In an unexpected turn, Captain Bernie Shea of the charter boat Shea-D-Lady reported a significant catch of 64 eating-sized spot fish last Wednesday at the mouth of the Patuxent River, signaling an early start to the summer fishing season in Maryland. Traditionally, spot fish arrive by mid-June and peak around the Fourth of July. However, this year, they have shown up earlier than usual.
Shea, who is experienced in navigating the local waters, found success at several proven fishing spots including Drum Point and The O’ Club. The early arrival of spot fish has also been corroborated by local fishermen who noticed the fish in pound nets around Cornfield Harbor in the Potomac River since last week.
The recent uptick in fish activity may indicate the beginning of the summer fish migration, although it is still unclear whether this surge represents the start of a full migration or merely an early seasonal fluctuation.
Other signs of early summer include the appearance of speckled trout, caught by a lure caster in a kayak earlier this week. Additionally, large quantities of skate, specifically cow-nosed rays, have invaded the mouth of the Potomac, eagerly taking lures at Point Lookout.
Striped bass, commonly referred to as stripers, are also active, often being caught on lures intended for other species across most locations in the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers. Anglers are reminded to release these fish carefully, adhering to current regulations that allow the keeping of one striper per day within a 19 to 24-inch slot, starting May 16th in the bay and Potomac. However, the Patuxent River will not open for striped bass fishing until June 1st.
Other fishing activities have also seen an uptick; catfish are plentiful and showing a preference for fresh cut bait, especially during nocturnal hours. White perch have migrated into creeks in search of grass shrimp, minnows, and soft crabs, while crabs themselves are being caught more frequently in baited pots and hand traps in the local creeks and rivers.
This early onset of summer fishing conditions has sparked enthusiasm among local anglers and charter operators, who are anticipating a bustling season ahead.
