The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced today that the fall turkey hunting season will open Oct. 28 and continue through Nov. 4 in Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties, with a bag limit of one turkey per hunter. The 2017 Wild Turkey Observation Survey Summary shows turkey reproduction in western Maryland was slightly below average, but high enough to maintain the population at previous levels. Photo by Lori R. Bramble “Western Maryland has always been[...]
The 243-acre Lake Habeeb, known for having the "bluest water in the state”, is nested within Rocky Gap State Park located in Western Maryland’s Allegany County. The park, which encompasses over 3,000 acres of public land for visitors to enjoy, is surrounded by rugged mountains making Lake Habeeb a truly beautiful place to fly fish. With generally excellent water clarity, a fly fisher can target largemouth and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, channel catfish, stocked rainbow[...]
Get out in Maryland chasing trophy white-tailed deer, world-class trout, and legendary waterfowling opportunities. Or, try your hand at the unique Cast and Blast opportunities in Maryland hunting waterfowl on a boat, followed by reeling in striped bass. If competition is something you’re after, Maryland is home to plenty of tournaments, from largemouth bass competitions to trophy buck tournaments. Go body-booting in the Susquehanna Flats with canvas backs and redheads flying overhead. Head west and[...]
Maryland’s fall turkey season is right around the corner, which means it’s the perfect time to stock up for the holidays with a fresh harvest. Make your plans now! The fall turkey season is short (October 27th through November 4th) and is only in Western Maryland. However, what a fantastic time to head out to Western Maryland for some great hunting and to experience the beauty of the region's landscapes and fall foliage. Here’s everything[...]
On October 3, 2012, under the auspices of the Maryland Legislative Sportsmen’s Foundation (MLSF), the following sportsmen’s groups formally requested an initiative to promote Maryland as a premiere destination to fish and hunt: Maryland Aquatic Resource Coalition Maryland Outfitters & Guides Association Coastal Conservation Association Maryland Bowhunter’s Society Maryland Bass Nation Federation Trout Unlimited, Mid-Atlantic Council Chesapeake Guides Association Allegany/Garrett Sportsmen’s Association. Further support was provided by the bi-partisan Maryland Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus within the[...]
Bear activity is increasing throughout western Maryland as the black bear population continues to expand eastward. With its rural landscape and vast forested land, western Maryland holds some prime bear habitat, much of which is found on public lands open for hunting. A Guide to Planning a Black Bear Hunt in Maryland There are a limited number of bear hunting permits available each year in Maryland and they are awarded through a lottery drawing. The[...]
As the famous fishing author John Gierach once wrote, "the only thing a psychiatrist can do that a good (fishing) guide can't is write prescriptions.” In Western Maryland’s rolling mountains, rushing rivers and streams, and dense forests, his words have never been more true. With fresh air, scenery, peace and quiet, and plenty of trout to chase, Western Maryland is the perfect location for a fishing trip. Here are five reasons to head west in[...]
Central and Western Maryland’s small streams provide fishing experiences in picturesque settings. Checking on stream conditions before heading out is always a good idea, particularly before wading in or paddling. Many Potomac and Monocacy River tributary streams are home to a variety of gamefish. Smallmouth bass, however, remain high on the “hit list” for anglers tossing small crank baits, spinners or even fly-fishing efforts with poppers or streamers. Throw in the ever-present populations of red[...]