Maryland Fishing Season and Limits for 2025–2026 by Month – Species, Licenses & Hotspots
There’s something magical about Maryland waters—whether you’re casting into the shimmering Chesapeake Bay at sunrise or wading through a mountain stream in the western highlands. As someone who’s spent countless mornings untangling lines and swapping fish stories with fellow anglers, I can tell you that Maryland offers some of the most diverse angling opportunities on the East Coast.
For 2025–2026, Maryland continues to provide exceptional year-round opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts. From trophy-sized striped bass (our beloved rockfish!) to feisty trout in cold mountain streams, the Old Line State really does have it all. Whether you’re a resident who knows every secret honey hole or a visitor planning your first Chesapeake Bay charter, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about catch dates, creel limits, licensing, and the absolute best spots to wet a line.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources manages these fisheries with conservation in mind, which means some regulations have changed for 2025—especially concerning striped bass protection during spawning season. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of opportunities to catch your limit while helping maintain healthy fish populations for generations to come.
📅 Quick Reference Table by Month
Here’s your at-a-glance guide to what’s biting throughout the year:
| Species | Season/Peak Months | Daily Bag Limit | Size Restrictions | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🐟 Striped Bass (Rockfish) | Year-round (closures Apr 1-May 15, Jul 16-31) | 1 fish | Bay: 19-24″, Ocean: 28-31″ | No targeting during closures |
| 🎣 Largemouth/Smallmouth Bass | Year-round (peak Apr-May, Sep-Nov) | 5 combined | 12″ minimum (varies by water) | Catch & release encouraged in summer |
| 🐠 Trout (Rainbow, Brown, Golden) | Mar 22-Dec 31 (stocked waters) | 5 daily/10 possession | No minimum | Brook trout: catch & release only |
| 🦞 Blue Crab | Apr 1-Dec 15 | 1 bushel/person or 2 bushels/vessel | 5″ (5.25″ after Jul 15) | Recreational only |
| 🐟 Tautog | Jan 1-May 15, Jul 1-Dec 31 | Jan-May: 4 fish, Jul-Oct: 2 fish, Nov-Dec: 4 fish | 16″ minimum | Popular spring/fall |
| 🎣 Crappie (Black & White) | Year-round | 15 daily/30 possession | No minimum | Excellent spring spawn fishing |
| 🐠 Channel Catfish | Year-round | 5 daily/10 possession | No minimum | Night fishing productive |
| 🦈 Flounder (Summer) | May 15-Sep 30 | 4 fish | 16″ minimum | Back bays excellent |
| 🐟 Black Sea Bass | May 15-Sep 30, Oct 10-Dec 31 | 15 fish | 13″ minimum | Offshore reefs/wrecks |
| 🎣 Yellow Perch | Year-round (peak Mar-Apr) | 10 daily/20 possession | 9″ minimum (some waters) | Spring spawning runs |
Note: Regulations subject to change. Always check the Maryland DNR regulations before heading out.
🐟 Popular Sport Fish
Striped Bass (Rockfish) – Maryland’s Crown Jewel
Let me tell you, catching your first keeper striper in the Chesapeake never gets old. These silvery fighters are Maryland’s state fish for good reason. For 2025, the regulations remain focused on conservation with critical no-targeting closures from April 1-May 15 and July 16-31 to protect spawning fish.
Season Dates & Limits:
- Chesapeake Bay & Tributaries: Open year-round except closure periods
- Size Slot: 19-24 inches
- Daily Limit: 1 fish per angler
- Atlantic Ocean: 28-31 inches, 1 fish daily
Prime hotspots include the Susquehanna Flats in spring, mid-Bay channels in summer, and the Bay Bridge area year-round. Live eels and soft plastics are my go-to baits, especially around structure.
Largemouth & Smallmouth Bass
Bass fishing in Maryland hits differently depending on the season. Spring and fall are absolutely prime times when these aggressive feeders are most active. I’ve pulled some lunkers from Liberty Reservoir during the pre-spawn period that still make my hands shake thinking about it!
Season Dates & Limits:
- Open: Year-round
- Daily Limit: 5 bass combined (largemouth and smallmouth)
- Size Minimum: 12 inches (some waters have special regulations)
Top Waters:
- Liberty Reservoir (western Baltimore County) – trophy smallmouth
- Deep Creek Lake (Garrett County) – both species thrive here
- Potomac River – excellent river smallmouth fishing
- Loch Raven Reservoir – great shore access (reopens March 15)
Pro tip: During hot summer months, practice catch-and-release to help maintain healthy populations.
Trout – Cold-Water Gems
Maryland’s trout program is one of the best-kept secrets on the East Coast. The DNR stocks over 350,000 trout annually across 100+ waterways, creating fantastic opportunities for both beginners and seasoned fly anglers.
Season Dates & Limits:
- Opening Day: March 22, 2025 at 6:30 AM (Closure 1 areas)
- Season: Through December 31
- Daily Limit: 5 trout/10 possession (all species combined except brook)
- Brook Trout: Catch and release ONLY in all waters
- Size: No minimum
Trout Fishing Areas:
- Put-and-Take Waters: Regularly stocked, great for families
- Catch & Release Only: Big Hunting Creek, Savage River – fly fishing paradise
- Delayed Harvest: Extended stocking, quality fish
Don’t forget your $5 trout stamp if you’re 16 or older! Check the DNR trout stocking schedule to time your trips perfectly.
Walleye – The Elusive Predator
While not as common as in states farther north (like Pennsylvania or New York), Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake and Upper Potomac offer decent walleye opportunities, especially during spring spawning runs.
🦞 Specialty Species
Blue Crabs – A Maryland Tradition
You can’t talk about Maryland without mentioning blue crabs! These feisty crustaceans are synonymous with summer cookouts and Old Bay seasoning.
Season: April 1 – December 15, 2025
Daily Limit: 1 bushel per person OR 2 bushels per boat
Size: 5 inches point-to-point (increases to 5.25″ after July 15)
Best Crabbing Spots:
- Tidal tributaries of the Chesapeake
- Docks and piers throughout the Bay
- Crisfield and Smith Island areas
Chicken necks on a string still work, but crab pots are more efficient. Just remember—no sponge crabs (egg-bearing females) allowed!
Tautog (Blackfish) – The Winter Warrior
These hard-fighting bottom dwellers are a favorite for cold-weather anglers. With their tough mouths and stubborn nature, landing a big tog is a real accomplishment.
Season Dates:
- January 1 – May 15: 4 fish daily
- July 1 – October 31: 2 fish daily
- November 1 – December 31: 4 fish daily
Size: 16″ minimum
Fish rocky structures, jetties, and bridge pilings with green crabs or Asian shore crabs for best results.
Summer Flounder – The Flatfish King
These delicious bottom dwellers provide excellent table fare and exciting action in the back bays and coastal waters.
Season: May 15 – September 30
Daily Limit: 4 fish
Size: 16″ minimum
Ocean City’s back bays and the Route 50 bridge area are consistently productive spots.
🐠 Panfish & Everyday Catches
Don’t overlook these species—they’re perfect for introducing kids to angling and provide non-stop action when you need a break from chasing trophy fish.
| Species | Season | Daily Limit | Possession Limit | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🐟 Crappie (Black & White) | Year-round | 15 | 30 | None |
| 🎣 Bluegill & Sunfish | Year-round | 20 (aggregate) | 40 | None |
| 🐠 Yellow Perch | Year-round | 10 | 20 | 9″ (some waters) |
| 🎣 White Perch | Year-round | 25 | 50 | None |
| 🐟 Chain Pickerel | Year-round | 5 | 10 | None |
Pro Tips for Panfish:
- Early morning and late evening are prime times
- Crappie stack up around underwater structure in spring
- Live minnows and small jigs are dynamite for crappie
- Bluegill can’t resist worms and crickets under bobbers
🦆 Stocked & Managed Waters
Maryland’s trout stocking program is truly impressive. The Freshwater Fisheries Division releases fish in spring and fall, with special youth-only events at select locations.
Spring Stocking: Begins in January (weather permitting) through May
Fall Stocking: September through November
Popular Stocked Waters:
- Cunningham Falls Lake (Frederick County)
- Big Elk Creek (Cecil County)
- Piney Run Park (Carroll County)
- Various put-and-take areas statewide
Find Stocking Dates: Visit the official Maryland DNR trout stocking website for weekly updates and an interactive map showing exactly when and where trucks will be releasing fish.
🌍 Public vs Private Waters
Understanding access rights is crucial for Maryland anglers:
Public Waters:
- All tidal waters of the Chesapeake Bay and tributaries
- Designated public fishing areas and state-managed reservoirs
- Most trout stocking occurs in publicly accessible streams
- State parks and wildlife management areas
Special Rules for Some Reservoirs:
- Liberty, Loch Raven, and Prettyboy Reservoirs are closed to all fishing from December 1 – March 14 annually
- Shore fishing only (no boats) at some Baltimore County reservoirs
- Check local regulations before fishing any reservoir
Private Waters:
- Permission required from landowners
- Some private ponds open through pay-to-fish arrangements
- Respect posted signs and property boundaries
Helpful Resource: The Maryland DNR hotspot pages provide detailed information about public access, parking, and amenities.
🎟️ Fishing License Guide
Nobody wants to get slapped with a fine when they’re just trying to enjoy a peaceful day on the water. Here’s what you need to know about Maryland fishing licenses for 2025:
License-Free Fishing Days 2025:
- June 7, 2025
- June 14, 2025
- July 4, 2025
On these days, anyone can fish without a license, but all other regulations apply!
Freshwater (Non-Tidal) Licenses:
Resident:
- Annual: $26.00
- 7-Day: $7.50
- 3-Day: Not available for residents
Non-Resident:
- Annual: $55.00 (or reciprocal rate if higher)
- 7-Day: $20.50
- 3-Day: Variable based on reciprocity
Chesapeake Bay & Coastal (Tidal) Licenses:
Resident:
- Annual: $15.00
- 7-Day: $7.50
Non-Resident:
- Annual: $22.50
- 7-Day: $15.00
Consolidated Licenses (Fresh & Tidal Combined):
Resident Consolidated: $32.00 annually
Non-Resident Consolidated: $76.00 annually
Special Permits & Stamps:
- Trout Stamp: $5.00 (required for anyone 16+ fishing for trout)
- Youth Angler (under 16): FREE! No license required
- Senior License (65+): $10.00 (resident consolidated)
- Lifetime Licenses: Various options available
How to Purchase:
- Online: Maryland Outdoors COMPASS portal (easiest option!)
- Phone: Through authorized vendors
- In-Person: Sporting goods stores, bait shops, some Walmart locations
Military & Veteran Licenses:
Active duty military stationed in Maryland and disabled veterans may qualify for reduced rates or free licenses. Check the DNR website for current programs.
Important Note: If you fish both freshwater and tidal waters (which you probably will!), the consolidated license is your best value and saves you the hassle of carrying multiple licenses.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do kids need a fishing license in Maryland?
A: Nope! Anyone under 16 can fish without a license in Maryland. However, all size and creel limits still apply to young anglers. It’s a great way to get the next generation hooked on fishing without extra cost!
Q: Can I use live bait for striped bass?
A: Yes, but there are restrictions. When targeting striped bass, you cannot use more than 2 hooks or 2 baited rigs. Also, live eels as bait have specific restrictions in certain areas. Always check the specific regulations for your fishing location.
Q: Is night fishing allowed in Maryland?
A: Absolutely! Night fishing is permitted in most Maryland waters. In fact, some of the best catfishing and striped bass action happens after dark. Put-and-take trout areas have specific hours (6:30 AM – 10:00 PM during stocking season), but most other waters are open 24/7.
Q: What waters are catch-and-release only?
A: Several premier trout streams are designated catch-and-release, including Big Hunting Creek (Frederick County) and sections of the Savage River. Additionally, ALL brook trout must be immediately released statewide—no exceptions! Check the DNR regulations for complete listings of catch-and-release waters.
Q: How do I report a trophy fish or state record?
A: Contact the Maryland DNR Fisheries Service to report potential record catches. They’ll guide you through the verification process, which typically requires witness statements, photos, and sometimes certified scale weights. Many tackle shops also participate in citation programs for trophy catches!
Q: Is bowfishing legal in Maryland?
A: Yes, but it’s limited to certain species. You can bowfish for common carp and snakeheads in non-tidal waters. In tidal waters, additional species may be targeted. A regular fishing license covers bowfishing, but always verify current regulations.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally catch a protected species?
A: Handle the fish carefully with wet hands, remove the hook gently (or cut the line if deeply hooked), and release it immediately. For species like sturgeon or certain rare fish, minimize time out of water. Report endangered species sightings to DNR.
🗺️ Map & Must-Visit Hotspots
Maryland’s geographic diversity creates fishing opportunities from mountain streams to the Atlantic Ocean. Here are my top picks for 2025–2026:
Top 5 Freshwater Destinations:
- Deep Creek Lake (Garrett County) – Maryland’s largest freshwater lake offers bass, walleye, trout, and northern pike. Stunning mountain scenery and excellent public access.
- Liberty Reservoir (Baltimore County) – Trophy smallmouth bass heaven! Also produces quality largemouth, walleye, and crappie. Shore access available once it reopens March 15.
- Potomac River – Both smallmouth bass and walleye patrol this historic river. The upper Potomac near Hancock is especially productive.
- Big Hunting Creek – One of the East Coast’s premier catch-and-release trout streams. Fly fishing only in some sections. Absolutely gorgeous.
- Piney Run Park (Carroll County) – Family-friendly with good bass, crappie, and trout fishing. Boat rentals available, shore access excellent.
Top Chesapeake Bay & Tidal Spots:
- Susquehanna Flats – Spring striped bass action is legendary here. Also excellent for white perch and catfish.
- Bay Bridge Area (Annapolis) – Year-round striper fishing with good action on light tackle. Shore fishing possible from designated areas.
- Eastern Bay – Consistent striped bass, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel action. Less crowded than other popular areas.
- Choptank River – Excellent for stripers, white perch, and catfish. Multiple boat ramps and shore access points.
- Ocean City – Both offshore and inshore opportunities. Back bay flounder fishing in summer is fantastic. Surf fishing for stripers in fall is world-class.
Interactive Resources:
- Maryland DNR Fishing Hotspots – Detailed maps and species information
- DNR Fishing Guide – Downloadable PDF with access points and facilities
📸 Suggested Image Alt Text
For optimal SEO and accessibility, consider these alt text descriptions for images in your article:
- “Angler holding trophy striped bass caught in Chesapeake Bay Maryland” – Perfect for the striped bass section
- “Maryland trout stream with fly fisherman casting in mountain waters” – Great for the trout fishing section
- “Deep Creek Lake Maryland with fishing boat at sunrise” – Ideal for the hotspots section
- “Blue crabs in basket from Maryland Chesapeake Bay crabbing” – Perfect for the blue crab specialty species
- “Liberty Reservoir Maryland bass fishing from shore with rod and reel” – Works well for the bass fishing section
- “Maryland DNR fishing license with trout stamp and tackle box” – Great visual for the licensing section
- “Family fishing together at Maryland state park lake with kids” – Perfect for the panfish or introduction section
- “Tautog blackfish caught on rocky bottom in Maryland coastal waters” – Excellent for the specialty species section
Word Count: ~2,850 words
Internal Links Used:
External Authority Links Used:
- Maryland DNR Fishing Regulations
- Maryland DNR Trout Stocking Schedule
- Maryland Outdoors COMPASS (License Portal)
- Maryland DNR Fishing Hotspots
This comprehensive guide provides Maryland anglers with all the information they need for the 2025–2026 season while maintaining a conversational, human tone with storytelling elements. The content is structured for readability with varied sentence lengths, personal anecdotes, and practical advice that resonates with both beginners and experienced anglers.