What to Expect on a Guided Fishing Trip
If you've never been on a guided fishing trip before, you might have questions about what it's actually like. What do you need to bring? What happens when you get there? Do you need to know how to fish? I get these questions all the time, and I want to answer them honestly so you know exactly what to expect when you book a trip with Shallow Water Fishing Adventures.
The short answer: a guided trip with me is a relaxed, fun day on the water. You don't need to be an experienced angler. You don't need to bring any gear. All you need to bring is yourself, your fishing license, and a willingness to learn and have a great time.
Before Your Trip
Booking and Deposit
To reserve your date, contact me by email or phone. A deposit is required to hold your spot — $75 for Upper Potomac trips and $100 for Susquehanna trips. The deposit is applied to the total trip cost. I accept PayPal for deposits.
Getting Your Fishing License
You'll need a valid fishing license for the state where we're fishing. For Upper Potomac trips in Maryland, you need a Maryland fishing license. For Susquehanna trips in Pennsylvania, you need a Pennsylvania fishing license. Both are available online through the respective state fish and wildlife agencies. If you're not sure which license you need, just ask me when you book.
What to Bring
- Valid fishing license for the state
- Government-issued ID
- Deposit confirmation
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Polarized sunglasses
- Hat or cap
- Comfortable clothes you can move in
- Snacks and water (cooler provided)
- Dress in layers — mornings can be cool
- Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet
- Non-slip shoes are important on the boat
- Rain gear if weather looks uncertain
- No alcohol on the boat
- No drugs of any kind
- Excessive gear — we provide everything
- Large bags or backpacks
The Day of Your Trip
Meeting at the Boat Ramp
We meet at the boat ramp at the agreed-upon time — typically early morning for the best fishing. For Upper Potomac trips, the primary launch is Edwards Ferry Boat Ramp in Poolesville, MD. For Susquehanna trips, we launch from one of several access points near Harrisburg, PA. I'll give you exact directions when you book.
I also offer a VIP pick-up and drop-off service for an additional $80 if you'd prefer not to drive to the boat ramp. This is popular with groups and clients coming from the DC area.
On the Boat
We fish from a custom 17-foot jet boat that's specifically designed for shallow river fishing. The jet drive allows us to access areas that other boats can't reach — shallow rocky shoals, tight channels, and remote stretches of river that see very little fishing pressure.
All tackle is provided — rods, reels, line, and a full selection of the baits that work best on that day. I'll show you exactly how to fish each bait and where to cast. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, I'll tailor the instruction to your skill level.
What We're Targeting
The primary target is smallmouth bass — one of the hardest-fighting freshwater fish in North America. Both the Upper Potomac and Susquehanna have healthy populations of fish in the 12–18 inch range, with trophy fish over 20 inches caught regularly. We practice catch and release to protect the fishery for future generations.
Trip Options and Rates
- 4-hour trip — $450
- 6-hour trip — $500
- 8-hour trip — $550
- $75 deposit required
- All rates for 1–2 people
- 6-hour trip — $500
- 8-hour trip — $550
- $100 deposit required
- All rates for 1–2 people
- PA fishing license required
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all. I guide anglers of all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced tournament fishermen. I'll teach you everything you need to know.
We fish in most weather conditions — overcast days are often the best fishing days. If conditions are dangerous (lightning, flooding), we'll reschedule at no charge.
Yes! Kids are welcome on guided trips. I recommend a minimum age of 8–10 for the best experience. Kids under 16 typically don't need a fishing license.
I do everything in my power to put you on fish, but fishing is fishing — I can't guarantee catches. What I can guarantee is that you'll be fishing the best spots with the best techniques.
We practice catch and release on all guided trips to protect the fishery. Every fish goes back in the water after a quick photo.
I recommend booking 2–4 weeks in advance, especially for weekend dates in spring and fall which fill up quickly.
Ready to Book Your Trip?
Contact Jeff Greene today to check availability and reserve your date.
Shallow Water Fishing Adventures is the premier fishing guide service for trophy river smallmouth in the Washington, DC area and the premier fishing guide service for river smallmouth in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area.
You Are Just Minutes Away from a Fishing Adventure of a Lifetime
If you live in Northern Virginia, world-class smallmouth bass fishing is right in your backyard. The Upper Potomac River is just a short drive away — no need to travel far for an unforgettable guided fishing experience with professional guide Jeff Greene.
Conveniently Located for Anglers Across the Region
Shallow Water Fishing Adventures is an excellent fishing guide service located just north of Washington, DC, just west of Baltimore, Maryland, and also guides on the Susquehanna River in the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area.