Fishing Rocky Gorge Reservoir
AKA: Howard Duckett Reservoir
Popular Fish Species Rocky Gorge Reservoir, MD
Largemouth Bass Fishing
Rocky Gorge Reservoir continues to offer good fishing for largemouth bass. Lately bass fishing here for bass has continued to impress bass fishing enthusiasts. Some big bass roam Rocky Gorge Reservoir, thanks to excellent fisheries management by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, as well as the availability of extensive cover for both baitfish and bass. When the bite is good, bass typically move shallow and are quite aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Rocky Gorge Reservoir on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Smallmouth bass also reside here in good numbers.
Northern Pike Fishing
Thriving in the cool waters of Rocky Gorge Reservoir, northern pike are a very popular target for local anglers. This year they are being caught in good quantity and some mighty big sizes. April and May are the best months of the year for northern pike fishing here. Summer is spotty but pike can be caught all summer long. Fall can also be good sometimes stretching into October. Large, flashy lures that mimic the bait they prey upon are great lures for northerns. Effective lures include spoons, spinners, and crankbaits, particularly those with bright colors or metallic finishes to attract the pike's attention. Additionally, big flies, soft plastic swimbaits and jerkbaits can be successful, especially when retrieved erratically to mimic wounded prey. Trolling along weed edges can often entice strikes.
Yellow Perch Fishing
Rocky Gorge Reservoir continues to have a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake as well. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line. They make for an excellent fish fry, are a food source for many of the larger predator fish in the lake.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, brook trout, bluegill, muskie and northern pike at Rocky Gorge Reservoir in Maryland.
Rocky Gorge Reservoir is a 770-acre lake in the central part of the state. It is home to bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, trout, sunfish, pike and muskie.
Rocky Gorge Reservoir Fishing Video
Rocky Gorge Reservoir, in Maryland, is a renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts seeking a rewarding angling experience. The reservoir is teeming with a variety of popular fish species, making it a prime spot for fishing adventures. Anglers can target a range of fish, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The abundance of these species, combined with the reservoir's scenic surroundings and tranquil waters, makes Rocky Gorge Reservoir an ideal destination for anglers of all skill levels.
One can canoe, kayak, row or paddle along about 30 miles of shoreline. The most popular fish species are walleye, bass and trout, but there are plenty of the others to make a trip worth while. Supplies, bait, tackle, lodging and restaurants are at, or nearby, the lake. Other services are some distance away, so come prepared.
Rocky Gorge Reservoir provides a haven for fishing, boating, and outdoor enthusiasts in Maryland. With its diverse fish species, serene boating opportunities, and nearby camping options, the reservoir offers a well-rounded outdoor experience. Whether you're casting a line for bass, gliding across the calm waters on a kayak, or camping under the stars, Rocky Gorge Reservoir offers a picturesque setting and abundant recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature and indulge in their outdoor passions.
Primary fish species residing in Rocky Gorge Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Rocky Gorge Reservoir Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES - 2
Campgrounds: NO
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity at Rocky Gorge Reservoir, allowing visitors to explore the expansive waters and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are permitted, providing a serene and environmentally friendly boating experience. Boaters can navigate the reservoir's calm waters, search for hidden coves, and access prime fishing locations. The peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery enhance the boating experience at Rocky Gorge Reservoir.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Browns Bridge Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Browns Bridge Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Supplee Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Supplee Lane, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Rocky Gorge Reservoir
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.
Camping is not available directly at Rocky Gorge Reservoir, but nearby camping options provide opportunities for an extended outdoor adventure. Patuxent River State Park, which borders the reservoir, offers camping facilities and scenic campsites for those looking to combine fishing with a camping retreat. Camping at Patuxent River State Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the area, and create lasting memories while being in close proximity to Rocky Gorge Reservoir.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
There are no campgrounds or RV parks close by.
Rocky Gorge Reservoir MD Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Rocky Gorge Reservoir
Maryland Dept of Natural Resources, Fishing & Boating Services
10201 Bee Oak Rd.
Brandywine, MD 20613
301 888-2423
Fishing lakes in each state.
052824
Rocky Gorge Reservoir in MD
MARYLAND
Fishing for walleye, bass and trout in central MD.