By Contributing Writer
Chesapeake Bay is the largest estuary in the
United States. It is home to some of the priciest real estate and best fishing in the Northeast. The Chesapeake Bay is bordered primarily by Maryland and Virginia. For this reason, the fishing regulations that take precedence on the Bay are an amalgamation of the fishing regulations from the two states.
Licensing
In order to fish on Chesapeake Bay, a fishing license is required. Fishing licenses can be obtained from either Virginia or Maryland, and are available to both residents and visitors alike. A Tidal Sport Fishing License is required for all participants 16 years of age and older. The fishing license covers both the bay and its tributaries.
Forbidden Species
Some species of fish are protected and cannot be taken from the Bay. American Shad, Hickory Shad and the Atlantic and Shortnose Sturgeon are among the protected species. Some species are specifically forbidden during specific times of the year, such as Tautog which cannot be removed from the Bay during the month of December. The harvest of shellfish, such as Blue Crab is forbidden except on specific days. Soft crabs can be harvested at any time.
Catch Limits
Some species may only be removed in certain numbers daily. For Black Sea Bass at least 12.5 inches long, up to 25 per person can be removed from the Bay daily. Striped Bass are catch and release only between March 1 and May 3 annually. May 16 through 31 Striped Bass that are between 18 and 26 inches in length can be kept, limited to one per person daily. For Blue Catfish, one fish per day over 32 inches can be removed from the lake.
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