November 15, 2023
The current lower Savage hatches are small BWO’s #20-24, small dark caddis #18, and midges. The lower Savage flow has been steady at 47 cfs. The water temperature has finally started decreasing into the low 50's. We are still in need of rain in western Maryland. Be mindful of redds at this time of year as it is spawn time.
The upper Savage River and the tribs. continue to be extremely low. Conditions have been stressful. We encourage anglers to not fish these streams during low water conditions - especially during spawn season. The flows have been low since early June. We need rain.
For the two tail waters, try swinging some small emergers and soft hackle patterns. Wet flies don't get the attention that they used to get with fly fishing. However, you will be surprised at their effectiveness enticing a take from the trout.
Again, thanks to those customers who continue to support small fly shops like SRO. We sincerely appreciate your business. We have a nice inventory of flies for fall fishing.
We still have a nice selection of fly fishing gear in the fly shop - be sure to call or stop in to make a purchase. We can ship directly yo you! We have a selection of Orvis boots and waders. We carry a selection of fly rods, reels, and fly line.
Is 2023 the year to purchase a new fly rod? New boots and waders?? We are here to assist you in obtaining the proper gear. We have some great rods from Orvis, Douglas, and Gunpowder River bamboo rod. Give us a call. Remember, we can ship these items directly to you.
The two links at the bottom of this page provide information regarding current stream flows in our area. The second link provides a three day projection for the Savage and the North Branch Potomac tail waters. There is also a phone number on that same link for a prerecorded message on current and projected dam releases.
With the closing of the Paper mill on the North Branch of the Potomac the water below the mill and Westernport has cleared..and is fishing good with the same patterns as the Savage.
Keep an eye on the weather and an eye on the gauges for stream level flows. There are links below for the Savage and the Potomac Rivers.
Don’t be caught without all you need to get on the water. We do phone orders. So, if you need anything give us a call.
Good dates are still available for lodging. Check VRBO or AirBnB to book your stay.
Be sure to refer to the USGS website for current flows for area streams. Also, the NAB site will give 3 day flow projections for the lower Savage and for the lower North Branch Potomac River. Best to check the gauges and look at the chart to see if the streams are rising or dropping.
There is a daily update on projected flows for the North Branch Potomac and the lower Savage Rivers available by calling 410-962-7687. This recorded message is usually updated daily between 8 & 9 AM.
A good flow to fish the lower Savage in 50-150 cfs, upper Savage 40-125 cfs, and the N. Branch Potomac Barnum guage is 350 cfs or less for wading. Under 200 cfs is difficult for floating the N. Branch.
Stay safe out there!
The following site will provide current cfs flows for the Savage, North Branch Potomac, Casselman, Yough and other Maryland streams and rivers.
The following site will give three day projections for the Savage and the Potomac tail waters or just call 410-962-7687.
http://www.nab-wc.usace.army.mil/nab/northBranch.html