Stevensville, MD -- Spring weather means it’s time to start gearing up for a summer season on the Chesapeake, and what better place to start the process than the Bay Bridge Boat Show, located at the Bay Bridge Marina on Kent Island and running from April 28 through May 1.
With four days to wander through more than 150 land-based exhibits and check out over 200 new and brokerage boats in the water and displayed on the marina grounds, the Bay Bridge Boat Show offers a one-stop shopping opportunity for all your boating needs. It's a great place to comparison shop and figure out what boat best suits your needs and interests.
Two huge tents offer the latest in gear, gadgets and services, plus experts ready to answer your questions about their products. Docks lined with dramatic state-of-the-art vessels as well as time-tested used boats make comparison shopping easy. Add a host of land-based and shoreside activities that will engage the whole family and you’ve got a good idea of what the show has to offer.
Boat dealers are reporting an uptick in boat sales, but boat pricing is still competitive. The dealers are ready to deal and financial services are eager to make loans to qualified buyers. Climb aboard the vessels on display and see for yourself what all the hype is about.
For tickets and more information about all the show's new attractions, visit usboat.com.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Wendell Catches Winning Striper at Boatyard Bar and Grill Tournament
Eastport, MD -- Andrew Wendell of Pasadena won his second Boatyard Bar and Grill fishing tournament on opening day of Maryland's trophy striped bass season. Wendell, who had won the 2009 tournament, survived miserable fishing conditions and reeled in a 42 7/8-inch fish near Bloddy Point to win the catch-and-release tournament again.
Wendell said he used a green parachute rig to lure in the monster rockfish.
The tournament raised money for conservation and youth programs. Anglers measure their fish with an official stick and take a digital photo to show judges.
Jesse Bucker caught a 42 3/16-inch striper near the Bay Bridge on a chartreuese parachute rig to take second place. Glenn Bogarde brought in a 42 1/8-inch fish on a yellow umbrella rig near Matapeake for third.
The tournament was extended into Sunday due to high winds and heavy seas. Tony Cullember's 42-inch rockfish, caught on Day Two claimed fourth place and Tom Pruett's 40 7/8-inch fish completed the top five finishers.
Wendell said he used a green parachute rig to lure in the monster rockfish.
The tournament raised money for conservation and youth programs. Anglers measure their fish with an official stick and take a digital photo to show judges.
Jesse Bucker caught a 42 3/16-inch striper near the Bay Bridge on a chartreuese parachute rig to take second place. Glenn Bogarde brought in a 42 1/8-inch fish on a yellow umbrella rig near Matapeake for third.
The tournament was extended into Sunday due to high winds and heavy seas. Tony Cullember's 42-inch rockfish, caught on Day Two claimed fourth place and Tom Pruett's 40 7/8-inch fish completed the top five finishers.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Anglers Can Win Prizes for Catching and Killing Snakeheads
“We do not want Snakeheads in our waters,” says DNR Inland Fisheries Director Don Cosden. “This initiative is a way to remind anglers that it is important to catch and kill this destructive species of fish.”
The Northern snakehead is a non-native fish species that was illegally introduced to the Potomac River. Snakeheads have thrived and expanded due to their ability to adapt to the Potomac’s ecosystem, and they now occupy the Potomac River and many of its tributaries. As top predators, their negative impacts to the ecosystem and other important recreational and commercially valued fisheries could be significant.
From now until December 31, 2011, anyone who catches a Northern snakehead with a hook-and-line and posts the catch including a photo of the dead fish on DNR’s Angler’s Log will be entered into a year end drawing. Anglers should report the location of their snakehead catches, as specifically as possible and include a ruler or another measuring device to indicate the size of the fish in the photo. Prizes include a $200 rod and tackle package, a Maryland State Park Passport and a 2012 Potomac River Fishing license. The park passport allows unlimited day-use entry for up to 10 people in a vehicle, unlimited boat launching at ALL facilities and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals.
If the snakehead has a tag inserted in its back, you may also call (800) 448-8322 and report the tag number to receive a special edition hat and a certificate from the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service.
It is not expected that angler removals will eradicate snakeheads from Maryland waters, but DNR believes that this action may help slow or reduce snakehead abundance. It has been demonstrated that fisheries with high harvest rates can significantly depress fish populations. Information gained from anglers will also help biologists assess abundance and impacts to other species. Anglers should remember that is illegal to possess a live northern snakehead in Maryland and Federal law prohibits transport of live snakeheads into the U.S. or across state lines.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Anglers, Boaters Can Now Use Renovated Lapidum Facility
“The Lapidum Boating Facility is an integral part of the statewide recreational and local boating community,” said Robert Gaudette, Director of the DNR’s Boating Services Unit. “The inter-departmental teamwork that helped complete this project shows DNR’s dedication to safe, high-quality boating access for everyone.”
The facility provides direct access to the Susquehanna River downstream of the Conowingo Dam, an area renowned for fishing, boating, hunting and general recreation for the public. The renovations included replacing the deteriorated boarding pier with a state-of-the-art floating dock, improving both the safety and ease of use of the facility at the varying water levels experienced at Lapidum. The stone breakwater was also renovated to provide essential protection from storms and wave action and the parking area was expanded to accommodate more users due to high demand. The new and improved facility is also ADA compliant.
The total cost of the construction phase was $435,000, with funds coming from both state and federal sources. State funding was provided through a DNR Waterway Improvement Fund grant of $135,000. Revenue for the fund comes from the one-time 5 percent excise tax paid when a boat is purchased and titled in the State of Maryland. The Waterway Improvement Fund was created in 1966 to support the development, use, and enjoyment of all waters in Maryland for the benefit of the general boating public.
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service provided $300,000 through the Federal Sport Fish Restoration Program which is a user pay, user benefit grant program funded by federal excise tax on fishing equipment and fuel tax from motor boats. Benefits from the taxes collected are passed on to the boaters and anglers through the funding of public recreational motor boat improvements such as those at Lapidum.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Maryland Department of Environment Says You Can Eat More Striped Bass
Baltimore, MD -- Revised fish consumption advisories from the Maryland Department of the Environment show that a healthy diet can include more striped bass than previously recommended. MDE’s revised advisories increase the recommended meal limits for striped bass for nearly every population group for fish caught in the Chesapeake Bay or in Maryland’s Atlantic coastal waters. The new recommendations stem from recent test results that showed a significant decline in levels of contaminants in striped bass from Maryland waters. Also, MDE data suggest that contaminant levels are even lower in striped bass fillets prepared, as the Department has long recommended, without fatty portions of the fish.
“Anyone who enjoys eating Maryland striped bass will welcome this news,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “This is good news for anglers who catch fish to feed themselves and their families and for businesses that benefit from recreational fishing. It’s also heartening for everyone working to restore the Chesapeake Bay.”
“Maryland's fish consumption advisories help us make the best choices about what fish we eat and how often we eat them as part of a healthy diet," said MDE Acting Secretary Robert M. Summers. "Contamination has decreased in the striped bass we tested, and although we do not have the data to identify a specific explanation for the decline, PCBs have been banned in the United States since 1979, and we're encouraged by this positive indication of the improving quality of our waters."
The striped bass, also known as rockfish, is the iconic species of Maryland sport fishing. Its population, once so threatened that a moratorium was placed on its harvesting, has rebounded in recent years.
The revised advisories being announced also include recommendations on the consumption of bluefish caught in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Coast.
The advisories: old versus new Under the new advisories, the recommended meal limits for the general population for smaller striped bass caught in the Chesapeake Bay increased by 50 percent, from two per month to three per month. Also, the advisories no longer include the “avoid” recommendation that had existed for women and children for certain striped bass.
The differences between the old and new advisories reflect a significant decline in the level of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in striped bass analyzed by MDE. Median PCB levels fell by more than half between fish analyzed from 2001 to 2005 and fish analyzed in 2009 and 2010 (see Table 2). MDE does not have the information needed to draw specific conclusions about the factors that led to these results, but the Department is encouraged by this data and will continue to track contaminant levels in striped bass and other fish.
Fillet preparation affects PCB levels When filleting, MDE recommends removing fatty portions where PCBs tend to concentrate, including the belly flap and the dark meat along the side of the fillet. To evaluate this recommendation in striped bass, MDE compared PCB levels in non-fatty dorsal fillet samples to whole fillet samples. PCB levels were reduced by 75 to 91 percent in the dorsal samples, with the general trend being a greater reduction with increasing size of fish. These results support the value of the filleting recommendations and give Marylanders a good reason to consider how they prepare striped bass fillets, in addition to following the meal limits in the striped bass advisory.
New bluefish advisories MDE is also releasing an advisory for bluefish caught in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic coastal waters. MDE has been able to obtain PCB data on bluefish smaller than 15 inches and greater than 28 inches but not on fish between 15 and 28 inches. Based on the available data for bluefish, MDE recommends a limit of two meals per month for bluefish less than 15 inches in length, but to avoid consumption of bluefish 15 inches and longer. These advisories could change as MDE learns more about the medium-size bluefish.
General information about MDE’s fish consumption advisories Fish can be an important part of a healthy diet. They are a good source of high-quality protein and nutrients and are low in saturated fat. They are high in helpful omega fatty acids. A well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fish can contribute to a child’s proper growth and development. The American Heart Association recommends that adults eat fish at least twice a week for a healthier heart.
MDE’s fish consumption advisories provide recommended limits on how often certain fish can be eaten and still enjoy the health benefits while minimizing health risks. They are intended for people who eat Maryland fish on a regular basis, including people who fish in local waters to provide food for themselves and their families and people who eat Maryland fish caught by sport fishermen.
To develop the advisories, MDE analyzes fish tissue for two contaminants which can pose health risks and which are known to accumulate in fish: PCBs and methylmercury.
PCBs, which have been banned in the United States since 1979, are synthetic oils that were primarily used as insulating fluids in heavy-duty electrical equipment. They enter the environment in multiple ways, including releases through faulty and broken equipment and unauthorized dumping. PCBs are very stable; once they are in the environment, they take a long time to break down and are still present in our environment today. The manufacture of PCBs was banned because of accumulation in the environment and risks to human health. They are taken up into the bodies of small organisms and fish. As a result, people who eat the fish may be exposed to PCBs that have accumulated in the fish.
Methylmercury is a form of mercury, a metal that occurs naturally but is also released into the environment by some industrial processes and the burning of coal and municipal solid waste. Mercury is converted to methylmercury by bacteria in water and soil. Fish absorb methylmercury as they feed. It builds up more in some types of fish than others.
Both contaminants are thought to pose risks to developing brains, and PCBs are suspected to cause cancer in humans. The PCB and methylmercury data from fish sample testing are used in mathematical equations that factor in health risks to calculate the recommended number of meals. Updated statistical assumptions and new test results, as they become available, are being used in calculations to determine revised advisories. MDE expects to issue revised consumption advisories for other species and waterbodies in the near future.
The advisories include separate categories for women and children because pregnant women, babies, and young children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of methylmercury and PCBs because of the potential harmful effect on developing brains.
The advisories for a species can also differ for the size of the fish. Larger fish tend to accumulate higher levels of contaminants than smaller fish.
MDE publicizes fish consumption advisories in a number of ways, including information on the Department’s website, postings at fishing locations as practical, and through outreach to target audiences such as anglers, through the guidebook typically distributed with fishing licenses, and to pregnant women and to children, through WIC centers.
To view this press release and related charts visit http://www.mde.state.md.us/programs/PressRoom/Pages/041311.aspx
“Anyone who enjoys eating Maryland striped bass will welcome this news,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “This is good news for anglers who catch fish to feed themselves and their families and for businesses that benefit from recreational fishing. It’s also heartening for everyone working to restore the Chesapeake Bay.”
“Maryland's fish consumption advisories help us make the best choices about what fish we eat and how often we eat them as part of a healthy diet," said MDE Acting Secretary Robert M. Summers. "Contamination has decreased in the striped bass we tested, and although we do not have the data to identify a specific explanation for the decline, PCBs have been banned in the United States since 1979, and we're encouraged by this positive indication of the improving quality of our waters."
The striped bass, also known as rockfish, is the iconic species of Maryland sport fishing. Its population, once so threatened that a moratorium was placed on its harvesting, has rebounded in recent years.
The revised advisories being announced also include recommendations on the consumption of bluefish caught in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Coast.
The advisories: old versus new Under the new advisories, the recommended meal limits for the general population for smaller striped bass caught in the Chesapeake Bay increased by 50 percent, from two per month to three per month. Also, the advisories no longer include the “avoid” recommendation that had existed for women and children for certain striped bass.
The differences between the old and new advisories reflect a significant decline in the level of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in striped bass analyzed by MDE. Median PCB levels fell by more than half between fish analyzed from 2001 to 2005 and fish analyzed in 2009 and 2010 (see Table 2). MDE does not have the information needed to draw specific conclusions about the factors that led to these results, but the Department is encouraged by this data and will continue to track contaminant levels in striped bass and other fish.
Fillet preparation affects PCB levels When filleting, MDE recommends removing fatty portions where PCBs tend to concentrate, including the belly flap and the dark meat along the side of the fillet. To evaluate this recommendation in striped bass, MDE compared PCB levels in non-fatty dorsal fillet samples to whole fillet samples. PCB levels were reduced by 75 to 91 percent in the dorsal samples, with the general trend being a greater reduction with increasing size of fish. These results support the value of the filleting recommendations and give Marylanders a good reason to consider how they prepare striped bass fillets, in addition to following the meal limits in the striped bass advisory.
New bluefish advisories MDE is also releasing an advisory for bluefish caught in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic coastal waters. MDE has been able to obtain PCB data on bluefish smaller than 15 inches and greater than 28 inches but not on fish between 15 and 28 inches. Based on the available data for bluefish, MDE recommends a limit of two meals per month for bluefish less than 15 inches in length, but to avoid consumption of bluefish 15 inches and longer. These advisories could change as MDE learns more about the medium-size bluefish.
General information about MDE’s fish consumption advisories Fish can be an important part of a healthy diet. They are a good source of high-quality protein and nutrients and are low in saturated fat. They are high in helpful omega fatty acids. A well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fish can contribute to a child’s proper growth and development. The American Heart Association recommends that adults eat fish at least twice a week for a healthier heart.
MDE’s fish consumption advisories provide recommended limits on how often certain fish can be eaten and still enjoy the health benefits while minimizing health risks. They are intended for people who eat Maryland fish on a regular basis, including people who fish in local waters to provide food for themselves and their families and people who eat Maryland fish caught by sport fishermen.
To develop the advisories, MDE analyzes fish tissue for two contaminants which can pose health risks and which are known to accumulate in fish: PCBs and methylmercury.
PCBs, which have been banned in the United States since 1979, are synthetic oils that were primarily used as insulating fluids in heavy-duty electrical equipment. They enter the environment in multiple ways, including releases through faulty and broken equipment and unauthorized dumping. PCBs are very stable; once they are in the environment, they take a long time to break down and are still present in our environment today. The manufacture of PCBs was banned because of accumulation in the environment and risks to human health. They are taken up into the bodies of small organisms and fish. As a result, people who eat the fish may be exposed to PCBs that have accumulated in the fish.
Methylmercury is a form of mercury, a metal that occurs naturally but is also released into the environment by some industrial processes and the burning of coal and municipal solid waste. Mercury is converted to methylmercury by bacteria in water and soil. Fish absorb methylmercury as they feed. It builds up more in some types of fish than others.
Both contaminants are thought to pose risks to developing brains, and PCBs are suspected to cause cancer in humans. The PCB and methylmercury data from fish sample testing are used in mathematical equations that factor in health risks to calculate the recommended number of meals. Updated statistical assumptions and new test results, as they become available, are being used in calculations to determine revised advisories. MDE expects to issue revised consumption advisories for other species and waterbodies in the near future.
The advisories include separate categories for women and children because pregnant women, babies, and young children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of methylmercury and PCBs because of the potential harmful effect on developing brains.
The advisories for a species can also differ for the size of the fish. Larger fish tend to accumulate higher levels of contaminants than smaller fish.
MDE publicizes fish consumption advisories in a number of ways, including information on the Department’s website, postings at fishing locations as practical, and through outreach to target audiences such as anglers, through the guidebook typically distributed with fishing licenses, and to pregnant women and to children, through WIC centers.
To view this press release and related charts visit http://www.mde.state.md.us/programs/PressRoom/Pages/041311.aspx
Saturday, April 16, 2011
April 13 Fishing Report by DNR's Keith Lockwood
Chesapeake Bay, Ocean City, MD -- Anticipation is always a stirring emotion for fishermen and it tends to bring them back to that youthful “just can’t wait” feelings we all tend to lose in our overburdened day to day trials. Although trout season is well underway and the opening day fever is under control there is still the excitement of additional in season stocking taking place every week. All fishermen know the anticipation of a good cast in a promising spot; it makes fishing what it is. These past couple of weeks on my travels to Fishing Challenge award centers, I’ve had the opportunity to be near boatyards and tackle shops where the anticipation of the striped bass season opener has captains and fishermen is bubbling over with excitement. The weather forecast for this Saturday’s opener looks a little rough with thunderstorms and wind predicted so be careful and use good judgment.
There was a large spawn this past weekend on the upper Nanticoke and Choptank Rivers and this was the first really big spawn of the season. Many experts will agree that the largest female striped bass tend to spawn first and these big girls are now headed down the tidal rivers and out into the bay. They are going to head out into the bay and take a left turn once they hit the shipping channel steep edges so good luck to you all and keep on the lookout for pre-spawn striped bass that are still heading up the bay.
Fishermen will be trolling arrays of large parachutes and bucktails this weekend on flat lines and planer boards but there are other ways to catch your trophy striped bass also. There will certainly be a crew at the CCNPP warm water discharge jigging with light tackle and soft plastic jigs. Sandy Point State Park is always a very popular spot for shore based fishermen using surf fishing tackle and bottom rigs baited with bloodworms and cut bait. The sandy tip of the beach where the current rips by is always the go to place for fishermen in the know. The Matapeake Fishing Pier and. the Point Lookout Pier will also get their share of attention this weekend.
There was a large spawn this past weekend on the upper Nanticoke and Choptank Rivers and this was the first really big spawn of the season. Many experts will agree that the largest female striped bass tend to spawn first and these big girls are now headed down the tidal rivers and out into the bay. They are going to head out into the bay and take a left turn once they hit the shipping channel steep edges so good luck to you all and keep on the lookout for pre-spawn striped bass that are still heading up the bay.
Fishermen will be trolling arrays of large parachutes and bucktails this weekend on flat lines and planer boards but there are other ways to catch your trophy striped bass also. There will certainly be a crew at the CCNPP warm water discharge jigging with light tackle and soft plastic jigs. Sandy Point State Park is always a very popular spot for shore based fishermen using surf fishing tackle and bottom rigs baited with bloodworms and cut bait. The sandy tip of the beach where the current rips by is always the go to place for fishermen in the know. The Matapeake Fishing Pier and. the Point Lookout Pier will also get their share of attention this weekend.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
NRP Charge Nine Recreational Anglers With Rockfish Poaching
Preston, MD -- The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) have charged nine recreational anglers from Delaware and Texas for illegally fishing in a designated striped bass spawning area in the Choptank River. The charges come just days before the opening of trophy striped bass season on April 16.
“The majority of Atlantic striped bass are born and return to spawn in very discreet areas throughout Maryland. For the health of the population, it is illegal to fish for striped bass in those areas during the annual spawn,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “Disregard for this fragile ecosystem -- and our state fish -- will not be tolerated.”
“The spawning reaches and areas of Chesapeake Bay are closed to the targeting and catching of striped bass during the spawning season,” said DNR Fisheries Service Director Tom O’Connell. “Spawning imposes significant energy demands on large female striped bass, and the stress of catch-and-release while spawning or in spawning areas can cause behavioral changes, including “fallback”, a phenomenon in which upstream migrating striped bass begin downstream following release.”
On April 9, NRP Officers set up surveillance in the Choptank River near Ganeys Wharf in Caroline County after receiving tips of people fishing illegally. The area is designated as a striped bass spawning river and reach, and catching or attempting to catch striped bass is illegal. NRP officers caught and charged four anglers on April 9 and five more the next day.
“Coastal Conservation Association Maryland believes that anglers both commercial and recreational bear the same burden of protecting Maryland's natural resources. The recreational anglers caught poaching on the Choptank must be held accountable for their illegal actions,” said Tony Friedrick, Executive Director of CCA MD. “CCA MD applauds the work of the Natural Resources Police and hopes this sends a clear message to all those who would consider breaking natural resources law.”
Officers charged Terry Edward Andrus of Cypress, TX; Timothy Wayne Barnett, 31, of Bridgeville DE; Paul Edward Daisey, 30, of Millville, DE; William Darr Hall, 57, of Bridgetown, DE; Kevin Glen Reese, 46, of Katy, TX; Frederick Joseph Ruff, 49, of Milton, DE; Kathy Ewing Ruff, 49, of Milton, DE; Mark Bryan Stubbs of Katy, TX, and Chad Edward Tingle, 35, of Selbyville, DE.
All those arrested face catch/attempt to catch striped bass in a spawning area/river between March 1 and May 31 charges. The penalty includes a fine of up to $500 and $1,500 per fish for each individual and a possible license suspension for up to one year. A court date has been set for May 13 in Caroline County District Court. Charges, fines and court dates are the same for all subjects. An additional seven warnings were also issued.
Earlier this year, NRP recovered 25 thousand pounds of illegally rockfish caught rockfish. DNR is offering a $30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
In the state’s ongoing efforts to protect the public trust, the 2011 General Assembly enacted several bills that would increase NRP authority and penalties for illegal fishing.
“The majority of Atlantic striped bass are born and return to spawn in very discreet areas throughout Maryland. For the health of the population, it is illegal to fish for striped bass in those areas during the annual spawn,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “Disregard for this fragile ecosystem -- and our state fish -- will not be tolerated.”
“The spawning reaches and areas of Chesapeake Bay are closed to the targeting and catching of striped bass during the spawning season,” said DNR Fisheries Service Director Tom O’Connell. “Spawning imposes significant energy demands on large female striped bass, and the stress of catch-and-release while spawning or in spawning areas can cause behavioral changes, including “fallback”, a phenomenon in which upstream migrating striped bass begin downstream following release.”
On April 9, NRP Officers set up surveillance in the Choptank River near Ganeys Wharf in Caroline County after receiving tips of people fishing illegally. The area is designated as a striped bass spawning river and reach, and catching or attempting to catch striped bass is illegal. NRP officers caught and charged four anglers on April 9 and five more the next day.
“Coastal Conservation Association Maryland believes that anglers both commercial and recreational bear the same burden of protecting Maryland's natural resources. The recreational anglers caught poaching on the Choptank must be held accountable for their illegal actions,” said Tony Friedrick, Executive Director of CCA MD. “CCA MD applauds the work of the Natural Resources Police and hopes this sends a clear message to all those who would consider breaking natural resources law.”
Officers charged Terry Edward Andrus of Cypress, TX; Timothy Wayne Barnett, 31, of Bridgeville DE; Paul Edward Daisey, 30, of Millville, DE; William Darr Hall, 57, of Bridgetown, DE; Kevin Glen Reese, 46, of Katy, TX; Frederick Joseph Ruff, 49, of Milton, DE; Kathy Ewing Ruff, 49, of Milton, DE; Mark Bryan Stubbs of Katy, TX, and Chad Edward Tingle, 35, of Selbyville, DE.
All those arrested face catch/attempt to catch striped bass in a spawning area/river between March 1 and May 31 charges. The penalty includes a fine of up to $500 and $1,500 per fish for each individual and a possible license suspension for up to one year. A court date has been set for May 13 in Caroline County District Court. Charges, fines and court dates are the same for all subjects. An additional seven warnings were also issued.
Earlier this year, NRP recovered 25 thousand pounds of illegally rockfish caught rockfish. DNR is offering a $30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
In the state’s ongoing efforts to protect the public trust, the 2011 General Assembly enacted several bills that would increase NRP authority and penalties for illegal fishing.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Anglers Getting Ready for Trophy Striper Season on the Bay
By Keith Lockwood
Chesapeake Bay -- Boat yards have been a buzz and travel lifts are working overtime as fishermen finish up that last coat of bottom paint and get their boats berthed for further preparations. Those that trailer their boats can be seen in backyards and driveways throughout the region getting everything ship shape. The anticipation of the opening of the trophy Striped Bass Season next Saturday, April 16, is bubbling over; it rivals the excitement of a 7-year-old child the week before Christmas.
Fishermen have been getting out on the bay to practice a little pre-season catch and release by either trolling or by light tackle jigging. The Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant (CCNPP) warm water discharge is just about the most popular and productive place to practice some catch and release light tackle jigging for striped bass and fishermen have been enjoying themselves while being very careful with the big fish. Water temperatures in the middle and lower bay are holding in the upper 40's so it's a natural that striped bass migrating up the bay take time for a little spell in what one might consider a dip in a hot tub for fish.
Shore based fishermen have been catching and releasing striped bass at prominent points on the bay and few are as popular as Sandy Point State Park. Stout surf fishing gear, circle hooks and bottom rigs baited with bloodworms or cut bait are the ticket to the fun. Fishermen are reminded though to come prepared with heavy tackle, rubber boots so one can meet the fish in shallow water for removing the hook. Dragging these pre-spawn fish up on the sand causes severe injury to the slime layer that is essential to their survival. Responsible fishermen already know that is illegal to target striped bass in the spawning reaches of the tidal rivers. The striped bass are already spawning now in the Choptank, Nanticoke and Patuxant Rivers so let them procreate to their fullest; a good reproductive year and a strong year class of young striped bass would be a fine thing indeed.
Water temperatures in the Susquehanna flats region are still at or below the 45-degree mark; a warm spell will help raise the temperature and the catch and release fishery there should improve soon. A few industrious fishermen have been trying their luck for the last week or so and a few large striped bass are beginning to be caught and released. When the water is this cold many fishermen start with circle hooks and fresh cut bait from gizzard shad or herring and drift through areas that may hold fish.
Fisheries biologists that are surveying hickory shad report that they've found them holding in the Susquehanna; so all it takes is a warming trend and the fish will soon be entering Deer and Octoraro Creeks; providing some exciting catch and release action for fishermen. Word is that fishermen are beginning to catch them at Fletcher's on the Potomac this week. White perch continue to move slowly move down the tidal rivers after their spawning runs and fishermen are catching them by fishing with bottom rigs baited with grass shrimp from shore or small boats in the channel areas. Channel catfish are very active now and no doubt fishermen drifting cut bait on circle hooks in the Susquehanna Flats area will be catching them while targeting striped bass. The tidal rivers have plenty of them also and they can make a tasty shore side lunch when deep fried in your favorite batter with hush puppies; a real treat and a lasting memory when taking young anglers fishing.
The trout management areas continue to offer some wonderful fishing opportunities for fishermen whether your target is a trout dinner from one of the generously stocked put and take areas or just enjoying the fun of catching and releasing trout in the non- take management areas. Water levels are good and the weather looks promising through the weekend so get out there and enjoy. If you have a young angler, be sure to check the trout stocking website on the Fisheries Service Home page and take them to a youth only fishing area.
Fishing for largemouth bass continues to be good as warming water temperatures in the freshwater and tidal river areas causes the bass to be more active. They are in a pre-spawn feeding mode and are looking to build up body stores for the coming spawning time. Emerging grass edges and sunken wood are always good places to look for bass as are creek mouths. Small crankbaits, spinnerbaits work well along edges and dropping a whacky rigged plastic worm down through sunken wood is always a good bet.
The western region fisheries biologists report fishing for walleyes, large yellow perch and smallmouth bass has been very good at Deep Creek Lake. Grass edges and steep edges have been productive places to cast or troll crankbaits or drift live bait. John Mullican reports that the upper Potomac has calmed down and fishing has been good for a mix of walleyes and smallmouth bass.
Fishermen in the coastal areas near Ocean City are catching a few tautog in and around the Ocean City Inlet area. Water temperatures are still in the 44-degree range so the best tautog fishing is at the end of an ebb tide. Offshore the party boat fleet is finding tautog and a few cod fish on the wreck sites. The bite has tended to be a bit slow because of cold water temperatures but some impressive sized tautog are being caught. Surf fishing prospects tend focus around pesky skates and the hope of an undersized striped bass. It will be close to a month before the post-spawn striped bass coming out of the Chesapeake begin to make their way along Maryland beaches.
Chesapeake Bay -- Boat yards have been a buzz and travel lifts are working overtime as fishermen finish up that last coat of bottom paint and get their boats berthed for further preparations. Those that trailer their boats can be seen in backyards and driveways throughout the region getting everything ship shape. The anticipation of the opening of the trophy Striped Bass Season next Saturday, April 16, is bubbling over; it rivals the excitement of a 7-year-old child the week before Christmas.
Fishermen have been getting out on the bay to practice a little pre-season catch and release by either trolling or by light tackle jigging. The Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant (CCNPP) warm water discharge is just about the most popular and productive place to practice some catch and release light tackle jigging for striped bass and fishermen have been enjoying themselves while being very careful with the big fish. Water temperatures in the middle and lower bay are holding in the upper 40's so it's a natural that striped bass migrating up the bay take time for a little spell in what one might consider a dip in a hot tub for fish.
Shore based fishermen have been catching and releasing striped bass at prominent points on the bay and few are as popular as Sandy Point State Park. Stout surf fishing gear, circle hooks and bottom rigs baited with bloodworms or cut bait are the ticket to the fun. Fishermen are reminded though to come prepared with heavy tackle, rubber boots so one can meet the fish in shallow water for removing the hook. Dragging these pre-spawn fish up on the sand causes severe injury to the slime layer that is essential to their survival. Responsible fishermen already know that is illegal to target striped bass in the spawning reaches of the tidal rivers. The striped bass are already spawning now in the Choptank, Nanticoke and Patuxant Rivers so let them procreate to their fullest; a good reproductive year and a strong year class of young striped bass would be a fine thing indeed.
Water temperatures in the Susquehanna flats region are still at or below the 45-degree mark; a warm spell will help raise the temperature and the catch and release fishery there should improve soon. A few industrious fishermen have been trying their luck for the last week or so and a few large striped bass are beginning to be caught and released. When the water is this cold many fishermen start with circle hooks and fresh cut bait from gizzard shad or herring and drift through areas that may hold fish.
Fisheries biologists that are surveying hickory shad report that they've found them holding in the Susquehanna; so all it takes is a warming trend and the fish will soon be entering Deer and Octoraro Creeks; providing some exciting catch and release action for fishermen. Word is that fishermen are beginning to catch them at Fletcher's on the Potomac this week. White perch continue to move slowly move down the tidal rivers after their spawning runs and fishermen are catching them by fishing with bottom rigs baited with grass shrimp from shore or small boats in the channel areas. Channel catfish are very active now and no doubt fishermen drifting cut bait on circle hooks in the Susquehanna Flats area will be catching them while targeting striped bass. The tidal rivers have plenty of them also and they can make a tasty shore side lunch when deep fried in your favorite batter with hush puppies; a real treat and a lasting memory when taking young anglers fishing.
The trout management areas continue to offer some wonderful fishing opportunities for fishermen whether your target is a trout dinner from one of the generously stocked put and take areas or just enjoying the fun of catching and releasing trout in the non- take management areas. Water levels are good and the weather looks promising through the weekend so get out there and enjoy. If you have a young angler, be sure to check the trout stocking website on the Fisheries Service Home page and take them to a youth only fishing area.
Fishing for largemouth bass continues to be good as warming water temperatures in the freshwater and tidal river areas causes the bass to be more active. They are in a pre-spawn feeding mode and are looking to build up body stores for the coming spawning time. Emerging grass edges and sunken wood are always good places to look for bass as are creek mouths. Small crankbaits, spinnerbaits work well along edges and dropping a whacky rigged plastic worm down through sunken wood is always a good bet.
The western region fisheries biologists report fishing for walleyes, large yellow perch and smallmouth bass has been very good at Deep Creek Lake. Grass edges and steep edges have been productive places to cast or troll crankbaits or drift live bait. John Mullican reports that the upper Potomac has calmed down and fishing has been good for a mix of walleyes and smallmouth bass.
Fishermen in the coastal areas near Ocean City are catching a few tautog in and around the Ocean City Inlet area. Water temperatures are still in the 44-degree range so the best tautog fishing is at the end of an ebb tide. Offshore the party boat fleet is finding tautog and a few cod fish on the wreck sites. The bite has tended to be a bit slow because of cold water temperatures but some impressive sized tautog are being caught. Surf fishing prospects tend focus around pesky skates and the hope of an undersized striped bass. It will be close to a month before the post-spawn striped bass coming out of the Chesapeake begin to make their way along Maryland beaches.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Maryland DNR Sets Summer Founder Regs
Annapolis, MD -- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Service has announced the 2011 recreational summer flounder regulations to include a three-fish creel limit, an 18-inch minimum size limit (an inch shorter than last year) and a season to run April 16 through November 30.
“Due to continued increases in the coastwide summer flounder stock and Maryland’s success in staying at or below the fishing target in 2010, summer flounder anglers will enjoy increased access to summer flounder in 2011,” said DNR Fisheries Director Tom O’Connell. “Our choice of regulation is a direct result of our biologists working together with our anglers to enact regulations that work toward the coastwide rebuilding schedule, while providing quality fishing opportunities to our fishermen.”
A public notice announcing the 2011 regulations was published on March 26. DNR would also like to remind fishermen that the size limit also applies to summer flounder caught by commercial hook and line and is effective April 16.
DNR is encouraging anglers to participate in the fisheries management process by joining the volunteer angler survey. Anglers who join the survey will become eligible to win a rod and reel combo donated by All Tackle.com, a fishing tackle retailer with superstores in Annapolis, Ocean City and online. Go to http://dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/survey/index.asp to participate.
In addition, any angler who catches a flounder measuring 24 inches or longer and registers it as a citation award eligible fish will receive free admission to the grand finale of the 2011 Maryland Fishing Challenge during the Maryland Seafood Festival at Sandy Point State Park on September 10. Simply bring your eligible fish to an authorized citation award center (certain tackle shops and charter boats) to receive your entry ticket and invitation for you and your family to the event. For details, go to http://dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/challenge/index.asp
“Due to continued increases in the coastwide summer flounder stock and Maryland’s success in staying at or below the fishing target in 2010, summer flounder anglers will enjoy increased access to summer flounder in 2011,” said DNR Fisheries Director Tom O’Connell. “Our choice of regulation is a direct result of our biologists working together with our anglers to enact regulations that work toward the coastwide rebuilding schedule, while providing quality fishing opportunities to our fishermen.”
A public notice announcing the 2011 regulations was published on March 26. DNR would also like to remind fishermen that the size limit also applies to summer flounder caught by commercial hook and line and is effective April 16.
DNR is encouraging anglers to participate in the fisheries management process by joining the volunteer angler survey. Anglers who join the survey will become eligible to win a rod and reel combo donated by All Tackle.com, a fishing tackle retailer with superstores in Annapolis, Ocean City and online. Go to http://dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/survey/index.asp to participate.
In addition, any angler who catches a flounder measuring 24 inches or longer and registers it as a citation award eligible fish will receive free admission to the grand finale of the 2011 Maryland Fishing Challenge during the Maryland Seafood Festival at Sandy Point State Park on September 10. Simply bring your eligible fish to an authorized citation award center (certain tackle shops and charter boats) to receive your entry ticket and invitation for you and your family to the event. For details, go to http://dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/challenge/index.asp
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