ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced a closure of the Chesapeake Bay striped bass recreational fishery from July 16 to July 31, 2025, prohibiting anglers from targeting the species in the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries. Now in its sixth year, this midseason closure protects Chesapeake Bay striped bass during peak summer heat, when high water and air temperatures increase the risk of mortality from catch-and-release fishing.
Introduced in 2020, the closure reduces stress on Chesapeake Bay striped bass, which are more vulnerable in hot conditions. Recent research highlights environmental factors like warm winters and low water flows as significant influences on spawning success, but the summer closure remains a critical measure to decrease overall mortality of the resident Chesapeake Bay striped bass stock. In 2022, recreational dead discards—fish that die after being caught and released—accounted for 21% of fishing-related Chesapeake Bay striped bass deaths, with recreational harvest at 44%, commercial harvest at 31%, and commercial dead discards at 4%.
The DNR’s Striped Bass Summer Fishing Advisory Forecast identifies “red flag” days when anglers are urged to avoid fishing for Chesapeake Bay striped bass after 10 a.m. due to excessive heat. This initiative complements the closure, further protecting the species during stressful conditions. The Chesapeake Bay striped bass fishery will reopen from August 1 to December 10, 2025, allowing anglers to keep one fish per person per day, measuring between 19 and 24 inches.
During the closure, DNR encourages anglers to target invasive species like blue catfish and Chesapeake Channa (snakehead), which have no bag or size limits. Harvesting these species supports a healthier Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. The DNR website provides tips for fishing blue catfish, offering alternative methods to avoid striped bass techniques. Anglers can purchase licenses online at MD Outdoors, DNR service centers, or sport license agent retailers.
The Chesapeake Bay striped bass closure reflects Maryland’s commitment to sustainable fisheries management. By reducing fishing pressure during high-risk periods, the DNR aims to bolster the long-term health of the Chesapeake Bay striped bass population. Anglers are urged to comply with the closure and explore alternative fishing opportunities to support conservation efforts. The DNR’s ongoing monitoring and advisories ensure that Chesapeake Bay striped bass remain a vital part of Maryland’s recreational and ecological landscape.
