DC kayak rentals: Fletcher's Cove

July 29, 9:50 AMDC Kayaking ExaminerStu Griffith

Just upriver from Jack's Boathouse and  Thompson Boat Center you'll find one of the true hidden treasures of Washington, DC: The Boathouse at Fletcher's Cove.

Located on the Potomac River in the C&O Canal National Historical Park, near Chain Bridge, Fletcher’s was established in the 1850s.

Canoes (15-foot Grummna aluminum), single (Wilderness Systems Pungo) and tandem (Old Town Loon) kayaks, as well as custom built wood rowboats are are available to rent. Ample parking is available.

When renting at Fletcher's, you can choose to paddle on the Potomac River or the C&O Canal . For anyone looking to launch their own kayak, just park toward the far end of the lot and launch from the shore. There is no launch fee if you do not use the dock.

However, there is much more to do than just paddle when visiting Fletcher's. Bicycles are also available to rent. Giant brand 21-speed trail bikes, Sun brand single-speed cruisers,  and 20” and 24” children’s bikes can be had ($6/hour, $25/day) for anyone looking to ride along the scenic Capital Crescent Trail or the C&O Canal towpath.

Then there's the fishing! Fletcher's has long been considered a superb fishing spot. Annual permits are available for purchase ($10/D.C. resident, $13/non-resident), and are good on all District of Columbia waters including fishing from the Virginia side of the river. Need bait and tackle? No problem. Fletcher's carries Canadian night crawlers, bloodworms, frozen ocean herring, clam snouts, (all seasonally available) shad darts and spoons. Tackle includes Okuma spinning rod and reel combos, Eagle Claw hooks, Spider Wire monofilament, Mepps, Rooster Tail and Cotton Cordell lures, and Water Gremlin sinkers.

And, being located in the C&O Canal National Historical Park, visitors to Fletche's will enjoy the expansive picnic and recreation area. Friends and families regularly gather to play soccer and badminton, or use one of  the many stationary charcoal grills.

For more info: Please visit Fletcher's web site.

The Boathouse at Fletcher's Cove | map
4940 Canal Road, NW • Washington, DC 20007
(202) 244-0461