The Savage River The Savage River may be better known as the site of World Whitewater Championships and Olympic Whitewater Trials than as one of the finest trout streams in the East. Lying within the boundaries of the massive 50,000 acre Savage River State Forest, the Savage River and it's tributaries flow through some of the last remaining old growth forests in Maryland. The upper two-thirds of the river is typical of eastern freestone streams, small at first but widening as multiple tributaries add their strength.  Many of these tributaries flow from cold mountain springs, and support a
strain of brook trout considered by many to be a heritage strain. Untouched by
man's breeding techniques, they are as genetically pure today as they were thousands of
years ago. The mainstem of the river remains relatively shallow as it makes it's way
toward the reservoir and is plentifully stocked with brown and rainbow trout. Below
the reservoir the character of the river changes dramatically. Flowing from the dam
at a year-round temperature in the mid-50's, it pours through a series of swift channels
and deep pools. Conditions on this section can test even the most sure-footed
angler, but create an ideal habitat for wild brown and brook trout. Managed as a
"Trophy Trout Area" the Savage River tailwater is divided into two sections,
with the water nearest the dam being designated "Fly Fishing Only".
Although the structure of the river seems more suited to nymphs than dry flies, trout can
be found feeding on the surface throughout the year. As the season progresses midges
and stone flies give way to overlapping hatches of caddis and mayflies with
terrestrials providing the bulk of the late summer and autumn action. The abundance
of insects in the Savage River can allow the trout to be very selective in their feeding
habits, and should provide an experience that is challenging enough for even expert fly
casters. |
Spring Creek Outfitters
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