Fish Consumption Advisory DOEE urges limited consumption of Anacostia and Potomac river fish. PCBs and other chemical contaminants have continued to be found in certain fish species caught in the Potomac and Anacostia rivers and their tributaries, including Rock Creek, within the Distric's boundaries.

Largemouth and Smallmouth occupy different areas of the river – DC serving as the boundary that separates the two regions. Largemouth Bass can be caught throughout the river's tidal and southern regions while Smallmouth Bass are typically found in the Upper Potomac.

The Harpers Ferry vicinity up to Dam 5 west of Hagerstown supports the largest walleye population on the Potomac, and one of the best walleye fishing opportunities in the region.

It's a fly and light tackle fisherman's dream to tangle with the hard fighting Potomac bonefish or tarpon… another name of the numerous Hickory Shad and robust American shad. The shear biomass in the river in April is something not seen anywhere.