Monthly Archives: November 2023

Holiday Fly Fishing Shop Specials

The holiday shopping season is here and we’re ready to outfit the angler in your family. We have a great selection of rods and reels from Scott, G. Loomis, Echo, Ross, and Abel. We will be running many ‘In-store Only’ specials. Some of those specials include a free Scott Tumbler with the purchase of any Scott fly rod, a discount on a staff-selected fly line with the purchase of a new reel, or a free staff- selected fly line with the purchase of a rod and reel combo. When you stop by be sure to check out our 50% off rack with some great cold weather clothing for the season. We will also have gift certificates available for merchandise, fly fishing schools, and guide trips. Gift certificates can also be purchased online and mailed directly to you. Happy Holidays from Backwater Angler.

Backwater Angler Gift Certificate

Here are our special holiday shop hours.

The shop will be open from 10AM till 3PM on Tuesday, November 21, Friday, November 24th and Saturday the 25th from 10 till 3 and he shop will reopen on Monday November 27th.

Please note: We will be closed on Wednesday the 22nd, Thursday the 23rd, and Sunday the 26th.

Thanksgiving Gunpowder River Stream Report

The Gunpowder river is clear and flowing at 88 Cfs and is 50 F. Streamers are a good way to connect especially around log jams and bend pools. We have sinking leaders in-stock that really help these patterns roll and tumble. With most of the leaves gone folks have once again found fish by returning to stonefly nymphs and zebra midges.

As Gene Howson related a few years ago,

“Please limit your wading this time of year, Fish are on redds, refrain from tail outs and gravel wantonly stepping through redds can jeopardize next year’s bounty of wild stream bred brown trout!”

We are truly thankful of your support this season and wish everyone a peaceful and restful holiday!

The shop will be open from 10AM till 3PM on Tuesday, November 21, Friday, November 24th and Saturday the 25th from 10 till 3 and he shop will reopen on Monday November 27th.

Please note: We will be closed on Wednesday the 22nd, and Thursday the 23rd and Sunday the 26th.

For you literary types that need a painless turkey day toast I’ve rounded up some juicy one-liners by folks from Chicago, Avon, and Rome.

“Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action.”
-W. J. Cameron

“Small cheer and merry welcome makes a merry feast”
-William Shakespeare

“A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all other virtues”
-Cicero

Gunpowder River Mid-November Stream Report


The Gunpowder River is flowing at 113Cfs, is 54 degrees F and is clear. Fall is in full swing here on the Gunpowder and the river is fishing well. We are finding that the fish are starting to move into the riffles. Heavy jig style nymphs and streamers have been most effective as of lately. Falls Rd has been a great section but, be sure to use caution when accessing with the slippery rocks. York Rd has also been productive with much easier access. Be sure to swing by the shop to get geared up for your next outing on the river. We still have some dates left for November guide trips as well if you are interested in fishing with us. Call the shop at (410) 357- 9557 if you would like to book today before those dates fill. Please see the link below for trips and pricing.

GUIDE SERVICE & INSTRUCTION | BACKWATER ANGLER

Patagonia Wading Staff

As stream levels rise and seasons change some streams become a bit more tricky to navigate. The all new Patagonia wading staff is the perfect combination of durability, packability and function all in one. This wading staff is much lighter than traditional wading staffs while maintaining a high level durability. The Patagonia wading staff is completely size customizable.It comes with attached retractor device to keep the staff close when needed but also allows for you to keep your hands free as well. The non-slip foam grip is designed to fit all hands and give you the stability expected from a wading staff. Included is a stuff bag for easy storage and transport.
Come by the shop or visit the website to get yours today.