The Savage River tailwater in Garrett County is Maryland's most distinguished wild trout fishery and one of the premier tailwaters on the entire East Coast. Trout Unlimited put it on their Top 100 list. The river exits Savage River Reservoir at a constant 47 degrees year-round — the coldest tailwater on the East Coast — and flows five miles through Savage River State Forest before meeting the North Fork of the Potomac at Bloomington. The entire 5-mile tailwater is managed as Trophy Trout water with year-round open season, no stocking, and regulations designed to protect a self-sustaining wild fishery. DNR surveys have recorded over 1,376 adult trout per mile throughout the tailwater with some sections exceeding 1,700 fish per mile. The river earns its nickname — Maryland's Hatch Factory — through exceptional insect diversity driven by the cold stable water temperature and pristine watershed.
Spring is exceptional. Blue Quill and Red Quill hatches from March through May are the signature early season events. BWOs are consistent on overcast days throughout the cool season. Sulphurs, Elk Hair Caddis, and Yellow Sally patterns make June and early July outstanding dry fly fishing — some of the best in the Mid-Atlantic. Summer fishing is good as long as flows stay in the fishable range — the constant 47-degree water keeps fish active even when air temperatures push into the 90s in the valley. Fall brings streamer opportunities and aggressive pre-spawn browns. Winter midge fishing is consistent on this permanently cold tailwater. Always check USACE release schedule before making the drive — flows can change significantly without much notice.
Wild brown trout are the dominant species throughout the tailwater. Native brook trout hold throughout the system and are a conservation priority — Maryland designated brook trout as a Species in Greatest Need of Conservation in 2006. Occasional rainbow trout migrate up from the Potomac and down from the upper river. All fish are wild with no stocking in the lower tailwater. Trophy regulations apply throughout — 18-inch minimum for browns, 12-inch minimum for brookies, no minimum for rainbows, two fish daily creel limit. A Savage River brown trout is a fish that has earned every inch.
Upper 1.25 miles from dam to Allegany Bridge — fly fishing only, Trophy Trout regulations, year-round. Lower 2.75 miles from Allegany Bridge to confluence — artificial lures only, Trophy Trout regulations, year-round. Felt-soled waders and boots are banned statewide in Maryland — rubber-soled only. A wading staff is strongly recommended — the steep cobble and boulder gradient is difficult at all flows. Studded boots are worth the investment on this river. Savage River Road parallels the entire tailwater with multiple pull-offs. Maryland fishing license required. Stay out from behind private residences along Savage River Road.
Streamflow data is pulled in real time from the USGS National Water Information System. The Savage River is controlled by USACE dam releases — flows between 50 and 100 CFS are ideal for wading and dry fly fishing. Check the release schedule at nab-wc.usace.army.mil or call 410-962-7687 before making the drive to Garrett County. The steep gradient makes higher flows significantly more difficult to wade safely.