Deep Creek, Maryland, is a wonderful vacation destination for so many reasons. No matter when you visit, there are always so many exciting things to do, from trying thrilling water sports like downhill skiing, boating on the lake to golfing and exploring the local dining scene.
One popular local activity we can’t forget is fishing on Deep Creek Lake, a favorite local pastime. Picture yourself now, drifting on calm waters, the sun warming your face, and the quiet excitement as you wait for that next big bite.
If you can’t wait to get out and cast a line of your own, you’re in the right place! Our guide to Deep Creek Lake fishing will teach you all you need to know. Let’s dive in!
P.S. Want to stay updated on all things Deep Creek?
In this piece:
- Can You Fish at Deep Creek Lake?
- What Fish Are in Deep Creek Lake?
- Fly Fishing in Deep Creek
- When is the Best Time of Year to Go Fishing in Deep Creek?
- Can We Rent Fishing Gear?
- Deep Creek Lake Fishing License & Regulations
- Best Places to Cast a Line
- Book Your Deep Creek Vacation Directly with Railey!
Can You Fish at Deep Creek Lake?
First things first: we’ll answer the obvious here. Yes, you can fish at Deep Creek Lake! It wouldn’t be much of a fishing guide if you couldn’t, after all. We’re here to answer any questions you have about fishing in the area! In addition to Deep Creek Lake, there are dozens of rivers and other lakes in the area that offer top-notch fishing for anglers of all experience levels.
What Fish Are in Deep Creek Lake?
There are so many species of fish that call Deep Creek Lake home! While there are nearly 20 species in the lake, you will find the following most common:
- Largemouth Bass
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
- Northern Pike
- Chain Pickerel
- Yellow Perch
- Bluegill
- Pumpkinseed
- Crappie
Before you cast a line, make sure to check special fishing regulations for different species, which can include both times of year and quality of catch.
Outside of the lake, you’ll find many streams and rivers stocked with Trout. We’ll get to popular destinations later on!
How to Fish:
Many fishing techniques can be applied here! You can use live bait, lures, or a combination of the two! A standard fishing rod will work just fine for your day on the lake. If you’re going ice fishing, you’ll want to be sure you have proper gear to keep yourself safe, like ice picks, a throw rope, a life jacket, and ice cleats. A sled, ice auger, and ice rod are also necessary for ice fishing. (Never venture onto the ice without checking depth reports!)
Fly Fishing in Deep Creek
While fly fishing isn’t common on Deep Creek Lake itself, there are several nearby rivers that many anglers love for fly fishing. Easy access spots include Savage River in Savage River State Forest and Casselman River in Casselman River Bridge State Park. If you’ve always wanted to try fly fishing, there are guided tours available by local experienced anglers! We recommend PJ Daley at Savage River Angler for those who want to step it up and are either experienced fly-fishermen or want to get an introduction to fly fishing. Full and ½ day excursions are available, but it is advised to book well in advance:
- (703) 999-8504 cell
- savageriverangler@gmail.com
When is the Best Time of Year to Go Fishing in Deep Creek?
The great thing about fishing here is it’s a year-round activity! You’ll see anglers on the water all 12 months of the year. Instead of best time of year, we like to advise on the best time of day. Generally speaking, fishing is more successful in calmer water, so early in the morning or later in the evening tend to be more productive for anglers. Spring and Fall are also very popular for fishermen as overall boat and lake traffic is down. Summer is still a great time to fish, though! As the lake generally freezes solid from December to March, ice fishing is most common during the winter months. It’s not uncommon to look out on a cold and blustery day and see several tents set up on the ice!
Can We Rent Fishing Gear?
While there may be a marina or two that offer rods or equipment, it’s not common to find equipment to rent on your own. There are several local guide services that provide all equipment for excursions as well as several local stores that sell equipment, lures, and bait. Many of the local state parks will also offer clinics at various times throughout the year. We’ll list some of the most recommended below!
- Offers: All Equipment Provided for Tours – Ice fishing, Seasonal Walleye/Bass Fishing
- Contact: westernmdgs@gmail.com . (301) 616-6232
- Offers: Live Bait, 24/7 access, Fishing Equipment to Purchase, Sundries
- Location: 25 Tooth Pick Rd, Swanton, MD 21561
- Contact: (412) 378-9777
Jason Paugh – JPBassin301
- Offers: All Equipment Provided for Tours – Half-Day Excursions
- Contact: 301-616-2775
- Offers: Guided Fly Fishing Services – All Equipment Provided
- Contact: 240-495-1791 appalachianflyfishco@gmail.com
- Offers: Live Bait & Gear for Purchase
- Location: 2205 Glendale Rd, Swanton, MD 21561
- Contact: Hello@lakeandlure.co , 301-501-2329
- Offers: Gear to Purchase
- Location:113 Henry Clay Dr, Oakland, MD 21550
- Contact: 301-387-2207
D & B Sport Shop
- Offers: Fishing Licenses, Gear for Purchase
- Location: 832 Edgewood Drive, Oakland, MD 21550
- Contact: 301-334-9725
- Offers: Fishing Licenses, Gear for Purchase
- Location: 13164 Garrett Highway, Oakland, MD 21550
- Contact: 301-334-8400
Deep Creek Lake Fishing Licenses & Regulations
You’ll need a license to fish in Deep Creek. You can purchase one online at the Maryland DNR!
There are three days a year when you can fish without a license in Maryland: the first two Saturdays in June, and July 4th. If you’re visiting on these days, a license is not required! Other than that, any angler over the age of 16 must be properly licensed by the state.
Best Places to Cast a Line
Looking for the best spots to fish at Deep Creek and around the area? We’ve got the inside track for the best spots to cast a line, whether you’re on shore, a boat, or knee-deep in a river.
Fish From Your Boat
The most common way to fish on the lake is from a boat! Fishing from kayaks and canoes is also popular in the area. On the water, you’ll want to find ‘quiet’ areas of the lake. With so many coves, it’s not hard to do at Deep Creek. Some of the most popular spots to fish are at the Deep Creek Dam and Cherry Creek Cove. You’ll find that closer to shore is also ideal – just make sure to keep an eye on your proximity to other boats and boat docks! You can bring your own boat, or rent one from one of the many marinas around the area (like Silver Tree Marine!). Make sure to be aware of boating regulations before you venture out, too!
Fish From the Shore
As fishing is usually best closer to shore, you’ll find it easy to cast a line and catch something from the shores of the lake! The easiest spot to fish from is Deep Creek Lake State Park. The park offers hundreds of feet of lake frontage and has several areas easy to get to on foot, but away from swimmers or boaters. Another popular shore spot is the access area off Lake Shore Drive at the Rt. 219 bridge. Just be careful getting down the hillside there! If you rent a lakefront home, you can fish right from your own shoreline or boat dock!
Book Your Deep Creek Vacation Directly with Railey!
Choose a lakefront Deep Creek rental like the 8-bed American Eagle Lodge, which can sleep up to 26 guests!
Now that you know the best places to go fishing in Deep Creek, it’s time to book your stay. And when it comes to the top accommodations in the area, look no further than Railey Vacations.
Our extensive array of vacation rentals includes homes perfect for a corporate retreat, rentals with gorgeous private pools, lakefront properties, and so much more. You’ll find the perfect fit for your vacation, no matter your rental needs.
Ready to book your vacation? How exciting! Browse our available Deep Creek, Maryland vacation homes now and book your fishing trip directly with Railey Vacations!