Great Trout Fishing In Maryland

Guide to fishing for rainbow, cutthroat, brook, brown, golden and lake trout in area lakes and streams.

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

Maryland is a paradise for trout fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of trout species and diverse fishing locations. The state is home to three primary trout species: rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout, each providing unique angling experiences. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about trout fishing and identify trout fishing waters in the state.

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Fishing For Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are one of the most fished for trout species in the state, and can be found in numerous Maryland lakes and rivers. Known for its tasty pink flesh, rainbows are a favorite among the vast majority of trout anglers in the state. It also appeals to the fly fisherman as it can be caught on flies as well as other small baits and lures. It feeds on small insects, minnows, crustaceans and worms. It is ideal for both sport and dining pleasure. Popular trout fishing destinations for rainbow trout include the Gunpowder Falls and Savage River, both of which offer pristine habitats and challenging fishing conditions. More...

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Fishing For Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout call the Pacific northwest home, however they are also stocked in many lakes. Cutthroat trout fishing holds a cherished place among anglers. While fly fishing reigns supreme as the preferred method, these prized fish are also susceptible to various artificial lures mimicking minnows or grubs, as well as live bait presentations. Cutthroat trout fishing is renowned for the spectacular battles while landing. More...

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Fishing For Brook Trout

Brook trout, with their stunning colors and willingness to bite, can be found in remote mountain streams and creeks across the state. These small but feisty fish can provide an exciting fishing experience for those willing to explore Maryland's more secluded and scenic locations. The streams of western Maryland, such as the Savage River and the North Branch of the Potomac River, provide excellent opportunities for brook trout fishing. The primary food source of brookies is small insects, mollusks, crustaceans and other small fishes. In lakes where brook trout are stocked, shade over shallow cover is a great place to start. More...

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Fishing For Brown Trout

Brown trout, another prized trout species, can be found in select Maryland lakes and rivers. The North Branch of the Potomac River and the Youghiogheny River are known for their brown trout populations. Many of these fisheries are attracting anglers from near and far. These elusive and wary fish offer a challenge to anglers, requiring stealthy presentations and precise casting to entice a bite. Brown trout feed on worms, minnows, insects and crustaceans. Larger browns can be taken on jerkbaits, small crankbaits and spinners. More...

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Fishing For Lake Trout

Lake trout are by far the largest of the trouts. They live in deep, cold lakes and feeds on virtually all forms of flesh which exist in its home waters. It's rich flaky flesh makes it a tasty table favorite. During early spring, lake trout can often be found in the shallows of lakes, readily taking dry flies, wet flies, and other slow-moving presentations. As surface temperatures rise, these trout typically migrate to deeper waters, prompting anglers to employ trolling with heavier tackle as the primary technique using spoons and baitfish-imitating lures. More...

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In terms of state records, Maryland boasts impressive trout catches. The current state record for rainbow trout stands at over 14 pounds, while the record for brown trout weighed over 18 pounds. Brook trout records are more modest due to their smaller average size, with the current record standing at just over 6 pounds.

Trout Waters

Many of the major reservoirs with healthy populations of trout include Deep Creek Lake, Jennings Randolph Lake, Lake Habeeb, Liberty Reservoir, Piney Run Lake, Rocky Gorge Reservoir, Triadelphia Reservoir and Youghiogheny River Lake. The Potomac River also has quality trout fishing. Maryland has a stocking program for ponds, rivers and lakes with trout. Visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources - Fisheries Service website for details and schedules on trout stocking in Maryland.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Select the best trout lures and baits

Trout spinners, crankbaits and jerkbaits work well for shallow, reasonably active fish. Salmon eggs, worms and prepared baits will work at virtually all depths.

Maryland State Record Trout

The state record rainbow trout was caught from Savage River Reservoir.

The state record brook trout was taken out of the Potomac River.

The state record brown trout came from the Potomac River.

The state record cutthroat trout came from the Potomac River.

Watch trout fishing videos to see trout anglers in action.

Additional trout information

The 5 primary trouts are the rainbow, brook, brown, cutthroat and lake trout. Browns are considered the most difficult to catch and brookies are the easiest. Pure cold water is key to survival of the trouts.

Trout Unlimited

Trout locations and info, by state.

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