One could argue that trout fishing has had a significant influence on the course of United States history. President Hoover chose Rapidan Camp, on the banks of the Rapidan River in Virginia, for his presidential retreat. Starting with President Eisenhower, the country’s Commander in Chief rested and conferenced at Camp David. This rustic camp, nestled within what is now Catoctin Mountain National Park, also features trout streams. And while presidents and foreign dignitaries have hammered out international policy nestled in this Appalachian hollow, most visitors to the park are more interested in the local population of trout.
Big Hunting Creek flows through Catoctin Mountain National Park and Maryland’s adjacent Cunningham Falls Sate Park. Since the 1930’s the stream and it’s fish have received protection. Eventually, Big Hunting would become the first catch and release water in all of Maryland. Brook trout are the native salmonids that swim the tumbling pools. Various fishing organizations have stocked rainbows and browns over the decades. Miles of cold, fishable water provide numerous styles of fly fishing. Fast canyon stretches, long glassy runs, and surprisingly deep pools hold trout and the attention of sportsmen. At just over an hour from Washington, DC, the stream has hosted countless anglers – presidential and otherwise.
Some of those anglers who have had the most significant impact in the area didn’t hold political office. The Brotherhood of the Jungle Cock was founded in nearby Thurmont with a vision of enriching young men’s lives through fly fishing. Some of the mentors have been the most recognizable names in Mid-Atlantic fly fishing. For nearly 100 years, thousands of boys have learned about angling and conservation on the banks of Big Hunting Creek.
Recently, a small dam on Big Hunting has been slated for removal. Although such projects do come with great cost and effort, these days they are seen as opportunities to restore a healthy and natural streamflow. Members of the Jungle Cock have advocated that the rejuvenated area be slotted for youth fishing only. They also have proposed a fly fishing heritage trail. This interpretive pathway would link with Catoctin Mountain park, and would provide fishing access for all on Big Hunting.
These prospective projects represent a lot more than a new trail or a special fishing area for kids. Initiatives such as these indicate a continual forward motion for conservation and the perpetuation of people who can carry that torch. It ought to be an encouragement that a stream and a region that led the way in special regulations and protections a century ago are still working for the resource and the future.
For more information on the proposals, find links in the article: Today’s Sportsman: Idea for Fly Fishing Heritage Trail is a Grand Vision.
Interested in fishing Big Hunting Creek? One of the best resources you’ll find for the area is Guide to Maryland Trout Fishing: The Catch and Release Streams.