Fall Trout Stocking Begins in Maryland

Stocking Adds to Plentiful Autumn Fishing Opportunities

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will begin fall trout stocking in early October, introducing nearly 28,000 brown, golden and rainbow trout into select Maryland creeks, lakes and rivers by the end of the month.

“The stocking program is eagerly awaited by many Maryland anglers” Fishing and Boating Services Director Dave Blazer said. “Fall stocking gives anglers a chance to experience excellent trout fishing, while enjoying the great foliage and scenery and autumn weather conditions that the state has to offer this time of year.”

Fall is generally a productive time for fishing in Maryland. As water temperatures decrease fish are biting a little more so they can store enough energy to get them through the winter. Native brook and brown trout begin their spawning during the mid to late fall. Anglers fishing for striped bass often refer to this month as “Rocktober” in honor of the species’ more common nickname, rockfish.

“I personally have landed my best largemouth, smallmouth bass, northern pike, trout and musky in the fall,” said department biologist and avid fisherman Matt Sell.

Anglers can expect this year’s stocked trout to weigh an estimated one-half to one pounds. However, anglers vying for something bigger will have a unique opportunity to try and land trophy size trout, as fish weighing over three pounds will also be added to the mix.

Some stocked streams have seasonal restrictions so anglers should consult the 2017 Maryland Guide to Fishing and Crabbing for all related fishing regulations and restrictions.

Stocking dates, times, and locations will be chosen based on environmental and weather conditions, water flow and temperatures. Daily stocking updates can be found online and by subscribing to the department’s email alerts. There is also a recorded trout stocking hotline at 800-688-3467, which is updated every Friday during the season.