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Patuxent River

Boat Ramps
10
Access Points
12
Species
35

The Patuxent River is the largest river in Maryland with its watershed entirely contained within the state. Flowing approximately 115 miles from its headwaters near Mount Airy to the Chesapeake Bay, this diverse waterway offers exceptional fishing opportunities across various environments. The river transitions from freshwater to a tidal estuary as it widens significantly near its mouth, reaching over a mile wide and depths exceeding 120 feet in some areas. With nearly half of the river being tidal, the Patuxent provides anglers with opportunities to target both freshwater and saltwater species, making it one of Maryland's most versatile fishing destinations.


Fish stocking schedule

Latest 5 stockings

  • Brown Trout200 fishOct 19, 2026
  • Rainbow Trout500 fishApr 14, 2026
  • Rainbow Trout1,000 fishMar 18, 2026
  • Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout350 fishMar 5, 2026
  • Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout500 fishMar 5, 2026

Source

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Updated Nov 13, 2026. Dates are as precise as the agency reports them.

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Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Patuxent River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on Patuxent River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Maryland licenses and regulations

Maryland Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Maryland Fishing License

Individuals under the age of 16 are not required to obtain a license to sport fish/crab. They can, however, purchase a recreational crab license if they want to catch the bushel of crabs allowed with that license.

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Maryland Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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Maryland Stream Access Laws

Current law in Maryland seems quite friendly to public access to floatable water, allowing access at all public bridges and road crossings of floatable water. Though historically the state has only recognized waters subject to the ebb and flow of tides as navigable, that definition appears to have broadened. A complete list of public waters and access points is available on the Maryland DNR website.

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Take Patuxent River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Patuxent River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Patuxent River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

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Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Patuxent River and check the forecast before you go.

PATUXENT RIVER BELOW BRIGHTON DAM NEAR BRIGHTON,MD

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Patuxent River fishing guides

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