Annapolis, Md. — New Maryland regulations for 2026 recreational striped bass fishing take effect April 1, returning catch-and-release fishing in April for the first time since 2019 while closing the entire month of August to protect the species during hot weather.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the seasonal shift to simplify rules and support long-term conservation of striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay. The changes align with the Interstate Fishery Management Plan and were developed after extensive stakeholder engagement and review of thousands of public comments.
The 2026 recreational striped bass season in the Chesapeake Bay and tidal tributaries is as follows: January 1 through April 30, catch-and-release fishing only; May 1 through July 31, harvest season; August 1 through 31, closed to all targeting; September 1 through December 5, harvest season; December 6 through 31, catch-and-release fishing only.
Spawning rivers remain closed to targeting from March 1 to May 31 to protect spawning striped bass. Closed areas include the Choptank, Chester, Manokin, Nanticoke, Patuxent, Transquaking and Wicomico rivers as well as the Upper Bay spawning area, including the Susquehanna Flats. Anglers can refer to the DNR website for maps and additional information regarding these closures. Striped bass fishing on the main stem of the Potomac River is managed separately by the Potomac River Fisheries Commission.
Starting May 1, when harvest is permitted, anglers may keep one striped bass per person per day with a minimum length of 19 inches and a maximum length of 24 inches.
During catch-and-release seasons, officials encourage anglers to use techniques that improve fish survival, such as limiting handling and minimizing air exposure. The same gear rules that apply in March extend through May 15. These rules prohibit stinger hooks, limit trolling to six rods and require barbless hooks while trolling.
In the previous two years, all targeting of striped bass in the Bay was prohibited from April 1 to May 15 and from July 16 to July 31, with additional closure areas and periods in specific tributaries. The new schedule opens April for catch-and-release when water temperatures are cooler and generally safer for the fish. It closes August entirely because hot water temperatures increase the likelihood of recreational dead discards from hook-and-line fishing.
Fisheries scientists determined the seasonal shift would not result in additional striped bass mortalities. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission Striped Bass Board approved Addendum III to Amendment 7 to the Plan for Atlantic Striped Bass in 2025, allowing Maryland to adjust its Chesapeake Bay recreational season baseline.
Striped bass is one of the most popular recreational fisheries in Maryland. Recreational fishing and boating generated an estimated 701.5 million dollars in value added economic activity in the state in 2024, according to outdoor recreation statistics compiled by the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis.
The ocean recreational fishery remains open year-round with a 28-inch to 31-inch slot limit and a coastwide daily bag limit of one fish.
Kate Charbonneau, DNR’s Assistant Secretary of Aquatic Resources, stated that the new regulations simplify the recreational and charter boat seasons, making them easier to find and read.
Southern Maryland anglers in Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties, who frequently fish the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay tributaries, will see the new April catch-and-release opportunity alongside the continued spawning river closure that includes the Patuxent. The full August closure aims to reduce stress on the fishery during peak summer heat, a period when fish are more vulnerable.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds anglers that all regulations are designed to support the recovery of the striped bass population while maintaining recreational opportunities. Anglers should check the DNR website for the latest maps, updates and compliance guides before heading out on the water.
This reporting is based directly on the official Maryland DNR announcement dated March 31, 2026, and supporting regulatory documents.
