fishing report

for river related condition reports

Terrestrial time on the Gunpowder

The Gunpowder is clear, flowing at 61 cfs with water temperatures in the high 50’s. As the sulphurs are finally winding down fish start to diversify their feeding habits. This means anglers who are willing to fish different methods depending on the conditions will typically catch more fish. Caddis are hatching regularly and fishing size 14-18 caddis patterns; pupa, emerger or adult patterns will all work. Terrestrials cast up along the bank is usually effective for tricking those fish who are keeping an eye out for an easy meal. Zonkers and wooly buggers have been catching the larger fish when fished tight to undercut banks.

Ants, Winston and Abel for Father’s Day

The Gunpowder River is clear and flowing at a near perfect 75 Cfs and is in the mid 50’s F throughout most of the day. Thanks to Gene for the great shot of Backwater Angler Staffer Carl Cartier showing how to handle a solid Brown trout in a bend pool on the Gunpowder with a short Leonard and a long leader. The last of the Sulphurs can be found above Falls Rd each evening. If you are starting earlier, Ants and caddis are worth a shot. Be sure to stop in a pick up a few parachute ants and some 7x tippet. We have lots …

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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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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.

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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Great Streamer Water on the Gunpowder River

Thanks to Gene for the stream report and photos. We have Airflo polyleaders in stock that will make the difference when swinging flies in fat water. The River will be clearing by Sunday.Limit your wading and don’t wade across the River if you can help it. Watch out for boaters this weekend as flows are high for safe paddling. New jams can be found throughout the River from Bunkerhill downstream to the NCR trail Bridge below Corbett so it’s best to scout the river on foot prior to any float to check out portaging spots. The Gunpowder is flowing at 285 cfs and temperature is …

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