Cunningham Falls Fishing Site

Description:

• Fishing in Cunningham Falls State Park and Catoctin Mountain Park, in particular, Big Hunting Creek, has played a prominent role in the development of recreational trout fishing in Maryland. The stream has long been popular among fly fishermen. It is the birth place of the "Brotherhood of the Jungle Cock," an organization dedicated to helping young people understand and appreciate the sport of angling and the resources upon which it depends. Big Hunting Creek was first in the State of Maryland to be designated as a "fly fishing only" stream. Later it became Maryland's first "catch-and-release" trout stream. Anglers will find brook, brown, and rainbow trout in Big Hunting Creek. All three species spawn in the stream.

  Regulations at Big Hunting Creek apply: Maryland fishing license and trout stamp required; all trout caught must be released; a person may not use or possess any natural bait, baitfish, fishbait, scents or natural or synthetic devices capable of catching fish except artificial flies or streamers; only artificial flies and streamers constructed in a normal fashion using natural and/or synthetic materials on a single hook with the components wound on or about the hook; a person may fish only with conventional fly fishing tackle. The use of spinning, spincast, and casting reels is prohibited; fly fishing is permitted throughout the year.

  Regulations at Owens Creek (NPS) apply: Put and Take Trout Fishing Area is mainstream from Raven Rock Road downstream to Roddy Road. Maryland fishing license and trout stamp required; fish only in specified seasons; fishing with bait is permitted; keep only two trout per day while fishing on park property.

  Angers fishing Hunting Creek Lake will most likely snag bluegill, largemouth bass, catfish, or crappie. The lake is a put-and-take trout area. An accessible fishing pier is adjacent to the boat ramp.

  Little Hunting Creek in the Manor Area is a catch-and-release trout stream limited to the use of artificial lures and flies only. Spinning gear may be used.

  It is important to consult the Maryland Sportfishing Guide for specific details. For fishing details, call (in-state) 1-877-620-8DNR, (out-of-state) 1-800-688-FINS and (TTY) 1-410-260-8835.