The 10 Best Fishing Lakes in Maryland (And the Types of Fish to Expect!)

Although Maryland is the only state without natural lakes, it shouldn’t discourage you from experiencing unforgettable fishing adventures. Maryland compensates with a collection of remarkable man-made lakes that lure fishing enthusiasts from far and wide. From the serene landscapes to the abundance of aquatic life, these lakes offer an exceptional fishing experience. 

Get ready to cast your line into the sparkling waters as we dive into the list of Maryland’s best fishing lakes and the impressive array of fish species that await your skills!

1. Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake in Maryland is a cherished destination for fishing enthusiasts, renowned as the largest freshwater lake in the state. Spanning an impressive 3,800 acres, this scenic lake offers a vast playground for anglers to indulge in their favorite pastime. 

While warmer months provide boating and conventional fishing opportunities, it truly shines as the premier spot for ice fishing during winter. 

With over 65 miles of picturesque shoreline, fishing from the bank or a boat is a delightfully rewarding experience. Conveniently, various rental boats are available for those who wish to explore the lake’s pristine waters.

Boating enthusiasts will be pleased to find public boat launch ramps and over half a dozen marinas at Deep Creek Lake, ensuring easy access and convenience. Moreover, there is a diverse selection of camping grounds, RV parks, and accommodations spread throughout the area surrounding the lake. 

Deep Creek Lake’s diverse array of fish species spoils anglers for choice. Whether you’re in pursuit of the formidable largemouth bass or the feisty smallmouth bass, the thrill of reeling in white crappie, or the challenge of hooking a walleye, this lake has it all. Rainbow trout and brown trout grace the waters, enticing fly fishermen with their elusive beauty. The bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and northern pike add to the charm of Deep Creek Lake.

Conveniently located marinas, stores, restaurants, and sporting goods shops ensure that all your needs are met when visiting this lake.

2. Centennial Lake

Welcome to Centennial Lake, a stunning 54-acre reservoir nestled within a sprawling 325-acre park. This picturesque oasis offers a plethora of recreational activities for you to enjoy. Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast, a boating lover, or simply someone who appreciates scenic walks, this place has something for everyone.

If you’re a fan of largemouth bass fishing, Centennial Lake is a dream come true. It has gained a fantastic reputation among bass fishermen and for good reason. You’ll be thrilled at the possibility of reeling in largemouth bass weighing up to an impressive 6 ½ pounds. The excitement doesn’t end there! The lake is also stocked with lively rainbow trout and tiger muskie fingerlings. These feisty, hybrid fish, a mix of muskellunge and northern pike, measure under 36 inches in length and provide an exhilarating challenge when they bite.

And that’s not all. Centennial Lake is home to a diverse aquatic community. As you cast your line, expect encounters with bluegill, channel catfish, black crappie, and redear sunfish. And if you’re really lucky, you might even hook a magnificent brown trout, reaching an impressive length of 20 inches within these waters.

From March to November, the boat ramp welcomes eager boaters. Just make sure you have a boating permit, as it’s a requirement.

While you’re out on the lake, take note of the western section demarcated by buoys. It’s a wildlife sanctuary, which means it’s off-limits to fishing.

3. Liberty Reservoir

Discover the captivating beauty of Liberty Reservoir, situated in Maryland’s north-central region. This enchanting 3,100-acre lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, renowned for its excellent angling opportunities. Experience an exciting fishing expedition at this reservoir, boasting a wide variety of fish species.

Whether you prefer cold or warm-water fishing, you’ll find an abundance of bass, walleye, catfish, crappie, trout, perch, sunfish, and the impressive striped bass.

Get ready for thrilling adventures and the opportunity to land some impressive trophy-sized catches. Keep an eye out for the impressive 10-inch white perch that flourish in these pristine waters.

Despite the prohibition on gas-powered motors, anglers are undeterred as they explore the serene waters in canoes, kayaks, and car-toppers. If you prefer fishing from the shore, you’re in luck—over 80 miles of untouched shoreline await your exploration. Convenient entrances provide easy access to the waterfront. If you’re looking to extend your stay, you’ll be delighted to discover two nearby campgrounds that provide cozy campsites.

4. Prettyboy Reservoir

Located in the captivating north-central region of the state, Prettyboy Reservoir spans over 1,500 acres and boasts an impressive 46 miles of picturesque shoreline. This stunning reservoir offers a wide range of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

From invigorating hikes to thrilling mountain biking trails, scenic road cycling routes to serene fishing spots, and peaceful boating experiences to archery hunting opportunities (with a special permit), there’s something for everyone in the reservoir area.

Fishing enthusiasts are drawn to the abundant waters of Prettyboy Reservoir, where they can embark on exciting quests to catch bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, sunfish, and perch. Whether you prefer casting your line from the shore near the convenient boat launch ramp off Spooks Hill Road or exploring other accessible points around the lake, there are plenty of options to satisfy your angling desires.

As the lake’s amenities may be minimal, it’s advisable to come well-prepared for a memorable fishing experience. 

5. Loch Raven Reservoir

Loch Raven Reservoir is another favorite outdoor destination spanning 2,400 acres in the northeast part of the state. With over 39 miles of shoreline, this picturesque lake offers a wealth of activities for nature enthusiasts.

The renowned Loch Raven Fishing Center is a highlight of the reservoir, providing everything needed for a delightful fishing experience. From boat rentals and fishing tackle to live bait and snacks, the center ensures anglers are well-equipped. Bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, sunfish, perch, and pike populate the waters, catering to diverse fishing preferences.

While bank fishing near the fishing center is prohibited, public access areas are available for shoreline fishing. Visitors can also rent kayaks, fishing boats, and canoes during daylight hours to explore the lake and enjoy a different perspective on fishing.

Beyond fishing, Loch Raven Reservoir offers year-round activities such as hiking, rowing or paddle boating, bird watching, horseback riding, and nature photography. During the regulated hunting season, archery hunting is permitted, adding an adventurous aspect to the area.

6. Triadelphia Reservoir

Discover a haven of serenity and bliss at Triadelphia Reservoir, an expansive 800-acre lake in the heart of the state. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance, unspoiled by the noise of gasoline-powered boat motors, as only canoes, kayaks, row boats, and car-toppers grace the glistening waters.

This unique regulation acts as a deterrent to some anglers, resulting in reduced fishing pressure, making Triadelphia Reservoir an angler’s paradise. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery along the 15 miles of picturesque shoreline, where an abundance of fishing opportunities awaits. Cast your line and reel in crappie, yellow perch, and bass, as well as the elusive muskie, northern pike, walleye, and catfish.

As you embark on your fishing adventure, embrace the simplicity of Triadelphia Reservoir. Here, you won’t find bustling campgrounds, marinas, rental boats, or RV hookups. Instead, revel in the raw beauty of nature and relish in the peaceful solitude it offers. Need supplies or tackle? Don’t fret! Nearby services cater to your every need, ensuring a seamless experience.

7. Youghiogheny River Lake

Youghiogheny River Lake is a hidden gem on the Pennsylvania-Maryland border. This incredible lake spans over 16 miles and covers a sprawling 2,800 acres of natural beauty. While Maryland claims a smaller portion, it’s the Pennsylvania side that offers the best services and amenities for visitors.

With 38 miles of shoreline, Youghiogheny River Lake is a dream come true. You’ll find an impressive variety of fish, including bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, trout, sunfish, perch, hybrid stripers, pike, and muskie. Keep in mind that lake levels can change dramatically due to flood-control measures.

If you prefer fishing from the bank, Maryland offers accessible points, with the Mill Run Recreation Area being the most convenient. 

Youghiogheny River Lake attracts over a million visitors annually, and it’s easy to understand why. It’s a premier destination for water sports and boating, offering endless fun on the pristine waters. But that’s not all—this area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming are just a few of the activities available. 

8. Blairs Valley Lake

Looking for an exceptional fishing destination in Maryland? Look no further than Blairs Valley Lake. It is another hidden gem at the border of Maryland and Pennsylvania. This splendid lake spans an impressive 32 acres at normal pool and 22 acres during winter pool. 

It is renowned for its abundant warm water species fishery, attracting anglers seeking tiger muskie, largemouth bass, and bluegill. Over the years, Blairs Valley Lake has witnessed a transformation, with smaller bass giving way to larger, more impressive largemouth bass and other sizable catches. Anglers have even been lucky enough to reel in astonishing tiger muskies measuring up to a whopping 44 inches! 

The lake is teeming with an array of native species, including redear sunfish, black crappie, brow bullhead, carp, and yellow perch, which primarily sustain themselves by feasting on golden shiners and young panfish. 

Moreover, rainbow trout are thoughtfully stocked during the spring and fall seasons, further enriching the fishing experience. Whether you prefer fishing from the shoreline or a boat, Blairs Valley Lake caters to both options.

9. Lake Artemesia

Located in College Park, Maryland, the breathtaking Lake Artemesia awaits, spanning an expansive 38 acres of picturesque beauty. This remarkable man-made lake offers a haven for fishing enthusiasts, boasting a diverse range of fish species to test your angling skills. Prepare to catch spirited bluegill, the stealthy largemouth bass, the formidable channel catfish, and the coveted crappie that call this pristine lake their home.

But Lake Artemesia is more than just a fishing destination. It beckons nature lovers with its enchanting trails, inviting you to embark on scenic hikes and invigorating bike rides amidst the neighboring parks. As you explore, keep your senses alert to the melodious songs of the birds, offering a delightful symphony for avid birdwatchers.

To increase your chances of a successful catch, consider using live bait or expertly crafted lures that mimic the lake’s abundant food sources. The spring and fall months provide the ideal fishing conditions, with water temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F.

10. Unicorn Lake

Situated in upper Queen Anne’s County on the Eastern Shore, Unicorn Lake is a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts and their families. With its serene surroundings and accessible fishing platform, it offers a perfect retreat even during the winter months. Cast your line from the extensive shoreline, where you’ll find ample opportunities to engage in the art of fly fishing. The spillway and stream below the dam provide another exciting spot to try your luck.

For a more adventurous experience, bring along a kayak, canoe, jon boat, or bass boat to explore the lake’s pristine waters. What makes Unicorn Lake truly remarkable is its diverse fish population, offering surprises at every turn. From largemouth bass and bluegill to crappie, chain pickerel, and yellow perch, the variety of species guarantees an exciting fishing experience year-round.

Whether you’re targeting pickerel in the winter, yellow perch in the spring, or bluegill in May, Unicorn Lake caters to anglers of all preferences. 

Summary Of The Best Fishing Lakes In Maryland