ANNAPOLIS, Md. — New striped bass fishing regulations began April 1 across Maryland’s rivers and on the Chesapeake Bay.
Striped bass, commonly known in Maryland as rockfish, are one of the region’s most popular fish for both recreational and commercial fishers. They’re abundant in the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers. The bay and rivers also play an important part in supporting the Atlantic Ocean’s ecosystem, with 70%-90% of the Atlantic coast population of striped bass spawning in the Chesapeake Bay.
The updates shift the catch-and-release season to earlier in the year, and moves the annual closure to August. During catch-and-release season, officials encourage anglers to practice techniques that will help the fish survive, such as limiting the amount of handling and minimizing air exposure.
The same gear rules that apply in March will be extended through May 15, to ensure a low release mortality in April and early May. These rules prohibit stinger hooks, limit trolling to six rods, and require barbless hooks while trolling.
Starting May 1, when striped bass harvest is permitted, anglers may keep one striped bass per person, per day, with a minimum length of 19 inches and a maximum length of 24 inches.
The new regulations are also meant to align with other East Coast initiatives to protect the spawning grounds of striped bass. State regulations must align with the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for the species.
Going forward, the dates for each type of recreational striped bass fishing are:
- January 1-April 30: Catch-and-release fishing
- May 1-July 31: Harvest
- August 1-31: Closed
- September 1-December 5: Harvest
- December 6-31: Catch-and-release fishing
Read more about the regulations on Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources website.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!