Fishing Inspiration Lake in Montgomery County, Maryland

• Overview

  This water sits in Montgomery County, Maryland. The coast is 18 miles away. Surface area runs to about 10 acres — small enough to read in one session. The nearest town is North Potomac, 2.7 miles away. Gaithersburg follows at 2.8 miles, then Darnestown at 2.9 miles. A county line runs close by, so local bylaws can differ within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Inspiration Lake

  Our records carry no depth, so judge it from the bank. Levels move with the draw rather than the rain on water like this. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Montgomery County records list bluegill, largemouth bass and fantail darter among the fish reported. The list covers the county rather than this water alone, so treat it as a guide. Inspiration Lake responds to conditions more than to tactics.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Seasonal averages run from 32°F in January up to 77°F in July. Some winters cap it and some do not. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. March through May is the strongest run, with October and November a second stretch. Keep it in mind when planning a trip to Inspiration Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  No public source sets out the position on this bank. It is tagged for fishing in public mapping. There is recorded parking some 110 yards off. There is a toilet block some half a mile out. The water borders Lake Placid Dam, so reserve rules are likely to apply. Sort the permit out before you load the car. Barbless rules turn up on managed water more often than not. For a change of water, Lake Lynette is 0.1 miles distant. Check the position at Inspiration Lake before loading the car.