Every Boat Ramp on Prettyboy Reservoir

About Prettyboy Reservoir

Prettyboy Reservoir is the most remote and least developed of Baltimore's three drinking water reservoirs, covering 1,500 acres in northern Baltimore County. Surrounded by dense hardwood forests and rolling farmland, Prettyboy has a distinctly rural character that sets it apart from its more suburban counterparts at Loch Raven and Liberty. The reservoir reaches depths of 100 feet and is fed by the Gunpowder Falls, whose cold tailwater discharge below the dam creates one of Maryland's best trout streams.

What makes Prettyboy Reservoir unique among central Maryland fisheries is the presence of both warm-water and cold-water species. Largemouth bass are the primary warm-water target, with the reservoir's abundant submerged timber, coves, and creek channels providing excellent habitat. Brown trout and rainbow trout inhabit the cooler, deeper sections of the reservoir and the inflowing streams, offering a trout fishing opportunity that is rare in this part of the state. Crappie fishing is outstanding at Prettyboy, particularly during the spring spawn when fish move into the shallow coves and brush piles. Yellow perch and catfish provide additional angling variety throughout the year.

Prettyboy Reservoir operates under strict regulations, including electric-motor-only boating and limited access hours, which contribute to its peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere. The nearby communities of Hampstead, Hereford, and Parkton are small, quiet towns that reflect the rural character of the surrounding countryside. For anglers willing to trade convenience for tranquility and quality fishing, Prettyboy Reservoir rewards with a genuine wilderness-like experience just an hour north of downtown Baltimore.

Nearest towns: Hampstead, Hereford, Parkton