Located at the mouth of the Patuxent River in Calvert County, Solomons Island is a fly fishers entrance pass into a wide array of tidal water fly fishing experiences. Although a boat is needed to access most of the opportunities for fly fishing, there is a fishing pier available at this Trail site.  

Right adjacent to the boat launch, you have Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge and, therefore, lots of structure for fish like striped bass looking for that next meal. You can head up into one of the tidal creeks lined up along both sides of the Patuxent River heading up the river from Solomons. St. Leonard’s Creek itself is lined with smaller tidal creeks and embayments just waiting to be fished.  

And heading out into the Chesapeake Bay from Solomons Island, you have many choices on where to fish—up the western shore, down towards the mouth of the Potomac, and even over to the Eastern Shore. Weather conditions, time of year and where you are on the current tidal cycle should all weigh in on your decision of exactly where to fish. But what an array of choices you get to choose from—that’s what is unique about this Trail site.

Fees

A fee is required to launch motorized vessels at this site. There is no launch fee for kayaks, canoes, or similar watercraft not transported by a trailer.

Site Location

Solomons Island is located at the southern end of Calvert County, at the mouth of the tidal Patuxent River.

Address

Solomons Island Boat and Fishing Center 14195 S. Solomons Island Road, Solomons, MD 20688

How to Get There

From Route 4 south of Upper Marlboro, Maryland continue through Prince Frederick. Before reaching the Patuxent River Bridge, take the exit for Solomons Island, go under Route 4 and then take a right turn into the parking lot for the boat launch.

Parking & Launching

Parking is located at the boat ramp on a paved lot.  You can launch your boat at the Solomons Boat Ramp and Fishing Center.

Where to Fish

You will need a boat to fly fish at this Trail site. Right adjacent to the boat launch, you have Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge and, therefore, lots of structure for fish like striped bass looking for that next meal. You can head up into one of the tidal creeks lined up along both sides of the Patuxent River heading up the river from Solomons. St. Leonard’s Creek itself is lined with smaller tidal creeks and embayments just waiting to be fished.  And heading out into Chesapeake Bay from Solomons Island, you have many choices on where to fish—up the western shore, down towards the mouth of the Potomac, and even over to the Eastern Shore. Look for current rips near the Cedar Point rocks which are located at the southern mouth of the Patuxent River or fish the ledge that runs easterly toward the channel.

What to Catch

Striped bass, bluefish, white perch and catfish

What to Fish & How

Recommend bringing 7-9 weight fly rods with floating, intermediate and sinking fly lines. Use foam bass poppers in low light situations and streamers such as Lefty’s Deceiver or Clouser Deep Minnows at other times.

Fly Fishing Organizations

Connect with local fly fishing organizations to learn about mentoring opportunities and to connect with others interested in fly fishing.