Message from the DNR
Welcome to another season of fishing and crabbing in Maryland!
From the oyster reefs at the bottom of the Chesapeake Bay to the trout streams flowing from the mountains of western Maryland, this state offers a diverse range of world-class fishing opportunities.
Our networks of state and local parks, forests, and wildlife management areas provide anglers with access to thousands of acres throughout Maryland’s most beautiful natural places.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is working to ensure that the state’s magnificent natural resources are accessible to everyone. We want you, your family, and your friends to take advantage of the great outdoor opportunities in Maryland by pursuing your passion for fishing and crabbing.
As DNR continues its work to manage the diverse fisheries in the state, department staff are addressing challenges head-on. We continue to work with our federal partners to mitigate the spread of blue catfish and other invasive species impacting our fisheries. This year, we’d appreciate your help. We’re encouraging anglers to bag a few–or a few dozen–blue catfish, cook them up, and share the fish with others at a group meal.
If you’re up for a significant challenge, try becoming a FishMaryland Master Angler. This recreational fishing award is the highest achievement for anglers in Maryland. To become a Maryland Master Angler you must catch 10 trophy-sized fish of different species from among the 60 eligible species in the state. As of the beginning of 2025, just 17 Master Anglers have been named since the program began in 2019.
Chasing awards and big catches are exciting, but managing Maryland’s fisheries sustainably remains the department’s primary goal and anglers play an integral role. The state’s sportsmen and sportswomen are important advocates and we thank them for helping to promote the importance of clean water and healthy fish populations.
The information in this guide is based on regulations and laws developed with your input that are designed to sustainably manage fish and other aquatic species in the state. Above all, we must pass down our knowledge and experience to the next generation who will take to Maryland’s waters. When you go out fishing this year, be sure to introduce this beloved pastime to someone new.
Here’s wishing you tight lines and full nets this season!
Josh Kurtz, Secretary
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
