SOUTHERN MARYLAND — There are dozens of fantastic fishing spots in the DMV area, and Southern Maryland is home to many of them. As we head into spring, fishing enthusiasts can visit new lakes and ponds to cross a few fish off their bucket list. We’ve gathered a collection of beautiful fishing spots in Southern Maryland, along with the types of fish that are available to catch at each location!
Wheatley Lake (Gilbert Run Park)
Various types of fish have made their home in Wheatley Lake, including channel catfish and largemouth bass. This locale is a catch-and-release fishing spot, meaning that you’re required to release bass you catch back into the water. As such, Wheatley Lake may only be an ideal spot if you’re willing to part ways with your catch of the day. Wheatley Lake is located at Gilbert Run Park, so you can go for a stroll, then relax by the water with your trusty fishing pole!
Address: 13140 Charles St., Charlotte Hall, MD 20622
Gilbert Run Park Open Hours:
8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday
7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Fish Species:
- Largemouth bass
- Channel catfish
- Redear sunfish
- Bluegill
- Black crappie
- Seasonal rainbow trout
Myrtle Grove Lake
Licensed fishermen can enjoy a day at Myrtle Grove Lake, a scenic wonderland in the heart of Charles County. Rainbow trout, bluegill, and even warmouth are all in the mix, so you’ll have quite the challenge if you’re looking to catch everything in the local waters. The fish population is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, which is why the ecosystem is so rich with diversity. Visitors can begin their journey at Myrtle Grove by taking Route 225, but make sure to have your non-tidal fishing license and trout stamp ready!
Address: 5625 Myrtle Grove Rd., La Plata, MD 20646
Directions: Specific directions are available on the Myrtle Grove webpage, which details multiple routes and parking areas.
Fish Species:
- Largemouth bass
- Redear sunfish
- Black crappie
- Bluegill
- Warmouth
Mattawoman Creek
Calling all fishers with a freshwater fishing license — Charles County has the perfect spot for you! Mattawoman Creek is filled with water and wetlands you can explore for all your fishing needs. Whether you’re looking to catch yellow perch or blue catfish, fishing enthusiasts have reported seeing a variety of popular species.
Address: Mattingly Park, 108 Mattingly Ave., Indian Head, MD 20640
Fish Species:
- Blue catfish
- White catfish
- Crappie
- Bluegill
- Longnose gar
- River herring
- Northern snakehead
- Largemouth bass
- White perch
- Yellow perch
Calvert Cliffs State Park
If you have a non-tidal fishing license, then Calvert Cliffs is a fantastic destination for a day of outdoor fun, but many visitors don’t realize that it’s also a hidden gem for seasoned fishermen. Near the picnic area, you’ll find a 1-acre pond perfect for fishing. The angling scene at Calvert Cliffs is smaller than other parks, so it’s an ideal location if you want to visit a less popular fishing spot in Southern Maryland.
Address: 10540 H.G. Trueman Rd., Lusby, MD 20657
Open Hours:
7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Fish Species (Reported by Visitors):
- Sunfish
- Bluegill
- Largemouth bass
- Small rock bass
St. Mary’s Lake (St. Mary’s River State Park)
Licensed anglers can visit St. Mary’s River State Park to find one of the most relaxing places to fish in Maryland. St. Mary’s Lake is home to exciting wildlife, such as the chain pickerel and largemouth bass. This location is even equipped with a boat ramp for fishers who own vessels. With a 7-mile shoreline, there’ll always be a spot for you to fish at St. Mary’s Lake!
Address: 11175 Point Lookout Road, Scotland, MD 20687
Open Hours:
6 a.m. to sunset May to September
7 a.m. to sunset October to April
Fish Species:
- Largemouth bass
- Golden shiners
- Black crappie
- Bluegill
- Redear sunfish
- Chain pickerel
- Brown bullhead
- Flier
- Yellow perch
Beyond Southern Maryland
Piscataway Creek
In southern Prince George’s County, you’ll find a great place to fish with a diverse array of aquatic wildlife. All fishermen with a freshwater license are welcome to enjoy the soothing sounds of Piscataway Creek as they fish to their heart’s content. Carp, striped bass, and even bluegill sunfish have settled in this submerged haven, and you’ll have the opportunity to cast your line out for any of them!
Address: 3400 Bryan Point Rd., Accokeek, MD 20607
Piscataway Park Open Hours:
6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fish Species:
- Carp
- Striped bass
- Largemouth bass
- Chain pickerel
- Crappie
- Yellow perch
- White perch
- Bluegill sunfish
Beyond Southern Maryland
Jonas and Anne Catharine Green Park
If you live in or around Annapolis, then Jonas and Anne Catharine Green Park is the best bet for fishing. State licensing requirements for fishing apply at this location. The beautiful waterside park allows for fishing on its expansive pier, an exciting experience near Maryland’s historic capital. Croakers and catfish can be found within the Annapolis waters, so you don’t want to miss out on a scenic day at this beautiful fishing spot.
Address: 2001 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Annapolis, MD 21409
Hours Open:
7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fish Species:
- Croakers
- Catfish
- White perch
- Rockfish
Helpful Resources for Fishermen in Maryland
We’ve compiled a list of online resources you might find useful if you plan to fish in Maryland in 2025.
- Southern Region Freshwater Program
- Public Angling Access Map
- Buy a Fishing License
- Regulations
- Additional Freshwater Fishing Spots in Maryland
- Shoreline Fishing Spots in the DMV Area
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