May 2023 – BACKWATER ANGLER

Late May Fishing Report

May 25, 2023

As of May 25th, the Gunpowder River has dropped down to 38 CFS and is ranging between 46-53F. With no rain in the near future, it is expected to stay low for a while. This will cause the need for longer and lighter leaders. Fishing a 10-12ft leader will greatly improve your drifts in the low water. It is best to avoid the slower water as fish will have lots of time to analyze your fly and the fish generally spook much easier. Target the riffles and deeper pools for the most success. In the morning, we have had success swinging wet flies through the …

Best Three Weight Fly Rods in Maryland!

May 20, 2023

In the shop we have a wide variety of three weights for all of your small water needs. From fiberglass to Euro style rods, we have all the bases covered. For the extra small creeks look no further than the Scott F series and Scott G series These rods are both under 8 feet long and provide excellent precision on the water. The F series is the best fiberglass rod we have come across and is perfect for your backcountry fishing as it breaks down to just 18 inches. Scott G Series | BACKWATER ANGLER Scott F Series | BACKWATER ANGLER If you want something …

Mid-May Fishing Report: Sulphurs are here!

May 18, 2023

The water has dropped down to 66 cfs as of May 17th and is ranging between 45-51F throughout the day. Earlier throughout the day it is best to try swinging wet flies and nymphing. The caddis and sulphurs need some time to warm up to begin hatching, so most fish will be feeding on the nymphal and emerger stages of the bugs early in the day. As the day progresses, sulphurs will begin to dance on the surface and the trout respond. It is best to bring multiple patterns to figure out which style of dry the fish want, as the smallest details can make …

Early May Gunpowder River Fishing Report

May 6, 2023

The Gunpowder River is clear and coming down nicely from 329 CFs on April 29th to a now ideal 103 CFs. Consequently water temps are rising a bit from a chilly 47.3 F and should be closer to the mid 50’s by the end of the weekend. We’re starting to see some clean gravel as the Didymo gets washed through. Swinging wets and nymphing other than drop-shotting is still tough and requires a lot of clearing between drifts and swings. A few Hendricksons and March Browns are still hanging on and have been returning on calmer, less windy days.Small Caddis and tiny Blue Winged Olives …