Every Boat Ramp on Deep Creek Lake

About Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest body of freshwater, covering 3,900 acres with 65 miles of shoreline nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Garrett County. Created in 1925 by the damming of Deep Creek for hydroelectric power, this mountain reservoir sits at an elevation of 2,462 feet, giving it a distinctly different character from any other fishing destination in the state. Cool mountain waters, forested shorelines, and stunning Appalachian scenery combine to make Deep Creek Lake Maryland's premier mountain fishing retreat.

Walleye are the marquee species at Deep Creek Lake, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources maintains an active stocking program to ensure a healthy, catchable population. Spring and fall trolling with worm harnesses and crankbaits produces walleye in the 15- to 24-inch range, with occasional fish exceeding 6 pounds. Largemouth and smallmouth bass provide excellent warm-weather fishing around docks, points, and rocky shorelines. Northern pike add a predatory thrill, with fish over 30 inches ambushing baitfish in the lake's weedy coves. Yellow perch and crappie offer outstanding panfish action, particularly during early spring and through the ice in winter.

The communities of McHenry, Oakland, and Deep Creek provide a full range of vacation amenities, from lakeside cabin rentals and resort lodging to restaurants, outfitters, and boat rental operations. Deep Creek Lake is a four-season destination, with ice fishing for walleye and perch being a popular winter tradition. Whether you are trolling for walleye at dawn, casting for bass at midday, or watching the sunset over the Alleghenies, Deep Creek Lake offers a mountain fishing experience unlike anything else in Maryland.

Nearest towns: McHenry, Oakland, Deep Creek