Every Boat Ramp on Susquehanna River

About Susquehanna River

The Susquehanna River enters Maryland at the Pennsylvania border and flows just 20 miles before emptying into the upper Chesapeake Bay at Havre de Grace. Despite its short run through the state, this stretch of the Susquehanna is one of the most productive and exciting fisheries in the mid-Atlantic region. The Conowingo Dam tailrace is the centerpiece of the fishery, where the powerful discharge creates a unique environment that concentrates massive numbers of fish in a relatively compact area.

The Conowingo Dam tailrace is legendary for its trophy striped bass fishing. During spring and fall, enormous rockfish — some exceeding 40 pounds — stack up below the dam as they follow baitfish and respond to spawning instincts. Smallmouth bass thrive in the river's rocky rapids and ledges, with fish averaging 2 to 4 pounds and occasional specimens exceeding 5 pounds. The annual shad run in spring brings both American and hickory shad surging upstream, providing thrilling light-tackle and fly-fishing action. Walleye and channel catfish round out a diverse fishery that produces quality catches year-round.

The communities of Havre de Grace, Port Deposit, and Conowingo provide excellent access to the river with public boat ramps, shore-fishing areas, and local outfitters who know the water intimately. The Conowingo Dam area draws anglers from across the Northeast, particularly during peak striper and shad seasons. Whether you are casting big swimbaits for trophy rockfish below the dam or drifting jigs for smallmouth in the rocky runs upstream, the Susquehanna's Maryland stretch delivers unforgettable fishing.

Nearest towns: Havre de Grace, Port Deposit, Conowingo