Fishing The Potomac River

AKA: The Potomac

Most Popular Fish
Potomac River Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
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Potomac River, DC

Popular Fish Species Potomac River, DC

Potomac River Popular Fish - Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish Fishing

The Potomac River has held a dependable population of channel catfish for many years now. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. For weekend anglers, most any rod and reel will work for catching channel catfish, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment enhances success, especially when you hook one of the big boys. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. White catfish and blue catfish also reside in the Potomac and fishing for them is often good as well. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area. In Spring channel catfish migrate toward incoming water, so stay up river away from the main lake. In early summer look for rocky banks, the bigger the rocks the better. In summer and winter deeper structure is where to look. The river end of the lake is often the area where the bigger catfish are caught. Road beds, creek channels and rocky points are all good places to begin.

Potomac River Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

The Potomac River continues to sustain a robust smallmouth bass population. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers.

Walleye Fishing

Thanks to a significant baitfish population, and presence of numerous small sunfish in the lake, walleye are thriving in the fertile waters of the Potomac River this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Fish species to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, white catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, green sunfish, longear sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, redbreast sunfish, white perch, yellow perch, striped bass and muskie on The Potomac River in Washington DC.

Potomac River Fishing Video

A virtual fish factory, The Potomac River runs the western border of the district, from north to south. This DC section of the river has nearly 50 miles of shoreline, with access for boating at several boat launch ramps located on both the west and east side of the river.

The Potomac River is a prominent waterway that flows through Washington DC, offering excellent fishing opportunities to anglers. It is divided into different sections, and the portion that passes through the city provides ample space for various fishing activities.

Largemouth and smallmouth bass are among the most popular fish species found in the Potomac River. The river's structure, including submerged rocks and fallen trees, creates an ideal habitat for these bass species to thrive. Anglers often target them using various lures and baits, making bass fishing a favorite pastime in the area.

Another prized catch in the Potomac River is the striped bass, also known as rockfish. These migratory fish make their way up the river during their spawning runs, attracting anglers from all over. The spring and fall seasons offer the best chances to catch these strong and elusive fish.

Catfish species, such as channel catfish, flathead catfish, and blue catfish, are also prevalent in the Potomac River. These bottom-dwelling fish are abundant and can be caught throughout the year. Catfishing is especially popular during the warmer months when these species become more active.

For anglers seeking a challenge, the Potomac River is home to muskellunge, commonly known as muskie. Muskie are apex predators and are highly sought after by experienced anglers looking for a thrilling fishing adventure.

Other species commonly found in the Potomac River include black crappie, white crappie, walleye, sunfish, and perch. These fish provide additional diversity and opportunities for anglers to explore different fishing techniques and tactics.

Anglers visiting the Potomac River in Washington DC can look forward to a rewarding and memorable fishing experience, whether it's targeting bass, catfish, muskie, or other species that call this iconic river home. As always, it is essential to be mindful of local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary permits before heading out to fish in the Potomac River.

Fishing enthusiasts are drawn here to fish for bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, sunfish, perch, muskie and striped bass. While there are no campgrounds nearby, there is plenty of lodging options in the area. There are plenty of park areas for fishing from the bank, but boats are the ideal way to locate the fish. Kayaks, canoes and all types of fishing boats can enhance your day of fishing. Potomac River fishing guides can help you locate fish as well as provide all the gear and expertise. Marinas, stores and restaurants are all convenient to enhance a day on the water.

Primary fish species residing in The Potomac River

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

The Potomac River Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NO
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Fishing Boat Rentals

Ballpark Boathouse
Rentals: Kayaks
202 337-9642

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Anacostia Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the river, east side, off Anacostia Drive, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.