September is shaping up to be an excellent month for fishing enthusiasts, with ideal weather conditions and an abundance of fish species being reported across the Patuxent and Potomac rivers and their tributaries. Ken Lamb of the St. Mary’s Tacklebox notes that the area is experiencing some of the best fishing in years, particularly for hardhead, which are seeing their highest numbers and sizes in a decade.
In the Patuxent River, anglers are reeling in not only hardhead but also large spot and some sea bass. The Potomac River is not to be outdone, offering ample opportunities to catch rockfish in both deep holes and shallow waters.
The variety of fish available is extensive. Redfish, also known as puppy drum, slot reds, channel bass, or bull reds depending on their size, are flourishing throughout the bay, rivers, and creeks. Spanish mackerel and chopper bluefish are also making a strong showing in the bay. Anglers using trolled surgical eels and small shiny spoons, combined with number one or two planers, are likely to have successful outings.
For those preferring to fish from the shore, the news is equally positive. Blues, reds, rockfish, spot, and croaker are all biting on moving tides. Effective baits include bloodworms, lug worms, shrimp, and squid.
As the catfish begin their seasonal migration from the upper rivers and fresher waters, the Bushwood and Cobb Island areas have reported a robust catfish bite this week. This movement marks a shift from their summertime habitats to areas where anglers can more readily catch them.
Crabbing prospects are also excellent. Recreational crabbers using pots off private docks are finding crabs to be both plentiful and large. Even those using the traditional chicken necking method are reporting success.
Overall, the combination of perfect weather and a diverse range of fish and crab species makes this September an ideal time for fishing and crabbing enthusiasts to enjoy the bounty of Southern Maryland’s waters.
