Blue Catfish The largest of the North American catfish, blue catfish 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. However, due to extensive introductions, their current range incorporates several Atlantic drainage systems as well. As an introduced species, blue catfish have become very successful in[...]

Deep Creek Lake Deep Creek Lake is Maryland’s largest inland body of water. Constructed in the early 1920’s to produce electricity, its 3,900 acres and 65 miles of shoreline offer exceptional fishing for walleye, great action on largemouth and smallmouth bass, and an abundance of pike, pickerel, and crappie. As the largest freshwater impoundment in the state, it attracts many anglers looking for yellow perch and bluegills. The panfish here also grow to epic proportions[...]

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[...]

FishTalk Magazine Feature As part of this road series, Lenny Rudow and FishTalk covered the trip with a featured article. Read a snippet of it below with a link to the full feature. For those traveling to Snakehead country, Cambridge, MD is ground zero. From here your located close to Blackwater River system and the Transquaking, the Chickamacomico, and all the associated tributary area waterways - all of which are jam-packed with snakehead. You can[...]

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[...]

Tips for Taking Newbies Fishing Eliminate the Pressure – Prioritize the experience, rather than how many fish the beginner angler actually catches. Going out on a boat on the Chesapeake Bay, sitting on a riverbank, or paddling around on a pond are enjoyable experiences in and of themselves. Take advantage of this fact and make sure that having fun is “job number-one.” Use KISS Fishing Methods – Trying to explain the fine nuances of pin-point[...]

At Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, the snakehead prowls the shallows, offering anglers the chance to test their skills against one of the region's most aquatic predators. Here, the snakehead prowls the shallows, offering anglers the chance to test their skills against one of the region's most formidable predators. With its tranquil ambiance and abundant wildlife, fishing for snakeheads at Blackwater becomes not just a pursuit of a trophy fish, but also a glimpse into the[...]

Maryland offers exceptional crabbing opportunities, attracting enthusiasts to its rich estuaries, especially the Chesapeake Bay. This prime habitat for blue crabs makes Maryland a top destination for both seasoned crabbers and newcomers. The state provides a variety of crabbing charters operated by experienced local guides, ensuring you have a successful trip with useful tips and techniques. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly outing or a more challenging expedition, there's a charter for everyone. And the[...]