Unlock the Great Outdoors
Why limit yourself to public land when there are millions of acres of private land to explore.
Freshwater Fishing in Maryland
Maryland Fishing at a Glance
Fishing in Maryland offers an abundance of opportunity for the intrepid angler, with more than 20% of the state consisting of lakes and streams. The local fisheries keep the water stocked with a mix of wild and introduced species that are just waiting to be caught. With a busy ice fishing season to boot, the experience is never ending!
For those looking to make a catch, bass, catfish, trout, and walleye are some of the most sought after fish. To get your perfect catch when fishing for bass, timing is everything – so consider heading out early mornings or late evenings. Live baitfish, artificial lures and flies are all great baits to have on hand.
Trout can be found in many rivers and streams in Maryland which make them ideal for spring and fall fishing. Walleye on the other hand will usually hang around lakes and ponds which makes them great targets for early morning or evening trips.
But before you set out on any fishing trip in Maryland make sure you have obtained a license from the Department of Natural Resources either online or nearby.
Key Insights
- Maryland offers great fishing opportunities with over 20% of the state being comprised of lakes and streams
- Bass, catfish, trout, and walleye are some of the most popular fish to catch in the area
- Timing is everything for bass fishing, with early mornings and late evenings being the best times to catch them
- Trout can be found in many rivers and streams in Maryland, and are great targets for spring and fall fishing
- Obtain a fishing license from the Department of Natural Resources either online or nearby before setting out on a trip
Table of Contents
Estimated Fishing Enthusiasts
| Population: | 6,177,224 |
|---|---|
| Fishing Enthusiasts | 264,760 |
| Fishing License % | 4.29% |
| Hunters Rank | 45 |
The state of Maryland is mostly private land with just 6.86% of acres considered public land -ranking #32 amongst all states.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 6,256,000 | ||
| Public | 428,980 | 6.86% | 32 |
| Private | 5,827,020 | 93.14% | 18 |
| Tribal | 0 | 0.00% | no tribal land |
Maryland Fishing Licenses & Requirements
For the most accurate and updated information on fishing licenses and requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the Maryland DNR. We’ve provided their contact information and other helpful information for your convenience here.
Maryland DNR
580 TAYLOR AVENUE
ANNAPOLIS, MD 21401
- (410) 260-3282
What are the most popular freshwater fish to catch in Maryland?
The most popular types of river or stream fish to fish for in Maryland are smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, striped bass, bluegill, and catfish. All of these fish can be found in the state’s major rivers and streams, and each offers its own unique challenges and rewards. Smallmouth bass are notorious for being difficult to catch, and they put up a good fight once hooked. Largemouth bass are the largest type of bass found in Maryland, and they can weigh up to ten pounds. Striped bass are one of the most popular game fish in the state, due to their size and fighting ability. Bluegill are a favorite among young anglers, as they are relatively easy to catch. Lastly, catfish are also popular among anglers looking for a challenge, as they can grow to be quite large.
Unlock the profits in your land
The hassle free way to monetize your acreage.
Unlock the Great Outdoors
We’re working with landowners all across Maryland to provide private land access for more activities. Add your information below to stay up to date.
Fishing private land in Maryland
Fishing on private land in Maryland has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Maryland or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.
1. Deep Creek Lake
2. Chesapeake Bay
3. Susquehanna River
4. Potomac River
5. Patuxent River
Fishing private land in Maryland
Fishing on private land in Maryland has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Maryland or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.