Bottom fishing remains excellent in the mouth of the Patuxent River, with spot and croaker carpeting the bottom from Helen’s Creek to the Three Legged area. Anglers are reporting catches of up to 100 fish per person using bloodworms, Fish Bites, lug worms, shrimp, squid or even night crawlers.
Captain Bernie Shea of a local bottom fishing specialist service recommends scheduling trips now to take advantage of the consistent action.
Similar strong bottom fishing is occurring in the Potomac River, where speckled trout have moved into the mouth of Breton Bay and around Ragged Point.
Overall fishing conditions across Southern Maryland waters rate very good to excellent on any given day, particularly during sunrise, sunset and moving tides. White perch in the creeks remain inconsistent for lure casters, with rainstorms staining the water and pushing fish toward clearer river areas. The next day often brings them back aggressively. Thick nettles can complicate casting, but good days remain very productive.
Rockfish, speckled trout and bluefish are providing solid action for lure casters on moving tides. Patience and timing with nature’s bite signals are key. When conditions align, anglers describe it as fishing heaven.
Bluefish and cobia are actively hitting trolled surgical eels, with popular colors including orange, pink and white. Planers and in-line sinkers prove effective. Blues range from three to ten pounds and frequently break on baitfish. Cobia fishing has been strong for both chummers using live eels and trollers, though many fall below the 42-inch minimum size. Even smaller fish provide powerful fights.
Red drum are schooled and roaming the lower bay. Sight casters occasionally connect with big bull reds and cobia, offering high-reward opportunities despite the challenge.
Crabbing remains outstanding this summer, with plentiful and large crabs filling pots off private piers. Chicken neckers are also reporting good success.
The weekend forecast calls for highs in the low 80s and lows in the 60s with light winds. The recent heat wave has broken, providing more comfortable conditions on the water. The August rockfish moratorium begins in 12 days, so anglers are encouraged to take advantage of current opportunities before the pause.
