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Six Weight Fly Rod Reviews

A 6wt fly rod is not necessarily the ideal rod for the Gunpowder River, but it’s a good stick for larger rivers and the bigger trout and smallmouth they hold and ideal for sinking lines and flies. A sturdy 6wt can also manage chunky largemouths and carp in local ponds. And it can still hold its own on most Gunpowder situations. At Backwater Angler, we have several 6wts to chase these fish on larger bodies of local water such as the Susquehanna River, North Branch of the Potomac River, or local reservoirs. Entry level St. Croix Mojo Trout – $200 Mojo Trout Fly Rod These are …

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August Gunpowder River Report

The river is at 139 cfs, water temperature is in the mid 50’s. The fishing is very good with the flows being ideal for summer fishing. There is a lot of stream side terrestrials active now, hoppers, crickets and loads of ants. Inch worms falling in from the trees keeping the fish on the look out. Note: The river level has dropped to 64 cfs on Friday afternoon.  Thanks to Keir for the report earlier this week: Guys, Beautiful morning to be out and had some luck on the Gunpowder. The trout were taking a bead head prince nymph. 

Beginners Fly Fishing School

Please join us for a fly fishing school. On Sunday the 11th of August 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 10:00 – 1:00pm. 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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Low Water and Spillover on the Gunpowder

The Gunpowder is at 30cfs, clear and 61 degrees F at 3pm today. Prettyboy reservoir is over capacity and surface water very warm with the recent heat wave. This afternoon they cut the release dramatically once again from 120 to 30 cfs causing it to spill. With heavy rain forecast this afternoon through this evening, keep a close eye on the USGS gauge after as significant spillover is very possible. If water temperatures rise to 68 degrees or over give the trout a break until the water temperature comes back down again.  

Fantastic Levels On the Gunpowder

The Gunpowder is at a lovely 153 cfs, 53 degrees and clear in the catch and release section. After a heavy lashing of rain on Sunday, Prettyboy Dam increased the release to 150cfs from 30 just in time to avoid significant spillover. Once again, this has triggered the fish to spread out nicely and feed more confidently. Terrestrials have been working really well. Try throwing a big ant, beetle or hopper. Drop a nymph off the back and fish the faster runs and riffles. Fish tend to be very opportunistic at this time of year through the rest of summer so work on covering the …

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Levels Back Up on the Gunpowder!

The Gunpowder is at 153 cfs, clear and starting the day at 50 degrees F. On Tuesday whilst sight fishing to trout at 30 cfs, we started noticing increasing wood and debris coming past us. A couple of minutes later the river was chocolate milk. The water has come up again from Prettyboy Dam to a nice 150 cfs at Falls road. Now the water is clear again, the fish have spread out & fishing is good. Catch some fish this weekend, stay cool and enjoy! Note: We will be closed Thursday July the 4th. Enjoy the festivities!