Fishing Laws in Maryland
Maryland's fishing regulations establish a thorough framework to protect aquatic resources while enabling recreational and commercial fishing activities. The state's Department of Natural Resources enforces specific guidelines for license requirements, catch limits, and seasonal restrictions across both tidal and nontidal waters. These regulations vary by species, location, and time of year, creating a complex system that anglers must navigate to guarantee compliance and support conservation efforts. Understanding these laws proves essential for anyone planning to fish in Maryland waters.
Essential License Types and Requirements
When fishing in Maryland, anglers must obtain the appropriate licenses based on their intended fishing locations and target species. The state's fishing regulations establish distinct license types for different water bodies, with freshwater (non-tidal) licenses required for lakes, ponds, and rivers, while saltwater licenses cover the Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean, and coastal bays.
Residents aged 65 or older can acquire a consolidated license permitting access to both freshwater and saltwater areas. Senior licenses cost $5 for Maryland residents.
Maryland seniors enjoy simplified fishing access with a single consolidated license covering both freshwater and saltwater fishing destinations.
Additional requirements include the Trout Stamp for special management areas and recreational crabbing licenses for specific gear usage. All anglers 16 and older must possess valid licenses, which are available in annual, weekly, or short-term durations.
Licenses can be obtained online or through Maryland Department of Natural Resources offices, with different rates applying to residents and non-residents.
Special Exemptions and Free Fishing Days
Maryland's fishing license exemption system provides targeted opportunities for specific groups, including disabled individuals, veterans, and property owners with riparian rights.
The state designates three license-free fishing days annually, occurring on the first two Saturdays in June and July 4th, when all anglers can fish without a license while adhering to standard catch regulations.
Additional exemptions extend to individuals under 16 years old, active duty military personnel with official orders, and those fishing from licensed charter boats. Nonprofit organizations can apply for one-day license exemptions to facilitate fishing activities for individuals with physical or mental disabilities fishing from shore.
License-Free Angling Opportunities
To promote recreational fishing and attract newcomers to the sport, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources designates three annual license-free fishing days on June 1, June 8, and July 4, 2024.
These opportunities allow residents and visitors to fish in both tidal and nontidal waters without purchasing a license, though standard fishing regulations remain in effect.
Property owners can exercise their riparian fishing rights while fishing on their own land without the need for a license, extending this privilege to immediate family members as well.
The DNR provides extensive resources, including access maps, fish identification guides, and loaner equipment, enabling anglers to explore various fishing techniques.
Conservation efforts are enhanced through the encouragement of invasive species removal, particularly snakeheads and blue catfish from the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.
While certain areas may require registration, the DNR maintains designated free fishing zones throughout the state, offering additional license-free opportunities beyond the specified dates.
Understanding Fishing License Exemptions
While most anglers require a valid fishing license in Maryland, the Department of Natural Resources offers numerous exemptions based on specific criteria and circumstances. These exemptions, aligned with fishing ethics and conservation practices, guarantee accessible recreational opportunities while maintaining regulatory oversight. The state now requires a recreational oyster license for residents harvesting oysters, though other exemptions still apply.
| Category | Tidal Waters | Nontidal Waters |
|---|---|---|
| Property Owners | Exempt on bordering waters | Exempt on bordering waters |
| Military Personnel | Exempt while on leave | Exempt while on leave |
| Age Groups | Under 16 exempt | Under 16 exempt |
| Special Programs | Mental health facilities | Developmental disability programs |
| Free Days | First 2 Saturdays in June, July 4 | First 2 Saturdays in June, July 4 |
Additional exemptions apply to commercial license holders, charter boat passengers, and organizations serving individuals with disabilities. These provisions support inclusive access while upholding Maryland's commitment to responsible resource management.
General Rules and Guidelines
Anglers fishing in Maryland's nontidal waters must possess a valid fishing license before engaging in any fishing activities.
For safety and regulation compliance, ice fishing holes must be no larger than 10 inches in any direction when cutting through frozen waters.
Maryland's fishing regulations establish specific daily catch limits that vary by species, with trout limited to 2 fish per day and other species having their own designated limits.
These catch limits help maintain sustainable fish populations and guarantee fair access to the state's aquatic resources.
License Requirements
Most Maryland fishing activities require a valid license, with specific requirements varying based on water type, residency status, and fishing location. Anglers should review the state’s regulations to ensure compliance with size and catch limits, which help protect local fish populations. Additionally, certain exemptions exist for specific groups, such as seniors and youth, allowing them to fish without a license under certain conditions. Just as with fishing regulations, residents and visitors should also be aware of cannabis laws in Maryland to avoid legal issues while enjoying outdoor activities.
Anglers aged 16 and older must obtain appropriate licenses, which include non-tidal freshwater permits, Chesapeake Bay and coastal licenses, or consolidated options for seniors 65 and above.
The license application process can be completed online through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources COMPASS system or in person at authorized sporting goods stores. A trout stamp is required for both resident and non-resident anglers when fishing in designated trout waters.
While most anglers require licenses for fishing locations throughout the state, certain exemptions exist. These include riparian property owners fishing from their shoreline, active-duty military personnel on leave, and anyone fishing during designated free fishing days.
Additionally, saltwater anglers may need to register separately when fishing in specific coastal areas.
Daily Catch Limits
Maryland's daily catch limits establish strict regulations on the number and size of fish that can be legally harvested within a 24-hour period.
These catch limits vary by species and location, with special management areas implementing unique rules to guarantee sustainable fishing practices.
- Freshwater limits include five bass (minimum 12 inches), two trout, five channel catfish, and fifteen crappie per day.
- Saltwater restrictions allow one striped bass, one black drum, three bluefish, and one red drum per day.
- Aggregate limits combine multiple species under single quotas, particularly for bass and trout species.
- Special management areas, such as Put-and-Take Trout Areas and Deep Creek Lake, maintain distinct regulations.
Anglers must strictly adhere to these limits, as catch limit violations can result in significant penalties. The daily limit of 25 for American eels helps maintain sustainable populations of this important species.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting vulnerable species while maintaining recreational fishing opportunities.
Key Species Size and Catch Limits
Fishing regulations in Maryland establish specific size and catch limits for various freshwater and tidal species to guarantee sustainable populations.
Different species habitats require distinct fishing techniques and corresponding restrictions. For freshwater species, American Eel must be at least 9 inches with a daily limit of 25, while Bass species maintain a 12-inch minimum with a 5-fish daily limit. Red Drum can be caught year-round but must measure between 18 to 27 inches.
Larger predatory fish face stricter regulations, with Muskellunge requiring a 36-inch minimum and Northern Pike a 30-inch minimum.
In tidal waters, Black Drum must reach 16 inches with a single-fish daily limit, while Black Sea Bass requires a 13-inch minimum with a 15-fish daily limit.
Striped Bass regulations vary between tidal and nontidal waters, with size limits ranging from 18 to 24 inches depending on location.
Seasonal Fishing Restrictions
Beyond size and catch limits, anglers must adhere to strict seasonal fishing restrictions throughout Maryland's waters to protect spawning periods and maintain healthy fish populations.
These seasonal trends align with species protection efforts, particularly during critical reproductive cycles in the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters. Anglers are prohibited from using gaff or similar devices when handling striped bass in Maryland waters.
- Striped bass fishing is permitted from May 16 to July 15 and August 1 to December 10, with March designated as a complete closure in spawning rivers.
- Black sea bass season operates during May 15 to September 30 and October 10 to December 31.
- Cobia fishing remains open from June 15 to September 15.
- Tautog season runs from July 1 to May 15.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources enforces these regulations through routine monitoring and public notices, with specific gear restrictions applying to certain species and locations throughout the year.
Nontidal Waters Fishing Regulations
While traversing Maryland's diverse waterways, anglers must comply with specific regulations governing nontidal waters, which encompass lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers above tidal influence. These regulations dictate permissible fishing techniques and bait selection, with restrictions on gear including a three-line limit per person and specific hook configurations. Residents should note that dip nets are prohibited within 50 yards of any tributary mouths or dam breasts.
| Category | Requirement | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Lines | Active per person | 3 max |
| Hook Units | Per line | 2 max |
| Ice Fishing | Tip-ups/rods | 5 max |
| Bait Traps | Check frequency | Daily |
Anglers must obtain proper licensing unless exempt, with specific provisions for property owners fishing from riparian shorelines. Equipment regulations permit artificial lures for black bass, while net usage faces restrictions in Trout Management Areas. Size limits apply to various species, including a 12-inch minimum for both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
Protected Species and Closed Seasons
Maryland's protected species and closed seasons constitute essential components of the state's aquatic conservation framework. The regulations establish clear guidelines for sustainable practices and habitat conservation while ensuring recreational fishing opportunities remain viable.
Maryland actively balances wildlife protection and recreational access through careful regulation of its diverse aquatic ecosystems.
Key protected species requirements include:
- Hellbenders must be released by cutting the line near the hook if caught.
- Snapping turtles cannot be caught using hook and line in nontidal waters.
- Female crayfish with eggs are prohibited from capture or possession.
- Striped bass targeting is forbidden from April 1 to May 15 in Chesapeake Bay.
Specific temporal restrictions further protect aquatic resources, such as nighttime fishing prohibitions in trout streams between 10 p.m. and 5:30 a.m., except in nontidal impoundments over five acres. Violations of these regulations can result in fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to one year, or both penalties may be imposed.
The Battie Mixon Fishing Hole maintains distinct sunset-to-sunrise closure periods.
Equipment and Gear Requirements
The extensive framework of fishing equipment and gear requirements in Maryland establishes specific guidelines for both active and nonactive fishing methods.
Active line fishing tackle, including hook and line, rod and reel, and handline, must be continuously controlled by the angler, with a maximum of two hook units permitted per line. Daily trap checks are mandatory for all trap owners to ensure compliance with regulations. Snagging is prohibited in state waters.
Nonactive gear such as nets faces strict regulations, with cast nets limited to a 10-foot radius and specific requirements for seines and landing nets.
Projectile gear maintenance and usage guidelines mandate retrieval lines for spears and distance restrictions from designated areas.
Recreational crabbing equipment requires appropriate licensing, whether using collapsible traps, net rings, or trotlines.
While the state permits various fishing methods, all gear must comply with environmental regulations and species-specific restrictions.
Handling and Preservation Guidelines
Maintaining strict handling and preservation standards forms the cornerstone of Maryland's fishery management system, incorporating extensive guidelines for both recreational and commercial fishing activities. The regulations emphasize sustainable practices and fish welfare through science-based protocols that protect both the resource and public health. Conservation measures must prevent overfishing while ensuring efficient resource utilization.
- Species-specific handling requirements must be followed to prevent damage and guarantee quality preservation.
- Live well systems require proper maintenance and temperature control for ideal fish health.
- Immediate cooling and appropriate storage conditions are mandatory for maintaining freshness.
- Cross-contamination prevention and proper hygiene practices must be implemented during handling.
The Department of Natural Resources enforces these guidelines through regular inspections and collaborative efforts with stakeholders. Violations may result in penalties, while public awareness campaigns promote voluntary compliance with preservation standards.
Maryland's DNR partners with fishing communities to ensure compliance through inspections, enforcement actions, and educational outreach promoting proper fish handling practices.
These measures guarantee the long-term sustainability of Maryland's fisheries while maintaining high-quality catches.
Final Thoughts
Maryland's fishing regulations serve as a thorough framework, protecting aquatic resources while enabling recreational and commercial fishing activities. Through strict licensing requirements, species-specific limits, and seasonal restrictions, these laws maintain ecological balance, preserve endangered species, and guarantee sustainable harvests. Anglers must comply with equipment standards, handling protocols, and conservation measures, establishing Maryland as a leader in responsible fisheries management.