Anglers in Maryland, including those fishing the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries in Southern Maryland, achieved 760 FishMaryland species awards in 2025 by landing trophy-sized fish across more than 60 eligible species. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reported that many participants advanced through the program’s milestone levels, with 51 anglers earning recognition for three different species awards, 20 reaching Expert Angler status with five qualifying catches, and 11 attaining Master Angler rank by securing ten trophy-sized catches of different species.
The FishMaryland program, administered by the DNR’s Fishing and Boating Services, encourages year-round recreational fishing by offering citations for catches that meet or exceed minimum trophy sizes in categories including Atlantic Coast, Chesapeake Bay, nontidal, catch-and-release, and invasive species. Anglers submit photos showing the fish on a tape measure for verification, with catch-and-release options available for many species. The program highlights Maryland’s diverse fishing opportunities, from tidal waters around Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties to nontidal streams and the Atlantic.
- Mike Barnes caught 8.5″ Blue Crab
- Adam Krauss caught a 35.5″
- Chesapeake Channa (northern snakehead)
- Robert Ruth caught a 42″ Blue Catfish
- Cassie Hobbs caught and released a 15″ Crappie
- Dustin Darby caught a 26.25″ Sheepshead
- Weston Dawson caught a 13″ White Perch
Milestone awards, introduced since the program’s start in 2019, recognize consistent skill. Master Angler status, the highest level, requires ten different species and has remained rare. By early 2025, only 17 individuals had achieved it, but the number grew through the year as dedicated anglers pursued qualifying catches. Recent recognitions include multiple new Master Anglers, such as those who targeted invasive species like blue catfish, northern snakehead, and flathead catfish, which qualify only when harvested.
Large blue catfish, an invasive species abundant in the Chesapeake Bay, continue to draw anglers seeking big catches. Trophy white perch, a popular species in Maryland’s tidal rivers, provide exciting opportunities for anglers. Blue crabs, a Chesapeake Bay icon, qualify for awards at specific sizes, often caught by recreational crabbers.
To participate, anglers must hold a valid Maryland fishing license when required and follow gear and season regulations. Reports are submitted via email to the DNR with clear photos. The program also includes an invasive species component to encourage harvest of northern snakehead, blue catfish, and flathead catfish, aiding ecosystem management.
In 2025, the program coincided with other fishing highlights, including six new state records across divisions and ongoing efforts to promote conservation through awards. Southern Maryland’s access to the Potomac River, Patuxent River, and Chesapeake Bay makes it a prime location for pursuing these trophies, with species like white perch, blue catfish, and northern snakehead commonly targeted.
The DNR provides resources such as the MD Outdoors app for maps, fishing reports, and award details. Anglers interested in next year’s pursuits can review minimum sizes and eligible species on official pages.