Captain Mike Starrett has been guiding anglers on the tidal Potomac River for almost 30 years. He specializes in largemouth bass, striped bass, crappie, the invasive Northern snakehead, and blue catfish, also an invasive species. He and his partner, Captain Dave Snellings, work together, each in their own boat, keeping in touch by VHF marine radio to find fish for their clients. It has been my pleasure to fish with both gents. Saturday, November 16[...]

There are few things that bring me as much joy as a squealing child as he or she hoists a gyrating sunfish up on the bank. The fish is flopping, and the child is giggling as they try to immediately pounce on this incredibly interesting form of life we know as a “fish.” By my own claim, I caught my first fish, a humble bluegill, at the age of five…and I haven’t been the same[...]

All of Maryland’s natural beauty springs open for the enjoyment of sportsmen and women with the coming of spring. As the days grow longer and the temperatures warmer, it’s time to grab your fishing gear and head out to take advantage of the abundance of perch and trout stocks throughout the state. Three Fish to Chase this Spring Yellow Perch: Yellow perch are a favorite sportfish in Maryland – especially in the Chesapeake Bay area[...]

Freshwater With water temps ranging between 68-75 degrees, fishing across the state is at its peak. Anglers have reported prime spawning conditions when targeting bass, snakeheads are still being spotted guarding fry balls, and fishermen and women are consistently catching brown and brook trout on dry flies in the streams and creeks. Prime locations include Loch Raven Reservoir and Deep Creek Lake. Located just north of Baltimore, Loch Raven is ideal for any angler. This[...]

I’ll never forget the very first chain pickerel I ever caught. I was fishing during late fall on the Patuxent River and it came as a surprise catch. Long, sleek, with chain-link markings and a mouthful of teeth, I knew what it was even at the age of 15. That was several decades ago. But I had enough of a taste to know that I wanted more of this leaping, slashing “mini-pike” in my angling[...]

Local lore around here holds that the waterfowl migration begins on the first north wind after the full moon in October. The beginning of November is the peak of the waterfowl migration in our area. Ducks such as Pintails, Blue and Green-winged Teal, Gadwall, Mallards, Black Ducks, Shovelers, Wood Ducks and Widgeon, as well as Canada Geese, find their way back here to the farm each year. We don’t hunt the early seasons in September[...]

Book up Non-resident hunters are encouraged to take advantage of Maryland’s abundant public land waterfowl hunting opportunities They may also hunt the open waters of the Offshore Waterfowl Hunting and Special Sea Duck Zones if they are accompanied by a Maryland resident. Alternatively enlisting a guide can really help you make the most of some of the best duck hunting opportunities on the East Coast. Dabbling Ducks Habitat Dabbling ducks or puddle ducks are geared[...]

Understanding Maryland's Turkey Population Maryland boasts a robust turkey population, making it a prime destination for hunters eager to pursue these magnificent birds. With a diverse landscape that includes forests, farmlands and wetlands, the state offers ideal habitats for turkeys to thrive. The Eastern wild turkey, the most common subspecies found in Maryland, can be spotted across various regions of the state, from the wooded areas of Western Maryland to the agricultural fields of the[...]

Overview In the Capital Region of Maryland, catfish anglers are greeted with a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes, creating an ideal backdrop for fishing adventures. The Potomac River and its tributaries offer prime catfishing opportunities among historic landmarks such as the C&O Canal and top attractions like National Harbor. Anglers can target blue catfish in these diverse waterways, enjoying the thrill of reeling in impressive catches against the backdrop of urban skylines and[...]