Tips for Chesapeake Bay Fishing

Free Fishing

Several license-free fising areas are designated on the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers several annual license-free fishing days allowing those without a Maryland fishing license to fish. Typically these days fall in June and July, some on holiday weekends.

DNR has also dedicated some fishing locations in the state to be continually license-free. These areas all require the angler to fish from shores, piers or bridges. There are no license-free areas for those fishing from a boat. Anglers fishing these areas do need to follow state fishing laws and regulations. Free fishing days and license free-fishing areas are listed on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.

Charter a Fishing Boat

Charter fishing trips can often ensure a successful catch.

Commercial charter fishing boats are available to anglers during most of the year from many of the cities and towns that surround the bay in both Maryland and Virginia. Finding an appropriate charter is a sure way to be lead to the best fishing spots to ensure a successful fishing trip. Most boats provide equipment for those that do not own gear appropriate to catch fish in the bay. Private and group charter boats can be booked for a wide range of excursions and prices. Some of the most well known charter trips originate in Solomons, Maryland. Located at the southern most tip of the western shore of the bay, this historic town welcomes anglers all year long.

Fish Less Crowded Areas of the Bay

Fish from a kayak or motor boat off of rural Deal Island

While it may be attractive to fish in the bay near popular destination cities like Baltimore or Norfolk, finding fishing spots in and off the coast of some of the smaller jewels on the bay may create a more enriching and successful fishing experience.

Located near the northern end of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Kiptopeke State Park on the Eastern Shore of Virginia is a mecca for anglers who want access to a less crowded more natural part of the bay.

In Maryland, consider Deal Island on the Eastern Shore. Deal Island is 45 minutes south of Salisbury and a half hour west of Princess Anne. This small quiet island on the bay is within easy reach of some of the best fishing spots the Chesapeake has to offer. Catch the big ones from shore or launch a boat or kayak and spend the day fishing the bay away from the crowds. Bring your bug spray if you fish Deal Island in the summer. The local mashes are a draw for both anglers and mosquitoes.