Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- It took a lot of patience and of course sweat, but it seems that the back of the drought and heat has finally been broken and cooler temperatures are beginning to appear. We all know there will be a couple of swings back to hot temperatures in the near future but we can all hang on to the hope that cooler and more comfortable temperatures are ahead for fishermen and fish alike. Water temperatures have cooled slightly and the NOAA Buoy at the Gooses actually shows a warmer temperature at the bottom of the bay at 81-degrees and a cooler 80-degrees at the surface. Both saltwater and freshwater fish will begin to slowly drift out of a summer pattern of behavior in the month of September.

     As we approach the last week of August with Labor Day in sight; the 2011/2012 Maryland Fishing Challenge is coming to an end on September 3rd. A wonderful awards event is planned for September 8th with some fabulous prizes and contestants in attendance will get a free Under Armour T-shirt. So check the minimum sizes listed in the Fishing Guide or Fishing Challenge website and hopefully you can catch a qualifying fish to be entered in this year's event.

     Upper bay fishermen are finding a mix of white perch and channel catfish in most of the tidal rivers in the upper part of the bay, The Susquehanna also holds the promise of striped bass near the Conowingo Dam. Farther down the bay fishermen are finding white perch and a few spot on some of the reefs and knolls out in the bay such as Man O War Shoal and the 7" and 9" knolls on bloodworms and bottom rigs this week. A little farther down the bay, in the Rock Hall to Bay Bridge area, fishermen are finding schools of small striped bass and bluefish chasing bait over a wide area. Often fishermen are finding a larger grade of striped bass by jigging under the breaking fish or finding the larger fish holding to structure. Live lining spot and chumming is a good option in the areas around the bridge piers and Love Point but small striped bass and toothy bluefish are a big part of the action.

     In the middle bay region fishermen are finding good striped bass fishing around the mouth of the Choptank River this week at the Diamonds and False Channel. The northwest edge of the Hill off Poplar Island and similar steep channel edges such as Thomas Point are also holding striped bass. Live lining spot is the most popular and effective method of catching striped bass this time of the year but hungry bluefish are extracting a heavy toll on baits. Many fishermen are finding that if striped bass and bluefish are under the boat using fresh chunks of cut up spot work just as well for both species. It is often a game of who can get to it first and the aggressive bluefish often win out. For those who are uninitiated to smoked bluefish it makes a great snack as is or mixed with cream cheese and chives to make a wonderful cracker spread.
     Fishermen in the middle bay region are also finding a mix of striped bass, bluefish and Spanish mackerel chasing bait throughout the region. Bay anchovies tend to be what is on the dinner table, so small spoons and metal jigs have been good choices for lures when casting to breaking fish or jigging. Trolling small spoons such as Clarks or Drones is very effective for the bluefish and Spanish mackerel with inline weights of planers.

     White perch fishing has been very good this week along the shorelines of the tidal rivers in the middle bay and lower bay regions and providing plenty of light tackle fun. Casting small spinnerbait type lures or spinners is an effective way to catch a mess of white perch. Fishing off of docks with bait such as grass shrimp or bloodworms is a wonderful way to introduce young anglers to fishing. Often a deep water dock or pier will provide the action kids need to keep them interested.

     Fishermen in the lower bay region are finding some of the better fishing for striped bass in the lower Potomac River this week around Piney Point out to the mouth of the river. Live lining spot and chumming have been two of the most popular methods of fishing. Fishermen are also finding a mix of striped bass, bluefish and Spanish mackerel chasing bait throughout the region. Trolling small spoons behind inline weights and planers has been a very effective way to catch them. Casting small spoons and metal jigs to breaking fish or underneath them has also been providing a lot of action for area fishermen.

     Fishermen are also finding good fishing for a mix of croakers, spot, speckled trout and white perch while bottom fishing in the lower tidal rivers and the Tangier Sound area. Flounder fishing has been good on the edges of the channels in the Tangier Sound area and also the Cornfield Harbor area near Point Lookout.

     Recreational crabbers continue to enjoy good crabbing opportunities this week in most of the tidal rivers in the upper, middle and lower bay regions. The larger male crabs have moved far up the tidal rivers to areas often thought of as more freshwater habitats because of low freshwater flows and saltwater intrusion.

     Fishermen in the western region of the state are beginning to see cooler water temperatures cause more activity in fish species such as smallmouth bass, trout and largemouth bass. Smallmouth bass fishing in the upper Potomac River and Deep Creek Lake has improved recently with fish taking topwater lures during early morning and late evening hours and deeper presentations during the day.

     Freshwater fishing in the other regions of the state is also improving with cooler water temperatures for a wide range of species from channel catfish to bluegills. Largemouth bass are often at the top of the list for many freshwater fishermen and although the fish are still in a summer mode of behavior there has been a slight increase in activity. The mantra continues to be topwater lures over or near shallow grass during the early morning and late evening hours and deeper presentations of crankbaits and soft plastics during the day around structure or under thick grass.

     This week coastal fishermen in the Ocean City area continue to find a nice summer mix of small species in the surf, made up of kingfish, spot, trout small bluefish and the welcomed addition of croaker. In and around the inlet fishermen are catching bluefish and a few striped bass at night and sheepshead around the rocks during the day. A mix of flounder, small sea bass and croaker are being caught from the inlet to the back bay areas with most of the croaker action occurring close to the inlet in deeper water.

     Offshore at the wreck sites fishermen are catching limits of flounder and picking away at sea bass. Even farther offshore the boats trolling the canyons are finding some yellowfin tuna, good numbers of gaffer sized dolphin, multiple releases on white marlin and a few blue marlin and wahoo. Brothers Daniel and Andrew Podlesny teamed up on this nice wahoo they caught while trolling a Clark spoon near the Jackspot; dad, Rick Podlesny helped by gaffing the fish; a real nice family fishing experience to remember.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- The dog days of summer are certainly here and fish and fisherman alike are adjusting their fishing times to the cooler parts of the day. Some relief is in store for this week and into the weekend so fishing should be a bit more enjoyable. Just remember to drink plenty of water, more than you think necessary and use sun block or cover up from that mid summer searing sun.

     Fishermen continue to be pleased with the striped bass action they are encountering in the upper bay this week. All are well aware of recent heat and water temperatures are now 85-degrees or higher. Early morning fishing tends to offer the best opportunities for light tackle jigging, trolling live lining and chumming. Traditional locations such as the Love Point area, Podickory Point, the Sewer pipe and Bay Bridge Piers are all holding fish at times. Light tackle fishermen report finding breaking fish at times; especially in the early morning and often without the company of birds. As is often the case the fish on top are under 18" but often larger striped bass can be found underneath. Trolling Drone spoons has been a favorite lately along with bucktails and surgical tube lures. Chumming has been bringing a lot of small fish into the slicks but fishermen report the largest fish on the bottom. Live lining spot has perhaps been one of the surest methods of tangling with a striped bass once fish are located holding close to structure such as bridge piers or steep channel edges.

     Middle bay region fishermen continue to enjoy very good fishing for striped bass below the Bay Bridge south. Much of the action tends to be centered near the Gum Thickets, the Hill, Tolley's and Thomas Points. Early morning and evening tend to be the most productive times reported for a wide variety of fishing methods. Light tackle fishermen are finding fish on top at times or suspended over structure. Trolling with a variety of lures such as Drone spoons, bucktails and surgical tube lures has been a good choice. Bluefish are moving into the region so many fishermen have placed their expensive swim shads in safe storage. Chumming has been productive and live lining spot is probably the number one way to catch your striped bass if one has the time and savvy to collect live spot for bait. More than a few fishermen are also finding bluefish chopping up baits and that fresh cut spot can catch striped bass also.

     Fishermen looking for striped bass in the lower bay are now able to concentrate on live lining spot outside of the Gas Docks with very good success. Spot have moved into the Patuxent River and the tidal rivers and creeks in the lower bay region making bait much easier to obtain. Fishermen are also light tackle fishing and trolling for their striped bass and increasing numbers of bluefish at the Middle Grounds and channel edges. Fishing for speckled trout on the eastern side of the lower bay from lower Hooper's Island to Pocomoke Sound continues to offer exciting fishing opportunities for light tackle fishermen. Croaker numbers have increased this past week in the region and especially in the lower Potomac River. Flounder are also becoming more common in the lower bay region.

     Fishing for white perch continues to provide good fishing opportunities for fishermen throughout the entire Chesapeake Bay and the tidal rivers and creeks that flow into it. They are being caught in deeper waters with bait and bottom rigs, around the piers of docks, sunken wood along shorelines and rocks. Grass shrimp, minnows and bloodworms are all excellent baits and small lures such as Rat-L-Traps, spinners and Beetle Spins are all good lure choices.

Crabbing

     Recreational crabbers report fair to poor catches in the upper bay and good catches south of the Bay Bridge in the bay's tidal rivers and creeks. Undersized crabs and females are making up a large portion of the crabs being encountered on trotlines and in collapsible traps but most crabbers report being able to catch a half bushel to a full bushel per outing.

Freshwater

     Freshwater fishermen continue to see most of their fisheries set in a typical summer mode of behavior and that translates into early morning and late evening fishing action in shallower waters and fishing deep or under shade during the day. Largemouth bass in particular are roaming the shallower grass beds during low light conditions and are hunkered down in deeper cool waters during the day or under heavy grass or the shade of a dock or sunken wood.

     Fishermen at Deep Creek Lake are catching a mix of smallmouth bass in the 12" to 15" size range, large yellow perch and crappie by drifting live minnows over rocky points, humps and deep grass edges. At the deep dam faces many are drifting minnows and nightcrawlers deep for trout. Upper Potomac River fishermen report typical summer low flow conditions and are catching a mix of smallmouth bass and channel catfish.

     Much of the summer time fishing action focuses on largemouth bass and with cooler temperatures this week the action should pick up. Topwater lures such as frogs, poppers, chatterbaits and shallow running crankbaits over grass or along edges are always good choices. Grubs, spinnerbaits and soft plastics are good choices to try near sunken wood or shade.

At the Ocean

     Ocean City area fishermen are enjoying good fishing conditions this week; surf water temperatures are now up to 78-degrees and they are catching a summer mix of small species in the surf such as kingfish, small bluefish, croakers, spot and flounder. In the late evenings some fishermen are also practicing catch and release with large inshore sharks such as sand tigers. In and around the inlet flounder and sheepshead are being caught and small bluefish and a few striped bass at night.

     Flounder fishing has been good due to good water clarity and fishermen are working the deeper channels for some impressive sized flounder. Many are using larger baits now such as live spot and catching a better grade of flounder. Croakers, small sea bass and spot round out the bottom fishing mix.

     The boats heading out to the wreck sites report good catches of sea bass and increasing numbers of flounder for patrons on the party boats. The throwback ratio tends to be high on the sea bass but fishermen who stick to it often come up with double digit catches of legal sea bass or limits. Offshore fishermen report bluefin tuna and a few yellowfin tuna along the 30-fathom line and traditional fishing areas such as the Hot Dog, Hambone and Chicken Bone. Farther offshore fishermen are finding a mix of white marlin, blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, dolphin and bigeye tuna in the canyon areas.

Longtime Director of the MSSA Passes Away

     Annapolis, Md. -- Rich Novotny, one of MSSA's founding members, first president of the Essex-Middle River Chapter, author of Catchin' Chesapeake Rockfish, and longtime Executive Director of the MSSA, passed away on July 1 at the age of 67.

     Novotny will be remembered for the contributions to recreational fishing in Maryland. His lifetime commitment to fisheries made him a natural choice to lead the MSSA for so long. He will be missed.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- A lot of folks could be seen on the highways this past weekend headed for day trips or perhaps week long vacations with family in tow most with one purpose in mind; to get near water and its cooling effects on the body and soul. Whether it is a favorite lake, the bay or the ocean, water offers fun and relaxation and fishing can be a big part of that equation. I took my own advice this past weekend when three youngsters came to visit from Manhattan to come and play on the eastern shore. After a lot of swimming and chasing frogs and turtles; we set aside some time to go to our local tackle store and let the kids pick out their own character related fishing outfits and head to the bay for some white perch fishing. Fortunately despite the searing sun the white perch and small striped bass were hungry for grass shrimp and our young fishermen caught their first fish ever and I might add the 2nd and the 12th and so on.

     Fishermen in the upper bay region have been finding plenty to do in the tidal rivers such as the Susquehanna River, fishing for white perch and channel catfish with a few striped bass tossed in now and then. Farther down the bay in the region from Rock Hall south fishermen are finding schools of striped bass along channel edges. These fish range from typical 3-year old fish that are less than 18" to 4 and 5 year old fish that can go a nice 22" or more. Most fishermen have been trolling but chumming has been successful and those lucky enough to find some small spot have been live lining along the channel edges and the bay bridge piers with good success. These fish are chasing juvenile menhaden and bay anchovies and often can be spotted on the surface in the mornings and evenings chasing bait; fishermen are reporting that often there are no diving birds to mark the activity.

     The fishing for striped bass below the bay bridge down to the Breezy Point area continues to provide a lot of good fishing for striped bass along the edges of the shipping channel in the vicinity of Hackett's Bar, Thomas Point, the Hill, the False Channel area and out in front of Breezy Point. Fishermen have been seeing surface action in the mornings and evenings as striped bass chase bait up to the surface. Casting soft plastic jigs, bucktails and metal has been providing fun light tackle fishing. A good depth finder has also be a real asset this week in regard to finding fish suspended and holding along the channel edges; soft plastic jigs and metal have been effective choices to reach the fish. Trolling continues to be a very popular method to work the channel edges for striped bass this week; swim shads and bucktails in tandem or behind umbrella rigs as well as spoons and surgical tube lures have been good choices.
     Fishermen in the southern region of the bay are reporting good trolling opportunities for striped bass in the lower Potomac River with small to medium sized bucktails along the channel edges. Chumming is also been productive at the mouth of the Potomac River for a mix of striped bass and bluefish. At Cove Point along the 35' channel edge out in front of the Gas Docks fishermen are live lining spot on a regular basis now and catching striped bass. There are plenty of small spot in the Patuxent so it makes it easy for the Solomons fleet to obtain bait.
     Bluefish are mixing it up with striped bass in the lower bay region and can often be seen chasing bait to the surface. The bluefish are also showing up in chum slicks, nipping a live lined spot now and then and attacking lures trolled behind boats. Many of the fishermen trolling have put their swim shads in storage and are using Drone spoons, bucktails and surgical tubing lures. The Mud Leads and the lower bay in general have been good places to catch medium-sized bluefish.
     Croaker fishing in the lower bay and middle bay regions has been most productive at sunset and into the evening hours when a good tide is running. Shoal areas near deep channel areas have been good places to fish such as Buoy 72 in the lower bay and Sharp's Island Flats in the middle bay region. White perch fishing in the channel areas and tidal rivers in the middle and lower bay regions remains good with bloodworms being the most popular bait when fishing with bottom rigs.
     Shallow water fishing for white perch and striped bass remains good in the early morning hours with much of the fishing shutting down once the sun rises. Due to hot weather, the evening fishing kicks in gear once the sun sets. Topwater lures and jerkbaits are good choices for striped bass and spinners and Beetle Spin type soft plastics are good choices for white perch.

Crabbing

     Recreational crabbers report slim pickings this week in the upper bay tidal rivers and creeks and fair crabbing in the middle bay region's tidal rivers and creeks. Crabbing success picks up in the lower bay and Tangier Sounds area this week.

Freshwater

     Many of Maryland's freshwater fisheries are now in what most fishermen would call a summer pattern of behavior. That translates into early morning and late evening fishing for the best success. Whether one is fishing for trout in the western region streams, Deep Creek Lake, the upper Potomac or a small farm pond in southern Maryland fishing early morning and late evening is the key. Potomac River expert John Mullican sent in a short report from the upper Potomac that reflects this typical summer pattern. The Potomac is low, clear and temperatures are running in the mid-80s. Fishing has been pretty good during the morning and evening hours, but gets pretty slow during the day, a typical summer pattern.
     Fishing for largemouth bass has been good for fishermen who can get up early and work the shallows with topwater lures over grass such as frogs and poppers. As the sun gets higher in the sky targeting shade such as docks, fallen tree tops and under thick grass will often produce strikes from largemouth bass hunkered down in the shade. Creek mouths that flow into lakes and tidal rivers often run a bit cooler are also good places to target for bass holding there.

At the Ocean

     Ocean City fishermen are finding the best fishing for a mix of small summer species in the surf in the early morning and evening hours now that surf water temperatures are around 76-degrees. Kingfish, croaker, small bluefish and flounder can be found in the surf as well as catch and release fishing for inshore sharks this week. In and around the inlet and Route 50 Bridge are fishermen are catching flounder, croaker and sheepshead during the day and striped bass at night. Flounder fishing in the back bay areas is good when water clarity is favorable.
     Outside of the inlet the party boats are finding good fishing for sea bass on the wreck sites with a high throwback ratio. Farther offshore fishermen are finding good fishing for yellowfin tuna and a mix of bigeye tuna, bluefin tuna, dolphin, white and blue marlin and wahoo. Deep drop fishermen are finding tilefish along the canyon edges.

Coastal Conservation Association Kent Narrows Tournament Saturday, June 2

     Chester, Md. -- This year’s Coastal Conservation Association Kent Narrows Fly and Light Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, June 2, with three divisions—kayak, fly and light tackle. Registration is $40, which includes a one-year CCA membership and can be done online link.

     There will be a captain’s meeting at Shore Tackle (in Kent Narrows next to Fisherman’s Inn) at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 31. Refreshments will be served; the rules will be outlined; rulers for measuring fish and tournament shirts will be passed out. Those who can’t get to the captain’s meeting and live on the western shore may pick up rulers at Angler’s Sport’s Center after 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 31.

     Lines may go in no earlier than 5:30 a.m. Winners will be determined by photos only, and fish should be measured on the special rulers for the photo. Final time for having photos in is 3:30 p.m. (You must be in line at the judge’s computer station in the Jetty no later than 3:30 p.m.) Fishing boundaries are the Sassafras River to the north and Cedar Point to the south.

     Food and beverages will be served starting at 3 p.m. at the Jetty (the beer tap will no doubt be turned on before 3 p.m.) Shirts will be passed out for those not at the captain’s meeting.

     Prizes will be awarded for three divisions – fly, light tackle, & kayak (1st, 2nd &3rd places).

     Tournament sponsors are Under Armour, Shore Tackle & Custom Rods, Kent Island Kayaks, Annapolis Boat Sales, and Dvorak Electrical Contractors.

First Comment Period Open for Black Drum Fisheries Management Plan

     Arlington, Va. -- The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission is currently seeking comment on the Public Information Document for an Interstate Fisheries Management Plan for Black Drum. The document can be found on the commission website (asmfc.org) under Breaking News.

     The commission is developing an interstate fishery management plan for black drum. Management authority for this species within internal waters and from zero to three nautical miles offshore currently lies with the coastal states. This plan would act to coordinate state management throughout the management unit through the commission.

     This is your opportunity to inform the commission about changes observed in the fisheries, actions you feel should or should not be taken in terms of management, regulation, enforcement, research, and any other concerns you have about the resources or the fisheries, as well as the reasons for your concerns.

     The document provides background and current management information on black drum, as well as a series of questions to help facilitate the public comment process. Comments given at this time will be taken into consideration during the development of the draft management plan. The public will have another opportunity to comment on the draft management plan for black drum before it is considered for final approval.

Comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. (EST) on July 20, 2012.

You may submit written public comment by mail, fax, or email to:
Danielle Chesky
1050 North Highland St., Suite 200 A-N
Arlington, VA 22201
Fax: (703) 842-0741
dchesky@asmfc.org

If you have any questions please call Danielle Chesky at (703) 842-0740.

Virginia Fishing Report

     Norfolk, Va. -- Virginia's trophy season for striped bass is open in the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Angles are finding plenty of school-sized stripers around the three bridge-tunnel spans with largger fish often being caught from over the tunnel tubes.
     During this season, stripers have to be at least 32 inches long and anglers can keep only one. Beginning May 16, anglers can keep two fish between the 18- to 28-inch slot limit, with one of those two fish allowed to measure 32 inches or longer. That season runs through June 15.
     Remember, all striped bass longer than 32 inches this time of year must be reported to the VMRC.
     In other angling actions, flounder can be had throughout the lower Chesapeake with the best action so far at the bridge-tunnel and along the edges of some channels. Anglers are also finding keeper-sized flounder in the inlets with some impressive catches coming from Rudee Inlet.
     With Saturday's full moom, this could be a big week for red and black drum catches. Drum are often caught in the Inner Middle Grounds and the Nine-Foot Shoals. Red drum can be found roaming the surface throughout the mouth of the Chesapeake and along coastal waters.
     The best croaker action is reportedly coming from near the James River Fishing Pier and over old oyster beds around Ocean View.
     Offshore tilefish and grouper are being reeled in along the edge of Norfolk Canyon.
  

Knapp Wins Boatyard Bar & Grill Rockfish Tournament

     Annapolis, Md. -- Russell Knapp reeled in a 45 7/8-inch striped bass to win the 11th Annual Boatyard Bar & Grill tournament Saturday, April 21. Knapp caught his winner on a chartreuse umbrella trolled off of the West River. Adrian Matthews finished in second place with a striper of 45 5/8 inches. Randy Morse boated 45-incher for third place.

     The winners collected $5,000, $3,000 and $1,000 gift cards, respectively.

     Morse also won $1,000 since he was the Coastal Conservation Association's top angler. Alex Kouhi, 10, caught a 36-inch rockfish to win the Junior class, collected an AllTackle gift certificate along with other youth anglers.

     More than 600 anglers aboard 130 boats participated in the event, which raises money for local conservation and fishing groups.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- It truly is a wonderful time of the year for fishermen to head down to one's favorite fishing hole and whether your bank fishing or in a boat to enjoy spring at it's best. Many species of freshwater fish are eager to jump on your hook and there are so many choices it can be hard to choose what type of fishing to pursue. Fishermen on the tidal Potomac are sending in a lot of pictures and entries on the angler's log site of snakeheads they've caught. The snakehead contest has turned out to be a lot of fun as anglers share their experiences of catching one of these frightful looking beasts and then finding out how excellent they are to eat. One of our lucky entered anglers is going to win a $200 gift certificate to Bass Pro Shops in a random drawing at the end of the contest. Contest Details

     Recently an Internet news story got the whole deal wrong and reported that there was a $200 bounty for each fish. As one can imagine there were calls to fisheries by fishermen from as far away as Texas, ready to quit their jobs and come to Maryland to fish snakeheads for a living.

     Fishermen at the Susquehanna Flats area are finding the waters stirred up by persistent winds lately but those winds are predicted to subside by the end of the week. Mike Benjamin reports that the best fishing is on the eastern side of the flats area and of course this has been the windward side lately so fishing has been rough. Water temperatures on the flats are holding right around 50-degrees and less than that in the river. Fishermen are catching mostly school-sized male striped bass on swimming plugs and to a lesser degree on soft plastic jigs and spoons. Power generation at the dam has mostly been in the afternoon. White perch are becoming more prevalent in the upper bay and are a welcomed bonus to fishermen looking to take some fish home; channel catfish are also very plentiful.

     Fishermen looking for hickory shad at Deer Creek are finding a slow pick at the mouth of the creek and in the river; catching and releasing mostly males. The larger female hickory shad are in the river and the fishing there is expected to gain momentum this week as warmer weather moves in.

     Water temperatures in the middle bay region are around 54-degrees in most areas and large pre-spawn striped bass are making their way towards the upper bay spawning areas. A few fishermen have been practicing some catch and release along the shipping channel edges and out in front of the Calvert Cliffs Power Plant Discharge. One of the reactors is reported to be down for maintenance so there is not much of a warm water plume to attract striped bass. Shoreline fishermen along the bay have also been trying their luck with circle hooks and bloodworms or cut bait at prominent point and fishing piers.

     White perch are moving into the traditional locations at the lower sections of the bay's tidal rivers and are providing some fun action for fishermen fishing with bottom rigs and small jigs. Channel catfish continue to be plentiful in most tidal rivers and fishermen hoping to catch the first croakers at the Bushwood area on the Wicomico River are not finding any croakers yet but plenty of medium-sized blue catfish. Fishermen have been standing vigil at Point Lookout and the Wicomico waiting for the first croakers of the season to arrive.

     Freshwater fishermen have a lot of good choices this week in regard to what type of fishing they would like to do. Smallmouth bass are beginning to move into transition areas nearing spawning coves at Deep Creek Lake and fishermen are finding plenty of action by working crankbaits and jigs along drop-offs and secondary points. The lake was stocked with plenty of trout; which has made for good trout fishing and walleye, largemouth bass and large yellow perch are active. Fishing in the upper Potomac for smallmouth bass, walleye and muskie continues to be very good this week. Trout fishing in the many trout management waters in the western region could hardly be better; it is just a wonderful time of the year to be out fishing in the region.

     Fishermen in the central/southern regions to the eastern shore are finding excellent fishing for largemouth bass in tidal rivers, small farm ponds and larger lakes. The largemouth bass are in a pre-spawn feeding mode and are presenting good fishing in a wide variety of situations. Chatterbaits and other topwater lures over grass, spinnerbaits and crankbaits near grass or spatterdock edges and soft plastics and grubs near sunken wood and docks are all catching fish. The crappie bite is on in lakes such as Deep Creek Lake, Piney Run, Liberty, Loch Raven, small ponds and tidal rivers. It has been a very good trout season so far for put and take trout fishermen.

     Fishermen at the Ocean City area are seeing surf conditions improve this week as the strong winds of last week taper off. Surf fishermen are picking at striped bass, lot's of dogfish and skates and a few bluefish and black drum. Our neighbors to the south tell us a swarm of northern puffers, blow toads or blowfish are headed our way; they can be real bait stealers but a smaller long shanked hook and a piece of squid will never fail to put the some fine eating in your cooler.

     In and around the Ocean City Inlet fishermen are finding good fishing for tautog and fishermen are reminded that the new minimum size is now 16". Traditional haunts such as the South Jetty, the Route 50 Bridge, and the bulkheads near the inlet are where fishermen are catching them on frozen sand fleas and pieces of green crab. Offshore the head boats headed out to the wreck sites are catching big tautog and most fishermen are catching their limits.

Maryland Fishing Report by Keith Lockwood

     Oxford, Md. -- The month of April is upon us and it would seem that temperatures are more within the norm now. Late February and last months warmer than normal temperatures had a profound effect on the traditional white and yellow perch spawns causing them to be earlier than normal. Fishermen have been expressing concerns that the same might also stand true for our spawning striped bass and a big question has been looming out there, like the elephant in the room sort of thing. Will there still be post-spawn striped bass around for the trophy season opener on April 21st?
     Although there was some spawning activity in late March; it was relatively minor and not at all out of the norm. There is usually a small spawn in late March according to striped bass experts. The water temperatures are certainly warm enough in most spawning reaches for spawning activity to take place but many of the striped bass have not arrived yet or if the females are there the eggs they are carrying are not mature enough to be released
     This past week the Susquehanna catch-release-area received an influx of male striped bass so the females will be arriving soon. In other spawning rivers such as the Choptank and Nanticoke Rivers which traditionally have an earlier spawn than the upper bay; the big female striped bass are spawning but only sparingly. Most of the spawning population of females are hunkered down waiting for the eggs they carry to mature enough to commence spawning. That traditionally should occur anywhere from this coming weekend to the end of the second week of April.
     Maryland DNR's Eyes on the Bay water quality website now has a mobile browser application. View the latest water temperature, salinity, and water quality measurements on your phone, from over 15 real-time tidal stations.
     Fishermen at the Susquehanna Flats area who have been putting in their time got a pleasant surprise this week as male striped bass moved into the region in force to provide nonstop action for those armed with soft plastic jigs and spoons. The males of most spawning species are the vanguards of the spawning run so larger female striped bass are anticipated to arrive soon. A few large fish are being reported by fishermen but most fish caught and released are falling in the 16" to 28" size range and are being caught tight to the bottom in water depths less than 15'.
     The hickory shad catch and release fishery in the Deer Creek area has kicked into gear with fishermen catching mostly male fish this week at the mouth of the creek and out in the Susquehanna River. Fisheries biologists were out on the Susquehanna recently electro-fishing for hickory shad brood stock and reported they found more American shad than hickories which is a very pleasant surprise. The adult American shad will be lifted over the dam in a mechanized fish lift so they may continue up the Susquehanna to spawn.
     Fishermen are practicing catch and release fishing for striped bass from prominent points and fishing piers all along the main stem of the bay; chunks of fresh menhaden or bloodworms have been the baits of choice on bottom rigs and circle hooks. A few fishermen have also been out on the bay trolling along the shipping channel edges practicing catch and release also. Water temperatures in the bay are holding around 53-degrees. All fishermen should remember that the spawning tidal rivers are off limits to any kind of catch and release fishing for striped bass until June 1.
     Freshwater fishermen who love their put and take trout fishermen were out in force on the traditional opening day and despite crowds most had a good time and caught trout. More than a few trout fishermen were surprised by a large bonus trout that were as large as 8 lbs on the end of their lines. The hatchery crews took the initiative to hold these trout and grow them up to exceptional sizes and give a thrill of a lifetime to lucky fishermen. Fishermen at Deep Creek Lake were happy to see the floating docks go in at the DNR boat ramps last week and many fishermen are enjoying the fishing action out on the lake for a mix of smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye and a northern pike now and then. The fishing in the upper Potomac for smallmouth bass and walleye and muskies continues to be very good this week; water levels in the river are fine and of course the weather is gorgeous on most days.
     Largemouth bass fishermen are experiencing the best of the best this week as hungry pre-spawn largemouth bass are roaming the edges of emerging grass beds, sunken wood, rocky points and drop-offs for something to eat. Fishermen are finding excellent fishing opportunities in small farm ponds, lakes and tidal waters. A wide variety of lures from topwater lures to spinnerbaits, crankbaits, soft plastics and grub jigs are all working well; each in its own particular niche. Bluegills are offering plenty of sport this week and crappie fishing is always popular this time of the year.
     Ocean City fishermen continue to see tautog fishing inside the inlet improve as water temperatures hover at the 50-degree mark. All the traditional areas such as the south jetty, the 2nd to 4th street bulkhead, the ends of 5th and 6th streets and the Route 50 Bridge are all offering good fishing this week. Frozen sand fleas and pieces of green crabs are the preferred baits and the very beginning of an ebb tide seems to hold favor for many fishermen. Fishermen inside the inlet are also reporting catching and releasing a few flounder. Flounder season opens April 14th with a three flounder per day limit with a minimum of 17" each.
     Surf fishermen are catching some big striped bass, a few bluefish and plenty of dogfish and skates in the surf on menhaden baits. Offshore the boats taking fishermen out to the wreck sites are catching tautog and boats headed out to the canyon edges are finding tilefish and assorted deep water species.

DNR Announces 2nd Annual Snakehead Contest

Catch a snakehead and win a prize worth up to $200

     Annapolis, Md. -- Anglers who catch a snakehead fish could win prizes worth up to $200 in the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) second annual snakehead contest. Anyone who removes at least one of the invasive, non-native fish from the Chesapeake Bay’s watershed has the chance to walk away with prizes from Bass Pro Shops at Arundel Mills, the Maryland Park Service, the Potomac River Fisheries Commission and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. To enter, an angler should submit catch details and a photo of their dead snakehead online through the DNR Angler’s log, a popular social fishing site, at http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/fishingreport/log.asp.

     “We do not want snakeheads in our waters,” said DNR Inland Fisheries Director Don Cosden. “This initiative is a way to remind anglers that it is important to catch and remove this invasive species of fish.”

     The Northern snakehead is a non-native, invasive species that someone illegally introduced to the Potomac River. Since its introduction, the population has expanded because of the fish’s ability to adapt to the ecosystem. Snakeheads now prowl the Potomac River and many of its tributaries from Great Falls to the mouth of the river. Anglers have found the fish as far away as the Rhode and Nanticoke Rivers. As top predators, they rely on other species for food and could negatively impact the ecosystem and other valuable fish populations.

     “These fish clobber any type of moving bait you throw,” said Rodney Hose of Lexington Park, who won the Bass Pro Shops gift card in last year’s contest. “When they smash into your lure, be prepared for a fight- especially if they are around some sort of cover.”

     Hose caught his winner along the Occoquan River shoreline in September.

     Three lucky anglers will win from a random drawing. The prizes include a $200 gift card from Bass Pro Shops, a Maryland State Passport, which provides unlimited day-use entry for up to ten passengers in a vehicle, unlimited boat launching at State Park facilities and a 10 percent discount on State-operated concessions and boat rentals, or a Potomac River Fisheries Commission fishing license. DNR staff will randomly draw the winner on November 30, 2012.

     The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is providing an embroidered “Snakehead Control” ball cap for anglers who report tagged snakeheads through the (800) 448-8322 line.

     To learn how to identify and kill a snakehead, watch a short video at, http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/bass/index.asp.

     “We don’t expect that anglers will eradicate the snakehead population,” said Joe Love, DNR Tidal Bass program manager. “We do believe this promotion and inspiration of anglers can help control the snakehead population. The information we gain from the Angler’s Log reports are also helpful in assessing the abundance, spread and impact of these feisty fish.”

     DNR reminds anglers that it is illegal to possess a live northern snakehead in Maryland. Additionally, Federal law prohibits the transport of live snakeheads into the U.S. or across State lines.

Maryland Fishing Report by DNR Biologist Keith Lockwood

     Oxford, Md. -- It would seem old Mother Nature decided to take a few steps backward in regard to the advance of spring this week and they may be a good thing in regards to adjusting nature's clock. Perhaps this cold front that is sitting upon us will set things straight with spawning runs of striped bass and other andromous fish such as hickory shad and river herring and things will get back to a more normal schedule. One fishery that is certainly on schedule is the traditional opening day of trout season this coming Saturday in the put and take areas. Fisheries crews and the volunteers that help spread the fish out have been busy stocking trout in your favorite fishing waters.

     Water temperatures in the lower Susquehanna River and flats area are holding around 50- 55-degrees depending where one is. Local fishing guides report that a group of striped bass arrived a little more than a week ago and seemed to have nosed into the Elk River where water temperatures may have been suitable for spawning and catch and release fishing is off limits. Fishermen have been trolling with crankbaits, casting jigs, crankbaits and bottom fishing with cut bait in the lower Susquehanna and flats area without much success lately, very few striped bass have been caught and released to date. Usually not all the fish in a spawning population arrive at the same time so there certainly is hope that more striped bass are headed up the bay and due to arrive shortly.

     The white perch have been thinning out in the lower Susquehanna River and upper bay tributaries and moving out into the upper bay area. Channel catfish are plentiful in the region and hickory shad have begun to show up in sufficient numbers to provide some good catch and release fishing late in the afternoons at the Deer Creek area. Chances are that this weekend will be a good time to catch them.

     In general white perch are moving down the tidal rivers of the Chesapeake to settle in to areas that traditionally hold them in late spring and summer. White perch are still being reported at Fletcher's on the Potomac near Washington D.C. but fishing with bloodworms in the lower sections of most other tidal rivers may get you into some nice perch. Fishermen are catching them at Sandy Point State Park and other areas around the bay such as the Bill Burton Fishing Pier on the lower Choptank River.

     Water temperatures in the mid-bay area are running around 50-degrees this week and fishermen have been practicing a little catch and release out along the shipping channel edges by trolling large parachutes and bucktails. The warm water discharge at Calvert Cliffs Power Plant has also been drawing light tackle fishermen to try their luck at jigging near the discharge for striped bass.

     Freshwater fishermen who love their largemouth bass could hardly have better catch and release fishing than right now. Conditions seem to be perfect; largemouth bass are in an aggressive and hungry pre-spawn mode of activity and are hitting just about anything from topwater lures to grub jigs. The bass are cruising near all kinds of cover ranging from underwater ledges and drop-offs to emerging grass beds. 

     Trout fishermen are getting geared up for the big opener this Saturday in the Put and Take areas where fisheries biologist have been busy stocking trout. All manner of fishermen from the fly fishermen in waders to the young fishermen in sneakers will be trying their luck in the hopes of taking a few trout home with them. Powerbait is perhaps one of the best baits for fishing for stocked trout; it seems like candy to them, they just can't resist. Most trout fishermen spent quite a bit of time enjoying the pre-season stockings at many of the put and take waters earlier in the month and late February. The special catch and release trout management areas continue to provide wonderful catch and release opportunities for fishermen not concerned about taking fish home.

     Fishermen in the Ocean City area are beginning to see some surf action as a few bluefish and striped bass are being caught this week by fishermen using bait. Skates and dogfish are out there also ready to chew up baits. Tautog continue to move inside the inlet and fishermen are finding fishing improving as water temperatures reach 54-degrees. Offshore the boats heading out to the inshore wreck and artificial reef sites are finding large tautog for their customers.

Boat Launch Opening at Jennings Randolph Lake

     Jennings Randolph Lake, W.Va. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to open the boat launch on the West Virginia shore of Jennings Randolph Lake March 31 at 8 a.m.  The launch is located alongside
Howell Run, just off West Virginia State Route 46, three miles north of Elk Garden, W.Va.
     The Corps charges visitors a $3 fee for launching a boat from its boat launch. An annual pass, which allows an unlimited number of launches at all Corps recreation areas, is on sale for $30 at the Corps park office.
     The park office is located on the West Virginia side of the lake; follow the signs from West Virginia Route 46E. Holders of the Golden Age Passports (for senior citizens 62 and over), America the Beautiful Senior Passes, America the Beautiful Access Passes and Golden Access Passports (for the physically challenged) are allowed to purchase a Corps annual boat launch pass for half price or pay $1.50 per launch at the Corps’ boat launch only.
     The boat launch on the Maryland shore of Jennings Randolph, managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, also will open March 31. The launch is on Mt. Zion Road off Maryland State Route 135, near the salt shed on Backbone Mountain.
     The 2012 Maryland State Forest and Park Service All Season Pass can be purchased for $75 for Maryland residents or $100 for out-of-state residents. The pass can be purchased at all Maryland State Parks. The pass offers free day-use entry for everyone in a vehicle (up to 10 people) to Maryland’s state parks and Cedarville State Forest. This pass allows unlimited boat launching at all State Park facilities by displaying it on your dashboard; and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concession items and boat rentals. For parks with honor box systems, the pass covers entry service charges.
     Both the Corps annual pass and the Maryland All Season pass are valid at either boat launch on Jennings Randolph Lake.
     For more information, call the Corps’ park office at 304-355-2346 or 301-359-3861, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.  For information on the Maryland DNR boat launch, call the Herrington Manor & Swallow Falls State Park at 301-334-9180, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Fishing Fair Today and Tomorrow at Solomons Firehouse

     Solomons, Md. -- Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen’s Association Southern Maryland Chapter 19th Annual Fishing Fair is being held at the Solomons Firehouse today, March 24, and tomorrow at the Solomons Firehouse. The show runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.
      Over 80 indoor and outdoor vendors are at the show with fishing tackle and supplies, new and used boats, door prizes and food and drink.
      Admission is $3. Kids 12 and under are free. Find out more at http://www.mssasmc.com.

Registration Opens For 29th Championship on the Chesapeake

    Annapolis, Md. -- The Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Association will host its 29th annual spring tournament, Championship on the Chesapeake, May 4-6.

     The tournament will feature an awards ceremony and party on Thursday, May 10. The menu will include fresh fried and baked chicken, tossed salad, mashed potatoes, vegetables, assorted desserts, coffee, iced tea, lemonade, water & draft beer included, plus a cash bar.

     Captains will be admitted for free and the cost for crew, family and friends will be $15 per person.

     The awards party will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Annapolis Elks Lodge, 2 Pythian Drive, Edgewater, Maryland.

     For more information on the party and the tournament, call 410-255-5535 or visit http://www.mssa.net.

Chestertown VFD to Host Fishing Flea Market

  Chestertown, Md. -- The Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company is holding a Fishing Flea Market on Saturday, March 31 beginning at 9 a.m. at the fire station, located at 211 Maple Avenue. There will be new and used fishing tackle and equipment for sale as well as crabbing supplies, nautical and wildlife art, and marine electronics.

     If you want to sell some old gear, or need more information, contact Fire Company President Trey Blackiston at 410-708-5859 or treyblackiston@yahoo.com.

Record Blue Catfish Caught on the Potomac

     Fort Washington, Md. -- Shawn Wetzel, 27, of Orrtana, Pennsylvania, caught a whopping 80-pound, 12-ounce blue catfish on February 23 in the Potomac River near Fort Washington. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources confirmed that the blue catfish was a new state record, annihilating the previous record holder by 13 pounds.

     “The rod went down hard, and I knew it was something big,” said Wetzell. “At one point, I was on my knees trying to lift the fish, and my back was burning.”

     The previous record fish weighed just over 67 pounds and was caught in 2008 by Ron Lewis in the Potomac not far from where Wetzel caught his fish.

     Blue catfish are native to the Mississippi River Valley and were introduced to the James and Rappahannock Rivers in the 1970s. Since then, the fish have reproduced and spread throughout the tidal Potomac River system. Flathead catfish, another non-native invasive species, and blue catfish have subsequently turned up in the Nanticoke, Susquehanna and Northeast Rivers, Upper Chesapeake Bay and other waters.

     “We recognize the enthusiasm and economic impact of anglers in search of record catfish,” said DNR Fisheries Service Director, Tom O’Connell. “However, we don’t want to encourage the development and spread of this species. As top predators, they are a serious threat to native species, which provide ecological and economic benefits to the region.”

     Blue and flathead catfish are invasive, non-native species that are long-lived, fast growing and opportunistic feeders. Consequently, State and Federal fisheries managers are concerned about their affect on the ecosystem, and are working together to develop strategies to mitigate their impact.

     The Chesapeake Bay Program’s Sustainable Fisheries Goal Team, which includes representatives from Virginia, Maryland, the Potomac River Fisheries Commission, District of Columbia, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Marine Fisheries Service, and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, recently adopted a Chesapeake Bay blue and flathead catfish policy to reduce these catfish populations and to stem their spread.

     Anglers should know that it is illegal to transport live blue and flathead catfish for the purpose of introduction into another body of water. Additionally, DNR officials are asking anglers to remove and kill any blue and flathead catfish that they catch. This is a fishery where the practice of catch and release is discouraged by resource managers.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- Although it is not officially spring there are a lot of signs in nature that it is not far away. Last Thursday the spring peepers let loose in my neighborhood due to flooding in nontidal woodlands and yesterday blue-winged teal were moving through the region beautifully decked out in their breeding plumage as they headed north. Just about everyone has got the itch to get out and do some fishing now; whether it is fishing for some trout, largemouth bass or in this case fishing in the rain for yellow perch on the upper Tuckahoe River.

     In most areas the yellow perch are about finished spawning and egg masses can be seen hanging from submerged branches in the spawning areas. There are always a few stragglers and fishermen found themselves in many areas catching both pre-spawn and post-spawn yellow perch last weekend. Water levels have been high in the upper reaches of many tidal rivers and creeks due to heavy rain earlier in the week and no doubt there will be more rain this month so fishermen as always will deal with conditions. Just be safe since water temperatures are 50-degrees at best in most areas.

     White perch have been quickly filling in right behind the yellow perch and fishing should be good for the next couple of weeks. Over the weekend fishermen encountered mostly male white perch in the upper reaches of the bay's tidal rivers but the larger female white perch should not be far behind. The top bait choices tended to be pieces of bloodworm and nightcrawlers fished close to the bottom. Grass shrimp are usually a good choice also and it seems at times one bait will out perform another on any given day.

     Fishing in the Chesapeake tends to focus on catch and release fishing at warm water discharges such as Calvert Cliffs by jigging with various types of jigs; including my personal favorite when jigging over rocks; the butterfly jig. You can make your own by placing snelled hooks at the top of most any metal jig or buy them already rigged. A few boats have been seen out on the bay trolling for striped bass practicing catch and release and testing out new gear.

     Striped bass are already up the tidal rivers and are staging for spawning early next month or perhaps the very end of March. Water temperatures tend to dictate the spawn and water temperatures now are right around 50-degrees in the upper reaches of most tidal rivers. Optimum spawning water temperature is 64.5-degrees but larger females can spawn at water temperatures as low as 52-degrees. Fishermen need to remember that the spawning reaches of the tidal rivers are off limits to catch and release fishing and for a good reason.

     Freshwater fishing opportunities abound this week for a wide variety of freshwater fish. Fisheries biologists have been busy with pre-season trout stocking of many areas; which has been providing some fun fishing recently. Be sure to check out the daily updates to the stockings. www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/stocking/index.asp

     As waters warm up in the states lakes, ponds and rivers fishermen are finding all kinds of fishing possibilities for chain pickerel to muskie and everything in between. Largemouth bass are being caught along steep edges of channels and lakes shores on grub jigs, deep running crankbaits and slow rolled spinnerbaits close to the bottom. Crappie are still schooled up in deep water near edges and structure, live minnows and small tubes and spinner jigs are good choices to catch them. Chain pickerel are very active this time of the year and spinners, spoons and Rapala type swimming plugs will catch them.

     Although river levels on the upper Potomac can be high this time of the year fishing for a mix of walleye and smallmouth bass can be very good when water levels are suitable for boating and fishing. Jigs, swim shads and small crankbaits can be good lures to try when fished close to the bottom. The top dog of the upper Potomac, the muskie is always cruising out there somewhere also and offers a challenge to any angler.

     Fishermen in the Ocean City continue to catch some impressive tautog offshore on the wreck and artificial reef sites. Fishermen fishing within the 3-miles EEZ Zone are steadily picking at striped bass moving up the coast. Trolling large parachutes, Mojos and Stretch plugs has been the tactic most used by the fleet out of the Ocean City Inlet.

    Keith Lockwood has been writing the Maryland DNR Fishing Report since 2003 and has had a long career as a fisheries research biologist. 

Fisheries Management Equity Bill Scheduled for Hearing in Annapolis

By the Coastal Conservation Association

This Wednesday, March 7th, CCA Maryland and others will testify before the House Environmental Matters Committee on an critical piece of legislation for recreational anglers, House Bill 1173. The bill is sponsored by Delegates Jim Gilchrist and Marvin Holmes, and CCA Maryland spent weeks working with them and their staff to draft it. The bill is facing its first critical test this Wednesday and we need you to email your Delegates and Members of the Committee to express your support and to let Annapolis know that recreational anglers demand change! Click through the link at the bottom of this screen to quickly send your message of support!

As you may know, preliminary analysis by the Department of Natural Resources has determined that recreational anglers cover 91% of the cost of managing their fisheries through user fees (93% when federal and state grants are included). Commercial fishermen only cover 20% of their cost through user fees (43% when federal and state grants are included). Largely because the commercial industry doesn’t pay its fair share, the Fisheries Services is facing a looming $3.2 million dollar shortfall in the coming years. Because the commercial industry isn’t accountable for the very fisheries on which it depends, our State’s ability to effectively manage our shared resources may be crippled.

The bill has three major provisions in order to help resolves these issues:

1) It requires any general funds provided for fisheries management to be allocated equitably between commercial and recreational fisheries;

2) It better protects funds paid by both recreational and commercial anglers by ensuring those user fees are used to manage their respective fisheries; and

3) It requires the commercial industry either contribute more funds to the management and enforcement of the clam, crab, oyster and striped bass fisheries in the form of higher user fees or by working to reduce the cost of effectively managing those fisheries so that they achieve a 90% cost recovery standard by July 1, 2013. If this does not occur, the Department of Natural Resources must either close or modify that fishing season until it reaches that level.

The key aspect about this bill is that it would force major changes in the way that all fisheries are managed in our State. There is no way to avoid the coming budgetary shortfalls- the question is how do we deal with it. This bill would force the commercial industry to pay its fair share for the cost of managing that industry. Recreational fisheries largely cover their own way and the State receives significant benefits from it through direct and indirect spending and tax dollars. There's no reason the commercial industry, the very ones whose livelihoods depend on healthy and sustainable fisheries, can't do the same.

You can support this Bill in two ways:

1) Send an email to your Delegates and the Members of the House Environmental matters Committee by clicking through the link below; and

2) Attend the hearing Wednesday. It starts at 1 p.m., but House Bill 1173 will not likely be heard before 3 p.m. We'll post real-time updates on when it will come up on the CCA Maryland Facebook Page in case people want to try and arrive later in the afternoon. The hearing itself will be held in the House Office Building (from Rowe Boulevard, looking at the State House the House Office Building is on the left) in the 2nd Floor Environmental Matters Committee Room. After the hearing you could also attend the first banquet and auction of the reconstituted Annapolis Chapter. More information on the banquet can be found here!

Thank you for your support of this important piece of legislation. Your voice will count and benefit recreational anglers for years to come!

Click the link below to log in and send your message:
http://www.votervoice.net/link/target/ccamd/ByJQ2B24.aspx

Hutchinson's Efforts Praised by the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Association

By the Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Association


We all know the issues surrounding menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay and the recent actions by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) to change the way they manage this fishery. This would not have happened without the hard work and dedication of one man, Charlie Hutchinson.

We are saddened to report that Charlie Hutchinson passed away March 1 from complications stemming from an ongoing battle with pancreatic cancer. 

Charlie worked tirelessly to change the way we look at menhaden and its impacts on the greater ecology of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Coast waterways. He could be titled the Godfather of the battle to protect this valuable fish. He not only brought light to the issue but spent much of his time recruiting the support needed to make a change.  

Charlie was the author of the highly publicized “Menhaden Muddle Series,” a collection of his writings designed to gain attention and put an end to the devastation of Atlantic menhaden by the reduction fishery. Charlie published many of these articles, and several more, in local and state papers. Charlie was the MSSA’s lead on the menhaden issue.  Click here to read his writings.

Charlie was a member of the Dorchester County chapter of the MSSA and last month was awarded the first ever MSSA Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication and effort in protecting the menhaden fishery. This award has since been approved by a unanimous vote of the MSSA Board of Directors to forever be known as the “Charlie Hutchinson Lifetime Achievement Award.”

Charlie left his mark on all of us and we will miss him.   

States Schedule Hearings on Atlantic Menhaden Amendment 2 Public Information Document

     Arlington, Va. -- Atlantic coastal states from Maine through Georgia have scheduled their hearings to gather public comment on the Public Information Document (PID) for Amendment 2 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Menhaden. The dates, times, and locations of the scheduled meetings follow.

Maine Department of Marine Resources
April 4, 2012; 6 – 9 PM
Casco Bay Lines Conference Room
56 Commercial Street
Portland, Maine
Contact: Terry Stockwell at 207.624.6553

New Hampshire Fish and Game
April 3, 2012; 7 – 9 PM
Urban Forestry Center
45 Elwyn Road
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Contact: Doug Grout at 603.868.1095

New York Dept. of Environmental Conservation
March 27, 2012; 7 PM
Marine Resources Headquarters
205 North Belle Mead Rd, Suite 1
East Setauket, New York
Contact: Steve Heins at 631.444.0435
Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries
April 2, 2012; 6 PM
Plymouth Public Library
Otto Fehlow Room
132 South Street
Plymouth, Massachusetts
Contact: David Pierce at 617-626-1532

Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife
March 28, 2012; 6 PM
URI Narragansett Bay Campus, Corless Auditorium
South Ferry Road
Narragansett, Rhode Island
Contact: Jason McNamee at 401.423.1943

New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife
March 21, 2012; 7- 10 PM
Ocean County Administration Building
101 Hooper Avenue
Public Hearing Room #119
Toms River, New Jersey
Contact: Peter Himchak 609.748.2020

Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control
March 28, 2012; 6 – 8 PM
Lewes Field Facility
901 Pilottown Road
Lewes, Delaware
Contact: John Clark at 302.739.9914

Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources
March 19, 2012; 6 PM
Easton High School Cafeteria
723 Mecklenburg Avenue
Easton, Maryland
Contact: Lynn Fegley at 410.260.8285

Virginia Marine Resources Commission
March 22, 2012; 6 PM
2600 Washington Avenue, Fourth Floor
Newport News, Virginia
Contact: Jack Travelstead at 757.247.2247

North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries
March 27, 2012; 6 PM
NC Division of Marine Fisheries
Central District Office
5285 Highway 70 West
Morehead City, North Carolina
Contact: Trish Murphy at 252.808.8091

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
March 30, 2012; 10 AM
Marine Advisory Council Meeting
217 Fort Johnson Road
Charleston, South Carolina
Contact: Mel Bell at 843.953.9007

Georgia Coastal Resources Division
March 29, 2012; 5 – 7 PM
Richmond Hill Convention and Visitors Bureau
520 Cedar Street
Richmond Hill, Georgia
Contact: Doug Haymans at 912.264.7218

The Commission's Atlantic Menhaden Management Board approved the Public Information Document (PID) for Amendment 2 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Menhaden for public comment and review. As the first step in the development of Amendment 2, the PID presents the current status of the fishery and resource, and solicits public input on which major issues and alternatives should be included for consideration and analysis in Draft Amendment 2.

The PID's primary focus is to initiate discussion on the timing and implementation of achieving the new fishing mortality threshold (F = 1.32) and target (F = 0.62) reference points recently adopted through Addendum V. Since fishing mortality in 2008 (the latest year in the assessment) is estimated at 2.28, overfishing is occurring, however, the stock is not overfished. The goal of the new reference points is to increase abundance, spawning stock biomass, and menhaden availability as a forage species. The PID also seeks public input on a more timely and comprehensive catch reporting system, and scopes potential options to be used in managing Atlantic menhaden commercial bait and reduction fisheries as well as recreational fishery.

Alongside the development of Amendment 2, the peer-reviewed stock assessment will be updated with data through 2011 to provide a more recent estimate of fishing mortality. Results of the assessment update will be used to estimate the harvest reductions needed to achieve the new threshold and target fishing mortality rates. Therefore, preliminary harvest reductions are provided in the PID but will likely change based on the results of the stock assessment update.

Fishermen and other interested groups are encouraged to provide input on the PID by either attending public hearings or providing written comments. Copies of the PID are available at http://www.asmfc.org/speciesDocuments/menhaden/fmps/Amend2PID_DraftForPublicComment.pdf or by contacting the commission at 703.842.0740. The public comment deadline is 5:00 PM (EST) on April 20, 2012 and should be forwarded to Mike Waine, Fishery Management Plan Coordinator, 1050 N. Highland St., Suite 200 A-N, Arlington, VA 22201; 703.842.0741 (FAX) or at mwaine@asmfc.org (Subject line: Menhaden PID).

Comments Requested on Permitting for Black Bass Tournaments

     Annapolis, Md. -- Maryland's Department of Natural Resources is considering a regulation which would require largemouth and smallmouth bass tournament directors to obtain a free permit before conducting bass tournaments in Maryland. Directors would be asked to report catch results, adhere to release boat regulations (when appropriate), report illegal harvest or possession, and communicate annually with DNR. The registration process will enable DNR to better monitor catch rates and population trends, assure responsible handling and release of bass, and work more efficiently to maintain and protect bass populations. The regulation may indirectly affect other anglers, boaters and local businesses. DNR is seeking comments regarding this idea. Comments may include suggestions, constructive criticism, and/or a general like or dislike .
Read the full proposal by clicking here.

     The deadline for comments is March 30.

Maryland Yellow Perch Run Is Looking Good

     Perryville, Md. -- The recreational yellow perch fishing season for anglers is heating up thanks to the mild winter weather and an increased fish population. So far, it looks as though there will be great recreational fishing to come.

     “The current abundance of yellow perch is largely a result of stakeholders working together with DNR to develop a prudent management plan,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Director Tom O’Connell. “We have a great fishery that provides delicious fare for Maryland tables while offering excellent fishing for families, especially our young anglers who are ready for a break from cabin fever.”

     The yellow perch population and recreational fishing has enjoyed resurgence in the last few years due to management changes forged with recreational fishing groups, commercial watermen and fisheries managers at the DNR. Surveys conducted on yellow perch by the Department in 2009 and 2011 show robust reproduction results, indicating the potential for a high-quality, recreational and sustainable commercial fishery to continue.

     In a February 3 post to the DNR Angler’s Log, Mike Dunlap and his boys Tyler, 2 and Aiden, 5 from Chestertown, reported steady action with four plump perch caught from the Sassafras River in less than an hour. According to Dunlap, the hot ticket was a one-eighth ounce jig head tipped with a yellow plastic grub.

    The nice weather was a perfect reason to get out of the house, and more importantly, get the kids out. A day of fishing and catching in February is definitely a day to remember,” he said.

     This time of year, anglers will find yellow perch in 10- to 30- foot depths in many rivers of the Bay where the fish prepare for their epic spawning run. Anglers are currently enjoying spectacular fishing for yellow perch in several locations, including the channel edge off the Logan's Wharf condominiums at Perryville on the Susquehanna River, Northeast River, Nanjemoy Creek and the deep holes in the Chester River near Crumpton.

     Yellow Perch will begin moving from the deeper staging areas to the shallow waters as the weather warms, giving shoreline anglers their best opportunities. The first locations to kick-off will likely be the southern hot spots. The action will then quickly move north. Anglers can find their local hotspot at these websites:

Eastern Shore Hotspots - dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/fishingreport/ypercheast.html

Western Shore Hot Spots - dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/fishingreport/yperchwest.html

     Yellow perch fishing is open year round with a nine- inch minimum size and 10 fish per day limit in tidal waters. A minimal investment in gear, rod, reel, size-10 hooks, bobbers and a bucket of minnows will provide you with the essentials.

     The annual Yellow Perch Appreciation Day will be held on March 3 at the Town of Northeast Park, a Maryland free-fishing area where fishing licenses are not required. The Coastal Conservation Association of Maryland will host a fishing contest as part of the celebration.

     A 14-inch or longer yellow perch qualifies as a Maryland Angler Award fish. Catching an award-sized fish will gain a lucky angler a certificate and free tickets to the Maryland Fishing Challenge Grand Finale at Sandy Point State Park in September. Check in angler award fish at one of the more than 60 Maryland angler Award Centers.

     

Atlantic Menhaden Public Information Document Available for Public Comment

     Arlington, Va. -- The Public Information Document (PID) for Amendment 2 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Menhaden is now available for public comment and review on the Commission’s website at http://www.asmfc.org/speciesDocuments/menhaden/fmps/Amend2PID_DraftForPublicComment.pdf.

     As the first step in the development of Amendment 2, the PID presents the current status of the fishery and resource, and solicits public input on which major issues and alternatives should be included for consideration and analysis in Draft Amendment 2.

     The PID’s primary focus is to initiate discussion on the timing and implementation of achieving the new fishing mortality threshold (F = 1.32) and target (F = 0.62) reference points recently adopted through Addendum V. Since fishing mortality in 2008 (the latest year in the assessment) is estimated at 2.28, overfishing is occurring, however, the stock is not overfished.

     The goal of the new reference points is to increase abundance, spawning stock biomass, and menhaden availability as a forage species. The PID also seeks public input on a more timely and comprehensive catch reporting system, and scopes potential options to be used in managing Atlantic menhaden commercial bait and reduction fisheries as well as recreational fishery.

     Alongside the development of Amendment 2, the peer-reviewed stock assessment will be updated with data through 2011 to provide a more recent estimate of fishing mortality. Results of the assessment update will be used to estimate the harvest reductions needed to achieve the new threshold and target fishing mortality rates. Therefore, preliminary harvest reductions are provided in the PID but will likely change based on the results of the stock assessment update.

     Fishermen and other interested groups are encouraged to provide input on the PID either by attending public hearings or providing written comments. Public comment must be received no later than 5:00 PM (EST) on April 20, 2012 and should be forwarded to Michael Waine, Fishery Management Plan Coordinator, at 1050 N. Highland St, Suite A-N, Arlington, VA 22201; 703.842.0741 (FAX) or mwaine@asmfc.org (Subject line: Menhaden PID). A subsequent press release will announce the state’s public hearing schedule. For more information, contact Michael Waine at 703.842.0740.

Professional Guide to Host Fishing Seminar at Chesapeake College

     Wye Mills, Md. -- Chesapeake College will host a fishing seminar on catching striped bass at its Wye Mills campus on Saturday, March 27. Professional fishing guide Capt. Richie Gaines will lead the one-day seminar entitled "Catching Striped Bass." Capt. Gaines will talk about fishing techniques used to catch striped bass, aka rockfish, on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, including trolling, chumming, live-lining and light tackle. Gaines will also talk about equipment to use, how to set out trolling lines, and mention a few of the best places to catch large rockfish.

     The seminar is suitable for all levels of fishing skills, beginning and experienced anglers. Participants can bring a bag lunch. The seminar fee is $52. To register, contact Marci Leach at mleachchesapeake.edu or call 410-827-5833.

Record 74-Pound Striped Bass Officially Certified in Virginia

     Newport News, Va. -- A 74-pound striped bass, caught on January 20th by Cary Wolfe of Bristow, VA, has been certified as the new Virginia State Record by the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament. Wolfe’s catch surpassed the existing record of 73 pounds, caught nearly four years ago to the day by Fred Barnes of Chesapeake.

     Wolfe made the record-setting catch in the Atlantic Ocean off Cape Henry, where they were but one of an estimated 100-boat flotilla while fishing with Captain Tim Cannon aboard the charter boat Bada Bing. The trophy striper hit a trolled tandem parachute rig, consisting of a pair of 2-ounce big-mouthed nylon skirted jigs, paired with 9-inch rubber shad bodies and trolled from a custom rod mated to a Penn 114H, spooled with 80-pound Ande monofilament line. When the fish hit, Wolfe pulled the rod from its holder and began reeling after the striper made an initial but brief run. After an uneventful 15 minutes, the fish broke water near the back of the boat, where the captain realized the fish was likely too large for the net.

     Wolfe was instructed to lead the fish head first into the net. As the angler strained the 80-pound mono to lead the fish the mono snapped and the hook fell from the fish’s lip. Momentum carried the fish across the waiting landing net, where the fish rested briefly. A flick of the tail and the fish would be gone but the huge striper relaxed. Its head slumped into the net and was hauled into the boat by Wolfe and Captain Cannon. Several pictures were immediately taken and the group figured the fish was at least 50 pounds.

     Tournament Director Lewis Gillingham viewed the official weigh-in at Long Bay Pointe Marina by its weighmaster Connie Barbour. “The fish seemed very long for its girth, with a large head and not much in its stomach. Captain Cannon indicated the fish had spit-up several medium-sized eels after it was brought onboard,” noted Gillingham. The trophy striper was hustled to the Richmond Boat Show later Friday evening, where it was on display through Sunday. Wolfe, an X-ray technician employed at Manassas Hospital, also allowed the removal of the big striper’s otilith (ear bone) after the display by a member of the VMRC biological sampling program so its age could be determined. At the time the otilith was removed it was determined the fish was a female with a reasonably large egg mass but its gut was empty.

     The record striper’s otilith was taken to Old Dominion University’s CQFE Ageing lab where it was determined the fish was 26 years old, making it a member of the 1986 year class. The 26 year old fish ties as the oldest otilith aged striped bass. The other fish, taken in 2011, weighed 61 pounds and was a member of the 1985 year class. Interestingly, the outgoing state record striper, was determined to be 22 years old but that was in 2008, making it a colleague of the new record fish as another member of the 1986 year class. 

     The 74-pound, record-setting striper measured 56-3/4 inches in length and had a girth of 31-1/2 inches. The prior state record of 73 pounds was caught in the Atlantic Ocean about one-half mile north of the 4A buoy, which is located off Fishermen’s Island, by Frederick Barnes of Chesapeake on January 23, 2008.

     For more information, contact Lewis S. Gillingham, Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament, 2600 Washington Avenue Third Floor; Newport News, VA, 23607, (757) 491-5160, vswft@mrc.virginia.gov

Gilchrist Introduces Bill Calling for Cost Equity

     Annapolis, Md. -- Delegate James W. Gilchrist (D-17th) has introduced HB 1173, supported by the Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD), which would mandate that commercial fishermen pay at least 90 percent of the management costs of their fishery or face repercussions.

     “For too long recreational anglers have supported the management of their fishery while the majority of the cost of managing commercial fisheries has been borne by Maryland taxpayers,” explained Tony Friedrich, CCA MD executive director. “It’s time to stop asking the general public to accept this financial burden.

     “During the past several weeks CCA Maryland has worked with Delegate Gilchrist discussing this inequity and possible solutions to protect Maryland tax dollars and recreational user fees. We believe the bill introduced will go a long way in correcting the inequity. We commend him and Delegate Marvin Holmes and encourage his colleagues to support this bill to be fair to all Maryland citizens.”

     All fishing in Maryland—both commercial and recreational—is supported by a combination of license and permit fees, federal angler taxes and direct grants, and state revenue. Preliminary estimates by the Maryland Department of Natural Resource (DNR) has found that 93 percent of management costs for recreational fishing comes from license fees and federal angling taxes; while only 20 percent of management of commercial fisheries comes from license and permit fees, with an additional 23 percent covered by direct federal grants.

     If enacted, the bill would mandate that DNR modify commercial fishing seasons or close commercial fisheries for striped bass, clam, oysters, or crab if projected revenues would not cover at least 90 percent of management cost for that fishery.

     “Last winter management costs for striped bass skyrocketed when DNR discovered more than 13 tons of striped bass captured in illegally-placed nets,” Friedrich said. “DNR initially closed the gill net season, and had to increase staffing on the water and at reporting stations to assure additional infractions would not occur when it was re-opened. In developing better ways to monitor and enforce the commercial striped bass fishery, DNR identified the massive shortfall and inequity in the amount of money contributed by commercial fisherman in all fisheries as compared to recreational anglers.

    “Unfortunately, many in the commercial industry continue to disregard our natural resources law as evidenced by recent illegal activity involving the oyster fishery. Nineteen separate commercial fishermen have been cited in the last two months for oyster violations, including poaching in sanctuaries, again adding costs to the management of the commercial industry. It’s time for this illegal activity to stop.”

     The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) is one of 17 state chapters of the Coastal Conservation Association, which has 100,000 members nationally.

Pasadena Sportfishing Flea Market a Great Place to Pick up a Bargain

     Earleigh Heights, Md. -- The 20th annual Pasadena Sportfishing Flea Market/Show is scheduled for Feb. 18 and 19, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days.

     Admission is $3. The show typically features discount prices on fishing rods and gear of all varieties. Special items include antiques and hard to find replacement parts. Over 150 tables are expected to be on display with gear for fly fishing, spin fishing, trolling, jigging and more.

     Food will be available for reasonable prices, including pit beef and ham sandwiches, oysters on the half shell and cold beer.

     It's also a good time to pick up your license for this year's fishing action at the Department of Natural Resources' table.

     Find out more at pasadenasportfishing.com

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- Fishermen are starting to get serious about fishing this week due to the beautiful weather. This time of the year is usually relegated to getting equipment in shape and going to outdoor shows to see what new tackle is out there and that new fishing rod you just got to have. There is some good striped bass action off Ocean City and there is plenty of yellow perch action going on.

     The fisheries service will be at the Pasadena Fishing Flea Market along with Licensing on February 18th and 19th at the Fairleigh Heights Fire House on Route 2. Come look for some bargains (there is usually plenty), buy your fishing license and stop by to chat with us.

     The relatively warm winter weather has water temperatures in the bay and tidal rivers and creeks about 5-degrees warmer than what fishermen and fish expect this year. The coldest water temperature noted in the lower Susquehanna was 38-degrees last week and fishermen are reporting 42 degrees in the Elk and Northeast Rivers today.

     Yellow perch are behaving differently this year and are either staging or actually moving up the tidal rivers towards their spawning areas. Fishermen in the lower Susquehanna are not seeing the patterns of fishing they did last year. The smaller yellow perch are schooled up in deeper water as expected but the larger fish seem to be somewhere else. Throwback ratios in the lower Susquehanna, Northeast and Elk Rivers are very high. It would be a calculated guess that the yellow perch in that 12” to 14” size range could be swimming freely in shallower waters looking for something to eat.

     Early reports are coming in from traditional tidal rivers; of yellow perch being caught; two weeks ago at Martinake State Park on the Choptank and at Hillsboro on the Tuckahoe yesterday. There have been reports of scattered catches at Gray’s Run (Bush River), Wayson’s Corner (Patuxent River), Allen’s Fresh (Wicomico River) and traditional tidal rivers where yellow perch are found. Brothers Tyler and Aiden Dunlap got to go fishing with their dad on the Sassafras recently and caught this nice yellow perch on a 1/8oz jig. Be sure to check out their Angler’s Log of February 6th. http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6830475957_8afb4eb995.jpg 

     At present fishermen in boats are doing well when fishing close to the bottom with scented soft plastics and live minnows at the mouths of the tidal rivers in channels and holes. Bank fishermen are employing small grub jigs and minnows. If you’ve got the itch to get out; buy your fishing license and check out your favorite spots and you might be lucky enough to be there at the right time and be that guy who’s able to say “you should have been here yesterday." 

     Freshwater fishermen in the upper reaches of the tidal rivers and small ponds and lakes everywhere are having fun catching chain pickerel. They’re good fighters and usually charge a lure with total abandon. Crappie are schooled up deep in some of the larger reservoirs such as Loch Raven around bridge piers and marinas in the tidal Potomac and Patuxent Rivers are always good places to look. Largemouth bass can be found holding deep along ledges and drop-offs and small, slow and close to the bottom is the mantra for successful fishermen; grubs, blade lures and hair jigs worked very slow or dead sticked can entice a pickup by a bass hunkered close to the bottom. 

     John Mullican sent us the following report from the upper Potomac. Always check river levels before heading out. When river levels are at manageable levels, walleye fishing is expected to be good. Hair jigs and grubs worked through the current breaks below dams and major ledges are your best bet when the water temperatures remain in the 30s. During winter warm spells and as spring progresses crankbaits can be productive too. For the die hard smallmouth angler winter can be a tough time to catch many fish. The bass that are caught, however, can be large. Try crawling small hair jigs very slowly along the bottom in areas with little current. Pause often and let the jig sit. The hit will be a mushy feeling similar to pulling in leaves or a slight tap. Warming trends following a rain event can bring great fishing even in the middle of winter. 

     In early January a few fishermen got out on the ice at Deep Creek Lake and ice fished in some of the coves but that was short lived and the ice, what little there is of it is very unsafe. Fisheries biologist Alan Klotz recommends fishermen try some of the trout catch and release areas and mentioned the Trophy Trout section of the lower Savage as a good place to fish for trout. The pre-season stocking of trout has begun and will go through the month depending on flow conditions and weather. Fishermen can check the latest trout stockings on the following link. http://www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/stocking/index.asp 

     Fishermen at Ocean City have been catching some large striped bass this week by trolling large Mojos, Stretch and Tomic lures. Large striped bass are moving along the beaches on their journey north and the shoal areas within 3-miles of the beach has been the place to troll; most captains are fishing north of the Ocean City Inlet. January was an exciting month for tautog fishing and a new state record 23lb tautog was caught by Charlie Donahue of Philadelphia while fishing on an Ocean City head boat that specializes in this type of fishing. Fisheries biologists aged Charles’s big tog to be 10-years old. At least one other 20 lb tog was caught last month and weather permitting the good fishing continues this month.