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Lake Information for Clopper Lake


Map: 
Description: 

Clopper Lake is a 90-acre impoundment on Long Draught Branch within Seneca Creek State Park. The dam was built in 1975 for recreation and flood control. Prior to 1986, statewide black bass regulations applied to Clopper Lake. From 1986 through 1997, Clopper Lake largemouth bass were managed under a 10-inch minimum size regulation as a result of an over-abundance of small bass. The intent of the regulation was for anglers to reduce the number of small bass. Harvest of the small bass would reduce competition and increase growth rates among the remaining bass. Unfortunately, fishing pressure was relatively low and catch-and-return black bass fishing had become popular among bass anglers. The thought of harvesting small bass was not popular even if it could improve the bass population in Clopper Lake. In 1998, the black bass regulation in Clopper Lake was changed back to statewide regulations (5 bass/day, >12 inches).

Clopper Lake averages 18 feet in depth with several shallow coves. The Lake has abundant submerged aquatic vegetation dominated by spiny naiad that can become quite dense during the summer and early fall months. Tree downfalls and beaver huts provide habitat in some areas of the Lake for crappie, sunfish, carp and largemouth bass.

Fishing Description: 

Clopper Lake contains an over-abundance of largemouth bass, however; many nice bass (>12 inches) are available to anglers. Tiger muskie fingerlings, a hybrid cross of northern pike and muskellunge, have been stocked into Clopper Lake. Although fisheries surveys have not yet turned up a tiger muskie, reports from anglers of catching tiger muskies have suggested there was some success with tiger muskie survival in Clopper Lake. Channel catfish have been stocked into Clopper Lake with some large "cats" prowling for prey. Quality size redear sunfish as well as bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish are also available for the creel. Black crappie round out the list of popular fish species available to anglers. Other species found in Clopper Lake are brown bullheads and common carp.

Directions to Lake: 

From I-270, take Route 124 west, Quince Orchard Road. Turn right onto Route 117, Clopper Road. Entrance to Seneca Creek State Park is on left off of Clopper Road.

Fish: 
Channel Catfish
Fish: 
Crappie
Fish: 
Largemouth Bass
Fish: 
Sunfish
Fish: 
Catfish Family
Optional Information
Surface area: 
90.00
Name: 
Clopper Lake
Lake type: 
reservoir
State: 
Maryland

Businesses Located Nearby

Boat Rental

    Black Hill Boats
  • 20930 Lake Ridge Dr - Boyds, MD
  • (301) 972-6157
    Annapolis Small Boat Rentals
  • 808 Boucher Ave - Annapolis, MD
  • (410) 268-2628

Vacation Rental


Bar and Restaurant

    Rock Grille Bar & Restaurant
  • 1380 Piccard Dr - Rockville, MD
  • (240) 238-0916

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