About
Savage River Dam is the tall earthen dam that holds back Savage River Reservoir in the forested hills near Swanton, inside Savage River State Forest. It is worth knowing about for two reasons: it marks the start of a well-known wild trout tailwater, and the river below it hosted the first canoe slalom world championships ever held in the United States.
A Flood-Control Dam With a Long History
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the dam for flood control and municipal water supply. According to Maryland DNR, work began in 1939 and finished in the early 1950s. The dam stands about 184 feet high and runs about 1,050 feet across, and it is owned and maintained by the Upper Potomac River Commission. The reservoir behind it allows only non-gas boats, such as kayaks, canoes, rowboats and boats with electric motors, with ramps reached from Savage River Road.
Trout Water Below the Dam
The river below the dam is the Savage River Tailwater Trophy Trout Fishing Area. It runs about 4 miles from the dam to the river's mouth, and Maryland DNR manages it for wild brown trout and native brook trout with no stocking. The first 1.25 miles below the reservoir, down to the Allegany suspension bridge, are fly fishing only; the rest is limited to artificial lures or flies with a single hook. Because the water is cold and released from the dam, the season is open year-round. DNR describes the bottom as steep cobble and boulder that is tricky to wade, and recommends a wading staff and studded boots. Some stretches are private, so watch for posted signs and blue paint.
Whitewater History
When the dam releases enough water, the lower Savage becomes a fast, continuous whitewater run. On June 24–25, 1989, it hosted the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships, and the river has also been used for U.S. Olympic canoe trials. Releases for paddling are occasional and announced in advance.
Before you fish or paddle, check the USGS gauge or the Army Corps release schedule; DNR considers 50 to 100 cubic feet per second good fishing flow.
Address
Savage River Rd, Swanton, MD 21561