Freshwater News
3/5/2026 - Attention anglers: The boat ramp providing access to Leonard's Mill Pond in Wicomico County is currently being replaced, and is closed to use. Wicomico County estimates it will be closed until mid-April. For further information or questions please contact the Wicomico County Recreation and Parks Department. For more information visit the Wicomico Parks and Recreation Website.
Construction of a breakwater project for Rogues Harbor at Elk Neck State Park
is beginning in April 2025 and is expected to persist through the duration of the year.
During this time the ramp area will be closed to the public including tournament activities.
Updated 02/25/2026
Mission of Freshwater Fisheries
Manage Maryland's freshwater resources using scientifically valid, standardized assessments and management techniques to provide high quality, diverse, and accessible fisheries for Maryland residents and visitors.
For specific information, contact headquarters in Annapolis with general questions
by calling 1-877-620-8367 or go to the page below for the region you are interested in.
Freshwater Regions:
Statewide Operations:
About Freshwater Fisheries
Freshwater fishery management is focused on tidal and non-tidal freshwater fisheries. This includes the management of impoundments (lakes, reservoirs, and ponds), coldwater streams, warm-water streams and rivers, and tidal freshwater streams. Management objectives include:
- protection, restoration and expansion of fish habitat,
- enhancement of sport fish populations,
-
stocking to improve angling opportunities,
-
invasive species management, and
- maintenance and creation of
public access.
Freshwater fisheries management focuses on: largemouth and smallmouth bass, sunfish, crappie (white and black), channel catfish, chain pickerel (pike), muskellunge/tiger muskie, northern pike, walleye, and trout. Invasive species management primarily includes minimizing impacts of blue catfish, flathead catfish, and northern snakehead. Management strategies are based on a populations' age and size structure, reproductive success, and habitat and environmental conditions. Typically, freshwater fisheries are managed according to geographic areas. Management of Maryland's freshwater fisheries is divided into 5 regions, the
tidal black bass program, the
brook trout program, the
shad restoration program, and the
Youth Fishing program.
Key Leaders in Freshwater Fisheries:
