Catfish in Maryland's Southern Region
Overview
With its network of rivers, creeks and tidal marshes, Southern Maryland is like a playground for catfish anglers. The Patuxent and Potomac Rivers, among others, provide fertile grounds for blue and flathead catfish, enticing anglers with the promise of thrilling catches. Southern Maryland's picturesque landscapes and tranquil waters offer a serene and immersive catfishing experience. Whether casting from the shoreline or navigating the waterways by boat, anglers can enjoy the peacefulness of nature while pursuing their favorite pastime, making catfishing in Southern Maryland an unforgettable experience for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Where to Fish In the Region
Kings Landing
Kings Landing Park has a history stretching back to Captain John Smith’s exploration and earlier. Once an active farm and later a YMCA camp, it is now managed by Calvert County’s Natural Resources Division.
The waters of the Patuxent River at Kings Landing Park are a known hotspot for catfish. You can fish from just below the 200-foot fishing pier or drop in your kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard.
The park is also home to a series a beautiful hiking trails, a board walk, picnic tables, a pool, and event rental facilities.
Lower Marlboro Wharf 
Just a few miles from Kings Landing Park, anglers will find the next site along the Catfish Trail. —Lower Marlboro Wharf. Once a prominent colonial port, the steamboat wharf has been in place since 1750 and according to recent research it is where thirteen enslaved persons escaped to freedom on British vessels.
Today, the Lower Marlboro Wharf is one of the best fishing spots in Calvert County. Open from dusk until dark, there are no fees and there is a floating dock available for kayak, canoe and paddleboard launching.
Point Lookout State Park
This park's peaceful surroundings on a peninsula between the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River in St. Mary's County belie its history as the location of a camp that imprisoned as many as 52,264 Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. A museum on site recounts this vivid history. Park maps are available at the park headquarters, the camp office, camp store and the Civil War Museum/Marshland Nature Center. The Point Lookout Lighthouse is currently closed for renovations.
The park features various fishing areas, including the 710-foot fishing pier, which is in operation from mid-April until the third week in December. A valid Coastal Sport Fishing license and appropriate stamps are required.
Night Fishing - Night fishing is not currently allowed in Point Lookout State Park.
Causeway - All service charges will also apply to the Causeway area.
Special Note: A Coastal Sport fishing license is required for those 16 years of age and older. For the safety of visitors, tents are not permitted in the day-use areas. Only see-through sun shelters without a bottom floor are permitted.
A boat launch service charge is $10, payable at the tollbooth located at the park entrance. Launch passes are valid 24 hours a day, year-round. Canoe rentals and supplies are also available at the camp store.
Mallows Bay Park
Mallows Bay Park offers excellent opportunity for making your catfish catch as you fish among WWI Ghost Fleet, the largest ship graveyard in the Western Hemisphere.
You'll find single ramp small boating (shallow water) access to the Potomac River, kayak launch, fishing and hiking. Gravel parking for 20 trailers is available.
The tremendous wildlife viewing areas make this a special spot.
Smallwood State Park
Smallwood State Park takes its name from General William Smallwood, a native-born Charles Countian. The highest-ranked Marylander who served in the American Revolutionary War, his house, called Smallwood's Retreat, has been restored and is open to visitors seasonally. The 628-acre park offers a marina, boat launching ramps, a picnic area, camping area, pavilions, a recycled tire playground and nature trails. On occasion, there are craft demonstrations, military exhibitions and other special events.
Anglers can fish from the shore or from several stationary piers located at Sweden Point Marina. Beyond catfish anglers can also find largemouth bass, catfish, white and yellow perch, and carp. A Chesapeake Bay Sportfishing License is required.
Mattawoman Natural Environmental Area
From the brackish marshes of the estuary near the put-in to the freshwater tidal forest and the nontidal marshes at the Route 224 bridge, the wetlands of this Natural Area are diverse and teeming with wildlife. The Indian Head Rail Trail offers views of the wetlands by bicycle or on foot from the north side of the creek. On the south side, a walk on the George Wilmot Trail Longnose gar. Follow the trail to several vantage points on the creek where almost 20 species of waterfowl can be seen in the fall as they stop over in large flocks to rest and feed before continuing on their journeys.
Newtowne Neck State Park
Newtowne Neck State Park is a 794-acre peninsula surrounded by Breton Bay, St. Clements Bay and the Potomac River. It has seven miles of ecologically and recreationally important waterfront. The park's wealth of natural and cultural resources, its historic significance and its geography and physical resources make it an ideal location for a variety of activities and outdoor recreation. Visitors can fish from designated areas along the shoreline year-round from park opening to sunset. A proper tidal fishing license is required for persons 16 and older.
Who to Fish With
Elevate your fishing experience by embarking on an adventure with a professional guide or charter. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, these experts offer unparalleled expertise and access to prime fishing locations. From navigating the waters to sharing insider tips, they ensure a memorable and successful outing. Contact one of the reputable companies below to enhance your angling adventure and make the most of Maryland's rich fishing opportunities.
- All in Charters
- Big Worm Charters
- Fish the Bay Charters
- Katherine Charter Fishing
- Loosen Up Charters
- Lucky Strike Charters
- Reel Sassy Fishing Charters
- Rock On Charters
Where to Dine
Explore Maryland's invasive culinary scene, where local restaurants showcase the freshest seafood delights. From iconic establishments to hidden gems, discover a plethora of dining options that capture the essence of Maryland's rich maritime heritage. Dive into the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay and beyond, and plan your culinary adventure with Maryland's Best Seafood list of restaurants specializing in Blue Catfish cuisine. Looking for even more dining options? Check out Visit Maryland.
Plan Your Trip
When planning your catfishing expedition to Southern Maryland, you're in for a treat with its abundance of prime fishing spots and family-friendly attractions. Begin your journey in St. Mary's County, where the scenic Potomac and Patuxent Rivers converge, offering excellent catfishing opportunities. Explore charming waterfront towns like Leonardtown, where you can launch your boat or fish from the shore while taking in the picturesque surroundings. Families can enjoy a visit to Historic St. Mary's City, a living history museum that transports you back to Maryland's colonial past or unwind at one of the many parks along the waterfront.
Venturing into Charles County, anglers can find themselves at Mattawoman Creek, known for its abundant catfish population. While casting your line, families can also explore the town of La Plata, with its quaint shops and eateries, perfect for a post-fishing meal or leisurely stroll. Additionally, don't miss the chance to visit the Thomas Stone National Historic Site, offering insight into one of Maryland's signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Calvert County is home of the largest selection of charter boat fishing excursions in Maryland, plus it has abundant Chesapeake Bay and Patuxent River public access points from which to start your catfishing adventure. Visitors to Solomons will delight in the Calvert Marine Museum with its screw pile lighthouse, lively otter display and exhibits on the maritime history of the county. Strolling the landscaped promenade of North Beach or attending a waterfront concert at the clamshell bandstand in Chesapeake Beach top the list of after-fishing activities. With its blend of outdoor adventure and historical charm, Southern Maryland promises an unforgettable catfishing experience for anglers of all ages.
No matter where in Southern Maryland you choose to explore, let us help plan your trip:
Get A License
Purchasing a license is more convenient than ever before. Maryland DNR provides the following quick and easy ways for you to obtain your licenses and registrations.
