Savage River Outfitters

Savage River Outfitters is a fly shop, guide service and riverside lodging business at 2721 Savage River Road in Swanton, on the lower Savage River about two miles below the Savage River Reservoir dam. It's set up for trout anglers who want gear, local advice, a guide or a place to stay on the tailwater, all from one stop.

The Fly Shop

The shop stocks fly rods, reels, waders, wading boots, flies, leaders and tippet from brands including Orvis, Winston, Moonlit, Douglas and TFO, along with an entry-level Encounter outfit and Savage River Outfitters ball caps. Because the river runs right behind the shop, you can test-cast a rod on the water before you buy. Owner Mike Evans also takes phone orders and ships gear, and gift certificates can cover shop purchases, lodging or guiding.

Guides, Lessons and Fishing Reports

The shop's guides lead half- or full-day wade trips and full-day raft float trips for one or two anglers on the Savage, the Potomac and surrounding streams, and rods and gear can be provided on request. Fly fishing lessons are taught on the river behind the shop. The website posts a fishing report on flows below the dam, water temperature and clarity, and which flies are working, which is worth a look before you make the drive.

Riverside Lodging and Nearby Spots

Savage River Outfitters rents three homes on the Savage River: the Brookie, a quiet two-bedroom cottage; the Brownie, a two-bedroom, two-bath cottage; and the Rainbow, a four-bedroom chalet suited to larger groups. Public water on the tailwater is listed separately as Savage River Public Fishing Access, and the Savage River Reservoir North and South Boat Ramps and the Big Savage Hiking Trail – Southern Trailhead are also reached from Savage River Road. The shop notes that some phone GPS apps send drivers about half a mile upstream, so use the written directions on its Contact page.

Stop in for flies and a fresh read on the water before you head to the river.

Call Us!

• Website
• (703) 517-1040
• Email
• Instagram