I've noticed that there seems to be a good group of NoVa folks on this site. I'm new to the area, having recently relocated from Dallas. We set up shop in Vienna and I'm anxious to test the local waters. I was able to get out a bit in the fall (Burke, Occoquan Res, and Frederick) but I have yet to test the mighty Potomac. I'm fishing out of a Hobie Pro Angler and I was hoping that you guys might be able to point me in the right direction... Where can I go on the tidal Potomac without getting run over and still stand a chance of catching a few LMBs? Many thanks! I look forward to seeing you guys out there.
Welcome!!! I'm a fellow hobie kayaker and am jealous of your Pro angler!
How about SMB? The upper potomac is one of my favorite places to yak and fish. I plan to do more tidal potomac fishing this year as well.
Good stuff! Thanks for your reply. I fished out of a Hobie Outback for approx 5 years before throwing down for my Pro Angler. They're great kayaks/boats. Would love some good SMB action... A buddy of mine from TX is coming out to DC this summer (4th of July) for that very purpose. I was thinking the about hitting the Susquehanna (sp?) but the Upper Potomac would be great as well. If you're ever looking for company up that way, I'd love to join you.
Definitely! I have a few buddies with hobies and we try to get out as much as possible. I'm entertaining the idea of selling my outfitter (tandem) for a Pro Angler if I can find a good deal on it.
I'll let you know whenever we get out.
oh no! Another member for the Hobie Gang!
welcome!
Quoteoh no! Another member for the Hobie Gang!welcome!
yep!
DC, you wouldn't happen to be a left hand retrieve guy are you?
Hmmmm...early morning 4th of July UP float. I like the sounds of that!
Ernie
i cant get over the fact your from Dallas...
welcome!
Go SKINS!!!
Thanks for the warm reception!
A.Do - good luck with the sale of your outfitter. You will not be disappointed with the PA, although it is a beast to load and unload. I picked mine up at Backyard Boats in Woodbridge. Please loop me in the next time the "Hobie Gang" is headed out. It sounds like a pretty exclusive group of left handers? I dribble and shoot left handed - does that count? All of my reels are right hand retrieves (dominant hand). That said, I've been meaning to pick up a left handed retrieve for flipping.
Ernie (kiko13) - the more, the merrier! I'd love to meet everyone.
Soccplayer07 - I grew up a Cowboys fan (up until the Jerry Jones era). I'm now a proud Texans fan. Truth be told, I'm more of a college guy. Gig'em Ags!!!
Quotei cant get over the fact your from Dallas...welcome!
Go SKINS!!!
AMEN, Aaron, AMEN.
Welcome to the site. I have a yak, however not on the elite series as a Hobie rider, yet. I was thinking about taking the kayak out this weekend coming up and hitting up the Potomac, or one of the feeder creeks. However, I have no spots, and hold very little skill in the sport of fishing, so Dan, or Andrew (A. Do) might hold a little more value than I.
DC,
My dad and I fish regularly out of the Occoquan River (Occoquan Regional Park). We have a few good spots that are good all seasons (especially on the Occoquan), our favorites are out towards Belmont Bay and Occoquan Bay. The grass out there and the spadderdock hold fish come late April and they can be caught there through the late fall. Any boat slips with roofs can be productive once temps get up and the bass start relating to shade a bit more in the summer months. They can be caught on a variety of baits. Just be careful navigating those (especially in a yak) on the Occ as lots of large crafts come in and out of there all throughout the day.
They put in a yak/canoe launch at Occoquan Regional sometime last year or the year before. It's real nice and gets quite a bit of use. You can pull right up to the launch and don't have to walk but 10 - 15 feet to get the yak in.
I also agree with Andrew on the upper Potomac for smallmouth. Best smallie spot by far up here for size and numbers with the occasional shot at a muski (the further you go up river) and a trophy smallie. If you want a better shot at a big fish (bronze) look for launch sites for your yak along the James near Richmond (just google VDGIF James River). It's a trophy smallmouth river. Lot's of fun to be had here. One of my favorite spots is Pony Pasture. I don't own a yak though and haven't ever been on that water in a watercraft so other guys may have more info about trips down there for you.
I yak the upper Potomac quite often. It is at flood stage right now with all the snow melt and rain. I expect to get out mid-April. I'll let you know so you can join if interested.
The Occoquan is a good all year fishery because it is much deeper than a lot of other tributaries of the Potomac.
BUT
Come warm weather, I think you would be better off fishing a place like Mattawoman creek. You can drive an hour and launch way back in the creek in an idle only area so there aren't wakes to deal with and there is vegetation EVERYWHERE.
I think I'd be careful with a Hobie at Pony Pasture, it is VERY rocky. You'd have to be very careful with the pedal drive flipper things.
Welcome to Northern Virginia and some of it's great bass fishing areas.
Great info! Many thanks for your replies and kind remarks. I've got Occoquan and Mattawoman circled on my tidal Potomac map. Not sure what "Pony Pasture" is but I'm sure I'll catch on eventually...
Kayakist - I appreciate the invitation. Count me in. I assume that it's navigable with a mirage [pedal] drive (or was that the Pony Pasture reference)?
JCrzy4Bass - thanks for the specifics on the River and launch site. Much appreciated.
All the best to you guys!
Pony Pasture is on the James River in Richmond, VA.
QuotePony Pasture is on the James River in Richmond, VA.
Got it. Thanks! I guess it would help if I read the entire post. Still working on reading comprehension...
QuoteGreat info! Many thanks for your replies and kind remarks. I've got Occoquan and Mattawoman circled on my tidal Potomac map. Not sure what "Pony Pasture" is but I'm sure I'll catch on eventually...Kayakist - I appreciate the invitation. Count me in. I assume that it's navigable with a mirage [pedal] drive (or was that the Pony Pasture reference)?
JCrzy4Bass - thanks for the specifics on the River and launch site. Much appreciated.
All the best to you guys!
three of us, four including you, have mirage drives so we will definitely stay on waters we can pedal in. Thing is, with the tides, sometimes we have to pull the drives and paddle > We'll definitely keep you in the loop!
I think pony pastures is more for wading? even then, you have to watch the gage height of the river as it can be pretty dangerous (at least from what I hear)
Makes sense. Thanks Andrew. Looking forward to getting out. I'm getting stir crazy, especially since my buddy sent through a pic of a 12.68 lber that he caught earlier today on Toledo Bend. Killin' me!
My buddy and I are looking to get on the water this Saturday. Not sure where to go, though. Went to Burke Lake 2 weeks ago, but got skunked. Water was still too cold (upper 30's), I suppose. Are the yellow perch still hitting in the Occoquan River? Have the white perch moved in, yet? I guess the LMB are moving into the pre-spawn stage, there, too?
We're looking at dropping in at either the Occ River, Occ Reservoir, or maybe go to Mason Neck and try the Occoquan/Belmont Bays. Weather should be killer in the mid-70s. Any advice as to where there might be the most action?
Thanks!
Yellow perch have been in the Occoquan for a few weeks. Not sure what the recent runoff has done to their spawn situation. The water at the Occoquan, fast, and EXTREMELY muddy as of a couple days ago. If you are in a kayak I would avoid the rivers for a little while longer.
QuoteYellow perch have been in the Occoquan for a few weeks. Not sure what the recent runoff has done to their spawn situation. The water at the Occoquan, fast, and EXTREMELY muddy as of a couple days ago. If you are in a kayak I would avoid the rivers for a little while longer.
My buddy and I were there 3 weeks ago in our yaks, but the water was muddy that day we went out after some recent rains/melting snow. So it really slowed down the yellow perch bite. Hoping that the the 4-5 days since the heavy rains have past this coming Saturday (along with the warm weather) will settle things down in the river and get the YP (or whatever else) to bite.
My buddy has sworn off ever going to Burke anymore as that place has been a tough place catch fish.
QuoteQuoteYellow perch have been in the Occoquan for a few weeks. Not sure what the recent runoff has done to their spawn situation. The water at the Occoquan, fast, and EXTREMELY muddy as of a couple days ago. If you are in a kayak I would avoid the rivers for a little while longer.My buddy and I were there 3 weeks ago in our yaks, but the water was muddy that day we went out after some recent rains/melting snow. So it really slowed down the yellow perch bite. Hoping that the the 4-5 days since the heavy rains have past this coming Saturday (along with the warm weather) will settle things down in the river and get the YP (or whatever else) to bite.
My buddy has sworn off ever going to Burke anymore as that place has been a tough place catch fish.
I can't say for sure but I think the Occoquan will still be muddy by Saturday. There is still a lot of water running through the system. The river is still high.
I'm curious to see what the flood and the water clarity will do to the yellow perch. The water is also fairly warm from what I've heard. I'm worried that they might have already left the tributaries.
QuoteI can't say for sure but I think the Occoquan will still be muddy by Saturday. There is still a lot of water running through the system. The river is still high.
I'm curious to see what the flood and the water clarity will do to the yellow perch. The water is also fairly warm from what I've heard. I'm worried that they might have already left the tributaries.
Yeah, that's my concern, as well, that the YP have done there thing and left. I've been looking forward to having a fish fry of YP all Winter.
Usually, I've read up on Charlie Taylor's fishing report, but I havent' seen a post from him in a couple of weeks to see what's up in the area.
Might need to roll the dice and just hit it and find out what's up down there. I guess we could always paddle down to the mouth of the river near the Occ Bay to see what's there if its too muddy near Hoffmaster's.
I'll be fishing with Charlie in a tournament on Saturday. I'll be driving over the Occoquan early Sat. morning. I'll check to see if I can determine the condition of the river and try to post it somehow.
You should have gone out in the past weeks! Me and some friends caught somewhere over 300 of them in water temps ranging from 34 to 48 degrees! All that was in maybe 7 trips since the last Tuesday in February.
QuoteI'll be fishing with Charlie in a tournament on Saturday. I'll be driving over the Occoquan early Sat. morning. I'll check to see if I can determine the condition of the river and try to post it somehow.You should have gone out in the past weeks! Me and some friends caught somewhere over 300 of them in water temps ranging from 34 to 48 degrees! All that was in maybe 7 trips since the last Tuesday in February.
Dan, you are the Man! That's really slaying them.
Yeah, my buddy and I have hit it twice back in February, but didn't get any bites both times...maybe bad luck, bad conditions, bad angling, etc. Last weekend, we wanted to get out, but that was during the middle of that big rain system that come through. Wish we could get out during the week, but Saturday's the only day we can do it.
I love Charlie's fishing reports in Inside Nova's website. He always has the lowdown on all the local hotspots!
for what it's worth we were catching them in 21-25 feet of water with silver buddies.
Bass Slayer, you were in occoquan 3 weeks ago on yaks with a buddy? are your yaks bright red?
QuoteBass Slayer, you were in occoquan 3 weeks ago on yaks with a buddy? are your yaks bright red?
Yup, that's us. We got skunked. Though we did see a few boats out catching a few perch on chartreuse jigs. We saw a few bass boats out, too, hitting Hoffmasters hard, but not sure if they had much luck that day. Sunny and cold conditions, with the river fairly muddy.
A week after that, we tried Burke, with no luck at all. Same conditions...sunny, cold, windy. We did see a guy in a john boat out fishing hard and catching a few and a guy in a green Hobie that said he didn't have any luck, either.
QuoteQuoteBass Slayer, you were in occoquan 3 weeks ago on yaks with a buddy? are your yaks bright red?Yup, that's us. We got skunked. Though we did see a few boats out catching a few perch on chartreuse jigs. We saw a few bass boats out, too, hitting Hoffmasters hard, but not sure if they had much luck that day. Sunny and cold conditions, with the river fairly muddy.
A week after that, we tried Burke, with no luck at all. Same conditions...sunny, cold, windy. We did see a guy in a john boat out fishing hard and catching a few and a guy in a green Hobie that said he didn't get luck, either.
haha! I was there with another member and a buddy of ours (same guy Dan fishes with) on occoquan that weekend. If you saw two asians with an older white guy in a silver boat, that was us.
that was only a few days after they pulled over 100 YP from there...
Quotehaha! I was there with another member and a buddy of ours (same guy Dan fishes with) on occoquan that weekend. If you saw two asians with an older white guy in a silver boat, that was us.
that was only a few days after they pulled over 100 YP from there...
Yeah, I think I do remember you guys motoring past us a time or two. How did you guys do that day?
So we missed the big YP slaying by a couple of days, eh? I guess that was before the river got too muddy, I suppose?
I believe we ended up with 3 keeper YP and a few dinks. I caught a big shad and a few bluegill but that was it.
you didn't miss it, it was just off that day. I believe dan or our buddy went back the following week and they came home with at least 60?
DC, is your PA rigged? I just bought a PA and would like some rigging tips.
DC Bandit, was that you that I talk to in the dark green Hobie on the Occ River last Saturday?
QuoteDC, is your PA rigged? I just bought a PA and would like some rigging tips.
Congrats! I've got an Eagle Cuda 350 that I plan to mount on it (together with a ram mount and a Cabelas 12V battery), but I haven't gotten around to doing it yet. I'd love some company if you're looking to set yours up. I'm out of town at the moment but will return next week.
For what it's worth, I was also thinking about getting a push pole for sight fishing. Haven't pulled the trigger yet...
QuoteDC Bandit, was that you that I talk to in the dark green Hobie on the Occ River last Saturday?
No sir. I hit Burke on Friday but was nowhere to be found on Saturday. We had friends in town from NYC, so we went hiking in the Shenandoah. That said, my Pro Angler is dark green. I hope to see you out there.
QuoteQuoteDC, is your PA rigged? I just bought a PA and would like some rigging tips.Congrats! I've got an Eagle Cuda 350 that I plan to mount on it (together with a ram mount and a Cabelas 12V battery), but I haven't gotten around to doing it yet. I'd love some company if you're looking to set yours up. I'm out of town at the moment but will return next week.
For what it's worth, I was also thinking about getting a push pole for sight fishing. Haven't pulled the trigger yet...
Actually, a few of are thinking of getting together and having a kayak rigging partay haha probably won't happen but a nice thought.
Simonsays and I were looking at maybe using this http://kayakfishinggear.com/liberatorbymadfroggear-fishfinderplatformandtransducerarmdeployershownwithaportablefishfindernotincluded.aspx instead of permanently mounting the transducer. not sure yet though. I have a hummingbird piranha portable but I might upgrade.
I made some really ghetto stake out poles last year. I wonder if they'd be long enough to be used as push poles.
QuoteActually, a few of are thinking of getting together and having a kayak rigging partay haha probably won't happen but a nice thought.
I can host.....my new yak needs some rigging and I need some help with it! Water is right out back!
That's an awesome idea Ernie! Have you gone around those lakes with fish finders yet?
QuoteHave you gone around those lakes with fish finders yet?
That is exactly what I want to do!
QuoteQuoteDC Bandit, was that you that I talk to in the dark green Hobie on the Occ River last Saturday?
No sir. I hit Burke on Friday but was nowhere to be found on Saturday. We had friends in town from NYC, so we went hiking in the Shenandoah. That said, my Pro Angler is dark green. I hope to see you out there.
How did you do at Burke? My buddy and I have sworn off that place as we always get skunked there.
You wouldn't by chance were at Burke maybe 3-4 weeks ago on a cold, windy Saturday? I chatted with someone in a dark green Hobie there.
QuoteSimonsays and I were looking at maybe using this http://kayakfishinggear.com/liberatorbymadfroggear-fishfinderplatformandtransducerarmdeployershownwithaportablefishfindernotincluded.aspx instead of permanently mounting the transducer. not sure yet though. I have a hummingbird piranha portable but I might upgrade.
That's a real interesting setup. I had a problem mounting a transducer on the inside as my Moken as it is really difficult to get inside the hull. So I picked up a Eagle Cuda 300 portable. Tried it out last Saturday and it works great, but, the suction cup transducer on the side of the kayak caused drag so it made the kayak track to one side. I have a flat spot on the rear of the kayak near the carry handle that I'm going to try sticking it there next time to try and reduce the drag.
Count me in for the yak rig party. So long as a non Hobie is invited. I can also host, but probably the farthest out. Lets really get this set up, I want to read some bottom structure! Ive just got an old Cuda 128, but it will suffice for now.
QuoteQuoteQuoteDC Bandit, was that you that I talk to in the dark green Hobie on the Occ River last Saturday?
No sir. I hit Burke on Friday but was nowhere to be found on Saturday. We had friends in town from NYC, so we went hiking in the Shenandoah. That said, my Pro Angler is dark green. I hope to see you out there.
How did you do at Burke? My buddy and I have sworn off that place as we always get skunked there.
You wouldn't by chance were at Burke maybe 3-4 weeks ago on a cold, windy Saturday? I chatted with someone in a dark green Hobie there.
Nope - that wasn't me. I caught one on a red crawfish-patterned Mimic crankbait. Fishing was toooooough but it was a gorgeous afternoon.
QuoteCount me in for the yak rig party. So long as a non Hobie is invited. I can also host, but probably the farthest out. Lets really get this set up, I want to read some bottom structure! Ive just got an old Cuda 128, but it will suffice for now.
Sounds great. I'd also be happy to host if there's an interest in meeting in Vienna. If not, will travel...
I'm about to order some stuff and prep my yak. took it out for the first time last weekend and caught my new personal best on it. This yak is money.
QuoteI'm about to order some stuff and prep my yak. took it out for the first time last weekend and caught my new personal best on it. This yak is money.
Very nice! Where did you go and what did you catch it on? The cooler weather this past weekend kept me off the water, though I wanted to try for some catch-and-release stripers in the Occoquan River.
QuoteQuoteI'm about to order some stuff and prep my yak. took it out for the first time last weekend and caught my new personal best on it. This yak is money.Very nice! Where did you go and what did you catch it on? The cooler weather this past weekend kept me off the water, though I wanted to try for some catch-and-release stripers in the Occoquan River.
friend's private pond.
off black and blue jig.
QuoteI'm about to order some stuff and prep my yak. took it out for the first time last weekend and caught my new personal best on it. This yak is money.
Congrats A.Do! That's a great looking bass. Well done. Gotta love the PA.
Nice!
I am also new to the NOVA area. I live in Alexandria and I went out to try some of the corporate ponds out in Herndon/Reston area. Caught a lot of bluegills, but no bass activity. Anyone know of any corporate ponds with some decent size bass?
I believe a lot of the fish are bedding now so it's going to be tough to get a bite unless you sight fish and irritate the bass into biting a lure. There are lots of places around us with quality bass but they're all pretty pressured. Good luck!
A.Do? That is a nice bass! That is gorgeous and every bit around 7 pounds.
Thank you shimmy but it's nothing compared to the fish you catch on the regular! Thanks for the kind words.
Thinking about taking the yak out Friday morning and hitting the Potomac... If the storm holds out, it should be pretty good fishing (I hope). Anyone interested in joining? I was debating b/w Mattowoman and Occ River but am definitely open to other suggestions.
QuoteThinking about taking the yak out Friday morning and hitting the Potomac... If the storm holds out, it should be pretty good fishing (I hope). Anyone interested in joining? I was debating b/w Mattowoman and Occ River but am definitely open to other suggestions.
The difference in distance doesn't matter to you?
What type of fishing do you like the most? ie: do you fish crankbaits/spinnerbaits/finesse/plastics/jigs/etc?
Are you comfortable fishing deep?
I may be able to get out. I've been busting I disagree lately for an upcoming trade show, its Thursday so I think a celebration is in store for me on Friday.
d**n, what a nice bass Andrew
QuoteThinking about taking the yak out Friday morning and hitting the Potomac... If the storm holds out, it should be pretty good fishing (I hope). Anyone interested in joining? I was debating b/w Mattowoman and Occ River but am definitely open to other suggestions.
Wish I could make it out! Good luck though. Let us know how you do!
Thanks Jake.
QuoteQuoteThinking about taking the yak out Friday morning and hitting the Potomac... If the storm holds out, it should be pretty good fishing (I hope). Anyone interested in joining? I was debating b/w Mattowoman and Occ River but am definitely open to other suggestions.The difference in distance doesn't matter to you?
What type of fishing do you like the most? ie: do you fish crankbaits/spinnerbaits/finesse/plastics/jigs/etc?
Are you comfortable fishing deep?
No sir! I will gladly travel for good fishing. I'm a junk fisherman... Haven't met a lure that I didn't like. That said, I'm a bit limited in deep water since I haven't mounted my depth finder yet.
QuoteI may be able to get out. I've been busting I disagree lately for an upcoming trade show, its Thursday so I think a celebration is in store for me on Friday.
That would be great. I'd love the company.
My friday just opened up where we meeting?
Then I'd drive over to the launch by Indian Head in MD and launch the yak in Mattawoman. That's very nice back there, especially in the summer when all the vegetation has grown in. I am going to rent a canoe/kayak and launch back there this summer.
QuoteMy friday just opened up where we meeting?
make sure you extend an invitation
Everyone is welcome to come! the more the merrier!
Bam! lets do this! Dc, do you know about WWW.kayakbassfishing.com yet? Great site, and a ton of guys from our area.
QuoteQuoteThinking about taking the yak out Friday morning and hitting the Potomac... If the storm holds out, it should be pretty good fishing (I hope). Anyone interested in joining? I was debating b/w Mattowoman and Occ River but am definitely open to other suggestions.Wish I could make it out! Good luck though. Let us know how you do!
Thanks Jake.
I appreciate it. Will do.
I'm comin' with DC!!!!
Yo. I'm 90% sure I'm going to make it, just let me know the final choice and what time. Distance isn't really an issue with it, I can justify it by stopping by to see some customers either before or after. LET ME KNOW.
QuoteBam! lets do this! Dc, do you know about WWW.kayakbassfishing.com yet? Great site, and a ton of guys from our area.
No - hadn't heard of it. Thanks for the heads up. I'm still planning to head out tomorrow morning. Sent A.Do a PM. Who else is in?
QuoteYo. I'm 90% sure I'm going to make it, just let me know the final choice and what time. Distance isn't really an issue with it, I can justify it by stopping by to see some customers either before or after. LET ME KNOW.
Let's do this. I really don't care where we put in. I just want to get out there.
Good luck guys. Unfortunately, I've got tons to do at work. Allergies slowed me up a bit earlier in the week. You guys getting out Saturday or Sunday?
QuoteGood luck guys. Unfortunately, I've got tons to do at work. Allergies slowed me up a bit earlier in the week. You guys getting out Saturday or Sunday?
Thanks ANF. Sorry that we missed you. Unfortunately, that's it for me this weekend. Good luck with your work stuff.
I had a great time today fellas. It was nice meeting you all. Looks like you were having your way with the crappie when I cut out. All the best.
Where are all the southside guys at, thats what i want to know
they're tending to their crops!!!
;D
I'm just kidding. There are some Southside members but I think they might be more spread out so it's more difficult for members to get together.
QuoteI had a great time today fellas. It was nice meeting you all. Looks like you were having your way with the crappie when I cut out. All the best.
It was real nice meeting you DC! I'm glad you were able to catch some fish. Did you take any pictures?
QuoteQuoteI had a great time today fellas. It was nice meeting you all. Looks like you were having your way with the crappie when I cut out. All the best.It was real nice meeting you DC! I'm glad you were able to catch some fish. Did you take any pictures?
Unfortunately - no. Wife stole the camera out of my tackle bag... The only evidence that I have at this point is a sore thumb! Take it easy.
I would rather have a sore thumb over a few pictures any day! Nice meeting you, Ryan.
QuoteI would rather have a sore thumb over a few pictures any day! Nice meeting you, Ryan.
Likewise. I've never seen anyone work over a lay down as thoroughly as you. It was Denny Brauer-esque! All the best Josh.