Catching your first fish is a memory of a lifetime- from baiting the hook and casting it in the water to concentrating on the line and reeling it in, the experience is one to treasure. Maryland offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities, from freshwater streams to the Chesapeake Bay!

• Freshwater fishing is possible in our rivers, lakes, and ponds for bass, bluegill, trout and more.
• You can also saltwater fish in the Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, and the Atlantic Ocean for species like striped bass, bluefish, and flounder.

Want to help control invasive species? Be sure to check out the newly established Chesapeake Catfish Trail to help control the invasive blue catfish, flathead catfish, and Chesapeake channa (also known as northern snakehead).

Where can I fish? Come make fun memories in one of Maryland’s many fishing locations​​.

When can I fish?
The best time of year to fish depends on the species you are targeting. Maryland offers free fishing days (when you do not need a license) the first two Saturdays in June and July 4th.

• In early spring, you can hit the Put-and-Take Trout streams, or fish for largemouth bass in freshwater lakes and ponds. Crappie are active and can be found in the shallow waters. Spring is also a prime time for striper fishing in the Chesapeake Bay.
• In the summer, The Chesapeake Bay (and its tributaries) is a great destination for bluefish and flounder. Striped bass are still active in the summer months in cooler water. Maryland’s freshwater reservoirs and lakes offer great fishing if you are looking to catch bass, bluegill, chain pickerel, crappie, or northern pike. Fishing in the cooler temperatures of early morning or late evenings can be the best times to catch fish during the summer.
• In the fall, as the temperatures start to cool, the white perch are a good fish to target in the Bay and its tributaries. Yellow perch and northern pike can be found in freshwater lakes.
• In the winter, ice fishing in Western Maryland is a popular winter activity. Deep Creek Lake is a great destination for walleye. Be safe and check the ice before going ice fishing.

What are the regulations?
All anglers over 16 are required to have a fishing license. Check out the Fishing Regulations before heading out!

What else should I know before I go?The Fishing Report​ has tips on the conditions! There are also various fishing events held throughout the state each year.

I’m a new angler, how can I start? Begin your fishing journey through DNR’s Tackle Loaner program, where you can borrow fishing equipment for free.

Where can I learn more? Check out the fishing and state parks websites for more information.

Remember to follow the catch-and-release and Leave No Trace principles to recreate sustainably!