2023 Maryland Chesapeake Bay Fishing Season

The 2023 Maryland striped bass (Rockfish) season kicks off on Monday May 1st with BIG trophy fish averaging 10-40lbs. During trophy season (May 1 - May 15) Rockfish have to be 35" or over and each person can keep (1) one rockfish. After May 16th the rockfish size and limit will change to 19" to 31" and each person can keep (2) two rockfish. Rockfish Season is closed July 16, 2023 - July 31, 2023. We look forward to a great 2023 fishing season in Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay.

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Fish marked in RED have the best chance of being caught.

Dates Types of Fish Rods/Reels & Bait
February Rockfish Catch and Release ONLY No extra charge
March Rockfish Catch and Release ONLY
Blue Catfish 10lbs - 50+lbs
No extra charge
April Rockfish Catch and Release ONLY
Blue Catfish 10lbs - 50+lbs
No extra charge
May Trophy Rockfish 10lbs - 40lbs
Blue Catfish 10lbs - 50+lbs
No extra charge
June
July
Rockfish
Blue Catfish 5lbs - 20+lbs
Bluefish
Croaker
Spot
Perch
No extra charge
August
September
Rockfish
Blue Catfish 5lbs - 20+lbs
Bluefish
Spanish Mackerel
Croaker
Spot
Perch
No extra charge
October
November
December
Bigger Rockfish No extra charge