Travel: Conowingo Dam for Birding and Fishing Day Trips

Conowingo Dam and the Fisherman's Wharf area.

I have visited Conowingo Dam fishing area multiple times over the years. I enjoyed each day trip to the area whether I'm fishing or birding (or both at the same time). Today's visit wasn't spectacular in the birding category, but it was a good visit all the same. When I move away from Maryland, this will be one of the spots that I will miss immensely. At the risk of sharing my already not-so-secret spot, I decided to write about Conowingo Dam so that others can plan their own visits. 

Also, the Fisherman's Park of Conowingo now includes a wharf and stairs system that allows everyone (including children and families) to enjoy the area. Bring your cameras, fishing poles, family/kids/friends, and a picnic lunch and have a wonderful day.

Birding and fishing in one awesome spot

Conowingo Hydroelectric Plant

Conowingo Hydroelectric Plant opened in 1928. It is in the lower Susquehanna River, approximately 5 miles south of the Pennsylvania-Maryland state line. It is located near the Maryland small towns of Conowingo, Darlington, and Port Deposit. It is one of the largest non-federal hydroelectric dams in the US. 

It is an easy, but rural, drive just off US 1 or I-95.

The view from under the dam

Early morning view of the island where birds congregate

The fisherman's wharf is a beautiful system of stairs, rails, and concrete seating ledges. When I initially moved to Maryland, the fishing area at Conowingo was only a parking lot, and rip rap along the shoreline.  The fisherman's wharf was built in 2009. Many times, I am not a fan of building up natural areas, but in this case I am glad someone had the idea and carried this out to fruition. 

Wharf stairs and multiple overlooks

Multiple ledges for seating

View from a portion of the wharf

There is also a boat launch for small boats. However, it was closed today - I believe the sign said due to higher water. 

Bird Watching at Conowingo

This area has become a well-known Bald Eagle viewing area. A large population of Herons also are in the area. Today, we spotted many other bird species. I am not at all reliable at identifying bird species, but I am certain we saw Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, Cardinals, Crows, Osprey. and Black Vultures. We also saw what appeared to be cormorants, gulls, ducks, and swallows. We certainly heard a Pileated Woodpecker. 

There are many articles online written by more experienced bird watchers. For more accurate bird information, please consult those articles. My intent today is to increase awareness of the ease of access to the Eagles and other birds while I am still becoming better at viewing and identifying.

Bring your binoculars and camera and enjoy the day with the birds.

Bald Eagle spotted today

Great Blue Heron flying - and I need a zoom lens

Fishing at Conowingo

Before the wharf was built, I came to the area to fish for catfish. And I caught several. 

Information shows that people fish the area for bass, shad, catfish, walleye and more. Today, we watched folks walk out with large fish - a mixture of bass and catfish. The question, "any luck?" was not needed. Their catches were obvious. I was happy for them and found myself wishing I had brought my pole.

I saw mostly large rigs (poles and crankbaits) being used in the cast and reel quickly fashion. But I also saw some poles propped up and waiting for the tell-tale bobbing of the tip of the pole indicating "fish on".  That's more my style of fishing. And I saw plenty of that style too. Whether you use a lure or bait, crank or bottom-fish, there was someone having luck at it today.

A lovely morning to go fishing

Fish on!

Be Aware and Beware  

There are important signs regarding safety around the property. Read them and heed them.

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photo by W.L.S - with permission

Be aware that the red flashing lights and sirens indicate the dam is opening and releasing more water. It does not open suddenly, but it does create a higher water level. You should be aware, gather your things, and move to higher ground.

Signs indicate that the vultures may damage vehicles. This is NOT an understatement. The numerous Black Vultures in the area perch atop you car and in our case, removed the rubberized portion of the windshield wiper. 

Related Links:

Conowingo Fisherman's Park brochure - general information about directions, fishing, birding, and phone numbers for more information.

A very detailed article of interest to birders is provided by the Harford Bird Club. It was originally written in 2002 by Rick Blom but shows that there have been updates since. 

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