Maryland · Fishing regulations

Fishing regulations in Maryland.

Maryland is the Chesapeake Bay state — striped bass is the cultural fish — but inland tailwaters at Gunpowder and the North Branch Potomac add genuine trout opportunity.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources — Fishing and Boating Services · License: Anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid fishing license to fish in Maryland. Resident and non-resident licenses are sold online through the MD DNR and at most sporting goods retailers. Annual, multi-day, and lifetime licenses are typically available. Senior, military, and youth discounts apply in most cases. Trout stamp required to harvest trout. Maryland uses a single Tidal license for Chesapeake Bay species and a separate Non-Tidal license for inland fresh water. License costs and exact age thresholds change — verify with the MD DNR before purchase.

Freshwater

Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, and panfish across the Potomac and inland reservoirs and creeks. Trout fisheries on the Gunpowder, Patapsco, and Beaver Run. Snakehead has become a target species after invasive establishment.

Rivers

The Gunpowder Falls below Prettyboy Reservoir is a wild brown trout tailwater. The North Branch Potomac is a high-elevation tailwater trout fishery. Smallmouth on the Potomac main stem and Susquehanna. Trout streams in the Catoctin Mountains.

Saltwater

Striped bass (rockfish), bluefish, summer flounder, weakfish, and white perch in the Chesapeake. Atlantic coast for tuna, mahi-mahi, billfish, and inshore black sea bass and tautog. Striped bass regulations in Chesapeake are managed in coordination with Atlantic States.

Special

Tidal vs Non-Tidal license distinction is unique to Maryland. Striped bass regulations in Chesapeake have changed substantially with recent stock concerns. Snakehead fishing has no closed season and unlimited harvest is encouraged.

Popular species

Striped bass (rockfish) · Largemouth bass · Smallmouth bass · Brown trout · Bluefish · Snakehead

State agency

Maryland Department of Natural Resources — Fishing and Boating Services

Agency site →

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