From the brackish waters (a mix of salt and freshwater) of the Chesapeake Bay’s tributary systems, to freshwater systems that riddle the state, these popular fish can be found all across Maryland. With easy access to fishing spots by land and boat access points, Maryland makes it easy for the serious angler and the first-timer to find a largemouth bass worth talking about. Fishing for Largemouth Bass Largemouth bass can be recognized by the lower[...]

Central Tochterman’s Tackle, at 1925 Eastern Avenue in Baltimore City is the oldest family-owned tackle shop not only in the central region but in the country. Thomas G. Tochterman, Sr. opened the store in February 1916 and they are still at the same address. Originally, Mr. Tochterman sold confections, but soon started selling soft crabs and peelers to local anglers to use for bait. Before long he added bamboo fishing poles and started making cork[...]

Maryland has always been known for its world-class deep sea fishing, along with trophy rockfish opportunities. However, a fairly recent species has set claim to Maryland's tidal streams, creeks, rivers, and even some parts of the bay. Northern snakeheads are freshwater fish that resemble native bowfin. Tolerant to low salinity waters, snakeheads have well toothed jaws and palates, and can breathe atmospheric air through the use of a simple labyrinth organ. This invasive species relatively[...]

Understanding Snakehead Behavior The northern snakehead (Channa argus) or now referred to as Chesapeake Channa is native to parts of Asia, but has become established in Maryland, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. They are voracious predators, capable of disrupting local fish populations due to their diverse diet and aggressive hunting methods. During the spawning season, which typically occurs from late spring to early summer, snakeheads become even more aggressive as they protect their nests[...]

White Marlin As anglers in the “White Marlin Capital of the World,” we know a thing or two about these big, strong, exciting billfish. White marlin, who primarily stick to the deep waters of the Atlantic, are famous for being fierce fighters when hooked, engaging in what’s called “tail-walking” on the water’s surface and high-flying acrobatic jumps. For those who don’t have their own boat or are seeking tips on how to catch their first[...]

As avid hunters, one of the best and most rewarding things we can do is pass the love for our sport on to the next generation. The good news is that it’s fairly easy to get kids interested, as many are naturally interested in wildlife and nature, but some will take to it slower than others. You can start by watching turkeys and deer at close range and show your kids the little things. Just[...]

Tuna are some of the biggest, most powerful, most exciting fish in the ocean — and if you’re fishing off the coast of Maryland, there’s a good chance you’ll find those tunas far offshore at the canyons. There are five Mid-Atlantic canyons within range of many of the sportfishing boats running from Maryland: Wilmington Canyon to the far north, then Baltimore Canyon, Poorman’s Canyon, Washington Canyon, and finally Norfolk Canyon to the far south. The[...]

Maryland’s Turkey Hotspots One of the premier turkey hunting destinations in Maryland is Savage River State Forest. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Western Maryland, Savage River State Forest boasts vast expanses of woodland, providing ample habitat for wild turkeys. The forest's rugged terrain offers challenging conditions, making it a favorite among experienced hunters seeking a true wilderness experience. With its abundance of oak and hickory trees, the forest provides plentiful food sources for turkeys[...]