Summer flounder are a favorite species for inshore anglers who are fishing either bay or open ocean areas. Photo by Ken Freel.

Severe flooding during 2005 and 2006 has caused many changes in the Gap. The Visitors' Center, which was located just off Route 80, was under water three times and has been closed. Newer facilities are planned for the future. Many of the river's islands, within the boundaries of the Water Gap, also took a big-time hit from the floods and many and have been altered.

The Delaware River is considered to be one of the top smallmouth rivers in the East and many consider it one of the best in the country; summertime is prime time for catching small­mouths here.

The Water Gap offers a mix of structure, though some of the best fishing occurs on the flats and shallow-water areas for those anglers throwing surface baits. The river's waters are some of the clearest, and nothing beats the smashing hit of a smallmouth in shallow water or this game fish's acrobatic leaps.

Besides the excellent summertime wading that is available throughout the Water Gap Recreation Area, there are also no fewer than five public boat launches for trailered boats. The area also offers numerous primitive accesses for canoes and kayaks that will put you in touch with different areas of the park.

In addition, there are several cartop and canoe launch sites throughout the park. Outfitters, canoe and raft rentals, horseback riding, hiking, close-by outlet stores, antique stores and flea markets, and plenty of fine dining, make the Gap a place that the entire family can enjoy.

In addition to Worthington State Park, there are 10 privately owned campgrounds within a short distance of the Gap, as well as a plethora of bed and breakfast inns, hotels, motels and resorts. You can get the details on the different activities and accom­modations in the Water Gap by calling the Delaware Water Gap Chamber of Commerce at (570) 476-0331; or write them at P.O. Box 144, Delaware Water Gap, PA 18327.

JULY
MARYLAND
Point Lookout State Park
If you ever considered fishing the waters of Chesapeake Bay, you need to consider staying at Point Lookout State Park. The park is at the top of the list when it comes to popularity in Maryland, especially among fishermen, and for good reason. The park is located on the peninsula formed by the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River. In addition to the great fishing of the bay and lower river, the park offers a variety of outdoor recreation for the entire family as well.

Point Lookout is steeped in history, in particular, Civil War history. During the American Civil War, what is now the park was a prison camp that imprisoned as many as 52,264 Confederate soldiers. Ghost sightings at Lookout Point are believed to be the spirits of Confederate soldiers who were imprisoned there, and mystery and intrigue abound. The Visitors' Center and museum are operated seasonally, offering programs in nature and Civil War history, as well as the history of the area from the time it was first settled to present day.

The campgrounds at Lookout Point offer 143 wooded campsites, of which 26 have full hookups, and another 27 have electric hookups. There also are six four-person camper/cab­ins available for overnight stays. There are a limited number of handicapped accessible campsites at the park as well. Swimming at the park is available from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The beach area has grills, picnic tables and a playground. Hiking trails, flat water canoeing, swimming and nature trails are also available at the park.