The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers license-free fishing days for all state residents and visitors on Saturday, June 3, Saturday, June 10, and Tuesday, July 4.
Maryland’s annual license-free fishing days offer anglers a unique opportunity to explore the state’s diverse fishing without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or registration.
On these days, any individual may catch and possess finfish for recreational purposes in any tidal and nontidal waters of Maryland. All anglers must follow current size and catch limits found in the department’s fishing and crabbing guide.
The department also has dozens of other resources to help new or experienced anglers, including angler access maps and fish identification charts. In addition, anglers of any level are encouraged to sign up for the weekly Maryland Fishing Report, which provides up-to-date fishing information.
Aside from these free fishing days and certain license-free areas, anyone 16 or older fishing in Maryland must possess a license, which can be obtained or renewed online or on the department’s mobile app.
Amidst the stunning Appalachian Mountains, Garrett County boasts a plethora of pristine lakes, tranquil rivers, and picturesque streams, making it a true haven for fishing enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will unveil some of the finest fishing areas in Garrett County, where you can cast your line and reel in an unforgettable experience.
Deep Creek Lake: Let’s begin our angling adventure with the crown jewel of Garrett County—Deep Creek Lake. Spanning over 3,900 acres, this expansive lake offers a diverse range of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, yellow perch, and trout. Launch your boat from one of the numerous public access points or try your luck from the shoreline. Don’t forget to explore the secluded coves, where fish often gather for a feeding frenzy.
Savage River: For a more secluded and serene fishing experience, head to the Savage River. Renowned for its exceptional trout fishing, this scenic river is a fly fisherman’s paradise. With crystal-clear waters and a healthy population of native brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout, the Savage River offers a challenging yet rewarding angling experience. The catch-and-release regulations ensure the sustainability of the fish population, so remember to release your prized catches unharmed.
Youghiogheny River: Flowing through the western edge of Garrett County, the Youghiogheny River provides anglers with a variety of fishing opportunities. The lower section of the river, known as the Youghiogheny Reservoir, is particularly famous for its smallmouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish. If you prefer a more adventurous experience, try floating down the river in a kayak or canoe while casting your line. The stunning scenery and abundant wildlife will make your fishing trip truly unforgettable.
Casselman River: As it winds through Garrett County, the Casselman River captivates anglers with its natural beauty and thriving fish population. This picturesque river is known for its healthy population of brown trout, rainbow trout, and native brook trout. You can access the river from multiple locations, including Casselman River Bridge State Park and the town of Grantsville. Don’t miss the annual “Heritage Day” fishing event, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the river and its bountiful fish.
Jennings Randolph Lake: Situated on the North Branch Potomac River, Jennings Randolph Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The lake is well-stocked with a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, and crappie. Whether you prefer fishing from a boat or casting from the shoreline, Jennings Randolph Lake guarantees a rewarding experience. Take advantage of the lake’s tranquil ambiance and immerse yourself in the surrounding natural beauty.
Representatives for the Sen. George C. Edwards Fund announced Tuesday that 13 economic development projects in Allegany County and six in Garrett County have been awarded nearly $13.2 million in grant funding.
The Sen. George C. Edwards Fund was allocated $50 million by the state of Maryland last year to be distributed in Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties over the next five years to create jobs and stimulate the economy in Western Maryland.
Projects selected for funding in Allegany County include $1.5 million for the conversion of the former Memorial Hospital site in South Cumberland to a housing complex. Also included is $1 million each for improvements to Vocke Road and for an expansion of Western Maryland Lemonade located in downtown Cumberland.
Managed by the 11-member Western Maryland Economic Future Investment Board, the Fund received 100 applications. Each board member reviewed all the applications, and the county commissioners from each county ranked the projects within their jurisdictions. The ranked projects were presented to the board, which had the final vote.
“I am very happy to see this fund support so many strong projects, which will have a tremendous impact on our communities,” said Edwards in a press release. “These investments in Western Maryland will create jobs and help attract new businesses, supporting and inspiring economic growth for years to come.”
Other projects selected for funding in Allegany County include 1812 Brewery, $750,000; Rosenbaum Building redevelopment downtown, $500,000; Wills Hotel development, $500,000; former Allegany High School site improvements for future housing, $422,000; Liang Property development near UPMC Western Maryland, $250,000; Pharmacare expansion, $223,000; Queen City Creamery, $200,000; Rainmaker Music expansion downtown, $140,000; Allegany College of Maryland, $100,000; and Reptilian Arts expansion, $15,000.
According to the press release, the total impact value of the funded projects is $178.5 million, which is leveraged by $20 million from the fund. The projects are expected to create over 600 direct, permanent jobs, not including temporary construction jobs or indirect job creation. Grant agreements have been signed with the awardees, and the Tri-County Council for Western Maryland is coordinating the distribution of funds.
In Garrett County, projects selected for funding include $1.5 million for expansion of the Beitzel Corporation’s headquarters in Grantsville, where the company will construct a new field crew and fleet training and maintenance center.
Other projects to receive funds include $1.5 million for Simon Pierce Manufacturing; $1.3 million for improvements at the Corsa Coal North Mine; Garrett County government for $1.2 million for future housing; $600,000 for a MEDCO spec building; and $500,000 for improvements at the Keyser’s Ridge Business Park.
Andrew Sargent, from the Maryland Department of Commerce, said, “The Economic Future Investment Board worked hard to review all the applications and identify the projects that would have the greatest impact on the region. We are excited to see these projects progress and are proud to have played a role in their success.”
Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties received $6.6 million each for projects. Washington County has six projects, including $1.52 million for a new Meritus school of osteopathic medicine.
article by Greg Larry at the Cumberland Times-News. To reach him, call 304-639-4951, email glarry@times-news.com and follow him on Twitter @GregLarryCTN.
Garrett County’s biggest tourist attraction could have looked very different if the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal had continued past Cumberland. Deep Creek Lake was created from building a dam and allowing a dozen creeks and streams, including the creek that gives Deep Creek Lake its name, to fill the valley.
In 1824, as the holdings of George Washington’s Patowmack Company were ceded to the new Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, which had yet to break ground. The canal’s route was still in question. The goal was to reach the Ohio River, which would allow canal boats to travel to the Mississippi River.
The largest challenge to this goal were the Allegheny Mountains. To reach Cumberland required raising a canal boat about 800 feet over 185 miles from Georgetown. To reach McHenry from Cumberland would require raising a boat about 1,900 feet over 45 miles, a greater challenge.
In 1824, four years before the C&O Canal broke ground, U.S. Secretary of War John Calhoun and Col. Isaac Roberdeau, who had assisted Charles L’Enfant in laying out Washington D.C., set out to map a route for the canal.
In 1824, four years before the C&O Canal broke ground, U.S. Secretary of War John Calhoun and Col. Isaac Roberdeau, who had assisted Charles L’Enfant in laying out Washington D.C., set out to map a route for the canal.
They left Cumberland on August 26, 1824, traveling the National Road and staying in taverns along the way. They wrote of seeing well-timbered land and beautiful farms along the route, but they eventually left the road and headed south, stopping at the farm of the John McHenry at Buffalo Marsh.
“This party is now engaged in surveying the head waters of Deep Creek and other branches of the Youghiogheny, and will proceed down that river to Monongahela, and thence to Pittsburg, which they expect to reach by the first of December,” the Maryland Republican reported on Sept. 9, 1824.
The McHenry family welcomed the surveying part with “that sort of Highland welcome which does a heart good,” according to the Maryland Republican.
Not far from the farm was the summit level of the canal. According to The Glades Star, it was marked on a pier of the old wooden Deep Creek bridge where present-day Route 219 crosses Deep Creek. The summit level indicated “the high water mark of the storage dam to provide water for lifting and lowering the canal boats thru the locks.”
It was proposed that a 21-foot dam on the Little Youghiogheny and a 35-foot dam on the Big Youghiogheny would be needed to provide enough water for a canal to operate through present-day Garrett County.
“And Deep Creek that now moves along unseen and but little known shall become famous as the stream of Washington, for its waters will mingle with those of the Potomac and pass the shades of Mt. Vernon where he who first formed the grand design of uniting the waters of the West and the East… now rests in peace. From this summit level the waters of Deep Creek shall find a sea on either side. Flowing westward it will pass the spot (by way of the Ohio and Mississippi) where Jackson saved his country and gained immortal fame. About two miles from the summit level, the surveying group found,” the Maryland Advocate opined.
The newspaper also noted that it believed Calhoun had been sold on the idea and that it should commence.
Although the C&O Canal did break ground on July 4, 1828, it never reached present-day Deep Creek Lake, stopping at Cumberland.
Deep Creek Lake State Park is an idyllic spot to launch a boat. Wisp Resort operates a rental kiosk on the park’s public beach for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and beach chairs.
Want to take paddling to the next level? Wisp has a 1,700-foot recirculating whitewater course on the top of the mountain, for gentler rapids than some on the nearby Youghiogheny River. Guides help rafts and kayaks maneuver the rock-lined loop. You can ride the ski chairlift to get to the course, taking in mountain and lake views.
Drop the paddle and start a motor at Lake Life Rentals in McHenry. The outfitter issues temporary boating licenses so you can steer pontoons with cushioned seats and a canopy for sun coverage. (Seafaring dogs are allowed.) For an additional fee, rent tubes to strap on the back of the boat.
The placid water makes the lake an ideal spot to learn how to waterski and wakeboard. Book a session with Rouse Water Sports, departing from the Deep Creek Marina Club. Greg Rouse, a waterski instructor with more than 30 years’ experience, uses a training boom—a bar that extends from the boat onto the water—for a beginner-friendly lesson. Start with waterskis, or if you’re more advanced, try barefoot skiing.
Beyond the lake, there are hikes that take you by local waterways. To learn more about the area’s ecology, reserve a spot on a river walk led by All Earth Eco Tours. Stroll along the Youghiogheny River while a guide points out plants and animals. After a mile walk upstream, the tour stops at a swimming hole for downtime in the water.
Stop at Firefly Farms Market to stock up on Maryland-made cheese, cured meats, and crackers. At the cafe, the farm’s cow’s- and goat’s-milk cheeses are folded into cheffy sandwiches. West Virginia’s Mountain State Brewing Company has an outpost in McHenry for pub fare, flatbread pizzas, and cold beers. The back patio often hosts live music in summer. For a sweet treat by the water, grab a cone from Lakeside Creamery or, to customize your confection, pick a glaze and toppings at Deep Creek Donuts.
The Deep Creek Farmers Market is a community event that promotes a wholesome, social gathering place in our area showcasing the rich agricultural heritage, local craftspersons, and unique small businesses of the area. Visit food vendors, craftors, live bands, and more! The Mission of this market is to serve all Garrett County residents and visitors alike, and specifically the Deep Creek Lake/Northern Garrett County region. There are inherent benefits for the consumer, producer, and community where food is grown, purchased, and consumed locally. They strive to improve the variety, taste, and freshness of products available to consumers in our area. The Farmers Market is open every friday during the summer season from 3-6pm between the fairgrounds and the college parking lot. visit Deep Creek Farmers Market – “Grow, nourish, and inspire community” for more information
Will O’ The Wisp on Rt. 219, on Deep Creek Lake, Oakland, opened in late 1961 or early 1962. Mr. and Mrs. Helmuth Heise were the hosts.
The Four Seasons Dining Room had a grand opening on Saturday, May 26th 1962 at 3pm, at which time a beautiful 5′ by 9′ oil painting “Four Seasons” by artist Mr. Aza Stanton was unveiled. Charles Apostolou was the Chef.
Helmut died at age 82 in August, 2009. His nickname was “Ace.” He started ski area operations in 1955 in the Deep Creek Lake Area. Wisp Ski Resort was located on 3,080 foot Marsh Mountain. It had 23 slopes and trails totaling 14 miles. He sold his financial interest in Wisp Resort in 2001 yet remained as part of the management team. for more information visit (1) Western Maryland Historic | Facebook
DEEP CREEK LAKE — Three employees of Brenda’s Pizzeria at Deep Creek Lake recently spent some time learning more about pizza from Master Chef Gregorio Fierro.
“We are always trying to stay current and on top of trends and pizza,” explained owner Brenda McDonnell. “We have always made our dough, and we wanted to get into featuring different pizzas and toppings and different types of pizzas.”
A supplier from Pittsburgh invited Fierro to teach a class in Pittsburgh, and Todd McEnroe of Nappie’s Food Service invited several employees to attend.
“I am so happy with the three guys who took the class,” McDonnell said. “They were there for five days and learning in the classroom and then actually making the doughs with Chef Gregorio.”
She noted that what they learned will be applied this summer with different pizza types made in the restaurant’s new ovens.
Taking the class were Brenda’s manager Sydney Bauman, Julian Coluzzi and Brian Pessini.
McEnroe explained that he has been with Nappie’s Foods for over 20 years. Nappie’s currently serves family-style restaurants, pizzerias, country clubs and white tablecloth restaurants.
“My specialty has always been the Italian segment of our business specializing in pizza,” he said. “I have been selling to Brenda for five-plus years now. I had the opportunity to host and participate in a pizza school by the premiere Pizzaiolo certification school in the world, which took a lot of planning and having/getting it to be certified by Scuola Italiana Pizzaioli out of Northern Italy.”
McEnroe noted that up to this point, the school had never allowed the class to be taught outside its headquarters in Italy or its certification school in Chicago.
One of our most notable landmarks is the historic Deer Park Hotel, which was established in 1889. The hotel was a popular vacation resort and played host to several U.S. presidents and other dignitaries over the years The hotel caught fire in 1944, resulting in significant damage and leaving only a small portion of the building salvageable. This remaining section is now known as The Deer Park Inn and Restaurant while it’s legacy lives on in the Garrett County Historical Society Museums.
As you explore the natural beauty of Garrett County, take a moment to imagine what life was like for the guests who stayed at the Deer Park Hotel over a century ago.
Looking for an inspiring day on the Celtic Way for the entire family? The 35th Garrett County Celtic Festival welcomes you to the beautiful highlands of Appalachian Maryland. Already filled with living history, clan representation, field exhibits, and Chautauqua style presentations about the Scots, Irish, and Welsh in Western Maryland, the Festival hosts the Highland Games, pipes and drums, 4 stages of musicians and dancers, and features whole family entertainment with all-day activities for all ages. NEW this year are arts workshops for adults: actual weaving along with the history of the Pittsburgh Tartan, Celtic design metal art in copper and silver, wheat weaving and mixed media designs in Celtic traditions, and traditions in quilting. For more information Jun 3 | Garrett County Celtic Festival | Pittsburgh, PA Patch
