ABOUT Fishing at the U.S. National Arboretum
From a kid catching their first fish to a grandparent recollecting their own childhood fishing, our fishing programs create vital memories for community members, connecting them with their river. These fishing events bring educational value to the community by raising awareness about the dangers of consuming fish from the river due to toxic pollution like PCBs and PFAS “forever chemicals”.
Fishing events at the U.S. National Arboretum are a unique partnership between the Anacostia Riverkeeper and Friends of the National Arboretum. Participants will check in at the Asian Collections parking lot, then will walk just over a half a mile downhill on gravel and paved pathways to get to the Anacostia River for fishing with the Anacostia Riverkeeper.
Family-friendly activities will be set up along the path down to the river to encourage exploration together.
All fishing events are free. All supplies provided, and our staff will teach you to fish!
These programs are first come, first-on-the-dock. If the dock is at capacity, there is a waitlist and 1-hour fishing limit.
All participants must complete a liability waiver before participating in any Family Fishing events.
