Maryland’s 2026 Striped Bass Season Opens for Catch-and-Release
Image Courtesy of Maryland Department of Natural Resources
MARYLAND – Catch-and-release fishing of striped bass returns to Maryland waters on Apr. 1, implementing a shift in the season from the past two years.
Officials with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) say these adjustments are intended to simplify existing regulations and continue long-term conservation efforts for striped bass, while allowing more recreational fishing opportunities. The change was reportedly under consideration for over a year and approved after extensive stakeholder engagement and consideration of thousands of public comments. This year’s recreational striped bass season in the Chesapeake Bay will be as follows:
- Jan. 1–Apr. 30: Catch-and-Release Fishing
- May 1–Jul. 31: Harvest
- Aug. 1–31: Closed
- Sept. 1–Dec. 5: Harvest
- Dec. 6–31: Catch-and-Release Fishing
During catch-and-release season, officials encourage anglers to practice techniques that will help the fish survive, such as limiting the amount of handling and minimizing air exposure. The same gear rules that apply in March will be extended through May 15, to ensure a low release mortality in April and early May. These rules prohibit stinger hooks, limit trolling to six rods, and require barbless hooks while trolling.
Starting on May 1, when striped bass harvest is permitted, anglers may keep one striped bass per person, per day, with a minimum length of 19 inches and a maximum length of 24 inches.
For more information about the fishing season, click here.
