Theaux Le Gardeur

Fly Fishing on the North Branch of the Potomac

Summer seemed to arrive almost overnight a couple of weeks back, whilst freestone streams can struggle with warm water, tailwaters continue to produce great fishing opportunities. I fished out in western Maryland earlier this month on the Savage and the North branch of the Potomac. Both tailwaters like the Gunpowder – but aside from that they offer much different fishing experiences. I floated with guide Tony Lohr from Savage River Outfitters down a spectacular section of the North Branch downstream from Westernport. This was my first float and it was an experience to remember! In this fast, heavy water a 5 to 6 weight rod …

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Beginners Fly Fishing School

Please join us for a fly fishing school. On Sunday, June 25th a Backwater Angler Guide will be teaching a fly fishing school that is ideal for beginners. If you’re planning on fly fishing in Maryland, or anywhere else for that matter, this course is a great introduction to the sport. The school covers knots, casting, gear and fly selection. Class is held from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Cost is $125 per person and includes the use of gear. A Maryland non-tidal fishing license and trout stamp is required and may be purchased at the shop with check or cash the day of the …

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Sulphurs on the Gunpowder River

The Gunpowder River is clear, flowing at 90 CFS and is 59F. Thanks to Gene for the fishing report. We have plenty of Sulphur emergers in the Muffin tins on the front counter. Stop in this weekend through Monday to round up what you need to get out there and catch a few wild fish and find some peace. Please remember those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The flows on the gunpowder have continued to provide ideal conditions for fishing the Sulphur hatch. Whilst the large sulphurs are still hatching, smaller sulphurs E. dorothea, size 18 are beginning to outnumber …

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Sulphurs, Caddis and Olives on the Gunpowder

The Gunpowder River is clear and flowing at 85 CFS and 63 F. The cold front headed in before Preakness should cool things down a bit over the weekend. We’re hoping for more shade coupled with evening temperatures that might prompt a spinner fall. Look for tiny BWO’s in the backeddies and slack water and caddis in the riffles. Sulphurs in the #14 range are present throughout the River mid-afternoon on. If you’re getting an early start try a #16 partridge and yellow followed by an unweighted pheasant tail.

Beginner’s Fly Fishing School

Please join us for a fly fishing school. On Saturday, June 17th a Backwater Angler Guide will be teaching a fly fishing school that is ideal for beginners. If you’re planning on fly fishing in Maryland, or anywhere else for that matter, this course is a great introduction to the sport. The school covers knots, casting, gear and fly selection. Class is held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Cost is $125 per person and includes the use of gear. A Maryland non-tidal fishing license and trout stamp is required and may be purchased at the shop with check or cash the day of the …

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Sulphurs and Caddis on the Gunpowder

The Gunpowder is flowing 147 CFs, is 56 degrees F and is clearing.Thanks to Gene for the stream report and to Ethan for the great photo of a wild Gunpowder Brown caught and released on a caddis. We have guides available next week. Call the shop at 410-357-9557 to reserve one today-don’t wait until June to fish the Sulphur hatch! Flows on the river have been perfect for fishing. Fish have been stacked in the riffles looking for food. Sulphurs have been coming off starting in the morning and continuing on and off until the evening. Air temperatures have not been high enough to bring …

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