Despite the summer heat, fishing opportunities remain strong across Maryland — just make sure your fishing license is current before heading out.
Under updated regulations, the Chesapeake Bay recreational striped bass season remains open through July 31, then closes for the entire month of August before reopening on September 1. During the remaining open season, anglers are urged to monitor forecast conditions and exercise caution when targeting striped bass, as high water temperatures and reduced oxygen levels put stress on the fish.
The daily limit for striped bass is one fish per person, measuring at least 19 inches but no more than 24 inches. Once that limit is reached, anglers should stop targeting striped bass altogether to reduce the number of catch-and-release encounters. Any striped bass that does not meet the size requirement should be released directly back into the water without being lifted out. Safe catch-and-release guidance is available through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.
This time of year is also a great opportunity to pursue other species. Blue catfish are plentiful in nearly every tidal river, and the Chesapeake Channa — also known as the northern snakehead — is particularly active in warm water conditions. Angler Rodney Hamm landed an impressive 32.5-inch Chesapeake Channa in the Sassafras River back in June.
Regional fishing reports covering the Chesapeake Bay, freshwater areas, and the Atlantic and coastal bays are expected to be published later this month.
Forecast Summary: July 15 – July 21
Water temperatures along the main Bay surface and at river mouths have climbed into the low 80s and are expected to keep rising throughout the week. Smaller rivers and streams are also hovering around the low 80s. As water temperatures increase, oxygen levels near the bottom are dropping.
Most Bay bottom waters currently have adequate oxygen, with notable exceptions. Low oxygen conditions are present in the Potomac River from near Indian Head to the Wicomico River, in the Bay from the Sassafras River south to the Bay Bridge area, and along the lower western shore from the Severn River down to Chesapeake Beach. These warm, oxygen-depleted zones are reducing the amount of suitable habitat available for striped bass.
River and stream flows across most of Maryland are expected to run below average, while water clarity in Bay and river areas should be near normal. Tidal currents will be stronger than average through Sunday, a result of the new moon on July 14.
Anglers looking to pinpoint the best fishing spots should focus on underwater points, hard bottom areas, drop-offs, and concentrations of baitfish. For the most current and detailed conditions in specific Bay areas, the Eyes on the Bay
