Freshwater Fisheries Management In Maryland
Freshwater fishery management efforts are focused on non-tidal and cold-water fisheries throughout the state. This includes management of impoundments (lakes, reservoirs, and ponds), coldwater streams, and tidal freshwater streams. Management strategies are based upon population status of important gamefish species and includes determining population age and size structure, reproductive success, and habitat and environmental conditions. Freshwater fisheries within Maryland are predominantly recreational. Objectives of freshwater management include the protection, restoration and expansion of cold-water fish habitat; the enhancement of natural trout populations; stocking of hatchery-produced trout to enhance angling opportunities; and the maintenance and creation of public access to trout waters.
Typically, freshwater fisheries are managed according to geographic areas. Specific areas include impoundments, coldwater streams, major rivers and streams, and tidal freshwater streams. A fishery management plan (FMP) for brook trout was developed in 2006. One of the important issues recognized in the 2006 Brook Trout FMP is the need for preserving riparian buffers to maintain habitat quality.
Managed Freshwater Species include: Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Bivalves, Channel Catfish, Madtoms, Chain Pickerel (Pike), Crappie (white and black), Eels, Herring (alewife and blueback), Muskellunge/Tiger Muskie, Northern Pike, Shad (American and hickory), Striped Bass, Sunfish, Trout, Walleye and Yellow Perch.
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