What is an Invasive Species? An invasive species is an organism that causes ecological or economic harm in a new environment where it is not native. Invasive species can harm both the natural resources in an ecosystem as well as threaten human use of these resources. An invasive species can be introduced to a new area via the ballast water of oceangoing ships, intentional and accidental releases of aquaculture species, aquarium specimens or bait, and[...]

Maryland's Fly Fishing Trail The first of its kind, this Trail is a great resource for experienced fly fishers as well as anyone learning to enjoy the sport. It includes 48 sites located across all of Maryland's counties and Baltimore City. Information for each site includes details on location, species, recommended equipment, local guides, shops and more. Check out the Fly Fishing Trail to get ready for your next fishing adventure LEARN MORE Maryland's Catfish[...]

Great Chesapeake Invasives Count Running from April 1, 2024 to March 30, 2025, the Great Chesapeake Invasives Count, presented by the Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA Maryland) and Yamaha Rightwaters, is more than just a tournament—it's a call to action. Anglers can participate for free, competing for monthly prizes like rods, tackle and more while contributing valuable data for marine research. Through a mobile app, participants can log their catches, including details such as total[...]

Maryland presents enticing chances to not only reel in monthly prizes but also earn rewards and even make money while playing a vital role in invasive species control. Transform your fishing hobby into a profitable and impactful venture by catching invasive fish and contributing to conservation efforts. Learn more about three unique programs and get involved today. GREAT CHESAPEAKE INVASIVES COUNT April 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025 The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA Maryland)[...]

Striped bass, locally known as rockfish, are a prized catch in Kent County. These iconic fish migrate along the Atlantic coast, entering the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries to spawn. The spring and fall seasons are particularly popular for targeting striped bass in Kent County waters. The 2024 spring season begins on June 1. Anglers often find success fishing for striped bass in the early morning or late evening, when the fish are most active[...]

Blue Catfish Blue catfish are the largest of the North American catfish and can easily exceed 100 pounds. They are generally slate blue on the back to silvery/white on the underside and have a deeply forked tail. The native range of blue catfish extends from Minnesota and Ohio southward into Mexico. They prefer the large river basins of the Ohio, Mississippi, and Missouri River drainages. However, due to extensive introductions, their current range incorporates several[...]

White Catfish The white catfish is the only species native to the Chesapeake Bay, and it's the smallest of the large North American catfish species. White catfish lack scales and possess an adipose fin, as well as a single, often serrated spine in the dorsal and pectoral fins. They are bluish-gray on their back and sides and white underneath. Their tail is moderately forked and they have a noticeably broadhead, large mouth and stout body[...]

We challenge all anglers to engage, participate, and be part of the movement to address invasive species at these tournaments. Explore the full schedule of events and join us in creating meaningful change for Maryland's waterways. Mid-Shore Fishing Club Invasive Species Tournament March 1 - December 1, 2024 Sponsored by the Mid-Shore Fishing Club of Maryland, anglers target blue catfish and northern snakehead inside the boundaries of the Eastern Shore. Payouts are awarded for the[...]

Among the many Eastern Shore ponds, Smithville Lake stands out as one of the more productive waters, offering fly fishers with an assortment of fish species to target. Its populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and chain pickerel provide for year round fishing opportunities. During the winter months, fly fishers can cast for those toothy top predator chain pickerel even when the waters are too cold for other fish species. With the onset of spring[...]