Approximate Boundary: 39.571104,-77.532542 to 39.517559,-77.548034 (From the MD 17 bridge near the junction of Bittle Road upstream to the confluence of Spruce Run)
Middle Creek is a wonderful 30 foot wide body of water, routinely stocked with over 5,000 trout, that stretches a lazy 5 miles through the narrow valley framed by the Catoctin Mountains on the east and the South Mountain National Environmental Area to the west. The creek runs wide and clear over a uniformly rocky, boulder strewn bottom. Depending on the wind, the sweet odor of fresh cow manure provides both an aromatic caress as well as a reminder that you are in the heart of the beautiful rural area.
MD 17 hugs the bank tightly for most of its length, allowing easy access to the stream. As a result, this is a popular fishing destination and experiences heavy pressure during the height of the stocking season. If you wait until the end, there are usually still decent numbers of stock trout waiting to provide an enjoyable fishing experience.
The best, most productive stretch lies in the middle section between the junction of Harp Hill Road (39.526991,-77.543077) and Highland Hill Road (39.546169,-77.5258). There are plenty of spots to pull off and safely access the stream, just be cautious of private property. In general, this creek is at its best when the Catoctin Creek Middletown gage (downstream of the stocked area) is running near 115 cfs.
Getting There: From I-70, take exit 42 north onto MD 17/Myersville Road. Stay on MD 17 when it jogs right onto Ellerton Road in the town of Myersville. The stocked section begins at the bridge crossing approximately 1.3 miles after turning onto Ellerton Road.
Google Local Coordinates: The road parallels the creek for most of its length with the easiest access being between 39.571104,-77.532542 and 39.546124,-77.526147.
Secrets Revealed? No. This is a very public location that is documented in the Maryland DNR stocking plan.
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Rocky, good structure
Wide, unobstructed
Close to the road
Scenic farms provide atmosphere.. both visual and aromatic
Good, solid rocky streambed
Cooperative trees stay out of the way
Unless stated otherwise, this article was authored by Steve Moore