Maryland Fishing Report: A Comprehensive Guide to April 8, 2026
The Maryland fishing scene is abuzz with activity as the spring weather sets in, offering anglers a plethora of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. From trout fishing in the Patuxent River to striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay, this report provides a detailed breakdown of the best spots and techniques for a successful catch.
Trout Fishing
Trout fishing is a popular pastime in Maryland, and the hatchery crews are working hard to ensure a bountiful harvest. Anglers can find trout in various locations, including the Patuxent River, where Eason Feng recently caught a large rainbow trout. For the latest updates on trout stocking and Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) activities, anglers can sign up for the email subscription service at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MDDNR/subscriber/new?qsp=CODE_RED.
Volunteer Angler Surveys
DNR encourages anglers to participate in volunteer angler surveys, which provide valuable data for fisheries management. By recording their fishing experiences, anglers contribute to the understanding of fish populations and help scientists monitor harvest and catch data. The survey webpage can be found at https://dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/Pages/survey/index.aspx.
Forecast Summary
The forecast for April 8-14 highlights the changing conditions in Maryland waters. The main Bay surface and river mouth water temperatures are in the low to mid-50s, while smaller rivers and streams hold temperatures in the upper 40s to low 50s. Warmer days will bring temperatures near 60 degrees in low salinity areas, making them prime spots for white perch and hickory shad spawning.
Chesapeake Bay Fishing
The upper Chesapeake Bay offers catch-and-release fishing for striped bass below Abby Point to Worton Point. Anglers can troll large tandem-rigged bucktails and sassy shads, with channel edges and menhaden schools providing excellent opportunities. Owen Stewart's recent catch at the mouth of the Bush River showcases the potential for large striped bass.
Lower Bay and Potomac River
The lower Bay and Potomac River present a variety of fishing options. Anglers can troll large bucktails and sassy shads along the shipping channel, targeting schools of large menhaden. Jigging with large soft plastics is also effective. The Potomac River is open to catch-and-release, offering opportunities for hickory shad and the first American shad near Fletcher's Landing.
Middle Bay
In the middle Bay, anglers can troll along steep channel edges and jig with large soft plastics. The Choptank River is a hotspot for striped bass spawning, but it is closed to catch-and-release fishing due to the stress on the fish. White perch can be found in the upper Choptank River, and blue catfish and channel catfish are active in the Choptank and Tuckahoe rivers.
Freshwater Fishing
Trout fishing remains popular in the central and western regions, with hatchery crews stocking various trout management waters. Smallmouth bass are active in the upper Potomac River, Deep Creek Lake, and the lower Susquehanna River, while largemouth bass are feeding in transitional depths near emerging grass beds and sunken wood. Chesapeake Channa (northern snakeheads) are being caught in warmer waters, and crappie fishing is good near deeper submerged structures.
Atlantic Ocean and Coastal Bays
Anglers in the Ocean City area are catching black drum on sand fleas or clams, but clearnose skates and dogfish are also present. Tautog are moving inshore, and flounder are heading to warmer back bay waters. Striped bass can be found at Route 90 and Verrazzano bridge piers, with paddletails as the preferred lure.
In conclusion, Maryland offers a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. From trout in the rivers to striped bass in the Bay, and from freshwater bass to coastal fishing, there's something for everyone. Remember to participate in DNR's Volunteer Angler Surveys and always follow catch-and-release practices to ensure the sustainability of Maryland's fisheries.
