Approximate Boundary: 39.581006,-77.432374 to 39.586331,-77.436858 (2,254 feet)
DNR Guidance: Mainstem from a red post located approximately 0.25 mile downstream of MD 806, upstream approximately one mile to the upper boundary of Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area.
The Manor Area, which includes Little Hunting Creek, is best known for its proximity to the 200-year-old Catoctin Iron Furnace. In fact, the parking lot near the furnace provides access to the creek from the west. Since fishing is not extensive on Little Hunting Creek, you may also be interested in taking advantage of the visitor center, aviary, picnic area, and playground.
Little Hunting Creek is managed as a wild trout stream. It has not been stocked since 1994 and offers anglers the opportunity to catch small brown trout and brookies. Even though the only publicly fishable section is less than a half mile, fish exist on five miles of the creek. Sadly, the upstream fishing in the public area ends quickly as the creek leaves the park and enters the 450-acre Trout Run private section that was a favorite of President Eisenhower. Since the fish are wild, it is important to abide by the catch and return ethic to maintain the population.
The creek is 20 feet wide, scenic and runs over a rocky bottom that is devoid of sand. There is a trail adjacent to the creek that offers easy access. Tall trees grow to the water’s edge and the low hanging vegetation is not oppressive, allowing anglers to move either in the creek or on the bank. The creek is shallow with fish available in the deeper pools. Those same pools are popular with hikers who want to flop into the creek and cool off during the warmer months.
Getting There: From US 15, turn east onto Catoctin Furnace Road. Follow the road south to the main access points. Turn west to enter the Manor Area Park to use the parking area at the south end of the park.
Access Point:
- Bridge crossing over the creek on Catoctin Furnace Road (39.582847,-77.433959)
- At the Catoctin Furnace (39.581478,-77.433685)
- Parking area at south end of Cunningham Falls State Park (39.587263,-77.435966)
Secrets Revealed? No. This is a very public location that is documented on the Maryland DNR website.
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Unless stated otherwise, this article was authored by Steve Moore