The Ultimate Guide to Striped Bass Fishing in Maryland

Striped bass, also known as rockfish, is one of the most popular game fish in Maryland. These powerful fish can grow up to 50 pounds or more and are known for their fighting spirit when hooked. Maryland offers some of the best striped bass fishing opportunities on the East Coast, with the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries being prime locations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to have a successful striped bass fishing trip in Maryland.

Best Locations for Striped Bass Fishing in Maryland

Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the United States and is home to a thriving population of striped bass. The bay offers a variety of fishing opportunities, from shallow water flats to deep channel edges. Some of the best areas to fish in the Chesapeake Bay include:

• Susquehanna Flats: Located at the northern end of the bay, the Susquehanna Flats are known for their shallow water and abundant grass beds, which attract large numbers of striped bass in the spring.
• Bay Bridges: The Bay Bridges, which span the Chesapeake Bay from Sandy Point to Kent Island, are a popular spot for striped bass fishing. The bridge pilings and rock piles around the bridges provide structure that attracts baitfish and striped bass.
• Tangier and Pocomoke Sounds: These two sounds, located on the eastern side of the bay, are known for their deep water and strong currents, which attract large striped bass.

Potomac River

The Potomac River, which forms the border between Maryland and Virginia, is another excellent location for striped bass fishing. The river is known for its large population of striped bass, particularly in the spring and fall. Some of the best areas to fish on the Potomac River include:

• Fletcher’s Cove: Located just outside of Washington D.C., Fletcher’s Cove is a popular spot for shore and boat fishing. The area features a variety of structure, including rock piles and drop-offs, which attract striped bass.
• Mather Gorge: This section of the river, located near Great Falls, features fast-moving water and deep pools, which are prime spots for striped bass.

Upper Chesapeake Bay Tributaries

The upper Chesapeake Bay tributaries, including the Susquehanna, Gunpowder, and Patapsco Rivers, are also excellent locations for striped bass fishing. These rivers feature a variety of habitats, from shallow flats to deep channels, and are known for their strong populations of striped bass.

Best Times to Fish for Striped Bass in Maryland

Striped bass can be caught year-round in Maryland, but the best times to fish are typically in the spring and fall.

Spring

In the spring, striped bass begin their annual migration up the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries to spawn. This typically occurs from late March through May, depending on water temperatures. During this time, anglers can target large pre-spawn striped bass in the shallow waters of the Susquehanna Flats and other tributaries.

Fall

In the fall, striped bass begin their migration back down the bay to their wintering grounds. This typically occurs from September through November, depending on water temperatures. During this time, anglers can target large post-spawn striped bass in the deeper waters of the main stem of the bay and the lower sections of the tributaries.

Striped Bass Fishing Techniques

There are a variety of techniques that can be used to catch striped bass in Maryland, depending on the location and time of year. Here are some of the most popular techniques:

Trolling

Trolling is a popular technique for catching striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. This involves using a boat to pull a variety of lures, such as umbrella rigs, spoons, and plugs, through the water column. Trolling allows anglers to cover a lot of water and locate schools of striped bass.

Jigging

Jigging involves using a weighted lure, such as a bucktail jig or soft plastic, and bouncing it along the bottom to imitate a wounded baitfish. This technique is particularly effective in deeper water, such as channel edges and drop-offs.

Live Bait Fishing

Live bait fishing is another popular technique for catching striped bass in Maryland. This involves using live bait, such as spot, eels, or menhaden, and fishing it on the bottom or under a float. Live bait fishing is particularly effective in the spring and fall when striped bass are actively feeding.

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing for striped bass has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in the shallow water flats of the Chesapeake Bay. This involves using a fly rod and a variety of flies, such as Clousers and Deceivers, to imitate baitfish.

Striped Bass Fishing Regulations in Maryland

It’s important to be aware of the striped bass fishing regulations in Maryland to ensure that you are fishing legally and sustainably. The regulations can vary depending on the location and time of year, so it’s important to check the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website for the most up-to-date information.

Currently, the minimum size limit for striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries is 19 inches, with a daily creel limit of one fish per person. In the Atlantic Ocean and coastal bays, the minimum size limit is 28 inches, with a daily creel limit of two fish per person.

It’s also important to note that there are certain times of the year when striped bass fishing is prohibited in Maryland. These include:

• January 1 – February 28: No striped bass fishing allowed in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
• March 1 – April 30: Catch and release only in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
• May 16 – December 10: Striped bass season open in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

Striped Bass Fishing Gear

Having the right gear is essential for a successful striped bass fishing trip in Maryland. Here are some of the key pieces of equipment you’ll need:

Rods and Reels

The type of rod and reel you’ll need will depend on the technique you’re using and the size of the fish you’re targeting. For trolling, a medium-heavy to heavy action rod with a conventional reel is typically used. For jigging and live bait fishing, a medium to medium-heavy action rod with a spinning reel is a good choice. For fly fishing, an 8-10 weight fly rod with a matching reel is recommended.

Lures and Baits

There are a variety of lures and baits that can be used to catch striped bass in Maryland. Some popular options include:

• Umbrella Rigs: These multi-arm rigs are designed to imitate a school of baitfish and are often used for trolling.
• Spoons: Metal spoons, such as the Tony Accetta or Crippled Alewife, are effective for trolling and casting.
• Jigs: Bucktail jigs and soft plastic jigs, such as the BKD or Bass Kandy Delights, are popular for jigging.
• Plugs: Diving plugs, such as the Mann’s Stretch or Rapala X-Rap, are effective for trolling and casting.
• Live Bait: Spot, eels, and menhaden are popular live baits for striped bass fishing in Maryland.

Other Essential Gear

In addition to rods, reels, and lures, there are a few other essential pieces of gear you’ll need for striped bass fishing in Maryland:

• Fishing License: A valid Maryland fishing license is required for all anglers over the age of 16.
• Pliers: A pair of needle-nose pliers is essential for removing hooks and handling fish.
• Net: A large landing net is helpful for landing big striped bass.
• Cooler: A cooler is necessary for storing your catch and keeping bait fresh.

Hiring a Fishing Charter

If you’re new to striped bass fishing in Maryland or don’t have your own boat, hiring a fishing charter can be a great option. Fishing charters provide anglers with the opportunity to fish with an experienced guide who knows the best locations and techniques for catching striped bass.

When choosing a fishing charter, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable company with experienced guides. Look for charters that specialize in striped bass fishing and have a proven track record of success.

Most charters include all necessary gear, including rods, reels, and lures, as well as a cooler for storing your catch. Some charters also include food and drinks, so be sure to ask what’s included when booking your trip.

Catch and Release Best Practices

While keeping a striped bass for dinner can be a rewarding experience, it’s important to practice catch and release whenever possible to help ensure the sustainability of the fishery. Here are some best practices for catch and release:

• Use circle hooks whenever possible to minimize deep hooking and injury to the fish.
• Use a net to land the fish and avoid lifting it out of the water by the line.
• Keep the fish in the water as much as possible and avoid touching its gills or eyes.
• If you need to handle the fish, use wet hands or a wet towel to minimize damage to its protective slime coat.
• If the fish is deeply hooked, cut the line as close to the hook as possible and release the fish with the hook still in place.

By following these best practices, you can help ensure that the striped bass you catch will live to fight another day.

Conclusion

Striped bass fishing in Maryland is an exciting and rewarding experience that offers anglers the opportunity to catch one of the most iconic game fish on the East Coast. With a variety of locations, techniques, and seasons to choose from, there’s something for every angler.

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to a successful striped bass fishing trip in Maryland. Remember to always check the regulations before heading out on the water and practice catch and release whenever possible to help ensure the sustainability of this incredible fishery.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, book a charter, and head out on the water for an unforgettable striped bass fishing adventure in Maryland!