Community NewsSPORTSZebra Misc
Big Catches and Potomac River History on Capital Blues Fishing Charters
Retired Army Veteran and Arlington Native is Natural Storyteller and Expert Fishing Guide
ALEXANDRIA, VA – The 18-foot pontoon fishing boat glides up the Potomac River expertly piloted by lifelong angler, Captain Owen Koch. Koch retired from the Army in 2024 and established Capital Blues Fishing Charters this past July after recognizing a desire to fish among both experienced locals and those who’ve never baited a hook.
Koch hails from the Washington D.C. area and credits his father for instilling in him a love for the sport as well as the local history.
The Capital Blues boat puts out from Gravelly Point near Reagan International Airport and once on the water, a whole new world reveals itself. Well-versed in the history of the Potomac River, Koch loves to share its stories with his guests. “I love sharing old photographs with guests to show them how the river has evolved over the years.”
Sometimes, fishing isn’t even about catching anything.
“I love being on the water, even on slow days,” admits Koch. “The Potomac River is stunning and the area above Georgetown is remarkably preserved, thanks to the C&O Canal and the GW Parkway. I often see bald eagles, herons, beavers, and ospreys right here in D.C.”
He is committed to his core principles: to teach and inspire. He strives to ensure his guests leave with a greater appreciation for the Potomac and its rich history. A natural storyteller, Koch enjoys sharing his knowledge of the Potomac and the fascinating tales that have sprung from the region. Says Koch, “Growing up in Arlington, I was always curious about the historical remnants along the river, like the old steam boiler below Gulf Branch and the ruins of the Aqueduct Bridge in Georgetown.”
“I love sharing old photographs with guests to show them how the river has evolved over the years.”
Koch also volunteers with Operation Vets with Nets which provides free fishing trips to veterans dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Veterans, retirees and active military can request a fishing trip from these organizations, which operate nationwide.
Ask any angler for his or her secret to landing a large fish and there’s no telling what “sure fire” tactics you might hear. As for Koch, he keeps three strategies in mind: Choose the right equipment, maintain that equipment, and select the most effective bait. He uses high-quality, purpose-built gear designed for large catfish, with a 40-pound-test monofilament line.
“You can’t expect to land a big catfish with just any old rod,” advises Koch.
He’s also meticulous about equipment maintenance, checking for line abrasions and ensuring that all gear is in top condition after each trip.
“Preparation saves you the disappointment of losing that big catch.” he says. While many commercial and homemade baits work well for smaller catfish, Koch maintains that larger ones prefer fresh bait like gizzard shad, bluegill, or eel. He also tempts the fish with chicken which mimics the freshwater mussels they like to eat.
Given his tactics, what’s the biggest fish he’s ever caught? “As a guide, I helped a friend land a remarkable 55-pound blue catfish near Fletcher’s Cove a few years ago,” recalls Koch. “I’ve also had 30- and 40-pound catches.”
Capital Blues provides fishing rods, tackle, bait and safety gear, life jackets, bottled water, and fire extinguishers. Fishing locations vary and include catfishing territory in the Potomac Gorge above Key Bridge. Also from Chain Bridge to Wilson Bridge, there are plenty of spots to drop a line.
Despite the best preparations, sometimes the fish just aren’t biting.
“Fishing is a constant challenge,” says Koch. “Just when you think you’ve figured out the fish, they change their patterns. A hot spot one week can be completely empty the next.”
With Capital Blues, however, guests are covered by a “No Fish, No Pay” policy.
“If you don’t catch at least one fish,” he says reassuringly, “you won’t be charged the remaining trip balance.”
Capital Blues Fishing Charters are available year-round and costs range from $395.00 for four hours, $495.00 for six hours and a full day on the water for $595.00. The short charter is ideal for families with small children. His pontoon boat carries six people, or roughly 750 pounds. Starting in 2025, Capital Blues will provide pick-up and drop-off services from Alexandria, Koch the opportunity to share his fishing expertise and love of local river history with more anglers.
“What I love most about being a guide is the thrill of netting a monster fish for my clients, especially when it’s for kids or first-time anglers. Seeing their excitement makes all the preparation, research, and scouting worthwhile.”
For more information about Capital Blues Fishing Charters please visit
[Editor’s Note: All fish caught during the research for this story were released.]
