Maryland's Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the US and offers world-class striped bass fishing. The state also has quality freshwater bass fishing and growing blue catfish populations.
Active striper tournament scene on Chesapeake Bay. Freshwater tournaments on Potomac and Deep Creek.
Chesapeake Bay is the striper capital. Potomac River has trophy largemouth and blue catfish. Deep Creek Lake for smallmouth. Susquehanna Flats for spring stripers.
Good access on Chesapeake Bay and tributaries.
What you can target and when

Best Waters
Chesapeake Bay · Susquehanna Flats · Choptank River

Best Waters
Potomac River · Deep Creek Lake · Triadelphia Reservoir
Lakes, rivers, bays, and coastal fisheries
The most important striper fishery on the East Coast.
Top Species
Best: Fall/Spring





Annual Resident Freshwater: $20.50. Chesapeake Bay: $15.
Annual Non-Resident Freshwater: $30.50. Chesapeake Bay: $22.50. 7-Day: $7.50.
7-Day licenses available.
Free for residents under 16 and over 65.
Required for motorized vessels.
Permits required for organized events.
Striped bass: complex seasonal regulations. 5 bass daily limit freshwater. Blue catfish: no limit.
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