About Chesapeake Bay, MD

The Chesapeake Bay is found within the state of Maryland. The bay is reported to have an elevation of 13 meters and is a popular fly-fishing spot for local Anglers. It’s nearby several notable coves such as Crab Cove, Oyster Cove, Castors Cove, Chapel Cove, and Hooper Cove. It can also be found near another suburban community named Taylor’s Island. 

The bay is considered to be one of the world’s largest estuaries, with its waters extending through both the states of Maryland and Virginia. It’s so large that it even stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean, making it approximately 200 miles long. Its headwaters are said to originate from the Susquehanna River, with an outlet pouring into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s measured to be 2.8 miles wide at its narrowest and 30 miles at its widest. It’s also connected to the mouth of the Potomac River which divides Maryland from Virginia. 

The bay has a few alternate names, these include the Chesapeake Bay, Bay of Chesepian, and Bay of Chespiock. Its names are taken from the word ‘Chesepiooc’, an Algonquian word referring to a village 'at a big river. The name may also be referring to the Chesapeake people or the Chesepian. They were a Native American tribe who lived in the area we now call South Hampton Roads found within the state of Virginia.  

All About Fishing in Chesapeake Bay, MD

The bay is expansive and has many connections with other water bodies. Some rivers flow towards it, allowing you to have a wide selection of fish to catch. Furthermore, restoration efforts have also increased the number and health of native fish species in the area. The most popular and active fish you can catch in the area are largemouth bass, striped bass, and channel catfish. Locals have also captured other species including red drum, white perch, and even the large cobia. 

You’ll find no shortage of bait shops when traveling here. Both Lusby and Taylor’s Island have shops that will have various high-quality fishing gear and equipment needed to make the most out of your fishing trip. To best catch the carnivorous largemouth bass, you should use live bait such as shinners, crawfish, or minnows. To catch striped bass, use live eels, bunker, or herring to get their attention. The channel catfish on the other hand are more prone to go for worms, shad, and minnows. 

Fishing Seasonality

Fishing restrictions are rather light in this area, if you bring a fishing license you can fish at any season of your choice. However, there are seasons where the fish in the area are known to go to shallower waters. This is during the spring, during the months between March 20 to June 20. The bay has many shallow spots, and the fish here tend to spawn near the water’s surface during this time, starting here will make them more exposed to your bait, increasing your chances of getting a catch.  

Reports in the area show that the best fishing time is from 7:18 AM to 9:18 AM. If you prefer afternoon fishing, you can also begin your trip from 12:47 PM to 2:47 PM and still be just as effective. Either one will improve your chances of catching the fish of your choice. 

Fishing Seasonality

Fishing restrictions are rather light in this area, if you bring a fishing license you can fish at any season of your choice. However, there are seasons where the fish in the area are known to go to shallower waters. This is during the spring, during the months between March 20 to June 20. The bay has many shallow spots, and the fish here tend to spawn near the water’s surface during this time, starting here will make them more exposed to your bait, increasing your chances of getting a catch.  

Reports in the area show that the best fishing time is from 7:18 AM to 9:18 AM. If you prefer afternoon fishing, you can also begin your trip from 12:47 PM to 2:47 PM and still be just as effective. Either one will improve your chances of catching the fish of your choice. 

All About Fishing in Chesapeake Bay, MD

The bay is expansive and has many connections with other water bodies. Some rivers flow towards it, allowing you to have a wide selection of fish to catch. Furthermore, restoration efforts have also increased the number and health of native fish species in the area. The most popular and active fish you can catch in the area are largemouth bass, striped bass, and channel catfish. Locals have also captured other species including red drum, white perch, and even the large cobia. 

You’ll find no shortage of bait shops when traveling here. Both Lusby and Taylor’s Island have shops that will have various high-quality fishing gear and equipment needed to make the most out of your fishing trip. To best catch the carnivorous largemouth bass, you should use live bait such as shinners, crawfish, or minnows. To catch striped bass, use live eels, bunker, or herring to get their attention. The channel catfish on the other hand are more prone to go for worms, shad, and minnows.