Fishing Jennings Randolph Lake
AKA: Jennings Randolph Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Jennings Randolph Lake, MD

Walleye Fishing
Thanks to a significant baitfish population, and presence of numerous small sunfish in the lake, walleye are thriving in the fertile waters of Jennings Randolph Lake this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing
Jennings Randolph Lake also sustains a robust smallmouth bass population. Many locals enjoy smallmouth fishing, as smallies are tough fighters and very exciting to catch. Smallmouth bass fishing is good virtually anytime they are shallow. Use shallow spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, crankbaits, tube baits and jerkbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with drop-shot rigs, small worms, jigs and spoons. Rock piles and points are prime areas for smallmouth as these areas are also home to crawfish.

Rainbow Trout Fishing
Ongoing stocking programs by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources maintains a catchable population of rainbow trout for anglers at Jennings Randolph Lake. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.
Jennings Randolph Lake Fishing Video
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, white crappie, walleye, saugeye, brown trout, bluegill and hybrid striped bass at Jennings Randolph Lake in Maryland.
With no horsepower limit on boat motors, Jennings Randolph Lake is a favorite of boating enthusiasts in northwest Maryland. Great bass fishing and a nice variety of other fish species, makes this a favorite of anglers and tournament fishing clubs.
This 950-acre lake has more than 15 miles of shoreline which is home to smallmouth and largemouth bass for most of the season. Well known for trophy-sized walleye, the lake also offers trout, sunfish and hybrid striped bass fishing. Two boat ramps allow for easy boating access. No rental boats are available.
Primary fish species residing in Jennings Randolph Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Jennings Randolph Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES - 2
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Jennings Randolph Lake Maryland Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Mt Zion Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Jennings Randolph Lake
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Maryland Fishing License.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Robert W Craig Campground - 304 355-2346
Abrams Creek Center Campground - 304 446-5332
Jennings Randolph Lake MD Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Jennings Randolph Lake
WSSC Water​ Headquarters
14501 Sweitzer Lane
Laurel, Maryland 20707
301 206-7485
Fishing lakes in each state.
022025
Jennings Randolph Lake in MD
MARYLAND


Fishing for trophy-sized walleye, bass and perch in northwest MD.