Fishing

As a coastal river, the Potomac River has the unique characteristic of containing saltwater, freshwater, and brackish water.  This allows for a diverse population of fish that create one of the best fisheries on the East Coast.  The primary game species of the Potomac River include largemouth bass, black drum, black sea bass, channel catfish, croaker, puppy drum, and summer flounder. 

The largemouth bass can be targeted in areas of the Potomac River where the water is fresh.  The upper portions of the river are good locations due to this.  Fishermen should be sure to target oxbows and areas protected from the open water during the morning and evening.  During this time, largemouth bass feed on the smaller species that reside in these areas.  Fishermen should use crankbaits or jigs to target largemouth bass in gaps in the weed beds, dropoffs, and areas near timber and debris.  For the diverse populations of salt and brackish water fish, anglers should target the lower parts of the river near the Chesapeake Bay and tidal areas. 

Between May and October, fishermen will find that croaker is plentiful.  This species is usually an easy catch, but some of the larger varieties can put up an exciting fight.  Fishermen should target this species using a medium-weight surf rod equipped with a line of 15-pound test and a bottom rig.  Depending on weather conditions and current, a 2 to 3 ounce weight is recommended.  Ideal baits include crab, shrimp, minnows, and blood worms.  These tactics are also effective for catching flounder when targeting ledges and drop offs. 

Sea bass can be caught across the deeper waters of the Potomac near the bay using light spinning and baitcasting tackle.  Shrimp is the best bait choice. 

When fishing for drum, anglers should avoid using brightly colored lures.  Baits should emit a strong odor, so squid and shrimp are good choices.  A knocker rig with a 1-ounce sliding weight equipped to a medium to heavy-weight rod is an excellent choice.  Anglers will experience the most success if they target the currents during high tide. 

The catfish of the Potomac can be caught in the deepest freshwater portions of the river.  Bottom rigs and stink baits are effective choices for the fisherman in search of a catfish.

Facilities

The facilities and accommodations of the Potomac River include marinas, boat ramps, fueling stations, restaurants, fishing guides, lodging, and tackle shops.

Size

The Potomac River supports a large amount of fishing opportunities with a total length of 405 miles.

Fishermen in search of a break from the norm will find that a trip to the Potomac River is quite rewarding. 

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