Fishing conditions in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are mixed as July begins, according to Ken Lamb of St. Mary’s Tacklebox.
Rockfish have become scarce in their normal daytime locations in creeks and rivers as water temperatures approach 80 degrees. Early morning and late evening offer the best chances for activity. Night fishing with fresh cut bait has been productive. Big stripers in excess of the 24-inch maximum are still being found cruising after dark. Alewife, peeler crab and razor clam are effective baits.
Cobia are becoming more plentiful in the lower bay from the Target ship south to the Bay Bridge Tunnel. Undersized cobia are being caught in the Point Lookout area, where the minimum size is 43 inches. Some keepers are also being reported. The prime area from the Target ship to Smith Point sees daily catches when wind conditions allow. Chumming with live eels has been effective. Cobia are occasionally near the surface and can be targeted with big jigs.
Trollers are finding big bluefish up to 30 inches using surgical eel lures, with some cobia mixed in. The blues can also be caught at night using cut bait. Smaller snapper bluefish are now present in local waters and are eager to take bait and lures. Wire leaders are recommended to protect against their sharp teeth.
Boats anchored at night near the Target ship have caught big blues, cobia, croaker and spot this weekend.
Big spot are plentiful in the mouth of the Patuxent River. Capt. Bernie Shea on the Shea-D-Lady is loading up daily with spot, croaker and snapper bluefish. Croaker are getting bigger and more numerous. Bloodworms, lug worms and Fish Bites are favored baits. Tiny spot are everywhere in creeks and rivers on sandy bottoms.
The Fourth of July holiday week brings a traditional heat wave. Summertime fishing remains active despite the rising water temperatures.
Lamb’s report reflects typical early July patterns in Southern Maryland waters. As water warms, fish behavior changes, with many species becoming more active during cooler parts of the day or at night.
For local anglers in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties, the report provides valuable guidance on where and when to fish. Rockfish remain a popular target, but timing is critical. Cobia fishing is improving in the lower bay, offering exciting opportunities for those venturing farther out.
The presence of big spot and croaker in the Patuxent River mouth is good news for inshore anglers. These species provide consistent action during the summer months.
Safety remains important during the holiday weekend and heat wave. Anglers should stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and be mindful of weather conditions when on the water.
St. Mary’s Tacklebox continues to serve as a local resource for fishing information, bait and tackle. The shop’s reports help anglers make informed decisions about where to fish and what techniques to use.
As the summer fishing season progresses, conditions will continue to evolve. Anglers are encouraged to check daily reports and adjust strategies accordingly.
The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries remain a premier fishing destination in Southern Maryland. Whether targeting rockfish at night, chasing cobia in the lower bay or enjoying action with spot and croaker, opportunities abound for local fishermen.
