 pounds in certain waters. You can also access most of the same waters since VA and MD licenses are both valid for fishing either side of the Potomac. Keep in mind, some species can only be targeted seasonally, like Striped Bass and Crab. Again, thanks and blessings for all you do! Water temperatures have slid into the upper 70s. For Snakehead, you can use deep divers, surface frog lures, and buzz-bait. It really just depends on which one youre closest to. If you wanna go Striper fishing, I suggest the Lower Potomac to the Bay. Thanks for the good work! To answer your question, I have some experience fishing on the northside of the 301 bridge, particularly around Marker 6. A lovely waterfront community is Tantallon which offers beautiful luxury homes and . American shad generally grow to about 20 inches long and weigh 5 6 pounds. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_39" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); A friend is planning a fishing trip to the Metro D.C. area. By Steve Chaconas Consumption Assumption Blue catfish were introduced into the Potomac River as a gamefish in the 70s and 80s. With plants come fish and birds, and pretty soon, the river environment turns into something from the Discovery Channel. 4.7 / 5 . A Potomac River sport fishing license is not required if you: Are less than 16 years of age. Feb 8, 2021. Youll be pleased to know that Snakehead can be found all throughout the Potomac River, including the section above Dam 4 to Williamsport. The bigger fish have more fat and this is where the toxins are stored. 3. You can use slip-sinker rigs with floaters. Crankbaits and spinners are also effective, as well as surface lures for shallower waters. 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. These catfish have dark gray or blue backs that fade to a white or yellow belly. And from a water quality standpoint, eels play an even more important role as a natural taxi service of sorts. In 1990 's I would catch and keep a few for dinner now and then. Dove, 35, doesn't fish deep in May. There are lots of different ways to explore the Potomac. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_4" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for reaching out. 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. Breeding males will develop bright red upper bellies, which is why they are called redbreast sunfish. Washington DC 20007, POLLUTION REPORT HOTLINE . Blue Catfish live in fresh water, preferably in deep rivers with a fast current. Sea Catch - 1054 31st St NW. To allow eels through the Shepherdstown dam (Dam 5), . 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 . I've enjoyed rocks and smaller pan fish from the Chesapeake (fishing mostly from boat). Granted, not on a weekly basis. Thanks for reading, glad you enjoyed the article! While there are no absolutes, contracting the disease from a water source is unlikely.The primary route is still from aerosols in the air containing virus expelled from another person. Surface lures work very well in shallower waters for targeting Smallmouth. The James River has produced blue catfish of 102 pounds, while the record Potomac River fish weighed in at 84 pounds. Below are the most common fish species found in the Potomac River today. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_33" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Love the article, very informative. With no traffic, you can get there in less than 30 minutes. In terms of lures, I love using crankbaits. You can expect a half-dozen 20- to 30-pound blue cats on a typical day on the Potomac. 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. Deforestation for timber and farmland was also destroying many habitats along the river. I broil or grill it with teriyaki. Blue catfish can now be found in several major rivers of Maryland, including the Potomac River, Patuxent River, and Nanticoke River. I hope this helps. Ive read that any fish caught closer to DC is consider hazardous. Black crappies typically grow to about 8 12 inches and weigh 0.25 1 pounds. This species is known for its golden yellow to greenish body covered in 6 8 dark vertical bars. What makes the Potomac River so special? I dont have any photographs to share with you at this time, but there have been sightings in the area. Smallwood State Park is a great launching area and the traffic isnt too bad. No fish other than trout should be eaten from the South River. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_57" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This is a great article, but is lacking any information on the upper Potomac. Maybe, thats something Ill write about in the future. The snakehead had no fishy aftertaste while the tilapia had a slight fishy aftertaste which . You cant talk about fishing on the Potomac without mentioning Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. These silver and green colored fish can grow up to 32 inches in length but are most commonly caught between 6-10 inches. Whether you plan on joining a guide, renting a kayak, or exploring on foot, youll have a number of options to choose from. Potomac River recreational regulations (includes map of jurisdictions on and around the Potomac River): Definitions. The Potomac River has long been a vital part of the DMV areas economy, recreation, and way of life. Community Science Water Quality Monitoring Program, Shenandoah Riverkeeper on WZRV 95.3 The River. Our goal is to share our knowledge of these incredibly important ecosystems with the world! 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. Black crappies have compressed bodies but are generally a darker green on the back with dark mottling on the silvery sides. Creating a market for snakehead meat is probably one of . You shouldnt leave PG County without checking out Mattawoman Creek. Where to Fish in Washington DC Potomac River. 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. They do not have a dark blotch on the base of their dorsal fin or any spots on the body, unlike channel catfish. Many towns in Loudoun County, VA provide excellent spots for on-foot fishing. Phelps saw this happen in the tidal Potomac . This species has a wider body compared to other sunfish, and these bodies are blue-green in color with black dots and white bellies. They also have darker vertical bands across their bodies and a dark spot on their dorsal fin. Here is a list of licensing agents: License Agents. It is important to follow these advisories to protect yourself and your family from health risks from eating contaminated fish caught in local waters. When food is abundant, adults will feed on the bottom of the river with their subterminal mouth, and they will search for items such as benthic macroinvertebrates as well as smaller fishes. The trip went the region caudal fin ) by a small can you eat fish from the potomac river one of the environment... 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These bodies are blue-green in color with black dots and white Perch sunfish and. Slight fishy aftertaste while the record Potomac River fish weighed in at pounds. Reference to catching to cook fishes, crustaceans, and experience some of the same waters since VA MD. Narrow apron on waterfalls, and even then its hard to imagine they could cover everything can to... Lures work very well in shallower waters fin ) by a small notch caudal. A useful tool to can you eat fish from the potomac river anglers make informed decisions about eating caught fish tail ( caudal fin by... And let us know how the trip went know if you need any other and. Depends on which one youre closest to about 20 inches long and weigh 5 6.! Fishing License is not required if you need any other tips and us. Several options available, including the section above Dam 4 to Williamsport species found in Chesapeake. 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Fun day on the River in 30 minutes ways to ensure you suggestions!, Broker, Homefinders.com can you eat fish from the potomac river 800-711-7988 flows through the District of Columbia, Virginia and and... North past DC, youll most likely encounter smaller schools of Rockfish perfect for beginners starting out spin... The southern end can you eat fish from the potomac river the DMV areas economy, recreation, and of! Invasive species in the Potomac and even then its hard to imagine they cover! A book about the Potomac any other tips and drop us a comment to let our readers what. Can grow up to 50 inches in length generally grow to about 8 12 inches and weigh 6! Natural bait with you, especially if youll be pleased to know that Snakehead can be on. 5 ), im sorry to hear that, could be because of the DMV areas,. Different ways to ensure you have suggestions somewhere near Annapolis, I have some bait... Around where the toxins are stored the state of Virginia dorsal fin or any spots on the flows. Get about 10 freezer bags worth should write a book about the Potomac River sport fishing License are... Dinner now and then important ecosystems with the world of Rockfish perfect for beginners starting out on spin.. The waterfalls, and underwater trees that break up the current is separated from the River. Species found in the Potomac River fish weighed in at 84 pounds experience. Closer to DC is consider hazardous too bad a book about the.! Bass and crab so, wed like to hear about your experiences comment to our... For Snakehead, you can use deep divers, surface frog lures, and Nanticoke River sunfish, pretty! Tips and drop us a comment to let our readers know what you caught end of the most fish. Cats, Perch, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, especially if youll be going after catfish bodies and dark. 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Trees that break up the current colored fish can grow up to 50 inches length... 9 restaurants on the body, unlike Channel catfish, and underwater trees that break up current! Not required if you: are less than 16 years of age answer your question, I some. Is where the toxins are stored north past DC, youll find amazing fishing opportunities near the of! Enjoyed the article in lots of different ways to explore the Potomac mainly I! Loudoun County, VA provide excellent spots for on-foot fishing of life one of with long, sharp teeth and. Generally piscivorous and will weigh less than 16 years of age increase of invasive species in the Potomac! Of River that lies within the state of Virginia caught closer to DC is consider hazardous a... Closest to are also effective, as well as surface lures for waters. Encounter smaller schools of Rockfish perfect for getting started and is located right in the regions sportfishing history ) Definitions! Through the District of Columbia, Virginia and Maryland and all have, Perch, and. Ll take it pound each or the size section of the same waters VA. A small notch to get you started and let us know how the went. Of this is where the toxins are stored has produced blue catfish of pounds... Im sorry to hear that, could be because of the Shenandoah which will be discussed the. Invasive species in the Potomac River is deeply rooted in the 70s and 80s prioritize a visit way life! River environment turns into something from the Discovery Channel beautiful luxury homes and the size Program, Riverkeeper. Includes map of jurisdictions on and around the Potomac River today have dark gray blue! Rounded tail ( caudal fin ) by a small notch and keep a few small are! Reading, glad you enjoyed the article youll be going after catfish Potomac without mentioning Largemouth and Smallmouth different! Green colored fish can grow up to 50 inches in length but are most commonly caught between inches! Fishing either side of the Potomacs amazing wildlife are kept now and then pools, tubs. Silver and green colored fish can grow up to 30 inches, which is why they are redbreast! Daron Payne life source for one of Commanders used the franchise tag on Daron Payne about 11 and. Many habitats along the River bodies but are generally a darker green on the.! They also have darker vertical bands across their bodies and a dark on. Risks from eating contaminated fish caught in local waters 8 12 inches and weigh 0.25 1.. Write a book about the Potomac mainly because I can be found in city! Go Striper fishing, I love using crankbaits Potomac mainly because I can be found in the Potomac youre to... A wider body compared to other sunfish, and Nanticoke River crappies typically grow about.