Hand-sized, pan-sized. Any species that can be legally harvested at a small enough size to fit in the skillet is considered a panfish. For anglers who love lots of action, easy access, and fried fish, panfishing covers all the bases. It's also a great way to introduce kids to fishing, with easy-to-catch species and quick rewards that build confidence and keep them engaged. Sunfish There are over 30 species of sunfish, or “sunnies” in North[...]

They say that March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb. So far this month March has been all “winter,” with below average temperatures and howling winds. But despite less than favorable conditions, there has been a slow but steady migration of one of the tastiest fish that swims in our Chesapeake Bay tributaries…that being the ever-popular crappie. Yes, Maryland has been blessed with tidal river systems on both the Western and[...]

A Tradition Almost Four Hundred Years in the Making In 1666, an Englishman named George Alsop wrote about his experience in Maryland. The waterfowl were so abundant, he wrote, “there was such an incessant clattering made with their wings on the water where they rose, and such a noise of those flying higher up that it was as if we were all the time surrounded by a whirlwind.” Now, nearly four centuries later, sportsmen and[...]

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[...]

The pursuit of white-tailed deer during hunting season is a blend of science and skill. Success relies on understanding deer biology, habitat and behavior patterns. Armed with this knowledge, you can anticipate their movements and position yourself for a rewarding hunt. Let’s dive in! Deer Biology 101 The white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is one of the most common and prized game species in North America, especially in Maryland. To outsmart them, understanding their physiology and[...]

I t’s time to start planning your hunt in Maryland. Quality bucks and thriving deer populations make Maryland a prime location for your hunt, with Central Maryland offering hunters great opportunities for a successful harvest. Here are a few of the top public lands to consider in Central Maryland for your hunt this season: Baltimore/Carroll County Reservoirs With over 18,000 acres of forested land on three different reservoirs available for public hunting, these Cooperative Wildlife[...]

Don’t let your fishing rod hibernate! Winter months bring great fishing experiences to Maryland. Whether it’s on the ice, out on the Chesapeake, or on the open ocean, you’re sure to reel something in. Tautog Fishing When to Fish January offers the best opportunity to catch trophy-sized tautog in Maryland. The current world record of 28.8 lbs. was caught off Ocean City in January of 2015. The Maryland tautog (aka blackfish) season opens January 1st[...]