Best Kayak Fishing Destinations - Mid Atlantic

Potomac River tributary | credit: USGS

The Mid Atlantic region is home to some of the best kayak fishing destinations in the USA. This post includes a state-by-state sampling of kayak fishing destinations in the region.

New York

The upper sections of the Susquehanna and Delaware rivers offer some of the best smallmouth bass fishing on the East Coast.

New Jersey

The Raritan River Watershed is one of New Jersey’s most popular areas for kayak fishing. The Upper Raritan Watershed includes the South Branch Raritan, North Branch Raritan, and numerous smaller tributaries.

New Jersey also provides access to the Delaware River. Coastal areas contain launching areas near some of the best known fishing spots on the East Coast.  

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has hundreds of miles of small streams and creeks that are suitable for kayak fishing. The Susquehanna River is known for its smallmouth bass fishery and other opportunities.

Raystown Lake is one of the best impoundments in the Mid Atlantic region for landlocked striped bass fishing. Near Reading, Blue Marsh Lake noted for its black bass, musky, walleye, panfish, and others. 

Below the Blue Marsh Lake stilling basin, the Tulpehocken Creek tailwater is said to contain one of the best trout fisheries in the area.

The Three Rivers Water Trail includes dozens of river access points along the Allegheny, Ohio, Monongahela, and Youghiogheny Rivers.

Maryland

In Dorchester County on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, three rivers are known for their outstanding northern snakehead fisheries.

The Blackwater, Transquaking, and Chicamacomico rivers all produce trophy-class snakeheads. Unusually large snakeheads are known locally as "Godzilla," "dragon," or other nicknames.

In the Chesapeake Bay, kayak anglers fish for striped bass, speckled trout, red fish, and other sport fish.

At Ocean City, kayak anglers fish the inlet, bridges, and coastal bays for flounder, striped bass, bluefsh, and other species.

Delaware

One of the smallest states, Delaware is known for its millpond fishing. From Wilmington to the Maryland line are hundreds of small to medium sized manmade lakes, ponds, and other waterways. Catches include largemouth bass, crappie, pickerel, northern snakeheads, and others.

Virginia

Virginia has a wide range of kayak fishing opportunities. The state has a number of lakes and other impoundments suitable for kayaking. Virginia rivers range from mountain streams to large brackish environments.  

Washington DC

Near the capital is the Potomac River, known as the nation's river. Potomac anglers catch bass, crappie, striped bass, catfish, carp, northern snakeheads, and other species. 

North Carolina

The Albemarle - Pamlico Sound complex contains thousands of miles of swamps, creeks, rivers, and bays where kayak anglers fish for freshwater and saltwater species.

Popular impoundments include Lake Gaston, Lake Mattamuskeet, Lake Norman, and Roanoke Rapids Lake.

Best Shoes For Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Watersports

Several types of shoes, sneakers, boots, sandals, and slippers are popular for kayaking.

When choosing shoes for kayaking, it's important to consider what types of launching areas and terrain will be encountered. In some cases, more than one type of footwear may be needed during the course of the day.

Conventional sneakers are often worn by kayakers. These work well in dry environments but have drawbacks in situations where kayakers must get their feet in the water.

Other shoes are made specifically for kayaking and other watersports. Most offer an aggressive grip and either waterproofing or an open design that allows water to quickly drain from inside.

For many paddlers, water shoes are a popular choice. Water shoes are designed to be worn in or out of the water in areas where support, traction, and protection are not essential.

Five finger shoes are a popular choice of kayakers, canoeists, and fishermen because of this product's grip, performance and control.

Croc shoes offer a variety of inexpensive models that work well for kayaking. Most crocs have an open design and holes for drainage.

Sandals are another option for kayakers. Sandals are totally open and may offer traction on slippery surfaces. They tend to be comfortable to wear, even when wet.

In some areas, lightweight rubber boots are suitable. Boots are especially useful when launching in muddy environments and in cold weather. 

Footwear choices can also be dictated by the type of kayak being used. For example, owners of pedal drive kayaks sometimes choose footwear that is comfortable while pedaling. Some kayakers wear one type of shoe or boot for unloading and launching, then switch footwear for pedaling.

Camden Water Trail Phase II

In Camden New Jersey, the 13-mile Camden Water Trail is connecting current and future park lands and water access points around the Back Channel and Cooper River.

The trail aims to encourage recreation on and around the rivers. Work is underway to provide public access sites, interpretive opportunities, habitat restoration, and other improvements.

This project is in Phase II with additional parks lands, access points and interpretive signs to be installed by 2023. 

Planning for the upgrades is being undertaken by Camden County Parks Department, Discover the Delaware partners, and local officials.

Efforts are underway to add several stops to the Camden Water Trail, including:

• Cramer Hill Nature Preserve

• Petty’s Island Preserve

• Sadler’s Poynt Waterfront Park: Install floating dock

• Pyne Poynt Park Beach: Redesigned

• Sadler’s Marine Services: Potential park/boat house

• Cramer Hill Waterfront Park

• New Camden Park

• Farnham Park

• Gateway Park: Install dock

• Kaighn Avenue Dam: Install fish and boat passageway

• Cooper River Boathouse

• Cooper River Boat Ramp

• Cooper River Yacht Club

• Cooper River Park

• Camden County Parks Department: Install access point

For more information, visit: www.camdencounty.com and www.upstreamalliance.org.

Discover the Delaware’s partner organizations include: County of Camden, UrbanPromise, Center for Aquatic Sciences at Adventure Aquarium, New Jersey Conservation Foundation, Independence Seaport Museum, Camden Community Partnership, NJ Natural Lands Trust, Camden County Municipal Utilities Authority and Upstream Alliance.

Fish N Paddle Saltwater Slam Kayak -SOK Fishing Tournament

Summer Flounder

The Fish N Paddle Saltwater Slam Kayak Fishing Tournament and Stand Up Paddleboard Fishing Tournament will be held June 25-26, 2022 in Ocean City, Maryland.

This tournament format includes no minimum number of anglers and over $7,000 cash purse to be distributed to the top three anglers.

During the tournament, kayak anglers can experience why Ocean City, Maryland, is known as "The Fishing Tournament Capital of the World."

Tournament anglers can fish the back bays and inshore ocean for the following qualified species:

Flounder

Striped Bass (aka, Rockfish or Stripers)

Bluefish

Sea Trout (Grey Trout, Speckled Trout)

Bottom Fish (Sheepshead, Triggerfish, Spadefish, Black Sea Bass, Spot, Croaker)

Cobia

Red and Black Drum

Spanish and King Mackerel    

Winnings will be based upon combined weighed in points of each angler's top three fish of any qualifying species over 2 days.  Anglers can even have 3 of the same qualifying species to win.

$7000 Guaranteed Payout with No Minimum Number of Anglers:

1st   Place- $4000

2nd Place- $2000

3rd  Place- $1000

4th Place- (New For 2022) Lightning Strike Pedal Drive Kayak

Anglers can also participate in optional entry levels to win awards, money, and prizes. Prizes include a $3000 Los Buzos Panama Stay and Hosted Fishing Trip with Robert Field, a fishing stand up paddleboard from NRS, custom fishing rods and reels, depth finder, sunglasses, coolers, and other prizes.

Daily winners will be chosen for each qualifying species and the tournament features a new Junior Angler Division. The tournament will also include a kickoff party and weigh in festivities for anglers and spectators.

Ocean City Maryland is known for its inshore fishing areas. Popular fishing locations include the route 50 bridge, route 90 bridge, inlet jetties, Thorofare, Sinepuxent Bay, Verrazano Bridge, and others.

For more information, visit fishnpaddle.com.

Related Information

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Things To Do In Ocean City

2022 Paddle for the Border - Dismal Swamp Canal

17th Annual Paddle for the Border
Saturday May 7th, 2022
Dismal Swamp State Park - South Mills, North Carolina (launch)
Great Dismal Swamp Boat Ramp - Ballahack Rd., Chesapeake, VA (finish)
* Registration Closed *

Dismal Swamp Canal

The 2022 Dismal Swamp Canal Paddle for the Border is expected to attract paddlers from all over Virginia. In February, due to popularity, registration closed for the annual 7.5-mile paddling excursion to the North Carolina/Virginia border. The event is sponsored by the City of Chesapeake Parks and Recreation.

After enjoying a traditional pre-launch breakfast at the Dismal Swamp State Park, in South Mills, North Carolina, paddlers will embark on the leisurely three-hour journey to cross the state line.

Paddlers finish the day out with a picnic lunch on grounds of the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail at the Great Dismal Swamp Boat Ramp at Ballahack Rd. in Chesapeake, VA.

The 2022 Paddle for the Border in Dismal Swamp Canal will begin on May 7, 2022 at 7:30 a.m. and end around 2:30 p.m. Mariners are requested to use caution when transiting the area.

More information about the event can be found at www.dismalswampwelcomecenter.com or www.cityofchesapeake.net.

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Pre-Season Kayaking Things To Do

Recreational Sit In Kayak

This article includes ideas for creating a pre-season to do list and other tasks that need to be done before the next kayaking season gets underway.

One of the first tasks is to begin a thorough inspection of kayaks, safety equipment, and other gear.

Prior to the start of the season, kayaks and other paddlecraft usually need to be inspected for any damage or other problems.

It may be a good idea to check for any deformation of the hull that may have occurred during the previous season or during winter storage.

Simple kayaks may require little pre-season work other than inspection, cleaning, and a fresh coating of UV protectant.

Other models may need additional work. Items such as cordage, hatches, attachment systems, rudders, and anchor trollies will need a complete inspection, cleaning, and functional check.

Kayak accessories should also receive a close inspection, and if needed, service or replacement.

Paddles should be checked for cracks, excessive wear, or other structural problems. Two-piece paddles usually need to have the connection points cleaned and lubricated.

Electronic devices may need service including charging or replacing batteries, inspection, cleaning, and performance testing.

It is also important to check gear related to kayak transportation, loading, and unloading. Trailers, carts, rooftop systems, and other equipment should be inspected and maintained if necessary.

Before beginning the season, it may be necessary to review launch permits, licenses, and other regulatory documents. 

Most kayakers choose to display some form of vessel identification sticker which may need servicing or replacement.

After a complete inspection, service, and cleaning, most kayaks will be ready to launch.

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Essential Kayaking Gear

Essential Kayaking Gear

This article provides information about gear that can be useful on the water.

Kayakers face an array of challenges on the water. Although gear is available to solve a number of problems, paddlers have limitations on space, weight, and other considerations

Clothing

Depending on conditions, clothing may need to provide protection from a number of threats. Breathable, water resistant clothing is required in most situations.

One of the most popular practices for kayakers is to dress in layers. As conditions change, paddlers may add or remove layers of clothing.

In warm weather, light pants and shirt might suffice. Cooler conditions may warrant the use of coveralls, lightweight waders, or other specialty clothing.

Also important are items such as hats, gloves, and eye wear. Combined with proper clothing, these items can provide protection from the elements, insects, and other hazards.

Safety

When choosing kayaking gear, safety should always take priority. Essential safety gear usually includes PFD(s), sound emitting device, light, compass, spare paddle, etc.

Electronics

Due to a variety of factors, electronics are often considered non-essential equipment. Despite their cost, weight, and susceptibility to water damage, some paddlers rely on electronics on the water. Cell phones are the most common electronic device used by kayakers. Smartphones and other devices offer a stunning array of apps and other tools that can be helpful. Other electronics include hand-held VHF radios, walkie talkies, GPS units, fish finders, and similar equipment.

Useful Accessories

Most kayakers have a list of essential gear that is carried on every trip. In addition, paddlers may consider a few extra items to carry.

When choosing additional gear, multi-use items have priority. For example, items such as bungee cords, carabiners, multi-tools, duffle bags, plastic zipper bags, and other products have dozens of uses.

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Chesapeake Bay Kayaking: Eastern Shore Rivers

This article includes information on rivers and creeks on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Relatively large rivers of the Eastern Shore include the Northeast, Bohemia, Elk, Sassafras, Chester, Wye, Miles, Tred Avon, Choptank, Little Choptank, Blackwater, Nanticoke, Wicomico, and Pocomoke.

In addition to major rivers, there are hundreds of smaller tributaries, creeks, and streams.

The Elk River has a variety of special conditions that paddlers may find interesting. Below Elkton, the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal connects to the river. A variety of public access sites are located up and down the river.

The Chester River flows through Chestertown before emptying into the Chesapeake Bay near Kent Island. The town's annual Downrigging Weekend Tall Ship and Wooden Boat Festival attracts large numbers of historic vessel enthusiasts.

The Choptank River flows through several historic towns and small communities. Near its mouth, Cambridge includes an array of areas where paddlers can launch and explore the river.

At Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, three paddling trails meander through more than 20 miles of salt marshes. The Blackwater River complex is one of the most popular areas in the Chesapeake Bay for catching northern snakehead.

One of the largest rivers in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, the Nanticoke River is known for its wildlife. Along its banks are Seaford, Blades, Woodland, Vienna, Tyaskin, Bivalve, Nanticoke, Elliot's Island, and other communities.

Public access sites are found throughout the Nanticoke. Along the river are several notable parks including Seaford, Phillips Landing Recreation Area, Cherry Park (Sharptown), and Vienna Waterfront Park. Additional areas for launching kayaks and other paddlecraft exist at Woodland, Elliot's Island, Tyaskin, and Nanticoke.

Along the Wicomico River is mix of urban properties, industrial sites, waterfront neighborhoods, marinas, and other human activity. Public access can be found in Salisbury, Mount Vernon, and Dames Quarter.

The Pocomoke River is known for its extensive cypress swamp habitats. Kayakers can explore the Pocomoke River by launching at Porter's Crossing, Snow Hill, Pocomoke River State Park, Pocomoke City, and Shelltown.

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Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Paddling Trails

Best Kayaking Areas in Maryland

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Paddling Trails

Fall is a wonderful time to explore paddling trails at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge.

Blackwater has three paddling trails totaling over 20 miles.

The Friends of Blackwater recently helped enhance the markers and interpretive signs along the trails.

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge paddling trails have been listed as one of the most gorgeous places to paddle in the fall by the Washington Post.

To learn more about the trails, visit the Blackwater NWR website at www.fws.gov/refuge/blackwater/.

The Friends of Blackwater is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that relies on members for support. For more information, visit www.friendsofblackwater.org.

source: Friends of Blackwater

Highland Park Veterans Kayak Launch - Norfolk VA

In October, members of the Highland Park Civic League honored military veterans and their dedication to service with a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the opening of the Highland Park Veterans Kayak Launch.

The launch is located at the corner of 44th Street and Colley Avenue in Norfolk. The new launch site features a floating pier and launch ramp which extends into Knitting Mill Creek, a tributary of the Lafayette River.

The Highland Park Civic League consists of residents and business owners in the Highland Park neighborhood in Norfolk, VA. The organization works to encourage and promote civic improvements in the local community of Highland Park.

Ohio Paddlesports Popularity

Paddlesports in Ohio have increased in popularity over the past several years, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

In 2015, more than 161,000 Ohioans registered canoes, kayaks or other paddle-specific watercraft. Over the last decade (2006-2015), Ohio’s kayak and canoe registrations (including liveries) have increased 138 percent.

The state expects the sport to grow as the state continues to invest in the paddling community.

From 2006 to 2015, more than $7 million was provided through community grant programs and publications. support provided carry-in and small boat access, as well as hands-on skill development through local education and recreation programs, including Paddle Palooza festivals and the Paddle Ohio program.

It also funded publications detailing stream access and paddling opportunities.

Ohio's water resources include 451 miles of the Ohio River, approximately one-third the entire surface area of Lake Erie, more than 605 inland lakes and more than 60,000 miles of inland streams, rivers and, other waterways.

Ohio is one of only seven states in the nation where admission and parking at state parks are free.

For more information, visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.com.

source: Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Conneaut Creek Access (Pennsylvania)

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) recently approved the acquisition of an easement on 1,600 linear feet along Conneaut Creek as it flows across property owned by the Borough of Conneautville, Crawford County.

The easement will be for public fishing, boating and riparian and fishery management. The PFBC will also acquire easements for parking and a footpath to provide access to the creek.

The easement area is located north of Route 198. Conneaut Creek provides significant steelhead fishing opportunities in the area.

source: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

Maryland Golden Age Pass Ramp Fees Abolished

In 2015, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that Golden Age Pass holders will no longer have to pay a fee to use state park boat launches or ramps.

Golden Age Passes entitle Maryland adults, ages 62 and older, to a lifetime of free day-use entry into all state parks, as well as half price camping Sunday through Thursday.

The change in policy is part of Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s agenda to eliminate or reduce $51 million in state-issued fees.

Public access is one of limitations that seniors face when kayaking in Maryland and other Mid Atlantic states.
   

Kayaks vs. Canoes at North Bend State Park WV

At North Bend State Park in West Virginia, beginning paddlers can choose a kayak, canoe, or both as part of the Quest program.

The Park's Quest program will continue offering kayak or canoe adventures on North Bend Lake into September.

“The Quest program caught the attention of many people this summer,” said North Bend State Park Supt. Steve Jones. “By far, the most requested activity was learning how to use a kayak or a canoe.”

Quest rates have been reduced to encourage mid-week fall bookings. Two people can stay overnight at North Bend Lodge Sunday through Thursday and have use of a kayak or canoe with instruction.

The 305-acre North Bend Lake is quiet and a perfect setting to enjoy a September getaway, according to Park officials.

The park also features an October mid-week reduced lodge rate for travelers “leaf peeping” in the Ritchie county area.

To learn more about North Bend State Park and its Quest program, visit www.northbendsp.com or call 304-643-2931.

source: West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (www.wvdnr.gov)

PFBC Kayak Fishing Programs

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) has scheduled two programs to provide an opportunity for anglers or kayak enthusiasts to learn about the basics of in kayak fishing.

PFBC Kayak Fishing Programs will be held at these locations:

July 18, Bald Eagle State Park – Hunter Run East launch, Centre County, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.  (For more information or to register)

August 1, Moraine State Park – Bear Run launch, Butler County, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (For more information or to register)

“During each program, participants will learn about basic kayak skills and safety, how to rig or outfit a kayak for fishing, and learn about black bass and panfish fishing techniques,” said Carl Richardson, PFBC Education Section Manager. “Commission staff and local kayak fishing experts will lead the instruction. Participants will then have an opportunity to make use of what they learned during an open fishing session.”

Jeff Woleslagle will be the guest instructor at the July 18 program. He is a freelance writer for the Pennsylvania Angler and Boater magazine with an expertise in kayak fishing.

Noah Heck will be the guest instructor at the August 1 program. He is an avid kayak angler who is the co-founder of the Kayak Anglers of Western PA tournament series.

Participants must be 16 years of age or older and have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license. This program is limited to 40 participants and pre-registration is required. There will be no registrations accepted the day of the event.

source: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

Paddle Ohio

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently launched the Paddle Ohio initiative to promote paddling on Ohio's state-designated wild, scenic and recreational rivers and water trails.

The Paddle Ohio initiative will reward individuals who paddle four of Ohio's wild, scenic and recreational rivers or water trails with a commemorative pin. Participants simply submit information about their four paddling trips on the Paddle Ohio registration form at paddle.ohiodnr.gov, and ODNR will mail the pin to qualifying individuals.

Future plans include a series of pins paddlers will be able to collect for paddling up to 20 different segments of Ohio's wild, scenic and recreational rivers or water trails.

Ohio pioneered the river preservation movement in 1968 with the passage of the nation's first scenic rivers act. This legislation created a state movement to protect Ohio's high quality streams for future generations.

Information on Ohio's scenic rivers and water trails is available from the ODNR Division of Watercraft at watercraft.ohiodnr.gov/scenicrivers.

source: Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Maryland Park Quest 2014

Around 1,000 teams are expected to participate in Park Quest 2014, a family-based outdoor recreational program of kayaking, hiking, biking and historical adventures in 24 of Maryland’s State Parks.

Park Quest 2014 is one of several events held during Great Outdoors Month in Maryland. For more information, visit http://news.maryland.gov/dnr/2014/06/02/june-is-great-outdoors-month/

source: MD DNR

Best Areas for Kayaking in Hampton Roads Virginia

Hampton Roads Virginia is one of the best areas in the Mid Atlantic for kayaking. Paddlesports enthusiasts can explore the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay, local rivers, creeks, canals, lakes, ponds, salt marshes, and other areas.

Ocean kayakers launch along beaches or inlets from Virginia Beach to Sandbridge. To reach the Chesapeake Bay, kayakers depart from Hampton, Norfolk, or Virginia Beach. All three cities provide parks and ramps where kayakers can launch their craft.

Virginia's Hampton Roads region is a maze of rivers, creeks, and tidal lagoons. Kayakers explore the James, Nanesemond, Elizabeth, Lafayette, Back, and Lynnhaven Rivers. Some estuaries, such as the Elizabeth River, contain designated water trails.

Dismal Swamp Canal

Canals are another option for kayakers. In the heart of Hampton Roads, numerous canals interconnect between the Elizabeth River, Lake Drummond, and Albemarle Sound.

Once part of the Intercoastal Waterway, the canals sustain a variety of wildlife, fish, wild plants, and other inhabitants.

Hampton Roads is home to two National Wildlife Refuges, Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Both facilities contain areas for recreational kayaking, kayak fishing, wildlife watching, and other activities.

Areas suitable for kayaking can also be found at First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park. Both parks contain sheltered areas as well as open water for more experienced paddlers.

Pennsylvania Mandatory Life Jacket Requirement

During cold weather, boaters in the Mid Atlantic states experience elevated risks related to sudden cold water immersion.

Almost 80 percent of all boating fatalities happen to boaters not wearing a life jacket, according to Pennsylvania’s boating accident reports. A large number of fatalities occur during the months of November through April.

To highten awareness, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) recently issued a reminder to boaters concerning one of the state's boating safety regulations.

From November 1 through April 30, boaters in the state are required to wear a life jacket (PFD) while underway or at anchor on boats less than 16 feet in length or on any canoe or kayak. Pennsylvania's cold season PFD requirement applies to all  waters within the state.

For more information, visit www.fishandboat.com

source: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

Kayak Fishing Checklist

A fishing equipment checklist is essential for kayak fishing. Preparing for any kayaking trip usually involves a basic kayaking checklist, which primarily focuses on safety.

A kayak fishing checklist should begin with safety-related items. Checklists for kayak anglers will also include important tackle and fishing-related gear.

The following example checklist includes a variety of equipment that may be needed when kayak fishing (all safety equipment is not listed):

rod-reel outfits
tackle assortment
bait
landing net
pliers
knife
line cutters
rag
fish bag
ice
drinks-snacks
portable GPS
digital camera
cell phone
spare batteries
electronics pouches
compass
maps-charts
hat
sunglasses-eyewear
jacket-rain gear
gloves
equipment crate w/ rod holders
track mount accessories

This checklist is only an example. In reality, each kayak angler will create their own personal equipment list based upon their local fishing requirements.

 

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