The missions of the tidal bass program are:

• To ensure population integrity and sustainability of tidal populations of black bass in Maryland;
• To promote and protect angling opportunities of constituents;
• To respond to public concerns of the black bass fishery in tidal freshwater rivers of Maryland with well-researched answers and awareness programs or materials.

Why is this program important?

​Largemouth bass populations are one of the most important resources for sport fish anglers in Maryland tidewater. Approximately half of Maryland freshwater anglers fished for bass in 2008 and 2011 according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Additionally, revenue from competitive bass fishing tournaments provides millions of dollars into Maryland's economy each year. The species is also a keystone predator that affects many species within aquatic food webs. Many actions by the department help protect and improve tidal freshwater fisheries for Maryland.

What ​we do:

• Black Bass Annual Review
  
  
• 2023 Summary Report of Interagency Cooperative Largemouth Bass Monitoring for Tidal Potomac River​
  


• Stock Assessments ---->  Use Standard Op​erating Procedures​​ to execute surveys in the Fishery Management Plan


• Education and Outreach ----> map fishing spots, help lessen confusion on becoming a guide or tournament director, provide educational videos on stewardship, and answer bass questions by email, phone, social media or in person at invited seminars or at the dock


• Tournament Assistance ----> support permitting, re​porting​, redistribution, and other services for directors


• ​Grow Fisheries ----> support habitat protection, stock young bass​, manageinvasive species and improve angler access to the fisheries

Contact Us!