Tides for Key Bridge, D.C. starting with October 25, 2010.
Day High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time % Moon
/Low Time Feet Sunset Visible
M 25 Low 5:08 AM 0.3 7:28 AM Set 10:07 AM 96
25 High 10:32 AM 2.9 6:16 PM Rise 7:45 PM
25 Low 4:47 PM 0.3
25 High 10:32 PM 3.3
Tu 26 Low 5:49 AM 0.3 7:29 AM Set 11:06 AM 92
26 High 11:09 AM 2.8 6:15 PM Rise 8:37 PM
26 Low 5:27 PM 0.3
26 High 11:12 PM 3.3
W 27 Low 6:33 AM 0.4 7:30 AM Set 12:00 PM 85
27 High 11:50 AM 2.8 6:14 PM Rise 9:37 PM
27 Low 6:13 PM 0.3
27 High 11:57 PM 3.3
Th 28 Low 7:20 AM 0.4 7:31 AM Set 12:48 PM 77
28 High 12:37 PM 2.8 6:13 PM Rise 10:42 PM
28 Low 7:06 PM 0.4
F 29 High 12:50 AM 3.2 7:32 AM Set 1:31 PM 67
29 Low 8:13 AM 0.4 6:11 PM Rise 11:51 PM
29 High 1:32 PM 2.8
29 Low 8:06 PM 0.4
Sa 30 High 1:49 AM 3.1 7:33 AM Set 2:08 PM 57
30 Low 9:09 AM 0.4 6:10 PM
30 High 2:35 PM 2.8
30 Low 9:14 PM 0.4
Su 31 High 2:56 AM 3.1 7:35 AM Rise 1:01 AM 46
31 Low 10:07 AM 0.3 6:09 PM Set 2:41 PM
31 High 3:41 PM 2.9
31 Low 10:25 PM 0.3
For information on regulations for fishing in Potomac River contact: Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Tides October 18-24 for Key Bridge
Tides for Key Bridge, D.C. starting with October 18, 2010.
Day High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time % Moon
/Low Time Feet Sunset Visible
M 18 High 5:51 AM 2.9 7:21 AM Set 3:10 AM 77
18 Low 12:21 PM 0.5 6:26 PM Rise 4:08 PM
18 High 6:19 PM 3.0
Tu 19 Low 12:44 AM 0.5 7:22 AM Set 4:07 AM 84
19 High 6:41 AM 2.9 6:24 PM Rise 4:31 PM
19 Low 1:05 PM 0.4
19 High 7:05 PM 3.1
W 20 Low 1:34 AM 0.4 7:23 AM Set 5:04 AM 90
20 High 7:26 AM 3.0 6:23 PM Rise 4:55 PM
20 Low 1:46 PM 0.3
20 High 7:46 PM 3.1
Th 21 Low 2:21 AM 0.3 7:24 AM Set 6:02 AM 95
21 High 8:07 AM 3.0 6:22 PM Rise 5:21 PM
21 Low 2:24 PM 0.3
21 High 8:23 PM 3.2
F 22 Low 3:05 AM 0.3 7:25 AM Set 7:01 AM 98
22 High 8:46 AM 2.9 6:20 PM Rise 5:49 PM
22 Low 3:00 PM 0.3
22 High 8:56 PM 3.3
Sa 23 Low 3:47 AM 0.3 7:26 AM Set 8:03 AM 99
23 High 9:23 AM 2.9 6:19 PM Rise 6:22 PM
23 Low 3:35 PM 0.3
23 High 9:27 PM 3.3
Su 24 Low 4:28 AM 0.3 7:27 AM Set 9:05 AM 99
24 High 9:57 AM 2.9 6:18 PM Rise 7:00 PM
24 Low 4:10 PM 0.3
24 High 9:57 PM 3.3
WARNING: The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Tide High and Low, Inc. does not warrant, for any use or purpose, the accuracy nor completeness of these charts. User hereby agrees to hold harmless The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Tide High and Low, Inc., their officers, directors, employees and agents, from any and all liability for any damages whatsoever, and regardless of cause, to person or property, including third persons, arising from the use of this service. The prudent mariner will never rely on any single aid for navigation.
© 2001-2010 Maryland DNR and Tide High and Low, Inc. (www.saltwatertides.com)
Day High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time % Moon
/Low Time Feet Sunset Visible
M 18 High 5:51 AM 2.9 7:21 AM Set 3:10 AM 77
18 Low 12:21 PM 0.5 6:26 PM Rise 4:08 PM
18 High 6:19 PM 3.0
Tu 19 Low 12:44 AM 0.5 7:22 AM Set 4:07 AM 84
19 High 6:41 AM 2.9 6:24 PM Rise 4:31 PM
19 Low 1:05 PM 0.4
19 High 7:05 PM 3.1
W 20 Low 1:34 AM 0.4 7:23 AM Set 5:04 AM 90
20 High 7:26 AM 3.0 6:23 PM Rise 4:55 PM
20 Low 1:46 PM 0.3
20 High 7:46 PM 3.1
Th 21 Low 2:21 AM 0.3 7:24 AM Set 6:02 AM 95
21 High 8:07 AM 3.0 6:22 PM Rise 5:21 PM
21 Low 2:24 PM 0.3
21 High 8:23 PM 3.2
F 22 Low 3:05 AM 0.3 7:25 AM Set 7:01 AM 98
22 High 8:46 AM 2.9 6:20 PM Rise 5:49 PM
22 Low 3:00 PM 0.3
22 High 8:56 PM 3.3
Sa 23 Low 3:47 AM 0.3 7:26 AM Set 8:03 AM 99
23 High 9:23 AM 2.9 6:19 PM Rise 6:22 PM
23 Low 3:35 PM 0.3
23 High 9:27 PM 3.3
Su 24 Low 4:28 AM 0.3 7:27 AM Set 9:05 AM 99
24 High 9:57 AM 2.9 6:18 PM Rise 7:00 PM
24 Low 4:10 PM 0.3
24 High 9:57 PM 3.3
WARNING: The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Tide High and Low, Inc. does not warrant, for any use or purpose, the accuracy nor completeness of these charts. User hereby agrees to hold harmless The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Tide High and Low, Inc., their officers, directors, employees and agents, from any and all liability for any damages whatsoever, and regardless of cause, to person or property, including third persons, arising from the use of this service. The prudent mariner will never rely on any single aid for navigation.
© 2001-2010 Maryland DNR and Tide High and Low, Inc. (www.saltwatertides.com)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Maryland Trout Stocking
DNR To Begin Stocking Trout for Fall Fishing Season
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will stock approximately 20,000 trout into freshwaters across the State in October. This total includes 19,400 rainbow trout weighing an average of one pound each and 600 brown trout averaging two pounds each.
“Streams and rivers across the state are currently very low and the dry weather pattern that we have been experiencing is expected to remain unchanged for the next week or more,” said Charlie Gougeon, manager of field operations for Inland Fisheries. “Our regional managers will continue to assess each stocking location for adequate flow and will focus stocking efforts on the larger rivers, ponds and lakes where stocking conditions are most favorable.”
Anglers should be patient, as a sudden change in weather pattern that brings some rain can often improve the fishing conditions overnight.
Although stocking dates and locations are dependent on water flow and temperature, suitable conditions can generally be found in many areas beginning the second week of October and stocking is usually completed by the end of the month. In most years, cool water temperatures in the fall allow trout stocking to occur in Delayed Harvest Trout Fishing Areas and locations such as the North Branch Potomac, Bear Creek, Town Creek, Blairs Valley Lake, Antietam Creek, Beaver Creek, Cunningham Falls Lake, Rainbow Lake, Greenbrier Lake, Morgan Run, Patapsco River, Big Gunpowder Falls, Great Seneca Creek, Wheatley Lake, Lake Artemesia, Greenbelt Lake, Big Elk Creek, Deer Creek and Tuckahoe.
Beware of invasive species! DNR reminds anglers to clean their gear between streams or outings to prevent moving around unwanted invaders like didymo and whirling disease. Anglers can wash their gear with dish soap, a 5% salt solution or one of the convenient wader wash stations at some locations.
DNR’s trout stocking information telephone line, 1-800-688-3467, will be updated weekly beginning October 1 so that anglers may find out if their favorite area has been stocked. Stocked areas will also be posted online at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries once stocking is complete.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will stock approximately 20,000 trout into freshwaters across the State in October. This total includes 19,400 rainbow trout weighing an average of one pound each and 600 brown trout averaging two pounds each.
“Streams and rivers across the state are currently very low and the dry weather pattern that we have been experiencing is expected to remain unchanged for the next week or more,” said Charlie Gougeon, manager of field operations for Inland Fisheries. “Our regional managers will continue to assess each stocking location for adequate flow and will focus stocking efforts on the larger rivers, ponds and lakes where stocking conditions are most favorable.”
Anglers should be patient, as a sudden change in weather pattern that brings some rain can often improve the fishing conditions overnight.
Although stocking dates and locations are dependent on water flow and temperature, suitable conditions can generally be found in many areas beginning the second week of October and stocking is usually completed by the end of the month. In most years, cool water temperatures in the fall allow trout stocking to occur in Delayed Harvest Trout Fishing Areas and locations such as the North Branch Potomac, Bear Creek, Town Creek, Blairs Valley Lake, Antietam Creek, Beaver Creek, Cunningham Falls Lake, Rainbow Lake, Greenbrier Lake, Morgan Run, Patapsco River, Big Gunpowder Falls, Great Seneca Creek, Wheatley Lake, Lake Artemesia, Greenbelt Lake, Big Elk Creek, Deer Creek and Tuckahoe.
Beware of invasive species! DNR reminds anglers to clean their gear between streams or outings to prevent moving around unwanted invaders like didymo and whirling disease. Anglers can wash their gear with dish soap, a 5% salt solution or one of the convenient wader wash stations at some locations.
DNR’s trout stocking information telephone line, 1-800-688-3467, will be updated weekly beginning October 1 so that anglers may find out if their favorite area has been stocked. Stocked areas will also be posted online at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries once stocking is complete.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Gravelly Point tides Oct. 11 -16th
Tides for Washington National Airport starting with October 11, 2010.
Day High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time % Moon
/Low Time Feet Sunset Visible
M 11 Low 6:09 AM 0.1 7:14 AM Rise 11:45 AM 12
11 High 11:33 AM 3.3 6:36 PM Set 9:14 PM
11 Low 6:03 PM 0.2
11 High 11:48 PM 3.7
Tu 12 Low 7:01 AM 0.2 7:15 AM Rise 12:42 PM 21
12 High 12:26 PM 3.1 6:34 PM Set 10:12 PM
12 Low 6:53 PM 0.3
W 13 High 12:41 AM 3.5 7:16 AM Rise 1:32 PM 30
13 Low 7:54 AM 0.4 6:33 PM Set 11:12 PM
13 High 1:22 PM 3.0
13 Low 7:47 PM 0.4
Th 14 High 1:39 AM 3.3 7:17 AM Rise 2:13 PM 40
14 Low 8:47 AM 0.5 6:31 PM
14 High 2:21 PM 2.9
14 Low 8:45 PM 0.5
F 15 High 2:42 AM 3.1 7:18 AM Set 12:13 AM 50
15 Low 9:42 AM 0.5 6:30 PM Rise 2:47 PM
15 High 3:22 PM 2.9
15 Low 9:44 PM 0.5
Day High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time % Moon
/Low Time Feet Sunset Visible
M 11 Low 6:09 AM 0.1 7:14 AM Rise 11:45 AM 12
11 High 11:33 AM 3.3 6:36 PM Set 9:14 PM
11 Low 6:03 PM 0.2
11 High 11:48 PM 3.7
Tu 12 Low 7:01 AM 0.2 7:15 AM Rise 12:42 PM 21
12 High 12:26 PM 3.1 6:34 PM Set 10:12 PM
12 Low 6:53 PM 0.3
W 13 High 12:41 AM 3.5 7:16 AM Rise 1:32 PM 30
13 Low 7:54 AM 0.4 6:33 PM Set 11:12 PM
13 High 1:22 PM 3.0
13 Low 7:47 PM 0.4
Th 14 High 1:39 AM 3.3 7:17 AM Rise 2:13 PM 40
14 Low 8:47 AM 0.5 6:31 PM
14 High 2:21 PM 2.9
14 Low 8:45 PM 0.5
F 15 High 2:42 AM 3.1 7:18 AM Set 12:13 AM 50
15 Low 9:42 AM 0.5 6:30 PM Rise 2:47 PM
15 High 3:22 PM 2.9
15 Low 9:44 PM 0.5
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
back online
After a major computer dump and tons of travel and I am finally getting back online and will be updating things as we move into the fall. Get out your two handed rods, stripers are going to soon be moving into the Potomac.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Two handed rods
Dan and I got together a bunch of the folks from Tidal Potomac Fly Rodders for an informal two-handed casting session. It was a great morning on the river.
Friday, July 9, 2010
DNR Asks Anglers to Catch and Kill Snakehead Fish
DNR Asks Anglers To Catch And Kill Snakehead Fish
Annapolis, MD (May 19, 2010) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds anglers that they are required by regulation to kill Northern Snakehead fish, if caught and kept. Snakehead fish, an invasive species, have started to thrive in the Potomac River and its tributaries.
“We want you to catch and kill snakeheads,” says DNR Inland Fisheries Director Don Cosden. “This is not a species that we want in our waters.”
Maryland fishing regulations allow the taking of snakeheads, so long as the fish is:
• immediately killed and its head removed
• gutted
• both gill arches are removed, or
• the fish is filleted.
Otherwise, the capture and possession of snakeheads is not subject to any season, creel limit or size limit.
Maryland does not require the reporting of snakehead catches. DNR asks that anglers report any snakeheads caught outside of Potomac tidal waters by contacting Don Cosden at dcosden@dnr.state.md.us or call (410) 260-8287. This will help DNR track the expansion of the species.
Anglers in Virginia waters who catch a snakehead must immediately kill the fish and subsequently report the catch. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fish hot line is (804) 367-2925.
Federal law prohibits the import of live snakeheads in to the U.S. or across state lines without a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Annapolis, MD (May 19, 2010) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds anglers that they are required by regulation to kill Northern Snakehead fish, if caught and kept. Snakehead fish, an invasive species, have started to thrive in the Potomac River and its tributaries.
“We want you to catch and kill snakeheads,” says DNR Inland Fisheries Director Don Cosden. “This is not a species that we want in our waters.”
Maryland fishing regulations allow the taking of snakeheads, so long as the fish is:
• immediately killed and its head removed
• gutted
• both gill arches are removed, or
• the fish is filleted.
Otherwise, the capture and possession of snakeheads is not subject to any season, creel limit or size limit.
Maryland does not require the reporting of snakehead catches. DNR asks that anglers report any snakeheads caught outside of Potomac tidal waters by contacting Don Cosden at dcosden@dnr.state.md.us or call (410) 260-8287. This will help DNR track the expansion of the species.
Anglers in Virginia waters who catch a snakehead must immediately kill the fish and subsequently report the catch. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fish hot line is (804) 367-2925.
Federal law prohibits the import of live snakeheads in to the U.S. or across state lines without a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Deep Creek Lake makes the list of top summer lake towns
Summer Lake Towns 2010
Nature hikes, canoe trips, pancake breakfasts—just another perfect summer day in one of America's best lake towns.
By Beth Collins, Tuesday, June 29, 2010 | Subscribe to the magazine
Lake Chelan, in Washington State. Don't leave without taking a ferry up the lake—the fjord-like gorges make for stunning scenery, with the slopes of the North Cascades dropping dramatically into the deep-blue water (Courtesy Maurice King/Flickr)
Chelan, Wash., on Lake Chelan Photo 1 of 3
Everywhere you look in Chelan, some ruddy-cheeked soul is kayaking, swimming, fishing, or windsurfing on the 50-mile-long glacier-fed lake (kayak rental, lakeridersports.com, from $40). The Stillwater Inn, a butter-yellow 1906 house just a block from the beach, makes an ideal home base, thanks in part to the fortifying breakfasts of fresh-baked goods and fruit served each day (509/682-3500, thestillwaterinn.com, from $135). Two miles down the road, in downtown, the one-screen Ruby Theatre has been entertaining families since 1914, and these days it doubles as a community meeting place that hosts benefit concerts, dance recitals, and school plays (509/682-5016, rubytheatre.com, $8). Don't leave without taking a ferry up the lake—the fjord-like gorges make for stunning scenery, with the slopes of the North Cascades dropping dramatically into the deep-blue water. Most ferries make a stop in Stehekin, population 95, where the local organic garden sells fresh vegetables, goat cheese, and yogurt for an off-the-beaten-path afternoon picnic. (ladyofthelake.com, round trip from $39).
Grand Marais, Minn., on Lake Superior Photo 1 of 3
Lake Superior begins at the edge of town, and the Boundary Waters—a series of connecting lakes that offer 1,500 miles of canoe routes—is just 25 miles southwest. Fishing for prime trout and salmon has improved in recent years owing to a massive restocking program. Before you set out for a day of activities on the lake (try Bear Track Outfitting Co., 800/795-8068, bear-track.com, rentals from $35), fuel up at World's Best Donuts. The name sounds like hyperbole until you taste the confections: The simple cake doughnut, with a dense, chewy inside and a golden, just-crisp-enough outside, is a thing of beauty (worldsbestdonutsmn.com, from 70¢). For dinner, head to the Angry Trout Cafe at sunset and ask for a table outside. The combination of simply prepared, freshly caught fish, a light evening breeze, and sunlight reflecting off the lake is enough to make you consider investing in a summer cabin (218/387-1265, angrytroutcafe.com, entrées from $10). East Bay Suites has rooms with lake views, kitchenettes, and balconies (21 Wisconsin St., 800/414-2807, eastbaysuites.com, from $129).
NEED CONVINCING?
Dive into our lake-town slideshow for more reasons to hit the road.
• Launch the slide show
Dillon, Colo., on Lake Dillon Photo 1 of 3
Lake adventures in this Summit County town—within 15 miles of ski-season hotspots Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain—start at the Dillon Marina, with weekend sailing regattas, boat rentals, and meet-ups for guided Saturday-morning hikes and kid-friendly wildflower walks (boat/kayak rental from $105, nature hikes free). Find locals at the Tiki Bar, an island-inspired lakeside watering hole where the signature drink, the rum runner, is so popular (and so potent) that the owners instituted a two-rum-runner limit per person (151 Marina Dr., 970/262-6309). From the marina, head two blocks to downtown for the Friday farmers market, where more than 90 vendors sell fresh produce and folk-rock musicians entertain the crowd (Buffalo St., June 11–Sept. 24, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.). For some good old-fashioned fun, spend an afternoon at 18-lane Lakeside Bowl, the only bowling alley in the county (970/468-6257, $3.50 per game). The rooms at the Best Western Ptarmigan Lodge are nothing to write home about, but the lakeside location just a block from the marina is hard to beat. Rooms with decks and lake views are available (ptarmiganlodge.com, from $85).
Forest Grove, Ore., near Hagg Lake Photo 1 of 2
Just 25 miles west of Portland, Forest Grove is quintessential Oregon: laid-back and outdoorsy with a healthy dose of quirk. The historic downtown is lined with old-fashioned ironwork street lamps, sophisticated wine bars, and boutique gift shops. Institutions like Joe's Ice Cream & Deli will take you back to an America you thought was long gone—get the black-licorice ice cream, a townie favorite (2001 Main St., 503/357-3077). The 1,100-acre Hagg Lake is an easy nine miles away and sits at the base of Oregon's coastal mountain range, surrounded by picnic areas, two boat launches, and 15 miles of hiking trails. Serious fishermen appreciate that the lake is well-stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and yellow perch, and waterskiing and kayaking opportunities are easy to find, too (503/927-5489, $10 per hour/$40 per day). The area's most unique lodging option comes from the McMenamin brothers, famous in the Northwest for converting old buildings into hotels and bars. In 2000, they restored a late 20th-century Masonic home and opened McMenamins Grand Lodge, a 77-room hotel. On rainy days, hang out at the lodge and watch a second-run movie at the Compass Room Theater with a burger and fries; there's also a heated outdoor saltwater soaking pool for post-waterskiing recuperation (mcmenamins.com, king with private bath $115).
Rangeley, Maine, on Rangeley Lakes Photo 1 of 3
Maine is home to more undeveloped land than any other state in the country, so keep an eye peeled for herons, eagles, and, of course, moose—maybe while sailing Rangeley Lake on a guided boat tour led by Sam-O-Set Four Seasons and Dockside Sports Center. The company can also set you up with anything from a basic canoe to a 20-foot speedboat (207/864-5137, samosetfourseasons.com, tours $25 per person, canoe rental from $25, speedboat from $200). Back in town, browse the quilt and antiques shops downtown, like Threads Galore, a quilter's paradise with close to 1,000 bolts of fabric, plus classes where you can meet locals (27 Pleasant St., threadsgalore.com, classes from $20). Then head south about five miles to Edelheid Road, where you'll find the Maine Mountain Maple plantation. Take a tour of the sugar shack, where locally tapped sticky sap is made into sugary syrup, and one free taste later, you'll never buy the generic stuff again (50 Edelheid Rd., mainemountainmaple.com). Rest your head at North Country Inn Bed & Breakfast. It's a bit like visiting your favorite great-aunt—if she served you quiche or pancakes topped with fresh fruit every morning (northcountrybb.com, from $99).
Leland, Mich., on Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau Photo 1 of 3
Leland rests on a peninsula between Lake Michigan and petite Lake Leelanau. Families who've been spending the summer here for generations often arrive by boat and never set foot in a car during their stay. The town's roots as a fishing village aren't hard to spot—the main attraction here is Fishtown, a cluster of old shanties converted into shops and restaurants, now a lakeside historic district. Locals love the pretzel-bread sandwiches at the Village Cheese Shanty (199 E. River Rd., villagecheeseshanty.com), and kids never let parents walk by the Dam Candy Store without stopping for an ice cream cone or chocolate-covered cherries (197 W. River Rd.). The 107-year-old Riverside Inn and Restaurant, one block from downtown, has a homey feel but is classy enough to offer an extensive international wine list and dining on the deck with views of the Leland River (302 River St., theriverside231/256-9971, 231/256-9971, 231/256-9971, -inn.com, from $100). If you do bring a car, make time to explore the wineries of northern Michigan. The pinot noir from Chateau Fontaine, just three miles outside Leland, has a vibrant berry flavor—it's the perfect summer wine (2290 S. French Rd., 231/256-0000, chateaufontaine.com).
Truckee, Calif., on Donner Lake Photo 1 of 2
This year, skip Lake Tahoe and head 16 miles south to Donner Lake's warmer water temperatures and small-town atmosphere. Originally an Old West town (you can still visit the original 1875 jailhouse), Truckee is a great base for exploring the lake's many outdoor activities—lately, stand-up paddleboarding is the sport of choice (Truckee Sports Exchange, 530/582-4510, truckeesportsexchange.com, boards $60 per day, kayaks $40 per day). Truckee also has a growing local art scene—a slew of new galleries has opened recently, including Riverside Studios, which sells pottery, jewelry, and clothing made by a collective of area artists (10374 Donner Pass Rd., 530/587-3789, riversideartstudios.com), and Carmel Gallery, home to Olof and Elizabeth Carmel's impressionistic prints and photographs (9940 Donner Pass Rd., 888/482-4632, thecarmelgallery.com). Whatever your plans, carb up first with the All Day Addiction, a concoction of hash browns, avocado, Canadian bacon, and two eggs, at 1940s-style diner Jax at the Tracks (10144 W. River St., 530/550-7450, jaxtruckee.com, Addiction $10). Later, you can relive your adventures over a Base Camp Golden Ale at Fifty Fifty Brewing Co., where all the beers are brewed in-house (530/587-2337, fiftyfiftybrewing.com, beers from $4.50), and watch the sun set over the water from the redwood deck at Loch Leven Lodge (lochlevenlodge.com, rooms from $120).
Oakland, Md., on Deep Creek Lake Photo 1 of 2
At the southern end of Deep Creek Lake, Oakland is home to Lakeside Creamery, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor dishing out 90 flavors to flocks of visitors. The peach ice cream, made from fresh local fruit and milk sourced from area dairy farms, is a perennial summer favorite. Right next door, Copper Kettle Popcorn sells the standard sweet-salty version and regional specialties like popcorn sprinkled with Old Bay, plus homemade fudge and chocolate-dipped pretzels (both shops at 20282 Garrett Hwy., 301/387-5655, ice cream from $2, popcorn from $5). You can get to both by car, but it's more fun to arrive by water and pull up to the boat slips. Deep Creek Marina rents everything from canoes to powerboats, plus kid-friendly toys like water trampolines (301/387-0732, trampoline rentals from $150). If it's swimming you're after, try the mile of shoreline at Deep Creek Lake State Park. Naturalists often lead free nature hikes and evening campfire talks centered around the area's black bear population (Discovery Center, 301/387-7067). Rest your head at the Lodges at Sunset Village, tucked deep in the woods about eight miles from Oakland. The cabins sleep four to 10 people and have working fireplaces, rustic knotty-pine furniture, and kitchenettes (rentals.deepcreek.com, two-bedroom cabins from $185).
Want more lake towns? See the 2009 or 2008 edition of this list.
Note: This story was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
Comments (2)
Nature hikes, canoe trips, pancake breakfasts—just another perfect summer day in one of America's best lake towns.
By Beth Collins, Tuesday, June 29, 2010 | Subscribe to the magazine
Lake Chelan, in Washington State. Don't leave without taking a ferry up the lake—the fjord-like gorges make for stunning scenery, with the slopes of the North Cascades dropping dramatically into the deep-blue water (Courtesy Maurice King/Flickr)
Chelan, Wash., on Lake Chelan Photo 1 of 3
Everywhere you look in Chelan, some ruddy-cheeked soul is kayaking, swimming, fishing, or windsurfing on the 50-mile-long glacier-fed lake (kayak rental, lakeridersports.com, from $40). The Stillwater Inn, a butter-yellow 1906 house just a block from the beach, makes an ideal home base, thanks in part to the fortifying breakfasts of fresh-baked goods and fruit served each day (509/682-3500, thestillwaterinn.com, from $135). Two miles down the road, in downtown, the one-screen Ruby Theatre has been entertaining families since 1914, and these days it doubles as a community meeting place that hosts benefit concerts, dance recitals, and school plays (509/682-5016, rubytheatre.com, $8). Don't leave without taking a ferry up the lake—the fjord-like gorges make for stunning scenery, with the slopes of the North Cascades dropping dramatically into the deep-blue water. Most ferries make a stop in Stehekin, population 95, where the local organic garden sells fresh vegetables, goat cheese, and yogurt for an off-the-beaten-path afternoon picnic. (ladyofthelake.com, round trip from $39).
Grand Marais, Minn., on Lake Superior Photo 1 of 3
Lake Superior begins at the edge of town, and the Boundary Waters—a series of connecting lakes that offer 1,500 miles of canoe routes—is just 25 miles southwest. Fishing for prime trout and salmon has improved in recent years owing to a massive restocking program. Before you set out for a day of activities on the lake (try Bear Track Outfitting Co., 800/795-8068, bear-track.com, rentals from $35), fuel up at World's Best Donuts. The name sounds like hyperbole until you taste the confections: The simple cake doughnut, with a dense, chewy inside and a golden, just-crisp-enough outside, is a thing of beauty (worldsbestdonutsmn.com, from 70¢). For dinner, head to the Angry Trout Cafe at sunset and ask for a table outside. The combination of simply prepared, freshly caught fish, a light evening breeze, and sunlight reflecting off the lake is enough to make you consider investing in a summer cabin (218/387-1265, angrytroutcafe.com, entrées from $10). East Bay Suites has rooms with lake views, kitchenettes, and balconies (21 Wisconsin St., 800/414-2807, eastbaysuites.com, from $129).
NEED CONVINCING?
Dive into our lake-town slideshow for more reasons to hit the road.
• Launch the slide show
Dillon, Colo., on Lake Dillon Photo 1 of 3
Lake adventures in this Summit County town—within 15 miles of ski-season hotspots Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain—start at the Dillon Marina, with weekend sailing regattas, boat rentals, and meet-ups for guided Saturday-morning hikes and kid-friendly wildflower walks (boat/kayak rental from $105, nature hikes free). Find locals at the Tiki Bar, an island-inspired lakeside watering hole where the signature drink, the rum runner, is so popular (and so potent) that the owners instituted a two-rum-runner limit per person (151 Marina Dr., 970/262-6309). From the marina, head two blocks to downtown for the Friday farmers market, where more than 90 vendors sell fresh produce and folk-rock musicians entertain the crowd (Buffalo St., June 11–Sept. 24, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.). For some good old-fashioned fun, spend an afternoon at 18-lane Lakeside Bowl, the only bowling alley in the county (970/468-6257, $3.50 per game). The rooms at the Best Western Ptarmigan Lodge are nothing to write home about, but the lakeside location just a block from the marina is hard to beat. Rooms with decks and lake views are available (ptarmiganlodge.com, from $85).
Forest Grove, Ore., near Hagg Lake Photo 1 of 2
Just 25 miles west of Portland, Forest Grove is quintessential Oregon: laid-back and outdoorsy with a healthy dose of quirk. The historic downtown is lined with old-fashioned ironwork street lamps, sophisticated wine bars, and boutique gift shops. Institutions like Joe's Ice Cream & Deli will take you back to an America you thought was long gone—get the black-licorice ice cream, a townie favorite (2001 Main St., 503/357-3077). The 1,100-acre Hagg Lake is an easy nine miles away and sits at the base of Oregon's coastal mountain range, surrounded by picnic areas, two boat launches, and 15 miles of hiking trails. Serious fishermen appreciate that the lake is well-stocked with rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and yellow perch, and waterskiing and kayaking opportunities are easy to find, too (503/927-5489, $10 per hour/$40 per day). The area's most unique lodging option comes from the McMenamin brothers, famous in the Northwest for converting old buildings into hotels and bars. In 2000, they restored a late 20th-century Masonic home and opened McMenamins Grand Lodge, a 77-room hotel. On rainy days, hang out at the lodge and watch a second-run movie at the Compass Room Theater with a burger and fries; there's also a heated outdoor saltwater soaking pool for post-waterskiing recuperation (mcmenamins.com, king with private bath $115).
Rangeley, Maine, on Rangeley Lakes Photo 1 of 3
Maine is home to more undeveloped land than any other state in the country, so keep an eye peeled for herons, eagles, and, of course, moose—maybe while sailing Rangeley Lake on a guided boat tour led by Sam-O-Set Four Seasons and Dockside Sports Center. The company can also set you up with anything from a basic canoe to a 20-foot speedboat (207/864-5137, samosetfourseasons.com, tours $25 per person, canoe rental from $25, speedboat from $200). Back in town, browse the quilt and antiques shops downtown, like Threads Galore, a quilter's paradise with close to 1,000 bolts of fabric, plus classes where you can meet locals (27 Pleasant St., threadsgalore.com, classes from $20). Then head south about five miles to Edelheid Road, where you'll find the Maine Mountain Maple plantation. Take a tour of the sugar shack, where locally tapped sticky sap is made into sugary syrup, and one free taste later, you'll never buy the generic stuff again (50 Edelheid Rd., mainemountainmaple.com). Rest your head at North Country Inn Bed & Breakfast. It's a bit like visiting your favorite great-aunt—if she served you quiche or pancakes topped with fresh fruit every morning (northcountrybb.com, from $99).
Leland, Mich., on Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau Photo 1 of 3
Leland rests on a peninsula between Lake Michigan and petite Lake Leelanau. Families who've been spending the summer here for generations often arrive by boat and never set foot in a car during their stay. The town's roots as a fishing village aren't hard to spot—the main attraction here is Fishtown, a cluster of old shanties converted into shops and restaurants, now a lakeside historic district. Locals love the pretzel-bread sandwiches at the Village Cheese Shanty (199 E. River Rd., villagecheeseshanty.com), and kids never let parents walk by the Dam Candy Store without stopping for an ice cream cone or chocolate-covered cherries (197 W. River Rd.). The 107-year-old Riverside Inn and Restaurant, one block from downtown, has a homey feel but is classy enough to offer an extensive international wine list and dining on the deck with views of the Leland River (302 River St., theriverside231/256-9971, 231/256-9971, 231/256-9971, -inn.com, from $100). If you do bring a car, make time to explore the wineries of northern Michigan. The pinot noir from Chateau Fontaine, just three miles outside Leland, has a vibrant berry flavor—it's the perfect summer wine (2290 S. French Rd., 231/256-0000, chateaufontaine.com).
Truckee, Calif., on Donner Lake Photo 1 of 2
This year, skip Lake Tahoe and head 16 miles south to Donner Lake's warmer water temperatures and small-town atmosphere. Originally an Old West town (you can still visit the original 1875 jailhouse), Truckee is a great base for exploring the lake's many outdoor activities—lately, stand-up paddleboarding is the sport of choice (Truckee Sports Exchange, 530/582-4510, truckeesportsexchange.com, boards $60 per day, kayaks $40 per day). Truckee also has a growing local art scene—a slew of new galleries has opened recently, including Riverside Studios, which sells pottery, jewelry, and clothing made by a collective of area artists (10374 Donner Pass Rd., 530/587-3789, riversideartstudios.com), and Carmel Gallery, home to Olof and Elizabeth Carmel's impressionistic prints and photographs (9940 Donner Pass Rd., 888/482-4632, thecarmelgallery.com). Whatever your plans, carb up first with the All Day Addiction, a concoction of hash browns, avocado, Canadian bacon, and two eggs, at 1940s-style diner Jax at the Tracks (10144 W. River St., 530/550-7450, jaxtruckee.com, Addiction $10). Later, you can relive your adventures over a Base Camp Golden Ale at Fifty Fifty Brewing Co., where all the beers are brewed in-house (530/587-2337, fiftyfiftybrewing.com, beers from $4.50), and watch the sun set over the water from the redwood deck at Loch Leven Lodge (lochlevenlodge.com, rooms from $120).
Oakland, Md., on Deep Creek Lake Photo 1 of 2
At the southern end of Deep Creek Lake, Oakland is home to Lakeside Creamery, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor dishing out 90 flavors to flocks of visitors. The peach ice cream, made from fresh local fruit and milk sourced from area dairy farms, is a perennial summer favorite. Right next door, Copper Kettle Popcorn sells the standard sweet-salty version and regional specialties like popcorn sprinkled with Old Bay, plus homemade fudge and chocolate-dipped pretzels (both shops at 20282 Garrett Hwy., 301/387-5655, ice cream from $2, popcorn from $5). You can get to both by car, but it's more fun to arrive by water and pull up to the boat slips. Deep Creek Marina rents everything from canoes to powerboats, plus kid-friendly toys like water trampolines (301/387-0732, trampoline rentals from $150). If it's swimming you're after, try the mile of shoreline at Deep Creek Lake State Park. Naturalists often lead free nature hikes and evening campfire talks centered around the area's black bear population (Discovery Center, 301/387-7067). Rest your head at the Lodges at Sunset Village, tucked deep in the woods about eight miles from Oakland. The cabins sleep four to 10 people and have working fireplaces, rustic knotty-pine furniture, and kitchenettes (rentals.deepcreek.com, two-bedroom cabins from $185).
Want more lake towns? See the 2009 or 2008 edition of this list.
Note: This story was accurate when it was published. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
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Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Fish kill update
Hundreds of dead fish reported in Potomac River
High temperatures likely cause of dead catfish this month
by Cody Calamaio | Staff Writer
Hundreds of fish carcasses found in the Potomac River since June 13 might have been a macabre sight, but researchers say the mortalities are not the result of toxic water conditions; it is likely the high temperatures.
The several hundred Channel Catfish found dead between the Harpers Ferry, W.Va., area of the Shenandoah River and Great Falls on the Potomac River likely succumbed to a bacterial disease brought on by a rapid increase in water temperature, low oxygen levels and natural environmental stresses at end of their spawning season, said Chris Luckett, natural resources planner with the Maryland Department of the Environment.
"These sorts of things do happen. It doesn't mean the end is near." Luckett said. "But it is big enough to be worth looking into."
The Potomac River saw water temperatures rise rapidly from 70 degrees to higher than 80 degrees last week, said John Mullican, large river specialist with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Fish can usually survive temperatures in the 80s later in the summer after their spawning season ends.
While other water bodies in the state see more than 70 fish kills per year, incidents are rare in the non-tidal Potomac watershed, encompassing rivers and tributaries upstream of Great Falls, Luckett said.
More than 50 percent of fish kills statewide occur when the water gets warmer between May and July, he said.
Since 2000 there have been 1,265 fish kills reported in Maryland, 15 of which were in Montgomery County, according to the Maryland Department of the Environment. The largest fish kill in the non-tidal Potomac watershed was 11,072 mortalities in a tributary of Catoctin Creek caused by a manure spill in 2008.
Although water temperature and stress likely are the cause of the recent fish kill, researchers also are looking into other factors.
Living catfish examined Thursday near Harpers Ferry showed some erosion on their gills, but few had significant lesions, said Vicki Blazer, fish pathologist with the U.S. Geological Survey.
"What does seam to be occurring is that many of the gills were eroded and didn't look good," Blazer said. "That suggests there something going on in the water that is affecting the gills."
Blazer examined living fish from the river using electrofishing methods to temporarily stun the fish and bring them to the surface. Blazer has been examining fish in the Potomac for years and is leading a study on intersex smallmouth bass.
"In general it is just poor water quality that's causing a lot of these problems," said Ed Merrifield, president of Potomac Riverkeeper Inc., an environmental organization which aims to stop water pollution. "If you don't care abut anything else you can care about your drinking water and the cost it takes to remove algae from the water."
The Potomac River has seen an increase in algae blooms during the past few years, Merrifield said. Excess nutrients from things such as fertilizer lead to the blooms which cause fish mortalities by sucking oxygen out of the water. Decaying algae smells bad and is difficult and costly to remove from drinking water, he said.
"For those who don't spend time on the water, the smell is terrible. It shows that we're damaging our valuable resource," Merrifield said. "We need to make some changes if we don't expect to see these things in the future."
The recent fish kill is relatively small, and appears to have abated as of Thursday, Mullican said. He said less than 500 fish died since the kill began in mid-June, based off his observations and numbers reported by kayakers and other river visitors.
There have been 64 reported fish kills in the non-tidal Potomac or its tributaries since 2000, many of which have numbered in the thousands, according to the Maryland Department of the Environment.
"Just like people, fish occasionally get sick," Mullican said.
The best way for researchers to determine the cause of a fish kill is to get to the area immediately, Luckett said. After 24 hours, it is harder to reconstruct what happened as the fish begin to decompose.
Fish kills can be reported to the Maryland Department of the Environment using its 24-hour hotline, 877-224-7229.
If people find dead fish in the river, they shouldn't touch them, Mullican said. He said people should take note of what type of fish they found, how many there were, and what part of the rive they were in, and call the hotline as soon as possible.
High temperatures likely cause of dead catfish this month
by Cody Calamaio | Staff Writer
Hundreds of fish carcasses found in the Potomac River since June 13 might have been a macabre sight, but researchers say the mortalities are not the result of toxic water conditions; it is likely the high temperatures.
The several hundred Channel Catfish found dead between the Harpers Ferry, W.Va., area of the Shenandoah River and Great Falls on the Potomac River likely succumbed to a bacterial disease brought on by a rapid increase in water temperature, low oxygen levels and natural environmental stresses at end of their spawning season, said Chris Luckett, natural resources planner with the Maryland Department of the Environment.
"These sorts of things do happen. It doesn't mean the end is near." Luckett said. "But it is big enough to be worth looking into."
The Potomac River saw water temperatures rise rapidly from 70 degrees to higher than 80 degrees last week, said John Mullican, large river specialist with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Fish can usually survive temperatures in the 80s later in the summer after their spawning season ends.
While other water bodies in the state see more than 70 fish kills per year, incidents are rare in the non-tidal Potomac watershed, encompassing rivers and tributaries upstream of Great Falls, Luckett said.
More than 50 percent of fish kills statewide occur when the water gets warmer between May and July, he said.
Since 2000 there have been 1,265 fish kills reported in Maryland, 15 of which were in Montgomery County, according to the Maryland Department of the Environment. The largest fish kill in the non-tidal Potomac watershed was 11,072 mortalities in a tributary of Catoctin Creek caused by a manure spill in 2008.
Although water temperature and stress likely are the cause of the recent fish kill, researchers also are looking into other factors.
Living catfish examined Thursday near Harpers Ferry showed some erosion on their gills, but few had significant lesions, said Vicki Blazer, fish pathologist with the U.S. Geological Survey.
"What does seam to be occurring is that many of the gills were eroded and didn't look good," Blazer said. "That suggests there something going on in the water that is affecting the gills."
Blazer examined living fish from the river using electrofishing methods to temporarily stun the fish and bring them to the surface. Blazer has been examining fish in the Potomac for years and is leading a study on intersex smallmouth bass.
"In general it is just poor water quality that's causing a lot of these problems," said Ed Merrifield, president of Potomac Riverkeeper Inc., an environmental organization which aims to stop water pollution. "If you don't care abut anything else you can care about your drinking water and the cost it takes to remove algae from the water."
The Potomac River has seen an increase in algae blooms during the past few years, Merrifield said. Excess nutrients from things such as fertilizer lead to the blooms which cause fish mortalities by sucking oxygen out of the water. Decaying algae smells bad and is difficult and costly to remove from drinking water, he said.
"For those who don't spend time on the water, the smell is terrible. It shows that we're damaging our valuable resource," Merrifield said. "We need to make some changes if we don't expect to see these things in the future."
The recent fish kill is relatively small, and appears to have abated as of Thursday, Mullican said. He said less than 500 fish died since the kill began in mid-June, based off his observations and numbers reported by kayakers and other river visitors.
There have been 64 reported fish kills in the non-tidal Potomac or its tributaries since 2000, many of which have numbered in the thousands, according to the Maryland Department of the Environment.
"Just like people, fish occasionally get sick," Mullican said.
The best way for researchers to determine the cause of a fish kill is to get to the area immediately, Luckett said. After 24 hours, it is harder to reconstruct what happened as the fish begin to decompose.
Fish kills can be reported to the Maryland Department of the Environment using its 24-hour hotline, 877-224-7229.
If people find dead fish in the river, they shouldn't touch them, Mullican said. He said people should take note of what type of fish they found, how many there were, and what part of the rive they were in, and call the hotline as soon as possible.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Help Stop the Spread of Unwanted Species in the Deep Creek Watershed
1. Report sightings to Friends of Deep Creek Lake: contact@friendsofdcl.org or call 301-873-1519.
2. Reduce nutrient runoff on your property. Report other pollution entering tributaries and the lake.
3. Check your boat to be sure you are not bringing in or distributing any unwanted species in the lake.
Here are a list of species to look out for.
Crayfish
Virile Crayfish:
A red-shelled crayfish. Much larger and more aggressive than native species. They will reduce diversity and abundance of native aquatic plants, insect larvae, mussels, snails, frogs, turtles, and native crayfish. They will become the dominant crayfish.
If seen: Remove and destroy (or steam and eat).
Eurasian Watermilfoil:
This plant has slender stems and feathery leaves. It forms a dense canopy that shades out native aquatic plants, reduces fish habitat, and reduces recreational use. Reproducing by fragmentation, it is easily spread by boats, trailers, or bait buckets.
If seen: Pull whole plant with roots from lake bottom. Bag and destroy.
Pondweed:
This plant has oval floating leaves. Growth is caused by high nutrient levels and runoff from pastures, lawns, and septic systems. Massive beds support algal blooms, stunt beneficial submerged aquatic vegetation, create dead zones, nasty odor and causes fish kills.
If seen: Pull or rake plants before blooming in mid to late July. Remove dead plants from beaches in late summer.
2. Reduce nutrient runoff on your property. Report other pollution entering tributaries and the lake.
3. Check your boat to be sure you are not bringing in or distributing any unwanted species in the lake.
Here are a list of species to look out for.
Crayfish
Virile Crayfish:
A red-shelled crayfish. Much larger and more aggressive than native species. They will reduce diversity and abundance of native aquatic plants, insect larvae, mussels, snails, frogs, turtles, and native crayfish. They will become the dominant crayfish.
If seen: Remove and destroy (or steam and eat).
Eurasian Watermilfoil:
This plant has slender stems and feathery leaves. It forms a dense canopy that shades out native aquatic plants, reduces fish habitat, and reduces recreational use. Reproducing by fragmentation, it is easily spread by boats, trailers, or bait buckets.
If seen: Pull whole plant with roots from lake bottom. Bag and destroy.
Pondweed:
This plant has oval floating leaves. Growth is caused by high nutrient levels and runoff from pastures, lawns, and septic systems. Massive beds support algal blooms, stunt beneficial submerged aquatic vegetation, create dead zones, nasty odor and causes fish kills.
If seen: Pull or rake plants before blooming in mid to late July. Remove dead plants from beaches in late summer.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
fishkill reporting
State asks for timely reporting after Potomac River fish kill | View Clip 06/22/2010 Baltimore Sun - Online
As temperatures soar, state officials are asking the public to report fish kills as quickly as possible to help pinpoint the source of the problem.
Just last week, anglers and kayakers on the Potomac River reported seeing dead fish floating on the Potomac River near Great Falls.
A Fairfax County, Va., park worker sounded an Internet alarm on June 19, saying that over the past several weeks, he had noticed many dead floating fish, primarily channel and bullhead catfish, but also some smallmouth bass in the 12-inch to 17-inch range.
At about the same time, kayakers notified the Maryland Department of Natural Resources about the kill.
Warmer temperatures can stress fish or promote conditions that lead to massive kills. Last year at this time, anglers reported 600 dead bass along with 247 catfish and other species over a six-mile stretch of the river in Charles County.
DNR biologist John Mullican said staff from the Maryland Department of the Environment checked the river from Great Falls to Point of Rocks and saw a few carcasses in the lower sections. The fish, mostly channel catfish and carp, had died several days earlier, which made it impossible for biologists to determine the cause of death, Mullican said.
Mullican said the best chance of getting to the root of the problem is for experts to observe the behavior of fish and collect samples while the kill is in progress.
The quickest way to reach the experts is to first call the MDE Fish Kill Hotline at 877-224-7229, and then contact the DNR Inland Fisheries office at 301-898-5443. The MDE has personnel on call at all times to respond to hotline reports.
=========================================================================
As temperatures soar, state officials are asking the public to report fish kills as quickly as possible to help pinpoint the source of the problem.
Just last week, anglers and kayakers on the Potomac River reported seeing dead fish floating on the Potomac River near Great Falls.
A Fairfax County, Va., park worker sounded an Internet alarm on June 19, saying that over the past several weeks, he had noticed many dead floating fish, primarily channel and bullhead catfish, but also some smallmouth bass in the 12-inch to 17-inch range.
At about the same time, kayakers notified the Maryland Department of Natural Resources about the kill.
Warmer temperatures can stress fish or promote conditions that lead to massive kills. Last year at this time, anglers reported 600 dead bass along with 247 catfish and other species over a six-mile stretch of the river in Charles County.
DNR biologist John Mullican said staff from the Maryland Department of the Environment checked the river from Great Falls to Point of Rocks and saw a few carcasses in the lower sections. The fish, mostly channel catfish and carp, had died several days earlier, which made it impossible for biologists to determine the cause of death, Mullican said.
Mullican said the best chance of getting to the root of the problem is for experts to observe the behavior of fish and collect samples while the kill is in progress.
The quickest way to reach the experts is to first call the MDE Fish Kill Hotline at 877-224-7229, and then contact the DNR Inland Fisheries office at 301-898-5443. The MDE has personnel on call at all times to respond to hotline reports.
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Monday, June 21, 2010
A conversation with Capt. Chris Chavis
Capt. Chris Chavis owns Finstalker charters. He has been guiding fly and light tackle anglers for more than 15 years in the waters in and around Charleston, South Carolina.
Over the years, I have had the pleasure of fishing with him while staying down at Kiawah Island and we recently caught up on this wonderful fishery.
Chris, tell me about the fishing opportunities in the Charleston area. Walk us through the seasons in the Lowcountry.
Fall and winter in the Lowcountry can be an exciting and very productive time of year for both fly and conventional anglers.
As the water begins to cool it triggers most fish into the feeding mode. It’s time to fatten up for the long winter. Typically starting in the mid to late October, anglers can expect hot action on Redfish and Sea Trout, with the occasional flounder.
How do you fish it?
Conventional anglers can approach these fish with both live and artificial baits. Floating shrimp, mullet, or mud minnows around oyster bars with Equalizer floats produce many strikes.
Artificial baits used for these redfish and sea trout include a number of both hard and soft plastics. I use Zara Spook Jr's, 1/4 oz. grub heads with a variety of colors of Gulp Shrimp and Gulp jerk shads fished on flutter hooks mostly, but have caught these fish on bass baits such as Buzz Baits and Spinner Baits.
What about on the fly?
Fly anglers can choose a variety of patterns to target these fish. Clousers, decievers, shrimp, and crab patterns are the typical flies, but I have caught these fish on a combination of other flies including bonefish patterns.
Air temperatures vary from day to day in the fall and winter, so dress in layers.
What about chasing big fish?
Targeting big fish in the fall is best done in the surf with conventional tackle, once the fall cooling starts this begins the offshore movement of the larger Redfish topping 50 pounds.
Surf anglers can fish a combination of baits in the surf such as live and cut mullet, cracked blue crab, and menhaden on fishfinder rigs equipped with 3-4 oz. pyramid sinker and a 6/0 octopus circle hook.
Now tell about the spring and summer?
Spring can be a little tough in the beginning, as the schools of baitfish begin to make their presence. After the long winter, these fish begin to change their feeding habits and will feed heavily under the full moon, creating tough times during the daylight hours around those days.
You can expect to target these fish more with live bait presentations and less of the artificials. As summer gets closer, the fishing only gets better, although the year round Redfish, Sea Trout, and Flounder fishery is still going on, most anglers look forward to the arrival of the migrating species such as Tarpon, Spanish Mackerel, Ladyfish, Cobia, King Mackerel, Jacks, Sharks, and the return of those giant Redfish as they come back inshore from the winter spawn.
All of these migrating species can be taken on live, cut, or artificial baits.
Anglers can expect warm conditions; temperatures typically reach 80 degrees in the spring and can approach 100 degrees in the summer, so dress appropriately. Afternoon rainstorms can also be expected, so plan your trip early to avoid the heat and possibility of getting wet.
During the dog days of summer, Tarpon are a regularly targeted in the inlets and around the beaches. Fishing conventional methods with live or dead bait can produce some big fish topping the 100 pound mark.
What about off-shore?
Depending on your choice of bottom fishing or trolling:
For the angler choosing to bottom fish he can expect to target Snapper, Grouper, Sea Bass, Triggerfish, and Sheepshead; and can expect this year round. Certain seasonal restrictions apply to Groupers and Snappers.
For the angler choosing to troll, he can expect Dolphin (mahi-mahi), Tuna, Wahoo, and a combination of Billfish including Blue Marlin, White Marlin, and Sailfish. This fishery is typically hot from April Through the end of October.
What is your favorite time of year to fly fish?
My favorite time to fish the Charleston is usually the fall and winter, the water typically clears and the fish school up on the flats, allowing you to have shots on schools of redfish up to 200+ fish. Also the sea trout fishing during the fall is outstanding, some days produce from 50-100 fish.
If you are just getting into salt water fly fishing, or transitioning for freshwater to saltwater, how do recommend an angler approach this?
When an angler decides to transition into saltwater fly fishing, I recommend practicing his/her cast with heavier rods than normal, preferably a 9 weight. This will allow them to get used to the heavier and stiffer action of rods usually encountered in the salt environment.
After acquiring the heavier rod, get a few lessons on double hauling, a necessity in saltwater fly fishing. The double haul will increase line speed which will increase distance of each cast.
Once the double haul is mastered, practice on accuracy of each cast. Try laying a child’s swim ring 50, 60, and 70 feet away and practice laying the cast close to the ring. If you have a target to shoot for, you will be surprised at how fast your accuracy will increase.
I know you are very good at working with anglers when they are on your boat, what advice do you try to give them about being prepared on the water?
Preparation for your trip on the water should include several things. The most important thing I have on myself on all trips is a good pair of polarized sun glasses, if you can't see your target in the water; you are wasting your time
A few other things you want to make sure you have are sunscreen, hat, and clothing to match the time of year. It’s better to have too much and not need it than not enough when you do, and plenty of water to drink.
What are some of the mistakes you most often see?
Some mistakes often made by anglers begin with tailing loops on their presentation. This can be corrected by generating more line speed.
Another issue is line-management. Most people lose touch with their line on their final cast. Rather than just letting the fly line go on your final cast, you should allow the line to slide through a hole made by touching your thumb to your index finger, this allows you to quickly begin your strip, and puts you in touch with your fly quicker.
Line control is also a factor, once you are stripping your fly back in, make sure your line is not wrapped around your leg, a cleat, or some other obstruction. Controlling your line will make that next cast flawless and not come up short when you see that tailing redfish.
Chris, thanks again for taking the time to talk with us and we’ll look forward to seeing you on the water. Chris can be reached at finstalker@comcast.net or at 843-509-9772.
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