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Maryland Fishing Report – June 16
Carson and Conner Hoffmaster went crabbing recently with mom, dad, and granddad (who flew in from Wisconsin). Photo by Brad Hoffmaster
All of us at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources wish all the dads and grandfathers out there an enjoyable Father’s Day this Sunday, June 20. A major part of this celebration for many is spending time outdoors — including a lot of fishing — with their youngsters.
The last Maryland license-free fishing day for the year is on July 4, presenting a great opportunity to take someone on their first fishing adventure without needing to purchase a license.
Anglers should take note of a striped bass closure period in the Chesapeake Bay from July 16 through July 31, to lessen catch-and-release mortalities of undersized striped bass during warm water and depleted oxygen conditions. Hot summer weather creates tough conditions for striped bass survival, which is also why DNR introduced its striped bass fishing advisory forecast for the warmest months each year, so anglers can better plan their fishing for striped bass to lessen mortalities.
Maryland Fishing Report – June 2
Richard Hoene was sitting at a dock in Ocean City on Memorial Day weekend and, being an ever hopeful and dedicated angler, cast a line into the water. His efforts were rewarded with this large striped bass. Photo courtesy of Richard Hoene
One of the most important lessons in any kind of fishing is the value of eternal hope — and that no matter the conditions, you do not stand a chance of catching a fish unless you have a line in the water.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has some free fishing days coming up, which allows folks to fish anywhere in Maryland without a fishing license on June 5, June 12, and July 4. This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce someone new to the world of fishing.
All areas in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal rivers are now open to striped bass fishing. The minimum size for striped bass is 19 inches with a limit of one fish per day.
Maryland Fishing Report – May 26
Angler Hajime Toya caught this 21.7-inch largemouth bass recently at Pine Lake, Montgomery County.
The Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and families and friends will be celebrating with picnics and family gatherings in the great outdoors. We should all take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the occasion and remember those who sacrificed everything to assure us the freedoms we all enjoy. Many Marylanders and visitors will be enjoying a long weekend traveling to beaches and our state and local parks. Warmer water temperatures will have many species of fish ready and waiting for them.
Please join us May 27 at noon for a Maryland Fishing Roundtable webinar with guest Jacob Shaner of the Maryland Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Response Program. As part of the busy fishing season, anglers and boaters may see marine animals and sea turtles. Join us to learn more about our program and what you should do in the event you find a stranded marine animal in Maryland waters. Details for joining the webinar are on the department’s online calendar.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has some free fishing days on the horizon, which allows folks to fish anywhere in Maryland without a fishing license on June 5, June 12, and July 4. This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce someone new to the world of fishing. Read more…
Beyond the Call: Bhaskaran Subramanian, Chief of the Shoreline Conservation Service
Maryland Department of Natural Resources employees take pride in the work they do—and they are noted for choosing their profession out of a love for protecting, conserving, and restoring our state’s natural treasures for the benefit of fellow Marylanders.
Many DNR staff members go that extra mile to serve the people of Maryland who enjoy the rewards of our work. DNR senior leadership is highlighting staff members who have been recognized by constituents and their coworkers for going “Beyond the Call.” Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – Dec. 2
Chloe Campbell and her dad got to enjoy some fun fishing for yellow perch at Deep Creek Lake recently. Photo by Gary Campbell
With December’s arrival it is getting chillier outside, but there is still plenty of wonderful fishing to be had from offshore of Ocean City to Deep Creek Lake.
Maryland Fishing Report – Nov. 25
Young angler Lucy Perez holds a string of crappie caught in the Susquehanna River. Photo by Nick Perez
From all of us at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, we wish you a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday. Many will take advantage of some time off to go fishing or enjoy other outdoor activities. There are so many fishing options from the mountain streams of western Maryland to the waters off Ocean City.
Maryland Fishing Report – Sept. 9
Bruce Strickland caught this blue catfish in the Chaptico Bay’s Bankhead Cove. It was 26.25 inches long and weighed about 10 pounds. Photo by Bruce Strickland.
With warm and dry summer weather through the Labor Day weekend, some anglers targeted the bay’s summer species such as Spanish mackerel and red drum, while others have gone back to targeting striped bass. All areas of the Chesapeake Bay and tidal rivers have reopened for striped bass fishing until Dec. 10 with a size limit of 19 inches and a daily bag limit of one fish per angler.
Targeting invasive species such as blue catfish and northern snakehead remains popular.
Maryland Fishing Report – Sept. 2
Angler Tim Campbell qualified for the FishMaryland expert angler award when he caught this 24-inch Spanish mackerel, his fifth unique trophy species, in the Chesapeake Bay on Aug. 25. Photo courtesy of Tim Campbell
All areas of the Chesapeake Bay and tidal rivers have reopened for striped bass fishing until Dec. 10 with a size limit of 19 inches and a daily bag limit of one fish per angler.
Many summer species should continue to be available for anglers the next few weeks.
On Sept. 3 at noon the Maryland Department of Natural Resources hosts its final weekly Maryland Fishing Roundtable webinar on summer fishing. Biologist Chuck Stence will speak about his team’s efforts in both hickory and shad restoration. Details for joining the webinar are on the department’s online calendar.
Maryland Fishing Report – August 26
Melissa Schworm is all smiles with this beautiful dolphin caught on an Ocean City party boat. Photo by Monty Hawkins
Fishing opportunities abound in Maryland waters from the far western region to the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you are vacationing at Deep Creek Lake or Ocean City, be sure to make fishing part of your vacation plans — you will not regret it.
On Aug. 27 at noon the Maryland Department of Natural Resources hosts its weekly Maryland Fishing Roundtable webinar on summer fishing. Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission member and recreational angler Eric Packard will discuss his fishing adventures throughout southern Maryland and all points in between. Details for joining the webinar are on the department’s online calendar.
All areas of the Chesapeake Bay and tidal rivers are closed to striped bass fishing from Aug. 16 through Aug. 31. This closure is done to lessen catch-and-release mortality that can be caused by high water temperatures and low oxygen values.
Maryland Fishing Report – August 19
Anyone who has encountered an American eel knows there is hardly anything harder to hold onto. Young Fhinn was fishing with his dad for northern snakeheads when he caught this American eel and he seems to be doing a pretty good job of hanging onto it. Photo by Nathan Zeender
Summer fishing trips with the kids are always filled with fun — one never knows what will occur.
On Aug. 20 at noon the Maryland Department of Natural Resources hosts another Maryland Fishing Roundtable webinar on summer fishing. Biologist Matt Sell will discuss the unique and world-class fishing that can be found from Deep Creek Lake to some of western Maryland ‘s rivers and streams. Details for joining the webinar are on the department’s online calendar.
For anglers who also enjoy catching Maryland’s natural beauty on camera, the Department of Natural Resources 17th Annual Photo Contest is taking entries through Aug. 31. Instructions, rules, and other details are available on the DNR website.
All areas of the Chesapeake Bay and tidal rivers are closed to striped bass fishing from Aug. 16 through Aug. 31. This closure is done to lessen catch-and-release mortality that can be caused by high water temperatures and low oxygen values.
Maryland Fishing Report – August 12
Travis Lewis spent some time fishing in lower Dorchester County and caught this large northern snakehead. Photo courtesy of Travis Lewis.
Fishing opportunities are being found throughout Maryland during these warm days of August. From the smallest freshwater ponds to the Atlantic Ocean, all promise adventure and fun for those who take the time to seek them out.
On Aug. 13 at noon the Maryland Department of Natural Resources hosts another Maryland Fishing Roundtable webinar on summer fishing. This week, DNR biologist Josh Henesy discusses Upper Potomac River fishing opportunities in Maryland. You can join the discussion through a link on the department’s online calendar.
Remember that all areas of the bay and tidal rivers will be closed to striped bass fishing from Aug. 16 through Aug. 31.
Throughout Maryland’s warmest months, the department’s online striped bass fishing advisory forecast provides a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
Maryland Fishing Report – August 5
Mia Spiker traveled to lower Trappe with her family to enjoy some fishing for white perch – and was delighted with the first fish she has ever caught. Photo by Herb Floyd
August seems to have arrived in the blink of an eye, and families are doing their best to fit in some outdoor summer recreation time. Be sure to stay safe and follow the latest COVID-19 guidelines for outdoor recreation.
On Aug. 6 at noon the Maryland Department of Natural Resources hosts another Maryland Fishing Roundtable webinar on summer fishing. This week, DNR biologist Mary Groves discusses blue catfish populations in Maryland, and you can learn how to fish for this invasive species from our recreational fishing experts. You can join the discussion through a link on the department’s online calendar.
Remember that all Maryland areas of the bay and tidal rivers will be closed to striped bass fishing from Aug. 16 through Aug. 31.
Throughout Maryland’s warmest months, the department’s online striped bass fishing advisory forecast provides a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
Maryland Fishing Report – July 29
White perch are a perfect species to target while fishing with your kids. Dylan Tawney caught these two nice white perch while fishing with his family. Photo by Andrew Tawney
Hot and dry weather continues across Maryland. These conditions put heat-related stress on the summer striped bass population, especially in the upper Chesapeake Bay. We ask anglers to focus their fishing on early morning hours, or target other species during the heat wave. Throughout Maryland’s warmest months, the department’s online striped bass fishing advisory forecast provides a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
On July 30 at noon the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is hosting our fourth Maryland Fishing Roundtable webinar on summer fishing. This week, the Maryland Fishing Report team — including Maryland recreational fisheries specialist Erik Zlokovitz, Tom Parham of DNR’s Eyes on the Bay, and biologist Steve Doctor — will give tips on fishing in the Ocean City area. You can join the discussion through a link on the department’s online calendar.
All anglers can feel free to send any pictures of your catches to fishingreports.dnr@maryland.gov for possible inclusion in our fishing report or the daily Angler’s Log.
Maryland Fishing Report – July 22
Fhinn Zeender-Lawrence caught this nice pumpkinseed, along with croaker and catfish this weekend with bloodworms off a dock in Edgewater. Photo by Nathan Zeender
The weather is putting a lot of heat-related stress on both anglers and the summer striped bass population. We ask anglers to focus their fishing on early morning hours, or switch to other species during the heat wave. Throughout Maryland’s warmest months, the department’s online striped bass fishing advisory forecast provides a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
On July 23 at noon the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is hosting a webinar on summer fishing conditions, giving striped bass a break, and targeting alternative and invasive species. The Maryland Fishing Report team — including Maryland recreational fisheries specialist Erik Zlokovitz, Tom Parham of DNR’s Eyes on the Bay, and moderator Eric Wilson of Fishing and Boating Services — will discuss summer fishing opportunities in the Chesapeake Bay. Additionally, Dr. Joe Love will tell you everything you need to know about snakeheads. You can join the discussion through Google meets or by phone at 1-443-671-4706, and use the PIN: 674 636 739. Details are also found on the department’s online calendar.
And don’t forget to take the kids fishing, even if it’s a short trip to a local dock. All anglers can feel free to send any pictures of your catches to fishingreports.dnr@maryland.gov for possible inclusion in our fishing report or the daily Angler’s Log.
Maryland Fishing Report – July 15
Lucy Perez holds up her first northern snakehead and it is a whopper! Photo by Nick Perez
Taking kids fishing during the summer is a rewarding pastime — whether helping them fish for bluegills with a worm and a bobber at a local pond, or as they become more skilled, watching them cast their own lures and land their own fish.
Don’t forget that throughout Maryland’s warmest months, the department’s online striped bass fishing advisory forecast provides a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
Maryland Fishing Report – July 8
Todd Clark went crabbing near Kent Island and is all smiles with this large blue crab. Photo by Rich Watts
This is a marvelous time of year to enjoy Maryland’s outdoors, and recreational crabbing is just one way to get onto the quiet tidal creeks and rivers of the Chesapeake Bay.
Fishing the Chesapeake Bay is a time-honored tradition. While anglers often set their sights on striped bass there are several other species which provide just as much if not more excitement. Join the Maryland Department of Natural Resources July 9 at noon for a virtual discussion on summertime fishing — including alternative fish species, how to plan fishing trips at the most appropriate times, how to properly catch and release, and how to fish with circle hooks.
Our Maryland Fishing Report team – recreational fisheries staff Keith Lockwood and Erik Zlokovitz, with Tidewater Ecosystem Assessment Director Tom Parham — will discuss how to reduce striped bass mortality during the summer.
You can join the discussion through Google meets or by phone at 1-443-671-4706, and use the PIN: 674 636 739.
Don’t forget that throughout Maryland’s warmest months, the department’s online striped bass fishing advisory forecast provides a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund Awards $13.5 Million
Projects Funded Statewide for Improved Boating Access, Navigation, and Safety
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is providing $13.5 million in Waterway Improvement Fund grants in Fiscal Year 2021 to enhance and improve public boating access facilities, water safety, and navigation throughout the state.
This funding will go toward 43 projects in 17 counties, along with grants for statewide projects and emergency needs. Funded projects include renovations to public boating access infrastructure such as boat ramps, piers, pilings, bulkheads; dredging of navigable waterways; icebreaking and emergency water rescue vessels and equipment for emergency and first responders. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – July 1
Elizabeth Lee went crabbing with her parents and is contributing to the crab feast with this catch. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Lee
The Fourth of July holiday weekend means outdoor adventure seekers will be out in droves. Be safe and use common sense — if you’re boating, use a personal flotation device and never boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol. For all anglers, remember also to keep a social distance and avoid crowded areas.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers a final license-free fishing day for 2020 on July 4 — a free option to explore Maryland’s diverse and unique fishing experiences without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or registration.
Biologists have instituted several volunteer angler surveys to help them understand and better manage some of the important fish species to anglers as well as blue crabs and horseshoe crabs.
As we enter Maryland’s warmest months, the department’s online striped bass fishing advisory forecast provides a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
Maryland Fishing Report – June 24
Bryan Brainer spent a fun day with his two young sons fishing for blue catfish in the Chester River. Photo courtesy of Bryan Brainer
Many dads, daughters, sons, and moms spent a special Father’s Day enjoying time together in that special setting that fishing provides.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers a license-free fishing day July 4 — an opportunity to explore Maryland’s diverse and unique fishing experiences without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or registration.
As we enter Maryland’s warmest months, the department’s online striped bass fishing advisory forecast provides a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
Maryland Fishing Report – June 17
Angler Brett Poffenberger took his nephews Eli and Dakota fishing in the upper Potomac and pulled an invasive flathead catfish out of the water. Photo courtesy Brett Poffenberger
A recent trip to the fishing tackle section of a large discount store showed a lot of empty space on the shelves. Everyone is excited about getting out and enjoying the outdoors safely and fishing seems to be at the top of the list. Children are perhaps the most anxious to get outside, and taking them fishing is a wonderful thing to share together.
Check the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website for the latest updates on expanded opportunities for outdoor exercise and recreation in Maryland.
DNR is now offering appointments at most licensing and registration centers. Appointments can be scheduled online.
Also, our striped bass fishing advisory forecast begins this week, providing a seven-day outlook to help anglers reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season.
Maryland Fishing Report – June 10
Young Ian Brainer admires his mom Sarah’s catch, and we’re sure it will not be long before he has a fishing rod of his own in his hands. Photo courtesy of Sarah Jane Brainer
The summer-like weather is bringing families out to enjoy the outdoors. What could be better than being out on a fishing adventure with mom, especially if you catch a strange-looking fish like a northern snakehead!
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers two more license-free fishing days on June 13 and July 4 — a free option to explore Maryland’s diverse and unique fishing experiences without needing a fishing license, trout stamp, or registration.
As we all start spending more time on the water, a reminder that our biologists have instituted several volunteer angler surveys to help them understand and better manage some of the important fish species to anglers as well as blue crabs and horseshoe crabs.
Maryland Fishing Report – Nov. 13
This fine looking crappie is held up by a proud Henry Gessford who was fishing in a lower Dorchester County river recently. Photo by Jody Gessford
The colder weather has descended upon the Maryland landscape and few know it better than our furry, finned, and feathered friends who call the outdoors their home. All are on a bit of a feeding binge to prepare for the cold winter months ahead.
Maryland Fishing Report – Nov. 6
Photo courtesy of Mike Glyphis
November has started off with lots of exciting fishing opportunities. Maryland Department of Natural Resources crews have stocked generous amounts of trout in waters throughout the state, as our fall stocking program comes to an end. Chesapeake anglers are enjoying fishing for striped bass and coastal anglers are experiencing excellent fishing for sea bass. Mike Glyphis was fishing 16 miles off Ocean City when he hooked up with a 5.6-pound gray triggerfish, which is now recognized as a new state record inching out the previous record of 5.2 pounds set in 2014.
Maryland Fishing Report – Oct. 30
Herb Floyd takes one last look at this Choptank River striped bass being carefully released to fight another day. Photo by Herb Floyd
As October comes to a close, Maryland anglers will find there are plenty of treats and no tricks awaiting them. The fall stocking program has released a very generous amount of trout across Maryland; Chesapeake Bay anglers are enjoying some of the season’s finest light-tackle action; and sea bass fishing off Ocean City has been excellent.
Maryland Fishing Report – Oct. 9
Sarah Chlebnikow is all smiles after catching her first northern snakehead. Photo by Barry Browning
Pleasant daytime temperatures make ideal conditions for taking our younger fishermen out for some family fun close to home. Community ponds usually offer plenty of freshwater species such as bluegill sunfish. The fall trout stocking program is underway and community ponds are one of the many places fish will be stocked near your home. Northern snakeheads offer some exciting fishing this time of the year as they have moved out into more open waters, and a simple bobber with a minnow offer plenty of fishing fun for our younger anglers.
Maryland Fishing Report – Oct. 2
The catch-and release fishery for red drum is particularly exciting as evidenced by that big smile on Tim Campbell’s face before he slips this beautiful fish back into the Bay. Photo courtesy of Tim Campbell
As we transition to October, summer-type weather has continued to hold on and everyone would agree we could use some rain. Fishing conditions are very good in most areas and the Chesapeake Bay could hardly be better with an abundance of Spanish mackerel, and red drum to please any angler.
Maryland Fishing Report – July 3
This confident angler among the larger boats reminded fishing report author Keith Lockwood of an old verse. Photo by Keith Lockwood
Anyone who has ventured to the Bay Bridge in the past few weeks knows you will see all kinds of boats fishing the bridge piers. Some remind one of the opening verse of the Fisherman’s Prayer, which President John F. Kennedy kept inscribed on a block of wood on his desk in the Oval Office, and Admiral Rickover was rumored to present it to every new submarine captain: “Oh Lord thy sea is so great and my boat is so small.” Whatever means you have, it’s a great time to get out fishing.
July 4 is the last free fishing day of the 2019 season. This is a great opportunity to take someone who has shown some interest in fishing but has been hesitant to give it a try. It’s a golden opportunity to take someone fishing without them worrying about buying a fishing license.
Maryland Fishing Report – June 26
Bob Bruns was fishing at the Bay Bridge recently and found this beautiful striped bass at the end of a rainbow. Photo by Travis Long
We’ve all heard the saying about finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. In the past couple weeks, fishermen on the bay and freshwater areas have been dodging passing rain clouds, but were blessed with the sight of a pretty rainbow.
A serious problem that pains any fisherman to see is dead striped bass floating in the bay, and the scene becomes more common as air and bay water temperatures rise. This time of the year some of these fish are dying not so much from hook injury, but the stress of being brought to the boat. Studies have shown that decreasing the time one takes to bring a fish to the boat can improve fish survival. Use heavy tackle, flattening the barbs on your jigs or lures to quicken your release, and also release the fish without removing it from the water.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is launching a new awareness campaign to reduce striped bass mortality during the summer fishing season. A color-coded recommendation system will advise of fishing conditions, allowing anglers to plan their striped bass fishing trips up to seven days in advance.
Maryland Fishing Report – June 19
Five year old Vinny Spilker caught this white perch while visiting his uncle recently. Photo by Herb Floyd
When introducing young children to fishing, it’s important they see action to keep their attention. Go after species such as bluegills and white perch, which are always ready to step up to the plate.
One more license-free fishing day is scheduled this year on July 4. It’s a perfect opportunity to get someone started on their own fishing adventures!
Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund Awards $13.5 Million
Projects Funded Statewide for Better Boating Access, Navigation, and Safety
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is providing $13.5 million in Waterway Improvement Fund grants in Fiscal Year 2020 to enhance and improve public boating access, facilities, and navigation throughout the state.
This funding will go toward 58 projects in 16 counties, including grants for statewide projects and emergency needs such as ice-breaking. Projects include new public boating access, amenities, and facilities; dredging of navigable waterways; emergency vessels and equipment for local first responders; and other important infrastructure and initiatives.
“Maryland is committed to expanding boating opportunities so that our citizens and visitors can appreciate all that our waterways have to offer,” Maryland Secretary of Natural Resources Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio said. “These grants will enhance safety, improve access, and maximize enjoyment for all boaters.” Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report – June 5
Photo of boy with several trout he caught
There is a special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren, and some children are lucky enough to have a grandpa or grandma to take them fishing. Lothar Weber recently took his 5 year old grandson Dexter trout fishing near Little Falls. Grandpa brought his fly fishing outfit, Dexter dug up his mom’s garden to collect some worms for bait. The results of their trout fishing trip together was described as: Dexter 5, trout and Grandpa 0.
Two more license-free fishing days are scheduled this year on June 8 and July 4. These are perfect opportunities to get someone started on their own fishing adventures!
Maryland Fishing Report – April 17
Matt Beam holds up a striped bass caught this past weekend during the catch-and-release season. Photo by Travis Long
Saturday, April 20, marks the much-anticipated opening day of the 2019 trophy striped bass season. Captains and crews have been working overtime getting their boats ready for this weekend, from the largest charter boats to private boats parked on trailers in driveways. Good luck to all but be patient — many post-spawn striped bass are still making the journey downriver from their spawning sites.
2018 Photo Contest: Winners
Grand prize winner; by Kevin Moore
Please enjoy the top picks from our annual contest! This year we received over 4,300 photos from 819 participants. Read more…
Maryland Fishing Report: Nov. 14
Young Isaac looks like he was having a great time catching catfish recently. Photo by Eric Packard
As cold weather prevails, water temperatures are dropping, which is limiting some fishing opportunities but is expanding others. Many of our resident fisheries are in transition — striped bass fishing is still good but slowing down, white perch are active but now are schooled up in deeper water. Trout fishing is very good as is fishing for walleye, yellow perch, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and chain pickerel. At the coastal areas, summer species are being replaced by cold water fish such as sea bass and tautog.
An often overlooked species is our catfish in Maryland, and cooler water temperatures tend to kick their feeding activity into high gear. We have two native species of catfish in Maryland, the white and the bullhead. Introduced catfish species are the channel, flathead and blue catfish.
Whether you choose to eat them or just catch them, they can provide some exciting and fun fishing from docks and piers, a favorite shoreline or a small boat. They can be caught by watching a baited line while relaxing along a sunny shore and they provide plenty of enjoyment for our younger anglers. If a good tussle and plenty of fishing action that is easy to arrange sounds good to you, give it a try.
Maryland Fishing Report: September 5
Photo by Meredith Bradshaw
Labor Day weekend is a fleeting memory now and although we are under an intense heat wave cooler weather is anticipated as we move through September.
There is still plenty daylight at the end of the day to spend some time in the outdoors with family and friends.
Children love adventure and when Vincent Casagrande of Frederick went crabbing for the first time with his grandfather in the South River, it was a time he’ll never forget. They managed to catch a bushel using collapsible crab traps. Vincent even got to drive the boat under grandad’s supervision.
You can read their story and others in the Angler’s Log.
Maryland Fishing Report: August 29
Photo by Eduardo Marte
Labor Day weekend approaches and many of us are wondering, “How did we get here so soon?”
The kids will be going back to school and we will slowly start to see cooler temperatures in September. If you’re trying to fit in some family fishing time, remember who your audience is – kids just want to have fun. They will enjoy the action fishing for bluegill sunfish in a local pond or for white perch in a nearby tidal river. Leave your own fishing rod at home and give them your full attention, and just enjoy the smiles.
Maryland Fishing Report: August 15
Travis Long was enjoying catch-and-release fishing for large red drum in the Chesapeake Bay recently and holds up a prize caught while jigging, before slipping this big girl back into the bay waters. Photo courtesy of Travis Long
One of the fun and exciting things about fishing is you just never know what surprises await when you cast your fishing line into the water. Some have been surprised with a record-breaking catch, a novelty catch or just a fun encounter with a fish to help round out a peaceful day. Enjoying the outdoors tends to be that way; you never can be sure what is around the next bend in a trail, or what a day out on the water has in store for you.
Maryland Fishing Report: August 1
Photo by Kevin McMenamin
Recent heavy rains caused a lot of changes to our Chesapeake Bay waters. Large volumes of water coming down from Pennsylvania necessitated the opening of more than 20 gates at Conowingo Dam, causing high water levels in the lower Susquehanna River and floating debris entering the bay.
Boating will be difficult in the upper and middle bay, and water contact should be kept to a minimum. Boaters should report any navigation hazards to the Maryland Natural Resources Police at 410-260-8888, or the U.S. Coast Guard at 410-576-2693.
One positive side effect of the water release is that the striped bass in the upper bay got a break with cooler temperatures and mixing of oxygenated water.
Maryland Fishing Report: July 25
Jane Millman made time to go fishing with friends off Ocean City and holds up a beautiful blueline tilefish she caught. Photo by Kevin Thomas
We all face daily challenges that tug at how we spend the dear time that is given to us. All anglers and outdoor enthusiasts know how hard it is to follow their favorite pursuits.
Summer is fleeting, make time.
Maryland Fishing Report: July 4
Ryan Bishop is all smiles as he holds a big jimmy destined for some crab picking. Photo by Sherry Bishop
The Fourth of July is upon us, and although it falls on a Wednesday — missing that three-day weekend luster – it’s still a little extra time off to enjoy family and friends. Here in Maryland a lot of activities will focus on a nearby body of water, from Deep Creek Lake to the Atlantic Ocean and everywhere in between.
For those living near the bay or coastal waters, the Fourth of July often means crabs and sweet corn. Judging by early observations of recreational crabbers, there were a lot of crab feasts promised, and hopefully the gatherers will be able to deliver.
Recreational crabbing continues to slowly gain momentum as more crabs enter the legal fishery after shedding – and most likely last week’s full moon was a big shed.
Those crabbing in less than 12 feet of water tend to be catching the most crabs in the lower and middle bay. Razor clams tend to top the list as the best bait.
Maryland Fishing Report: June 13
Photo by David Jackson
Many of us who have spent a lifetime fishing remember the first fish we ever caught. For some, that memory might include a tough and pugnacious little rascal called the bluegill sunfish. It has a habit of attacking most any bait with total abandon and have the fighting strength of a bull – making it a perfect target for our youngest fishermen. A simple bobber-and-worm rig cast into a local pond is just the right recipe for impatient youth.
Maryland state fish hatcheries do a little genetic engineering to create a hybrid bluegill by crossing it with a green sunfish, sort of the Jack Russel terrier of the sunfish world –making an even feistier adversary for the bobber-and-worm crowd. Our department has a program that stocks these hybrid bluegill sunfish in ponds for youth fishing events.
If you want to enjoy a fun day with young aspiring anglers, check out our fishing rodeo schedule.
Maryland Fishing Report: May 30
Photo by Letha Grimes
Memorial Day weekend is now behind us – an important pause to remember and reflect on those who gave their lives for the freedoms and rights that we all enjoy. It also means the “summer” season has begun.
The fishing rodeo season is in full swing. For those not initiated, these are free youth fishing events held around the state by civic organizations and partners for the enjoyment of children and families. The sites are usually well stocked with fish and it is great fun with a little bit of a competitive edge tossed in for the kids, with prizes and trophies.
Gather up your kids – or perhaps a group of neighborhood kids – and head out to one of these fun events near you.
Weekly Fishing Report: April 25
Gregory Martin was fishing the area where Nanticoke River striped bass exit into the bay and caught this beautiful 51-inch, 48-pound striped bass. Photo by Brad Martin
Patience is supposed to be the hallmark of an angler, but many had theirs strained this past opening weekend for trophy striped bass season. Most understand it has been a chilly spring, and low water temperatures have delayed striped bass spawning in the tidal rivers.
In the past couple of days we have seen water temperatures finally reach acceptable temperatures for the fish. There was a big spawn on the Choptank River, and the Nanticoke, Patuxent and Potomac rivers should be on the same general schedule.
The striped bass that have spawned in the past few days will make their way down the tidal rivers and should hit bay areas in a few days. There is warmer weather predicted so there will be more spawning action – meaning the 2018 trophy striped bass season should kick into gear this weekend and for the next couple of weeks. Good luck out there and remember fishing is supposed to be fun.
Weekly Fishing Report: December 6
This 51-inch fish was caught in Eastern Bay while trolling a spoon, and was quickly released. Photo courtesy of Bradley Smith
The striped bass fishing community always anticipates the possible appearance of large fall migrant striped bass in our portion of the Chesapeake Bay.
The fall migration was late this year, but the first confirmed report came in over the weekend — so there is hope for anglers wishing to catch a trophy-sized striped bass before our season closes on Dec. 20.
Weekly Fishing Report: November 8
The fall colors are in full swing throughout much of Maryland this week, offering some added delight to fishing experiences; the leaves won’t last much longer so don’t miss out.
Meanwhile, many of the best fishing opportunities are occurring this month, as fish feel the need to feed and prepare for the winter.
Weekly Fishing Report: November 1
Photo by Travis Long
The fall months offer some exciting fishing opportunities for anglers across Maryland, from the trout management waters of Garrett County to the shores of Ocean City.
Daylight is getting sparser and this weekend the clocks fall back an hour, making it a little harder to get some fishing time after work and school. We’re all looking to stretch out fishing time as much as we can, always thinking: “Just one more cast.”
Weekly Fishing Report: August 9
Both lower and high tier views of the Bay Bridge at sunset. Photo by State of Maryland
As I was coming across the Bay Bridge yesterday evening, I could not help but marvel at the schools of juvenile menhaden plying along the calm surface of the bay and drifting along in the currents on both sides of the bay. The bay is truly a bountiful basin of life and on this evening there did not seem to be any hungry striped bass or bluefish nearby. All was calm on the Chesapeake this evening, at least at this area.
Weekly Fishing Report: July 26
Anglers Daniel Irons (L) and Jonathan Irons (R); Photo by Mike Irons
As most of us know it was pretty darned hot last week and those hot temperatures are driving up water temperatures and having a profound effect on fish and fishing. Unfortunately those hot temperatures can also result in violent storm activity when a cool front comes through as it did Sunday. I happened to be able to witness the tornado devastation on Kent Island Monday morning and my heart goes out to those affected. I also noticed large patches of discolored water from runoff which does not help the fishing situation in the bay. This runoff may also impact your favorite impoundment, stream or river. Sound advice is to keep close watch on summer storm activity out on the water and wear those lifejackets, they don’t do any good stashed in a boat locker.
Weekly Fishing Report: July 19
Our friends at Eyes On The Bay have always had valuable information about bay conditions that help fishermen, ranging from information on water quality to satellite imagery. They now have added a wonderful new site called Click Before You Cast which uses a simple to follow, step-by-step process to help anglers identify the best places to fish based on the water quality and habitat preferences of the fish they are trying to catch. Read more…
Weekly Fishing Report: June 21
Matt and Morgan Jenkins got to go out fishing with their dad Sunday; I’m sure there will be many more to come that they will remember this day and the fish their dad, Greg, caught.
As we all know Sunday was Father’s Day, and sons and daughters made every effort to be with dad and to share in some time together. Dads usually get to pick what they wish to do on Father’s Day, and when they team up with their sons and daughters it is a heartwarming sight to see. Read more…
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