Acrobatic river predator adapted to rocky ledges, gravel bars, and swift current breaks. Renowned pound-for-pound for energetic jumps and relentless hard pulls.
Season
Spring (April-May) • Fall River Feeding (Sept-Nov)
Where
Susquehanna River above tidewater, Upper Potomac, Shenandoah River, Big Elk Creek
Salinity band
Inland Freshwater (0 - 3 ppt)
Status
Established Inland Freshwater Species
How we fish for them
Cast 1/4-3/8oz tube jigs, Ned rigs, or small squarebill cranks across rocky riffles. A sensitive rod tip detects subtle rock ticks while keeping hooks pinned.
Rod: 7'0" medium-fast spinning rod Reel: 3000-size reel with 15lb Braid / 10lb Fluro Leader
Gear for this in the catalog →Handle with care
Spiny dorsal fin rays and sharp opercular (gill cover) spines. Smooth down dorsal fin before handling.
Seasons & limits are the law's, not ours
Size, season and creel rules change; always verify with the official regulations before you fish. Maryland DNR regulations →
Profile last reviewed: August 2026