Lately I’m spending a lot more time fishing the non-tidal streams or floating the millponds in search of my favorite and most familiar species: crappie, sunfish, and perch. Affectionately called “panfish” since they’re small and delicious, these species share a special place in the hearts of anglers because they’re likely the first fish we caught. It might have been on a nearby riverside while dangling a redworm from a cane pole, or maybe it was[...]

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[...]

Central and Western Maryland’s small streams provide fishing experiences in picturesque settings. Checking on stream conditions before heading out is always a good idea, particularly before wading in or paddling. Many Potomac and Monocacy River tributary streams are home to a variety of gamefish. Smallmouth bass, however, remain high on the “hit list” for anglers tossing small crank baits, spinners or even fly-fishing efforts with poppers or streamers. Throw in the ever-present populations of red[...]

With school back in session and cooler fall weather on the way, it’s a good time to plan a trip to one of several Maryland lakes that offer excellent late-season fishing for bass, panfish, stocked trout and even land-locked striped bass. A few of these lakes include Piney Run ( Carroll County), Hunting Creek Lake ( Frederick County), and Greenbrier Lake ( Washington County). Let’s take a look at the available species and tactics for[...]

Grab your pole and tackle box, pack up a little cooler, and head outside to some of Allegany County’s favorite fishing holes . With the Potomac River forming the southern border of the county and the sloping hillsides that make up the Allegheny Mountain Range, the creeks, rivers, and waterways that flow through the mountains are the perfect place to cast a line and soak up some rays. Some of Mountain Maryland's greatest assets are[...]

Ready to get back to fishing? White perch are ready and waiting for you. They can be found almost anywhere in the Chesapeake Bay. A relative of striped bass, white perch occupy a range of depths and habitats. Oyster bars, drop-offs and artificial reefs all hold white perch. Seasonal patterns are easy to figure out given that white perch stay in the bay and its rivers their entire lives. Places to find white perch include[...]

Catching striped bass on dock lights in December is great, as long as you have tide movement and the right fly fishing gear. I personally like an 8 wt fast action rod with a floating line, for a leader I prefer a 20 lb tapered fluorocarbon leader 9’ long, and a black and purple size 2. Now not just any dock with a light will produce, you need to find one that has at least[...]

Overview Catfishing on Maryland's Eastern Shore presents anglers with a network of brackish waterways, each teeming with opportunities to reel in impressive catches. The Chesapeake Bay, along with its tributaries such as the Choptank and Nanticoke Rivers, provides fertile grounds for Blue and Flathead Catfish. These estuarine environments offer a unique mix of freshwater and saltwater, creating diverse habitats where catfish thrive. With abundant forage and ample cover provided by marshes, oyster reefs, and submerged[...]

Results of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources 2017 young-of-year striped bass survey in the Chesapeake Bay shows the fish is reproducing in strong numbers. The annual survey’s index is 13.2, above the 64-year average of 11.7. Striped bass, popularly known as rockfish, is Maryland’s state fish. The fish spawns in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries each spring. The survey is conducted annually to track the reproductive success of this important species and help[...]