Preseason Trout Fishing

Type: Nontidal
Region: Western
Location: Beaver and Friends Creek

Just returned from a preseason trout trip to Beaver Creek in Washington County and Friend's Creek in Frederick County. Had lots of strikes from holdover trout but could not hook anything. I started the day at the bridge just below the mill at Beaver Creek fishing a streamer. Had a strike but thought that I hooked the log and lost the fish. Tried again and a nice rainbow came out swallowed the fly and then spit out before I had a chance to set the hook. I continued to fish the hole under the bridge but nothing would bite.

I decided to try Friend's Creek for the afternoon. Fished several pools without any luck including the big pool with the rock. Still-nothing. Finally came upon one of the deep pools that races between two large rocks and had a follow up by a holdover rainbow. Tried fishing some more and had one more strike before giving up. I am surprised that there are still trout left 6 months after the fall stocking. Friend's Creek does not have a catch and release season like Owen's Creek when the trout are protected. There might be a few trout left in the other deep pools but getting them to bite is not easy. I will be looking forward to the spring stocking of Maryland streams with April being prime time for fishing. Weather was pretty and streams are in good shape so at least I cured a case of cabin fever. Photo is of Friend's Creek with clear water conditions. Tight lines all,