2026 Maryland Chesapeake Bay Fishing Season
Rockfish season runs May 1 – July 31, 2026 and September 1 – December 10, 2026. Summer size/limits and in-season closures follow Maryland DNR regulations in effect at time of trip.
Rockfish closure window: August 1 – August 31, 2026. Crabbing, bow fishing, bottom fishing, and Bay cruises are available during the closure.
| Month / Dates | Typical Target Species | Gear Included |
|---|---|---|
| February | Rockfish (catch and release), weather-dependent | Included |
| March | Rockfish (catch and release), blue catfish | Included |
| April | Blue catfish and early-season opportunities | Included |
| May (opens May 1) | Rockfish opener and blue catfish | Included |
| June - July | Rockfish, bluefish, croaker, spot, perch (regulation-dependent) | Included |
| August (rockfish closed) | Crabbing, bow fishing, bottom fishing for white perch and snakeheads, Bay cruises | Included |
| September (reopens Sept 1) | Rockfish, bluefish, spanish mackerel, croaker, spot, perch | Included |
| October - December 10 | Larger fall rockfish patterns | Included |
Regulations can change by emergency action. We always run trips by current legal limits and safety conditions.