Fishing enthusiasts looking to combine competition with conservation will find plenty of opportunities in Maryland’s 2026 tournament lineup focused on invasive species removal. These events offer participants the chance to win cash prizes while helping protect the Chesapeake Bay’s native wildlife.
Here are the scheduled Maryland competitions targeting blue catfish and other non-native species:
Mid-Shore Fishing Club Invasive Species Tournament – Ongoing until December 1
The Mid-Shore Fishing Club of Maryland hosts this competition where participants pursue blue catfish and snakeheads (Chesapeake Channa) within Eastern Shore waters. Winners receive payouts for catching the most fish and the biggest specimens. All tournament entries must be kept rather than released to earn rewards.
Environmental Justice Journalism Initiative Reel Rewards Program – April 25 through July 18
This Baltimore nonprofit returns for its third year, paying anglers up to $30 per fish for harvesting Chesapeake channa, blue catfish, and flathead catfish from Baltimore Harbor waters extending to the former Key Bridge location. The program supports invasive species removal while providing researchers with specimens to study environmental impacts. Participants can find drop-off sites listed on the organization’s website.
Reel Invasion Fishing Derby: Anacostia River – June 7
Maryland DNR partners with the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment for this no-cost community event and competition designed to teach proper invasive species harvesting techniques. The derby addresses the serious ecological damage these fish inflict on regional waterways. Activities include expert fish cleaning demonstrations, beginner fishing instruction, and prize distributions.
Eric Altemus Memorial Catfish Tournament – June 13
This charitable competition at Safe Harbor Bohemia Vista in Chesapeake City combines family entertainment with fundraising for local causes while distributing cash awards to winners.
Snakes on the Dundee V – June 13
Entering its fifth season, this Northern Snakehead-focused tournament and educational event welcomes fishing enthusiasts at all skill levels to Dundee Creek Marina within Gunpowder Falls State Park. Maryland DNR and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service sponsor this free competition featuring bowfishing demonstrations, fish preparation tutorials, door prizes, and activities for families.
Nanticoke River Invasive Fishing Derby – Summer date pending
Salisbury University Assistant Professor Noah Bressman organizes this research-focused competition for the fifth straight year at Cherry Beach Park in Sharptown. The event awards over $2,000 in prizes while collecting blue catfish and Chesapeake Channa specimens for laboratory analysis of ecosystem impacts. Post-weigh-in activities include an awards ceremony and complimentary catfish cookout featuring participants’ catches.
Madness on the Marshyhope – Summer date pending
Coastal Conservation Association Maryland returns to Federalsburg Marina Park for this tournament’s fourth edition. Past events have drawn more than 50 competitors who landed nearly 200 catfish weighing over 400 pounds combined. The day concludes with awards followed by a fish fry showcasing the blue catfish’s culinary appeal. Youth participants receive complimentary fishing gear and bait, though all ages may compete.
Chester River Catfish Tournament – August 29
The Maryland Wildlife & Heritage Association presents this annual Chester River competition promoting invasive species removal while generating funds for state conservation efforts. Thousands of dollars in prize money awaits those landing the heaviest blue, flathead, and channel catfish. Last year’s event included over 60 junior participants.
Fish For A Cure – November 7
This dual-purpose tournament and fundraiser supports local cancer care initiatives through a Chesapeake Bay competition followed by an Annapolis Shore Party celebration. The event includes a dedicated invasive species division.
Understanding Blue Catfish
These apex predators feed on native species including blue crabs, white perch, and menhaden, disrupting the natural food chain.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges fishing enthusiasts to support Chesapeake Bay ecosystem recovery by actively catching and removing blue catfish from state waters.
Regulations impose no size restrictions, bag limits, or seasonal closures for blue catfish harvesting. These fish can reach enormous proportions – Maryland’s 82-pound record specimen has remained unmatched since 2012.
