Scott's Run Nature Preserve is a hidden retreat just 1 mile outside the beltway along the Potomac River. The 384 acre preserve offers a 2.2 mile trail that loops through the park taking you along the river and to a decent size waterfall where Scott's Run tumbles into the Potomac River. There are also some equally fascinating man made creations. Someone has constructed massive walls that reach far out into the river that you can see in the picture to the left. They add to the excitement and diversity of this location. It is a shockingly isolated area offering a glimpse into the natural landscape of our area. I have been there multiple times and have never run into more than 3 or 4 other groups. Dogs and mountain bikes are permitted on the trails.
As a fishing destination, the park offers access to a portion of the Potomac River that is above Little Falls Dam and below Great Falls. This section of the river winds through small riffles and rapids, around small islands and boulders that can be navigated by wading. If you haven't visited the area I promise you will be surprised at the quality of this section of the river, there are no piles of tangled fishing line and trash like you would find further down, the water is clear granting you excellent visibility. But what is more surprising is the quality of this section as a fishery. Smallmouth Bass is the target of choice and they are hiding behind boulders and in riffles throughout this section of the river. I have fished this section multiple times with both a fly rod and a spinning rod and have had many days where I'll catch 4-5 fish in an hour and a half. Soft plastics work well and you can expect fish between 8 and 15 inches.
