Fishing

Anglers with a Freshwater Fishing Lic​ense can catch multiple species of fish in the 230-acre Savage River Reservoir and the Savage River. The Reservoir has Walleye, Large Mouth Bass, Crappie, Yellow Perch, Blue Gills, Catfish, Suckers, Brook Trout, Rainbow and Brown Trout. As part of the DNR Trout Management Program, early spring through fall stocking provides excellent fishing. When fishing, be prepared to negotiate strong currents, large boulders and downed trees in the water. The Maryland Fishing Guide defines the Upper Savage, the Savage River Reservoir, the Lower Savage and Native Trout Fishing areas and regulations. Most of the tributaries of the Savage River and the Savage River Reservoir contain Native Brook Trout. These tributaries are Blue Lick, Black Lick, Little Savage, Elk Lick, Poplar Lick, Bear Ben, Big Run, Monroe Run, Dry Run, Middle Fork and Spring Lick.

The Upper Savage is stocked several times a year with an abundance of Trout. This area can easily be waded. The Reservoir permits trolling motors only; gasoline engines must be removed from the boat before launching. No gas cans are permitted in the boat. Ice fishing is permitted during the winter months. The Lower Savage is a special management area. There are signs posted with the regulations. There is fly fishing, catch and release and trophy trout areas all posted along the shoreline. Check the Maryland Fishing Guide for special instructions. Waders are recommended for this area.

A boat ramp is located in Big Run State Park, off Dry Run Road/Savage River Road and Savage River Road before the breast of the dam.

For regulations, creel limits and special management areas, consult the Maryland Freshwater Sportfishing Guide available at http://www.eregulations.com/maryland/fishing/ or contact the Western Maryland Fisheries Office at (301) 334-8218.

Fishing in the Area​

Upper Savage River
Upper Savage River is stocked several times per year with an abundance of trout. This is also a “put-and-take” fishery – 5 trout per day. Can be waded.

Savage River Reservoir
The reservoir is stocked several times per year with trout. It also contains walleye, largemouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, bluegills, catfish, suckers, brook trout, rainbow trout and brown trout. Boats are permitted on the reservoir. Trolling motors only, gasoline engines must be removed from the boat before launching. No gas cans permitted in the boat. Ice fishing is also permitted.

Lower Savage River
Special management area. Posted along the route with instructions as to what you can do in certain areas. Fly fishing and trophy trout area. Check the “Maryland Guide to Fishing and Crabbing” for special instructions. Waders recommended.

Native Trout Fishing
Most all the tributaries of the Savage River and Savage River Reservoir contain native brook trout. These tributaries are Blue Lick, Black Lick, Little Savage, Elk Lick, Poplar Lick, Bear Pen, Big Run, Monroe Run, Dry Run, Middle Fork, and Spring Lick.

Check stocking schedules for closures and read your current fishing guide for the most up-to-date information.

More information available online at dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/pages/maps.aspx.