Deep Creek Lake Area Fishing – A Favorite Spring Activity

Fishing is as much about the catch as it is about experiencing the outdoors. Garrett County’s miles of cold mountain rivers, lakes and streams have made it a favorite fishing destination. You can take a boat out on the lake, wade into a fast flowing stream or head to one of the area’s many state parks that offer fishing.

With 3,900 acres to explore, Deep Creek Lake supports a wide variety of desirable game fish. It is best known for its large and smallmouth bass fishery. Other common species include: walleye, brown and rainbow trout, chain pickerel, northern pike and yellow perch.

DEEP CREEK LAKE AREA FLY FISHING

Fly fishermen can ply their art in the Youghiogheny, Casselman, Potomac, and Savage Rivers. Special regulation areas on the Savage and Casselman Rivers, numerous stocked streams, and a variety of native brook trout streams provide anglers with a wide array of quality trout fishing opportunities. To novices, fly fishing may seem like an intimidating pastime at first, but it doesn’t have to be. PJ Daley at Savage River Angler can teach you the basic skills you need to enjoy many fun and productive hours on the water.  His Orvis-endorsed guide service also leads float trips that are well-suited for all ability levels.

Tips for successful Deep Creek Lake fishing:

• The best fishing is typically April through June when most fish are in 1 – 2 feet of water to spawn and are hungry and protective of their nests.

• Prime fishing times are early morning and early evening.

• Stumps, large rocks, and grass beds are popular fish habitats.

• Stumpy Point (Small and largemouth bass, pickerel, and northern pike) and the dam (brown and rainbow trout) offer excellent fishing opportunities.

• If you don’t have access to a boat, Deep Creek Lake State Park offers excellent fishing from the shore.

MARYLAND FISHING LICENCES

Fishing licenses are required and may be purchased at Bill’s Outdoor Center or click here to purchase a Maryland fishing license online. The DNR does offer several “free” fishing days when no freshwater fishing license is required. They are the first two Saturdays in June and July 4.

For information, fishing rules and regulations, stocking schedules, and more visit: https://dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/pages/hotspots/deepcreek.aspx.