Maryland Warming up for Spring Trout Fishing

Crews Stocking Waters with 300,000 Fish in 2018

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources anticipates releasing more than 300,000 brown, golden and rainbow trout in lakes, rivers and streams over the next few months, as 2018 is shaping up to be an exciting year for trout fishing in Maryland.

The department’s hatchery team began preseason trout stocking late last year and will begin spring stocking starting this month, when some areas are closed to fishing. Although there is always some form of trout fishing allowed in the state year-round, the department considers it “preseason” until these March closures take place. 

“Trout fishing has become an annual rite of spring for many families,“ Fishing and Boating Services Director David Blazer said. “This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself and your family in a rewarding experience that will last a lifetime.”

Trout stocking is made possible through revenue from fishing licenses, trout stamps and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program. This grant program allows the department to hatch, grow and release trout throughout the state. The majority of Maryland’s stocked trout are raised in the department hatcheries, including the Albert Powell Hatchery in Washington County, the Bear Creek Hatchery in Garrett County as well as through a partnership with the privately owned Mettiki Hatchery, also in Garrett County.

Anglers should consult the 2018 Maryland Guide to Fishing and Crabbing for specific details on daily creel limits and other important information. The department’s trout stocking website, social media and email service provides updated information on what locations are being stocked. In addition, anglers may call our stocking hotline for a weekly summary at 800-688-3467.