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Maryland · Fishing
Grantsville sits in the Casselman River watershed at the western edge of Maryland, and the fishing here reflects that geography — cold water, forested banks, and a mix of river and lake options within a short drive of town.
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Grantsville sits in the Casselman River watershed at the western edge of Maryland, and the fishing here reflects that geography — cold water, forested banks, and a mix of river and lake options within a short drive of town. The Casselman River at the Grantsville Access is the headliner, a freestone river running at around 2,400 feet elevation where brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout all share the water. The access point is rated easy, which means you don't need to bushwhack to find fishable water — it's approachable for newer anglers while still holding enough variety to keep experienced fly fishers busy. New Germany Lake and Meadow Run Lake round out the local options, giving spin and bait anglers quieter, flatwater alternatives when the river isn't fishing well or you just want a different pace. None of these spots require a long hike or a boat, and the area stays relatively uncrowded compared to more publicized trout destinations in the Mid-Atlantic. If you're driving in from outside the region, Grantsville is a practical base — small, no frills, but close to the water.
The Casselman River at the Grantsville Access holds brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout. Brookies tend to favor the colder, smaller tributaries and upper stretches, while browns and rainbows are more commonly encountered in the main river channel.
The Grantsville Access listing is categorized as fly fishing, which may indicate a fly-fishing-only designation for that stretch. Check the current Maryland DNR freshwater fishing regulations before your trip to confirm what gear is permitted at that specific access point, as restrictions can apply to certain river sections.
Howell Run Picnic Area
~30 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WV.
Omni Bedford Springs Resort and Spa
~1h 8m drive
A worthwhile stop near PA.
Horseshoe Recreation Area
~1h 13m drive
A worthwhile stop near WV.
Casselman River - Grantsville Access
~4 min drive
Easy
North Branch Potomac River - Steyer Access
~14 min drive
Hard
North Branch Potomac River - Barnum Access
~25 min drive
Moderate
Outflow Camping
~27 min drive
A worthwhile stop near PA.
Robert W Craig
~30 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WV.
Meadow Run Lake
~2 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MD.
Casselman River - Accident Access
~19 min drive
Easy
Trout Run - Garrett County
~16 min drive
Hard
Potomac River - Paw Paw Bends
~1h 3m drive
Moderate
Spring and fall are generally the most productive seasons for trout on freestone rivers like the Casselman — water temperatures are in the ideal range and insect activity picks up. Summer fishing can slow during heat spells, though the elevation at 2,400 feet keeps water temperatures cooler than lower-elevation streams. Early morning is typically better than midday in warmer months.
Both are lake fishing spots, which makes them good options for anglers who prefer still water or want to bring kids. They offer a different experience from the Casselman River and are worth checking if you want a full day of varied fishing in the area. Specific species data for these lakes isn't listed, so contact Maryland DNR or the New Germany State Park office for current stocking information.
Yes, a valid Maryland freshwater fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase one online through the Maryland DNR website or at local license agents. If you're fishing a designated trout water, a separate trout stamp is also required — confirm whether the Casselman River section qualifies before you go.
