{"id":10725,"date":"2016-06-20T08:00:43","date_gmt":"2016-06-20T12:00:43","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/dnr\/?p=10725"},"modified":"2017-04-14T18:16:36","modified_gmt":"2017-04-14T22:16:36","slug":"north-branch-float-fishing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/dnr\/2016\/06\/20\/north-branch-float-fishing\/","title":{"rendered":"Go West, Young Angler, Go West! Float-fishing on the North Branch"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Rainbow

Rainbow trout; by Harold Harsh<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

If you would like the adventure of an entirely different trout fishing experience similar to that of the western states, look no further than the North Branch Potomac River<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Spring

Spring Creek Outfitters guide; by Harold Harsh<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

We\u2019re off!<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Jennings Randolph Lake Dam in Garrett County supplies an abundant coldwater flow to the North Branch Potomac River to support a large river trout fishing opportunity. While you can wade in summer months or fish from the bank, a float-fishing trip in a raft or kayak is a unique way to experience all that this rolling river offers. Better yet, several fishing guide services are available to float anglers down the river and help you catch the trout of a lifetime!<\/p>\n

The adventure begins at the catch-and-return area downstream of Jennings Randolph Lake. Its cold, gin-clear water supports populations of wild brown, rainbow and brook trout. Stocked by the state\u2019s Fisheries Service<\/a>, cutthroat trout also are caught.<\/p>\n

Once floating this stretch, you will not see a house or passing car\u2014only the steep green mountain ridges on both sides of the river. Guide Harold Harsh of Spring Creek Outfitters has float-fished this river for nearly 25 years. \u201cThe best fishing starts in June and runs through to the end of November, if the weather holds,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n

In an area abundant with bait, from ants and beetles to caddisflies, march browns, sulphurs and slate drakes, \u201cThe trout rise with gusto!\u201d he exclaims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fishing Guide Services<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Boulder-strewn rapids and small waterfalls occur throughout, so it is advised that an experienced guide take you down the river for the first time. Guides offer both half-day and full-day float wading trips. Let any of the outfitters below teach you how to navigate and locate the best trout holding locations!<\/span><\/p>\n