Luring Locales

Potomac River, Maryland
Nestled in one of the most populous areas on the East Coast, the Potomac has long been a whitewater gem. That gem also shines with some kick-ass fishing. March sees rockfish (local dialect for striped bass) and shad show up at Little Falls on the Potomac and other barriers in neighboring rivers. A good morning could see 20 or more fish to hand. Soon after that, the smallmouth and largemouth bass kick in. Fish the lower Potomac, below Alexandria all the way to Quantico military base, or the slower sections of the upper Potomac above Great Falls for largemouth. Fish moving water and eddies around rapids for smallmouth. Of course, you may have to share said eddy with playboaters waiting for their turn on a wave. Log on to the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries for license and registration information.

After fishing in the summer, catch a surf at Virginia Chute from Angler's Inn and go for a dip in the Potomac's velvety warm waters.

When to Go: March-October
Fish to Fish: Bass-striped, largemouth, and smallmouth. Some fly fishermen stalk the Potomac's carp with a fly rod-a pursuit not unlike fishing for bonefish on the tidal flats of the Florida Keys-minus the tropical islands. Where They Hide: Stripers tend to congregate around bait-attracting structure when they make their appearance. Largemouth are generally to be found in the slower areas that are rich in weed beds. For smallmouth, look for rocky structure and current.
Terminal Tackle: Crankbait, spinners, Clousers, floating plugs-it all depends on where you are fishing and what you are after. Like its paddling treasures, which range from Class V to still water, the Potomac's fishing is extremely varied.
Bites and Beers: Burrito Brothers (202-543-6835) on Capitol Hill makes a mean, healthy meal. Dixie Bones (703-492-2205) in Woodbridge, Virginia, serves the area's best barbecue.
Recommended Outfitters: Angler's Lie (703-527-2524); Fletcher's Boat House (202-244-0461); and John B. Hayes, who guides smallmouth on the upper river (703-402-4837)
-Marty Grabijas