Boater Missing Near Breezy Point

     Breezy Point, Md. -- Four people were rescued early Saturday morning and a search continues for one person after their boat capsized during Friday night's violent storm.

     U.S. Coast Guard officials said a Good Samaritan rescued two people after the boat they were aboard began sinking around 3:30 a.m. near Breezy Point, Maryland. The boaters were found hanging on to a crab pot buoy.

     Maryland Natural Resources Police have identified the missing person as Angel Ayala Cerros, 28, of Alexandria, Virginia. It was Cerros' 12-foot boat that capsized during high winds, heavy rains, and rough sea conditions.

     The Coast Guard rescued two more people who had been in the boat shortly after a distress call.

     According to the NRP, the four people rescued were wearing life jackets when the boat capsized, but Cerros had become separated from his life jacket during the accident.

     The search for the missing boater continued Saturday with the following units participating: U.S. Coast Guard, NRP, the Charles County Fire Department and the Anne Arundel County Fire Department.

Fishing Bay Yacht Club Leukemia Cup Race July 7-8

     Deltaville, Va. -- Mariners are advised that the Fishing Bay Yacht Club's Leukemia Cup Sailboat Regatta will occur in the Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the Piankatank River. The event will take place from July 7 through July 8 beginning at 10 a.m. and ending at 4 p.m.

     Mariners are requested to use caution and bare steerage when transiting the area.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- As we bid farewell to June and get ready for the 4th of July that just so happens to fall in the middle of the week this year; summer time fishing is in place. Many of our summer visitors are now here in the Chesapeake Bay and ocean waters and beckoning to fishermen to come out and try their luck and the quiet lakes, ponds and waterways offer a retreat from the more hectic life for freshwater fishermen to try their luck.

      On Thursday, biologists and young anglers were out on the waters of the Chesapeake tagging and releasing striped bass in portions of the bay from the upper bay to the lower bay for the July portion of the Diamond Jim series. These specially tagged striped bass can be worth up to $25,000 to a lucky fisherman.

Chesapeake Bay

     In the far upper reaches of the Chesapeake fishermen are finding good fishing for white perch and channel catfish in the channels of the Susquehanna and Elk Rivers. At the Conowingo Dam pool, fishermen are catching a mix of striped bass channel catfish and flathead catfish. The dam is generally on an afternoon power generation schedule.

     Fishermen are finding good striped bass fishing above the bay bridge at traditional locations such as Love Point, Swan Point and the eastern side of the shipping channel. Fishermen are chumming and finding the larger fish close to the bottom. Those fishermen that are trolling are using medium sized bucktails and swim shads along channel edges. Fishing around the bay bridge piers has picked up recently and fishermen are reporting catching striped bass by jigging over suspended fish or by live lining spot.

     Below the bay bridge in the middle bay region fishermen are finding striped bass along the eastern and western edges of the shipping channel and are trolling, jigging, chumming or live lining spot in a number of locations. A few of the traditional spots where the fishing has been good are Hackett's Bar, the Hill, Thomas Point, Tolley's Point, Breezy Point and the False Channel. Most fishermen that are trolling are using medium sized bucktails dressed with sassy shads either in tandem or behind umbrella rigs. Red surge tube lures, swim shads and Drone spoons are also popular choices for trolling. Fishermen are eager to begin live lining spot in earnest but are finding many of the spot they find available are as small as 2" in size. Using finer wire stock hooks can offer an advantage but use caution with dropping hook size if using J style hooks, to reduce deep hooking; using circle hooks will of course alleviate these problems. Shallow water fishing for striped bass in the early morning and late evening hours remains good this week.

     The bay and its tributaries seem to be flooded with a lot of small croakers this season and they have been found by fishermen as far as Denton on the Choptank River for example. It would seem that we are experiencing a strong year class perhaps and hopefully they will provide a boost to the croaker fishery in years to come. Although it might be tempting, fishermen should remember that the minimum size for croaker is 9" so small croaker can not be used for live lining. Croaker fishing has been fair at best in the middle bay area with good fishing in the evenings on a proper tide on shoal and channel edges. White perch have been filling in the gaps for fishermen in the tidal rivers and creeks whether they are bottom fishing with bait or casting small lures along shorelines in the early mornings and evenings.

     Lower bay region fishermen that are looking for striped bass have been spending a good deal of their time live lining spot at the 35' channel edge out in front of the Gas Docks at Cove Point. Although small, there are plenty of spot available in the region's tidal rivers and creeks. Trolling along the channel edges along the western side of the shipping channel and the lower Potomac remains good this week. Fishermen are seeing more bluefish now, so swim shads are being replaced with #1 and #2 Drone spoons. Chumming in the lower Potomac and areas such as Buoy 72 and the Rock Piles above Point Lookout are producing fair catches of striped bass and better catches of medium sized bluefish. Bluefish are also being found in good numbers around the Middle Grounds area.

     The shallow water fishing for speckled trout continues to be a very exciting fishing opportunity in the Tangier Sound area this week. Fishermen are using swim shads and topwater lures and also catching a mix of striped bass and bluefish.

     Croaker fishing remains good with the best fishing in the evenings on the proper tide along channel edges and shoal areas. Fishermen are finding peeler crab and shrimp baits have been working well. White perch, spot, bluefish, sub-legal red drum and the occasional flounder help round out the bottom fishing mix. Fishermen are reporting a lot of small red drum or puppy drum in the 12" size category all over the lower bay region in the shallows and deeper waters. One would sure hope they will return when they are in the 19" to 26" size class.

Crabbing

     Recreational crabbers report good crabbing this week in most tidal rivers and creeks below Kent Island. Reports from a few crabbers mention the crabbing dropping off in the creeks and backwaters of Kent Island and greatly improving in some western shore rivers such as the Severn. Generally crabbing remains steady with most recreational crabbers able to harvest a half bushel to a bushel of crabs per outing in the middle and lower bay regions and a couple of dozen crabs per outing in the upper bay.

Freshwater

     Freshwater fishermen are finding a variety of fishing opportunities across the state. Fishermen at Deep Creek Lake are finding a mix of yellow perch, bluegills, chain pickerel, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and walleye in varied locations at the lake. Drifting live minnows at various depths is a good tactic this time of the year, especially near deep grass.

     Largemouth bass tend to take center stage during the summer months for fishermen and the early morning and late evening hours are the best times to pursue them in shallow water areas. Casting topwater lures such as frogs are an exciting way to fish for largemouth bass; even if a strike doesn't result in a hook up. Spinnerbaits and chatterbaits retrieved over grass are good choices and seem to be a favorite of snakeheads in the tidal Potomac lately. As the sun rises higher in the sky and temperatures climb, dropping weedless soft plastics down through grass can entice strikes from bass hunkered down in the cool shade under the grass in deeper waters. The shade of old docks and fallen tree tops and the mouths of small creeks are also good places to look for bass trying to beat the heat.

     Fishing for bluegills is a favorite summer past time for many fishermen whether watching a bobber with a worm or cricket underneath or fishing with small lures. Perhaps one of the most exciting ways to catch bluegills is with a light fly rod, a floating line and some small rubber-legged poppers. Fishing for channel catfish remains very good this week in the upper Potomac, the Elk, Susquehanna, Choptank and numerous other rivers within Maryland.

At the Ocean

      Ocean City fishermen are seeing water temperature in the surf at around 74-degrees this week and are mostly fishing for a summer mix of seasonal fish. Using small baits they are catching a mix of kingfish, croaker, spot, flounder and small bluefish. Those wishing for a bit more pull are fishing late in the evening for large inshore sharks and sting rays.

     In and around the inlet fishermen are catching sheepshead, flounder, croaker and triggerfish during the day and striped bass and bluefish at night. Most of the striped bass being caught are less than 28" but some big ones are caught every night. Flounder fishing around the inlet and back bay areas has been very good when water clarity favorable. Larger flounder are being caught now that fishermen are beginning to live line spot.

     The boats venturing out to the wreck sites are coming back to the docks with good catches of sea bass; the throwback ratio is reported to be high but there are some whoppers out there.

     The boats heading out to the offshore waters are finding mostly yellowfin tuna and dolphin with a mix of bluefin tuna, white marlin, blue marlin and an occasional wahoo.

Broad Bay Fireworks Safety Zone Established

     Virginia Beach, Va. -- Mariners are advised that the Captain of the Port of the Hampton Roads will be establishing a safety zone in support of the fireworks event at the Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club on Broad Bay in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The event will be held from 9:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 1. The safety zone will encompass all waters within a 400-yard radius of the fireworks display in approximate position 36-52-08N / 076-00-46W. Mariners must remain outside this zone unless otherwise authorized by the Captain of the Port or his representative.

Man Found Dead on Boat at Mears Point Marina

     Grasonville, Md. – On June 25, at around 10 a.m., Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) responded to a call reporting a dead man on a boat docked at the Mears Point Marina in Grasonville.

     Officers arrived on the scene and found Carter W. Stewart, 54, of Grasonville, dead in the boat’s cabin. His body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s in Baltimore for autopsy. The cause of death is unknown at this time. Foul play is not suspected, however, NRP Special Operations Division, along with forensic investigators, are continuing the investigation.

Lighthouse and Hyatt Will Team Up For Dedication Event Sept. 22

     Cambridge, Md. -- Through a new partnership, the Choptank River Lighthouse Society and the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort are teaming up to host a dedication ceremony for the lighthouse on Sept. 22.

     To mark its 10th anniversary, the four-diamond resort is playing a key role in celebrating the newest addition to the city’s waterfront—the Choptank River Lighthouse. The lighthouse society has expressed its appreciation to the Hyatt, which will provide all the food and set-up for a ticketed dedication ceremony on Sept. 22, with all proceeds going back to the lighthouse maintenance fund. 

     The replica of the Choptank River Lighthouse will be officially dedicated during a ceremony and reception on Saturday, Sept. 22 at Long Wharf in Cambridge. The general public is invited to gather at Long Wharf Park or on the water to watch the official lighting of the lighthouse at dusk.

     Anyone who buys a ticket to the Lighthouse Grand Opening Reception will enjoy a cocktail reception and dinner provided by the Hyatt, the official dedication ceremony, tours of the lighthouse, and the auction of an original painting by George Wright.

     The grand opening ticketed event starts at 4 p.m. for tours and 5 p.m. for the reception. The tax-deductible tickets cost $65 per person or $35 per person for current lighthouse donors. All proceeds from ticket sales go toward construction and maintenance costs of the lighthouse.

     To buy tickets, call the Dorchester Chamber of Commerce at 410-228-3575 or Wright's Art & Framing at 410-228-7977. For updates, visit www.choptankriverlighthouse.org or the Choptank River Lighthouse Facebook page.

1.3-Mile 'Swim Across the Potomac River' Scheduled for July 8

     Alexandria, Va. -- Mariners are advised that the “Swim Across the Potomac River” is scheduled to occur in the Potomac River on Sunday, July 8, 2012, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Approximately 250 participants will swim across the Potomac River between Virginia and Maryland on a 1.3-mile linear course located downriver of the Woodrow Wilson Memorial (I-95/I-495) Bridge.

     The start is located along the shore at North Point at Jones Point Park and the finish is located along the shore at National Harbor Marina. A portion of the swim course will cross the federal navigation channel. The Coast Guard has established a regulated area for all waters of the Potomac River, within lines connecting the following positions: from 38°47’35” N, longitude 077°02’22” W, thence to latitude 38°47’12” N, longitude 077°00’57” W, and from latitude 38°47’24” N, longitude 077°03’03” W to latitude 38°46’54” N, longitude 077°01’09” W.

     The regulated area will be enforced from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on July 8, 2012. The effect will be to restrict vessel traffic on certain waters of the Potomac River. The Coast Guard Patrol Commander may forbid and control the movement of all vessels in the regulated area. Coast Guard vessels enforcing this regulated area can be contacted on marine band radio VHFFM channel 16 or 22A. When hailed or signaled by an official patrol vessel, a vessel in the area shall immediately comply with the directions given. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the area, citation for failure to comply, or both.

     Mariners are  urged to schedule their transits on this waterway beyond the enforcement times. The swimmers will be supported by sponsorprovided watercraft. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Chart 12289.

Up to 1,500 Swimmers to Participate in 'Diamond in the Rough' Triathlon

     Perryville, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the swim segment of the “Diamond in the Rough” annual triathlon is scheduled to occur in the Susquehanna River on Saturday, July 7, 2012, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Up to 1,500 swimmers will operate on a marked course with a start and finish at the fishing dock at Stump Point (Perryville Community Park), located at Perryville, Maryland.
     Participants will be supported by sponsor-provided motorized watercraft and kayaks. Safety patrol vessels on scene can be contacted on marine band radio channel 16 VHF-FM, if necessary. For any comments or questions contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Chart 12274.

Robert Gaudette Named Admiral Of The Chesapeake

     Annapolis, Md. -- Governor Martin O’Malley has designated Robert P. Gaudette Admiral of the Chesapeake for his outstanding leadership in public access and environmental initiatives and service to the State and its citizens. Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Secretary John Griffin presented Gaudette, newly retired from his position as DNR Director of Boating Services, with the award during his farewell celebration on May 31.

     “Mr. Gaudette has been a tireless advocate for boating access within our State’s waterways and the Chesapeake Bay throughout his 32 years with DNR,” said Governor O’Malley. “He exemplifies outstanding leadership and public service, and he understands the vital connection between our environment and our children’s future. That’s why he is more than deserving of the Admiral of the Chesapeake award.”

     The Admiral of the Chesapeake is awarded by Maryland’s Governor to those who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the conservation and restoration of the Chesapeake Bay, its surrounding landscapes, and the life that inhabits them. This lifetime achievement award is the highest honor the Governor can bestow on an individual for environmental contributions, and is given on an as-merited basis. 

     “Bob ranks in the top one percent of public servants that I have been honored to work with over my long career,” said Griffin. “He has been a valued leader for the Department and will be missed by me and all of his fellow colleagues.” 

     Gaudette joined the DNR family in 1981, serving as Director of several programs including Waterway Improvement, Engineering and Construction, and most recently, Boating Services. For the past five years, Gaudette has done an exemplary job in overseeing the funding and technical services for boating access, dredging and navigation projects, and leading advancements in waterway planning, boating regulations, Clean Marinas, marine sewage pumpouts and several State marina facilities. 

     Before his time at DNR, Gaudette worked as Assistant County Engineer with the Talbot County Department of Public Works where he coordinated public boating access and other projects for the County.  

     He was raised in Cambridge, Maryland and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and his master’s from Johns Hopkins University. 

     “I have very much enjoyed my time at DNR and working alongside other knowledgeable and dedicated people who share a common goal and passion to improve and promote the Chesapeake Bay,” said Gaudette. 

     Gaudette was also recently appointed by Governor O’Malley to the State Marine Contractors Licensing Board.

Rowing Regatta in the Northwest Harbor this Saturday

     Baltimore, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the annual “Baltimore Dragon Boat Challenge” rowing regatta is scheduled to occur in the Northwest Harbor on June 23, 2012 (rain date June 24, 2012). Approximately 500 participants in 12-person paddling teams will race in vessels 42 feet in length on a designated course with 4 marked lanes located off Tide Point, between the American Sugar Refining wharf and North Locust Point Marine Terminal Pier 8 in Baltimore, Maryland.

     Course markers will be set from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m., with racing from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and course markers will be removed from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. As described in the Table to Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations Section 100.501, special local regulations establish a regulated area for all waters of Patapsco River, Northwest Harbor, in Baltimore, Maryland, from shoreline to shoreline, within an area bounded on the east by a line drawn along longitude 076°35’ W and bounded on the west by a line drawn along longitude 076°36’ W. This area will be enforced from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. on June 23, 2012, and in the case of inclement weather, this marine event may be postponed and the regulated area enforced from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 24, 2012.

     The Coast Guard Patrol Commander may forbid and control the movement of all vessels in the regulated area. Coast Guard vessels enforcing this regulated area can be contacted on marine band radio channel VHF-FM 16 or 22A. When hailed or signaled by an official patrol vessel, a vessel in the area shall immediately comply with the directions given. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the area, citation for failure to comply, or both.

     Mariners are urged to schedule their transits on this waterway beyond the enforcement times.

     Comments or questions should be directed to Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division by telephone at (410) 576-2674 or e-mail Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Chart 12281.

Maryland NRP Enforcing New Boat Noise Regulations

Natural Resources Police to Offer Courtesy Noise Checks

     Annapolis, Md. -- Boaters traveling in Deep Creek Lake, the Bohemia River, the Elk and Northeast Rivers and tributaries, and the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake & Delaware (C&D) Canal must adhere to recently updated boat noise regulations. The state is providing citizens with free tests to determine if their boat is within the legal limit.

     The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) established the regulations, which went into effect November 28, 2011, because of increasing citizen concern in these areas. These locations feature high banks and bluffs that magnify noise and carry it over long distances, accounting for more than 50 percent of boat noise complaints statewide.

     New for this summer, the regulations prohibit boats with mufflers and muffler cut-out systems from exceeding the following noise levels.
For engines manufactured before January 1, 1993, the noise level may not exceed 90 decibels.
Those manufactured on or after January 1, 1993, the noise level may not exceed 88 decibels.

     Boats manufactured after January 1990 must operate with a continuous muffler system and and may not operate a device that bypasses, reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of a muffler or noise suppression device or system.

     The full regulation is located in COMAR 08.18.03 and may be accessed from the Maryland Division of State Documents website: Vessel Noise Regulations.

     The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) will be conducting courtesy tests so boaters may determine if their vessel meets regulation guidelines. The test is done at idle, with all engines running and at the loudest level with any bypass device engaged, and is not a law enforcement action. Participants with boats that are over the noise limit will only be advised of the decibel output. Testing dates, times and locations are being scheduled and will be listed at dnr.state.md.us/boating/ and dnr.state.md.us/nrp/.

Fireworks Displays on the Chesapeake and Tributaries

   Visit our home page for the 2013 schedule.


 Baltimore, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the Coast Guard Captain of the Port Baltimore has received notice of the following fireworks displays, scheduled to occur on or near navigable waters during the 2012 Independence Day holiday period:

1. Chester River, Town of Chestertown, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 300 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore near the mouth of Radcliffe Creek on July 4, 2012 (rain date of July 5, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:20 p.m. Chart 12272.

2. Fairlee Creek, Great Oak Landing Marina, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 200 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at Shell Point on July 7, 2012 (rain date of September 3, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12274.

3. Herring Bay, Herrington Harbour South Marina, Rose Haven, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on the south jetty on July 3, 2012 (rain date of July 4, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:15 p.m. Chart 12266.

4. Miles River, St. Michaels, Maryland, within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks discharge site located on a point of land at the mouth of Long Haul Creek on June 30, 2012 (rain date of July 7, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Chart 12263.

5. Patuxent River, Golden Beach/Patuxent Knolls Civic Association, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 200 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore near Long Point on June 30, 2012 (rain date of July 1, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12284.

6. Potomac River, Town of Colonial Beach, Virginia, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the Municipal Pier on July 4, 2012 (rain date of July 7, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12286.

7. Rock Hall Harbor, Rock Hall, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore on July 4, 2012 (rain date of July 5, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12278.

8. Sassafras River, Georgetown, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located upland along the river east of Dyer Creek on July 4, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12274 .

9. Severn River, Sherwood Forest, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the Sherwood Forest Club’s Main Pier on July 3, 2012 (rain date of July 6, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12282.

10. Somers Cove, Crisfield, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 100 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at Jersey Island on July 4, 2012 (rain date of September 2, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12231.

11. St. Mary’s River, Carthagena Creek, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge barge located in Carthagena Creek on June 29 2012 (rain date of June 30, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12233.

12. St. Mary’s River, St. Mary’s City, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge barge site located at the end of the St. Mary’s College of Maryland pier on July 6 2012 (rain date of July 27, 2012) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12233.

13. Susquehanna River, Havre de Grace, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 300 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at Park Island on July 1, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12274.

14. Upper Potomac River, Mount Vernon Cut, mariners are urged to remain at least 100 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens on July 4, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 11 a.m. Chart 12288.

15. Upper Potomac River, Oxon Hill Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the National Harbor Commercial Pier on June 30, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 11 a.m. Chart 12289.

16. Upper Potomac River, Oxon Hill Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 100 yards from the fireworks discharge floating platform located adjacent to the Gaylord National Harbor Resort on July 4, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at approximately 9 p.m. Chart 12289.

17. Upper Potomac River, Oxon Hill Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the National Harbor Commercial Pier on July 4, 2012 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at approximately 9:45 p.m. Chart 12289.

Mariners are urged to transit these areas with caution, to keep a sharp lookout for other watercraft in these areas, and are reminded to heed the directions of patrolling law enforcement and public safety officials. Absent specific guidance, mariners should remain 300 yards from any fireworks discharge site. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division at telephone number (410) 576-2674, (410) 576-2693 or email Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.

 Mariners are advised that, as described in Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations Section 100.506, the following safety zones are established within the Captain of the Port Baltimore Zone for fireworks displays planned during the 2012 Independence Day holiday period:

18. Anacostia River, Washington, DC, within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°52′16″ N, 077°00′13″ W, located approximately 500 yards southeast of the shoreline near Washington Nationals Ball Park. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2012, from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for approximately 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289.

19. Baltimore Inner Harbor, Patapsco River, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°16′55″ N, 076°36′17″ W, at the entrance to Baltimore Inner Harbor, approximately 150 yards southwest of Pier 6, and Northwest Harbor (Western Section), Patapsco River, Maryland, within a 250-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°16′37″ N, 076°35′54″ W, located near the western end of Northwest Harbor. These safety zones will be enforced on July 4, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12281.

20. Chesapeake Bay, Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the two fireworks barges in approximate position 38°41′36″ N, 076°31′30″ W and 38°41′28″ N, 076°31′29″ W, located north and south of the jetties at Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2012, from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Chart 12263.

21. Choptank River, Cambridge, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks launch site located at Great Marsh Point, Cambridge at 38°35′06″ N, 076°04′46″ W. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2012 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Chart 12266.

22. Middle River, Baltimore County, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°17′45″ N, 076°23′49″ W, approximately 300 yards east of Rockaway Beach, near Turkey Point. This safety zone will be enforced on June 30, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12278.

23. Northeast River North East, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°35'26'' N, 075°57'00'' W, located approximately 400 yards south of the North East Community Park. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Chart 12274.

24. Patuxent River, Solomons Island, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in an area bound by the following points: 38°19′42″ N, 076°28′02″ W; thence to 38°19′26″ N, 076°28′18″ W; thence to 38°18′48″ N, 076°27′42″ W; thence to 38°19′06″ N 076°27′25″ W, thence to the point of origin, located near Solomons Island, MD. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Chart 12284.

25. Potomac River, Prince William County, Virginia, within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°34′08″ N, 077°15′34″ W, located near Cherry Hill, Virginia. This safety zone will be enforced on June 30, 2012, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 1, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289.

26. Potomac River, Charles County, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°20′36″ N, 077°14′09″ W, located near Fairview Beach, Virginia. This safety zone will be enforced on July 14, 2012, from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (with a rain date of July 21, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 10 p.m. Chart 12288.

27. Severn River and Spa Creek, within an area bounded by a line drawn from 38°58′39.6″ N, 076°28′49″ W, thence to 38°58′41″ N, 076°28′14″ W, thence to 38°59′01″ N, 076°28′37″ W, thence to 38°58′57″ N, 076°28′40″ W, located near the entrance to Spa Creek in Annapolis, Maryland. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2012, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Chart 12283.

28. Tred Avon River, Oxford, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°41′24″ N, 076°10′37″ W, approximately 500 yards northwest of the waterfront at Oxford. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2012 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12266.

29. Upper Potomac River, Alexandria Channel, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°48′37″ N, 077°02′02″ W, located near the waterfront of Alexandria, Virginia. This safety zone will be enforced on July 7, 2012, from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (with a rain date of July 8, 2012) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289.

Fireworks barges and launch sites on land will have signs labeled FIREWORKS--DANGER--STAY AWAY to provide on scene notice that the safety zone will be enforced. Vessels may not enter, remain in, or transit through the safety zone during the enforcement period unless authorized by the Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) or designated Coast Guard patrol personnel on scene. All persons and vessels shall comply with the instructions of the COTP or the designated on-scene-patrol  personnel, and upon being hailed by siren, radio, flashing light or other means, the operator of a vessel shall proceed as directed. Other Federal, State and local agencies may assist these personnel in the enforcement of the safety zone. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674, (410) 576- 2693 or  Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.

Three Weigh Stations for MSSA Tuna-Ment June 22-24

     Ocean City, Md. -- The 23rd annual Maryland Saltwater Sportfishermen's Assocation Tuna-Ment is scheduled for June 22-24 with weigh stations in Ocean City, Maryland - Sunset Marina, Chincoteague, Virginia - Curtis-Merritt Harbor, and Wachapreague, Virginia - Seaside Marina.
Details:

Captains Meetings
All meetings June 21 from 6-8pm
Free food, drink, and door prizes
Ocean City, MD - Alltackle
Chincoteague, VA - Capt. Steve's Bait & Tackle
Wachapreague, VA - Seaside Marina

Entry Fee: $250 per boat (unlimited anglers)
Optional TWT's + Bluefish & Dolphin categories

For more information
Call MSSA at 410-255-5535, visit mssa.net or email fish@mssa.net

Fireworks Display on the Choptank near Goose Point this Saturday

     Trappe, Md. -- Mariners are advised that a short-duration, aerial fireworks display is scheduled to occur on the Choptank River at Trappe, Maryland on Saturday, June 16, (no rain date), at approximately 9 p.m. Mariners are urged to transit the area with caution, to keep a sharp lookout for other watercraft in the area, and are reminded to heed the directions of patrolling law enforcement and public safety officials.
     Absent specific guidance, mariners should remain 200 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on the grounds of the Chateau Bu-De located near Goose Point, in approximate position latitude 38° 35’ 51” N, longitude 076° 00’ 09” W (Datum NAD 1983).
     For any comments or questions contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division
at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.  Chart 12268.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum to host 25th annual Antique & Classic Boat Festival

     St. Michaels, Md. -- A collection of antique Silver Arrow Chris-Craft boats headlines the 25th anniversary celebration of the Antique & Classic Boat Festival, to be held at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum over this Father's Day weekend. The event takes place June 15-17 and is hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society (ACBS).

     Made in limited production in the late '50s, the 19' Silver Arrow runabout is considered a collectable treasure today. Powered by a big V-8 Detroit engine, its unique design combines a wood hull with a sleek and sophisticated fiberglass exterior, distinguished by the Silver Arrow's '50s-style tail fins.

     The festival also features more than 100 antique and classic boats, as well as building demonstrations, maritime artists and craftsmen, craft vendors, and a nautical flea market featuring classic old boats, motors, and more. A selection of regional and grilled foods, beer and music will be provided throughout the festival.

     As an ACBS-judged boat show, the festival brings visitors the opportunity to enjoy some of the finest antique and classic boats from across the country, which will be displayed in the water and on land at CBMM. Wood and early fiberglass-classics are featured- from runabouts to yachts, including race boats, work boats, launches, hydroplanes, and utilities.

     Several boat models depicting unique, Chesapeake watercraft will also be on display, including Sea Skiffs, Owens cabin cruisers, and Whirlwind sport boats. The competition culminates in a Father's Day award ceremony, where boat owners will be recognized for their commitment to antique and classic boat preservation and restoration.

     The festival also features "The Arts at Navy Point," where national artists and craftsmen offer maritime-themed items for boat and home. Children's activities include boat-building craft projects, and a youth judging event that educates young girls and boys about the award-winning qualities of preserved and restored classic boats. Along the Fogg's Landing side of CBMM's campus, the festival's "Field of Dreams" features an array of restorable classic boats and motors, along with other items for sale in a nautical flea market.

     Festival hours are Friday, June 15, from 11am to 5pm; Saturday, June 16, from 10am to 5pm; and Father's Day, Sunday, June 17, from 10am to 2pm. The festival includes admission to the museum's twelve exhibit buildings, where authentic, Chesapeake boats and traditions are highlighted. The event is free for CBMM members and children under six, or $13 for adults; $10 for seniors; and $6 for children 6-17. For more information, call 410-745-2916 or visit www.cbmm.org.

Martha Lewis Open For Tours in Fells Point as Part of Baltimore's War of 1812 Events

     Havre de Grace, Md. -- While the spotlight shines on Baltimore’s waterfront at the upcoming Star-Spangled Sailabration June 13-19, representatives from the local tourism community hope to cast a little light on the North East portion of the state. The Skipjack Martha Lewis will be among 46 ships gathering at Baltimore’s Waterfront from regional, national and international ports of call to kick-off Maryland’s bi-centennial commemoration of the War of 1812.

     “We are so excited to show Martha off to the masses!” said Cindi Beane, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Heritage Conservancy. “The skipjack is in integral part of our state and local heritage -- we are honored to be a part of this historic event!” 

     The V-bottom, two sail bateau (skipjack), the Martha Lewis, berthed in Havre de Grace, is one of the few remaining working dredge boats, that make up the Chesapeake Bay oyster fleet -- the last to fish commercially, under sail, in the United States of America. 

     The Martha Lewis will be docked at Fell’s Point at Broadway Pier June 12-14 and will move to the Baltimore Marine Center on June 14 until the 17. The vessel will be open for tours from 1100 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

     Not only will the vessel be open for tours, she will be on a mission to help promote the numerous heritage attractions and tourism in the Upper Bay Region. The Martha Lewis will be our maritime goodwill ambassador this weekend!” said Wini Roche, Tourism Manager for Harford County. “The boat is an example of how today’s visitors can experience unique Chesapeake towns like Havre de Grace where the past is ever-present. The War of 1812 was the pivotal moment in Havre de Grace’s history. What an opportunity to tell this important story and others of our region,” Roche stated.

     In honor of the state’s bi-centennial, the Upper Bay’s 1812 Steering Committee through the support of the Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenway has recently completed an Upper Bay Heritage & War of 1812 Sites - Discovery Guide & Passport. Visitors are encouraged to visit heritage sites in Harford & Cecil Counties and receive a stamp. Those who obtain 5 or more stamps may take their passport to the Havre de Grace Visitor Center or the Cecil County Visitor Center at the Perryville Outlet Center to receive a commemorative coin. 

     The passport will also be distributed at the Chesapeake Campaign tent at Sailabration by members of The Upper Bay 1812 Steering Committee. 

     The Upper Bay 1812 Steering Committee is coordinated by the Cecil and Harford county Offices of Tourism and includes 1812 site representatives and stakeholders including representatives from Perryville, Port Deposit, Havre de Grace, Charlestown, and Elkton and the Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenway

     For more information on the Discovery Guide & Passport visit www.upperbay1812.com.

American Flag Day Foundation Fireworks Celebration June 16 on the Patapsco

     Baltimore, Md. -- Mariners are advised that an aerial fireworks display is scheduled to occur on the Patapsco River on June 16 (no rain date) at dusk, as part of the American Flag Day Foundation’s celebration at the Fort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Maryland.

      The Coast Guard has established a temporary safety zone for all waters of the Patapsco River, adjacent to the Northwest Harbor (East Channel), within a 200-yard radius of a fireworks discharge barge located in approximate position latitude 39°15’54” N, longitude 076°34’40” W (datum NAD 1983), effective from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on June 16.

     The fireworks barge will have a sign on its port and starboard sides labeled FIREWORKS--DANGER--STAY AWAY to provide on scene notice that the safety zone will be enforced. Vessels may not enter, remain in, or transit through the safety zone during the enforcement period unless authorized by the Coast Guard Captain of the Port Baltimore or designated Coast Guard patrol personnel on scene. Other Federal, State and local agencies may assist these personnel in the enforcement of the safety zone.

     For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Chart 12281.

Volunteers Needed for Upcoming Sassafras River Jam

     Georgetown, Md. -- The Sassafras River Association's 3rd annual Sassafest River Jam is being held on Sunday, July 8 12pm- 5pm at Georgetown Yacht Basin. This year's event is shaping up to be full of entertainment with performances by Driven Women, The Blueskeepers, and Chester River Runoff! The day will begin with the annual Wade-In, and there'll be more chances to have fun in the water with the dingy poker run and kayak race. A raffle is planned for a Paddleboard.

     Local food and drink will be sold by Kitty Knight House. A variety of exhibitors -- Mt. Harmon Plantation, ELF, Betterton Fishing Ark, and more -- ill have booths full of fun activities and information. Maryland Department of Natural Resources' Scales and Tales exhibit featuring live animals is also back again this year.

     More details about sign ups for the dingy poker run and kayak race will be coming soon on SRA's website. Check www.sassafrasriver.org for more details.

     Volunteers are needed throughout the day for setup, take down, and everything in between. Contact Susan Warriner at 609-731-3733 or sr91@hotmail.com to sign up.

Great Chesapeake Bay Swim on Sunday

     Stevensville, Md. -- The annual Great Chesapeake Bay Swim races will occur on Sunday, June 10. The 1-mile swim (off Kent Island) will start at 10 a.m. and finish at 11:30 a.m. The 4.4-mile swim (across the Chesapeake Bay) will start at 11 a.m. and finish at 3:15 p.m. 

     During these events, as described in Title 33 CFR Sec. 100.501, special local regulations establish a regulated area on all waters of the Chesapeake Bay, between and adjacent to the spans of the William P. Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge shore to shore 500 yards north of the north span of the bridge from the western shore at latitude 39°00'36" N, longitude 076°23'53" W and the eastern shore at latitude 38°59'14" N, longitude 076°20'00" W, and 500 yards south of the south span of the bridge from the western shore at latitude 39°00'16" N, longitude 076°24'30" W and the eastern shore at latitude 38°58'39" N, longitude 076°20'10" W. The regulated area will be enforced from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 10.

     Except for persons or vessels authorized by the Coast Guard Patrol Commander, and event sponsor-designated participants and official patrol vessels, no person or vessel may enter or remain in the regulated area. The Coast Guard Captain of the Port Baltimore can be contacted at telephone number (410) 576-2525 or 2693. Official patrol vessels enforcing this area can be contacted on marine radio VHF-FM channel 16.

     The Coast Guard Patrol Commander may forbid and control the movement of all vessels in the regulated area, and upon being hailed or signaled by an official patrol vessel, the operator of a vessel shall immediately comply with the instructions given. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the area, citation for failure to comply, or both. 

     Vessel operators may contact the Patrol Commander to request permission to pass through the regulated area. If permission is granted, vessels must pass directly through the regulated area at safe speed and without loitering. The U.S. Coast Guard may be assisted in the patrol and enforcement of the area by Federal, State, and local agencies. 

      For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Charts 12263, 12270.

OpSail Parade of Ships Today in Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads and Norfolk

     Virginia Beach, Va. -- Mariners are advised that the captain of the port of Hampton Roads will establish a safety zone today, June 8, on Tuesday, June 12 in connection with the OpSail 2012 Parade of Sail.
The regulated area is all waters within 100 yards of any OpSail vessel while operating in the navigable waters of the Chesapeake Bay or its tributaries, south of the Maryland-Virginia border. Mariners must remain outside the regulated area unless otherwise authorized by the captain of the port or his representative.

     The International fleet of tall ships began arriving on Thursday. They are anchored in Lynnhaven Roads, just north of the John A. Lesner Bridge on the Virginia Beach waterfront.

     The Parade of Sail will begin at 7 a.m. this morning. The fleet will parade from the Lynnhaven Roads anchorage through Thimble Shoals Channel, past the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel (between Trestles A and B) and past Fort Monroe in Hampton. From there, the ships will move through Hampton Roads and up the Elizabeth River to downtown Norfolk. The first ships in the parade will reach Town Point Park in downtown Norfolk at noon today. Ships will then proceed to their docks in downtown Norfolk, or in other affiliate ports, before opening to the public for tours. 

West Marine to Open Deltaville Store

     Deltaville, Va.-- West Marine announced on Wednesday the grand opening celebration of its newest location in Deltaville, Virginia from Friday, July 13th through Sunday, July 15th. The brand new store will be located at 16723 General Puller Highway in Deltaville with grand opening events taking place place 8:00 am – 9:00 pm on Friday & Saturday and 8:00 am – 7:00pm on Sunday.

     Responding to the needs of Middle Peninsula boaters, this new store will be 15,000 square feet and will feature a large selection of fishing gear, marine electronics, sailing hardware, boating supplies, an engine parts counter, plus casual and technical apparel designed for the outdoors.

     Store Manager Maggie Haynes has been with West Marine for over 15 years and is a passionate power boater. “All of us at the Deltaville West Marine are passionate about boating,” says Haynes. “By increasing the size of our store, we will offer even more in terms of fishing gear, engine parts and everything you need for a great day on the Rappahannock River, the Piankatank River, or the Chesapeake Bay” Haynes adds.

     There will be 19 Associates at the new West Marine who have over 160 years’ experience on the water and over 50,000 nautical miles under their collective belts. In fact, Associate Paula Richardson has over 40 years of boating experience and her fellow Associate Richard Tucker has spent 30 years’ as a Mercury dealer. Both look forward to serving the needs of the Deltaville community.

     

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- Most everyone has been enjoying the cool weather that has recently moved in; warmer weather is on the way for the weekend and this is just such a great time to spend in the outdoors fishing with family and friends; not too hot but just right.

     There are plenty of kid's fishing derbies and such going on this time of the year and they present a wonderful opportunity to take kids fishing in a fun setting. If they don't already have a fishing outfit; let them pick out their own favorite theme related outfit; it tends to make it more personable for them and often these small closed face spinning outfits are just fine for bluegills. Keep an eye in your local newspaper for fishing derbies near you that are usually put on by service organizations. Be sure to check out the youth fishing website so your youngster can join and get a free patch.

     Fishermen who enjoy fishing at the base of the Conowingo Dam were happy to see June 1st arrive since now they can keep some of the fine striped bass they are catching. Casting swim shads and crankbaits has been a favorite tactic and if your bait gets close enough to the bottom there are big flathead catfish also looking for a meal. Farther down the Susquehanna some striped bass are being caught but the excellent white perch fishing tends to dominate the scene.

     Fishing for striped bass in the upper bay has been a trying affair for many fishermen lately with low dissolved oxygen levels lingering near the bottom in some areas due to algae bloom die offs in some of the major tributaries. Some fishermen have been having luck finding fish suspended in a zone above the poor oxygen levels and deep enough to stay cool. White perch and channel catfish can be found in many areas where good water flows occur such as around Hart-Miller Island and the mouth of the Magothy and Chester Rivers.

     In the middle bay region fishermen are finding suspended striped bass near steep points such as Thomas Point and traditional locations like Hackett's Bar and the western edge of the shipping channel. Many fishermen are jigging with soft plastics and others are trolling or chumming. Water temperatures in the mid bay area are running around 73-degrees on the surface and salinities up to 10 p.p.t.

     The shallow water fishery for striped bass is in full swing and fishermen who can get up early enough; which can be tough as sunrise is 5:40am, there is good fishing with topwater or swim shad lures. Wind of course has been a real hindrance since the cold front moved in and fishermen have found it hard to get out on the open waters of the larger tidal rivers or the bay. White perch can fill in the gap when turned back by whitecaps; so bring a smaller outfit and some beetle spin type lures, spinners or small swim shads and cast along likely looking leeward shorelines and take home some tasty white perch.

     In the southern region of Maryland's portion of the Chesapeake fishermen are finding excellent fishing for a mix of bottom fish such as croakers, white perch, spot and kingfish in the Tangier Sound area and a mix of striped bass, small bluefish and speckled trout along channel edges and shallows. The best catches of large croakers are occurring in the evening hours at shoal and channel edges. Croakers and spot are moving up most of the regions tidal river such as the Potomac and Patuxent and with the availability of spot, fishermen are beginning to live line spot near the Gas Docks with good success.

     Recreational crabbers are enjoying good crabbing in most of the tidal rivers south of Kent Island. Many crabbers are reporting large crabs and being able to catch a bushel per outing. The tidal creeks on the eastern side of the bay are being reported to be particularly good.

Freshwater

     Freshwater fishermen in the western region of the state are enjoying good water flows in most of the trout management waters and wonderful fly fishing opportunities. Walleye and smallmouth bass are entertaining fishermen at Deep Creek Lake along drop off edges and largemouth bass are holding outside of the cove areas near any kind of structure or grass.

     Largemouth bass fishermen are finding bass holding near grass and structure such as fallen tree tops and rocks. The large fish seem to be holding along channel edges and drop offs in deeper and cooler water. In some lakes that have been hit by heavy thunderstorms stained water can be an issue this week and the tidal rivers have been running high.

     Bluegills and other freshwater fish commonly called panfish can provide a lot of fun fishing this time of the year. Bluegills are either actively spawning or just finished in many areas of the state and can be caught in a variety of ways. Perhaps one of the simplest ways is a bobber and bait such as crickets or worms. Another method is to use a light weight fly rod and cast rubber-legged spiders and small poppers near the shallows.

At the Ocean

Ocean City fishermen report that the spring run of large striped bass along the beaches is starting to fall off. A few big fish are still being caught but inshore sharks such as sandbar, dusky, and sand tigers have become more common and are providing plenty of catch and release action. There are some smaller fish to be caught such as small bluefish, medium-sized black drum and a blowfish or flounder now and then.

     In and around the inlet fishermen are catching small bluefish and sub-legal striped bass and reporting fun catch and release action with hickory shad in the evenings. Flounder fishing inside the inlet and back bay areas has been good when water clarity conditions are favorable.

     Outside the inlet sea bass fishing on the wreck sites has been good and there is a lot of action but also a lot of throwbacks. Some captains report a better grade of sea bass and an occasional cod in deeper waters. The yellowfin tuna bite has turned on along the west wall of the Baltimore and Poorman's Canyons with some boats reporting double digit catches of good sized tuna. There is also a mix of dolphin, wahoo and a few white marlins in the mix. Mako sharks, threshers and blue sharks are also being caught along the 30-fathom curve at traditional locations such as the Hambone, Hot Dog and Sausages.

Fireworks on the Miles River this Saturday near St. Michaels Harbor

     St. Michaels, Md. -- Mariners are advised that a short-duration, aerial fireworks display is scheduled to occur on the Miles River on Saturday, June 9, at approximately 9:45 p.m. Mariners are urged to transit the area with caution and to keep a sharp lookout for other watercraft in the area.
     Absent specific guidance, mariners should remain 100 yards from the fireworks discharge platform located in the vicinity of St. Michaels Harbor Entrance Light 2 (LLNR 26185), in approximate position latitude 38° 47’ 31” N, longitude 076° 13’ 05” W (Datum NAD 1983).
     For any comments or questions contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.  Chart 12270.

Mid-Atlantic Region Fisheries Management Meeting June 12 will be Available on the Internet

Meeting will Discuss the Effects of Climate on Fisheries Resources of the Region

     New York, NY -- On Tuesday, June 12, from 5 to 6 p.m. the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council will host a meeting and webinar on the effects of climate change. The meeting will be held at the Hilton in New York and will be available on the Internet at http://www.mafmc.org/

     An important element of stock assessment is to forecast the abundance of fish in the future and then recommend catch limits that either maintain or rebuild stocks to defined levels. Most stock assessment forecasts assume variability but no trends in underlying environmental and ecological influences. However, contrary to such assumptions, in the northeast U.S. and adjacent waters, there is clear evidence that the climate is changing and that there is pronounced decadal variability in climate. Further, there is clear evidence that climate is affecting fish abundance and distribution.

     Incorporating climate change into fisheries management is going to be a major challenge facing NOAA in coming decades; they have tools and approaches that can be used now, but need to further develop these and expand their application to meet this growing challenge. NOAA also needs to develop a dialogue with the Fishery Management Councils so that the needs and questions of the Councils are considered as the research into the effects of climate change on fisheries develops.

     So, if you have questions, need answers, or just want to express your concerns regarding climate change, you will be able to talk directly to Jon Hare of the Northeast Fisheries Science Center Narragansett Lab and leaders from the Council and the National Marine Fisheries Service. 

     You can attend in person in New York or via the internet. For online webinar access register at: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/759109120. This is the same link for listening-in to the Council meeting - Agenda. 

     Regarding the Listening Session process, contact Jason Didden at jdidden@mafmc.org or (302) 526-5254 if you have any questions or if you would like to confirm that your computer is set up to access the webinar. The webinar works for most computers, but sometimes there are technical problems with remote voice communication from online participants. In such cases, participants may still use a chat feature in the webinar to submit their comments or questions.

Harrison's to Host Family Fishing Tournament on Tilghman Island

     Tilghman Island, Md. -- The Family Fishing Tournament will be hosted by the Tilghman Area Youth Association on Saturday, June 30 at Harrison's Chesapeake House.

     The boat will depart Harrison's at 8 a.m. and return for weigh-in at 12:30.

     The price of the tournament, $25, includes lunch on the crab deck of hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, baked beans, cole slaw, soda and an ice caream sundae bar follow with trophy awards.

     A long list of awards will be given including for longest, shortest, heaviest, lightest, cutest, ugliest, most fish, no fish, youngest angler, oldest angler, "oddest" catch etc.

     All school-age children will receive their own fishing rod and reel to take home. All ages are welcome but children under six must be accompanied by a parent or adult.

     Registration deadline is June 22.

     Registration forms are available at the Tilghman Post Office and Reeser's Pharmacy and Gift Shop in St. Michaels. More information is available by calling 410-886-2334. 

Summer Sailing Courses Offered at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

     St. Michaels, Md. -- Kids can explore the Miles River and learn maritime skills in the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s (CBMM) summer sailing program, where new sailors and old salts gain the confidence to sail a small boat in a fun, safe, and encouraging environment.
     Weekly classes are available June 11 through August 3 for participants 8 years of age and older, and offer instruction for sailors at basic, intermediate and advanced sailing levels. The daily classes include limited classroom instruction and three hours of on-thewater experience.
     Participants learn sailing and teambuilding skills including water safety, rigging, boat handling and docking. The week ends with a family picnic and awards ceremony, where the students’ accomplishments are celebrated.
     Pre-registration is needed, with a museum member cost of  $200, or $225 for non-members.
     On the weekends, the museum also offers adult and teen basic sailing classes using the museum’s fleet of 15-foot boats. Hourly, private sailings lessons are also available by reservation.
     For class schedules, visit  www.cbmm.org/l_families.htm.
     Space is limited in all classes. To pre-register, contact Helen Van Fleet at 410-745-2916.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- The calendar says summer is officially three weeks away but most would agree it was summer time weather this past holiday weekend. Warm temperatures prodded folks to get out on the water or at least close to it to enjoy themselves. Fishing, swimming and just being in the company of friends and family were popular past times. For those looking for some good fishing most found it from the ocean waters of the Atlantic to the shaded trout streams in western Maryland. Chesapeake Bay anglers will have a little extra incentive to pursue striped bass this coming month. 

     Fishermen are finding striped bass in the channel areas of the Susquehanna Flats and the lower Susquehanna River by casting crankbaits and soft plastic jigs. Fishing for white perch in the lower Susquehanna is very good this week and fishermen are using small jigs or bottom rigs baited with bloodworms. A few enterprising fishermen have also had good luck with live lining white perch for striped bass in the lower Susquehanna in the area open to striped bass fishing. There seem to always be plenty of channel catfish to entertain fishermen and largemouth bass can be found out in the grass beds on the flats.

     Farther down the bay the striped bass pickings have been slim this week as fishermen trolling and chumming around Love Point, the Triple Buoys, Sandy Point Light and down to the Bay Bridge report very little action. Fishing for white perch in the lower sections of the tidal rivers in the upper bay is good and bloodworms on a bottom rig has been the most popular way to catch them. Hackett's Bar has been a good place to chum for striped bass lately as is the Hill and Thomas Point. Fishermen are reporting that allowing baits to sink to the bottom offers the best opportunity for quality striped bass.

     Water temperatures in the mid-bay region are running about 75-degrees on the surface this week. Fishermen have been trolling medium-sized bucktails and swim shads along channel edges and bottom structure with some success. Most fishermen are describing the action as a slow pick with many of the fish coming from planer board lines. Small to medium sized bluefish are starting to make their presence known this week in the lower and middle bay regions and they range in size from a 1/2lb to 3lbs in size. Cow-nosed rays seem to be having a hard time staying clear of trolling arrays recently and more than a few disgruntled fishermen have reported snagging them and having their hands full trying to get them to the boat to retrieve lures. Light tackle fishermen have been enjoying plenty of action fishing the shallower areas and rips during the early morning and evening hours. Fishermen have been reporting relatively clear water conditions in the middle and lower bay regions this week.

     Fishing for white perch has been very good in most of the tidal rivers in the middle and lower regions of the bay. Fishermen are using bottom rigs baited with bloodworms or casting small beetle spins and soft plastic shads in the shallows and around structure such as docks and rocks. Grass shrimp are a very good option for bait; especially around deep water docks. Many fishermen are reporting that the bumper crop of 2011 year class striped bass are swarming baits intended for white perch in the tidal rivers and have been ranging in size from 6" to 10" in size. Treat them with care; they hold the future of striped bass fishing.

     Fishing for croakers continues to improve and the action has been fairly steady in the lower Potomac and Patuxent Rivers. The Tangier Sound area and Middle Grounds are producing catches of croaker as well as speckled trout and small bluefish. The speckled trout fishing has really been a welcomed addition to fishermen the last couple of years. The black drum have arrived on some of the traditional shoal areas of the bay this week and fishermen have been dropping soft crab baits to them for some hard fighting action.

Crabbing

     Recreational crabbers who stuck their necks out promising Memorial Day crabs were not disappointed if they crabbed the mid bay or lower bay regions tidal rivers and creeks. Most crabbers were able to catch a bushel of good crabs in an outing. There were a lot of small crabs and sooks chewing up baits of chicken necks, bull lips and razor clams. The Kent Island area and the eastern shore tidal rivers and creeks are standouts in regard to very good crabbing this week.

Freshwater

     John Mullican sent us this report from the upper Potomac River. The upper Potomac is predicted to rise from the recent, reoccurring thunderstorms. Some of these storms have produced localized, torrential downpours that have muddied tributaries and caused the river to be cloudy in most areas. The clearest water is currently in the western stretches of the river.

     Fishing for smallmouth bass has been very good. Try topwater baits early in the morning or during the evening insect hatches. During the day tubes, plastic jerkbaits, and crankbaits have been effective. Channel catfish have been very active and readily taking lures fished for other species. Chicken livers or cut bait will find nearly constant action from the cats right now.

     Freshwater fishermen in Deep Creek Lake have been enjoying very good fishing for walleye and medium sized smallmouth bass. Trout fishermen are enjoying the peace and good fishing that occur in western region trout streams as spring moves into summer.

      Largemouth bass fishermen are enjoying excellent fishing opportunities this week in freshwater lakes, ponds and tidal waters. The largemouth bass are now in a post-spawn mode and as water temperatures rise they are slipping into a summer mode of feeding behavior. Targeting grass with topwater lures and soft plastics is a favorite tactic as is casting spinnerbaits, jerkbaits and crankbaits around the edges of grass, spatterdock and sunken wood. Old docks and similar shade are good places to target when the sun gets high in the sky.

At the Ocean

     Ocean City fishermen continue to enjoy excellent fishing in the surf for large striped bass that are moving through the area. Large menhaden baits, clams and even sand fleas have been good baits. Black drum are also being caught in the surf and of course there are lots of rays, skates, dogfish and pesky crabs.

     In and around the inlet fishermen report striped bass and small bluefish are being caught in the inlet at night. During the day fishermen are seeing the first sheepshead being caught and the last of the good tautog fishing. Flounder fishing around the inlet and back bays is good when water conditions are favorable.

     Sea bass fishing on the offshore wrecks has been very good this week and deep drop fishermen are catching tilefish. The first white marlin was caught and released over the weekend and canyon trollers are catching a mix of wahoo, yellowfin tuna and dolphin. A few mako and thresher sharks are also being caught.

$10,000 Diamond Jim on the Loose in the Bay

More than $25,000 in prizes up for grabs during this year’s fishing challenge

     Annapolis, Md. -- The hunt is on! The Diamond Jim component of the 2012 Maryland Fishing Challenge kicked off on May 24 when Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) biologists and some eager young anglers caught, tagged and released dozens of striped bass into the Chesapeake Bay. One of the tagged fish is the official Diamond Jim worth $10,000 to the angler who catches it before midnight on June 30. The other tagged rockfish will be known as imposters worth at least $500 each if caught and registered before September 3, 2012.

     “Every year the Maryland Fishing Challenge offers an added incentive for citizens to get out on the water and enjoy our State’s natural resources,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “Whether it’s your first time fishing or you’re a seasoned angler, this is a great opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy our natural world."

     This year’s challenge honors the life and times of world renowned fly-fishing legend Lefty Kreh. Over his remarkable 75-year career the Maryland native has shared his enthusiasm and skill for fishing through his columns, books and presentations. He is also known for his commitment to Maryland’s natural resources, promoting conservation and clean water, and giving back to the outdoors. Kreh will be honored by Governor Martin O’Malley at the dedication of the Lefty Kreh Fishing Trail in the Hereford Area of Gunpowder Falls State Park on June 11.

     Over the summer, as many as 600 imposters worth at least $500 each and one genuine Diamond Jim will be pursued by anglers. Each month Diamond Jim goes uncaught the bounty increases ─ from $10,000 in June, to $20,000 in July, and $25,000 in August. 

     The contest features a guaranteed $25,000 payout: If Diamond Jim is not caught by Labor Day, the cash prize will be split equally among the anglers who catch imposters this summer. Additionally, if an angler catches the August Diamond Jim they will receive a set of one-carat total weight, round, brilliant diamond stud earrings from Zachary’s Jewelers in Annapolis. Zachary’s is also providing five- to six-carat blue topaz charms for anglers who catch imposter fish.

     Now in its eighth year, the Maryland Fishing Challenge showcases Maryland as a premier sport fishing destination with accessible, affordable, diverse and high quality sport fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages. The fishing challenge would not happen without the help of several corporate sponsors, including Bass Pro Shops, Tracker Boats, Bill’s Outdoor Center, the World Fishing Network, and Under Armour. 

    “We are very grateful to our sponsors and our recreational fishery stakeholders,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “Without their continued support, this contest would not be possible.”

     Anglers who catch and register any of the more than 80 Maryland Angler Award eligible sport fish species categories will receive certificates of achievement and free passes to the Maryland Fishing Challenge Finale, which will be held in conjunction with the Maryland Seafood Festival at Sandy Point State Park on September 8, 2012. This year’s Celebration will include chances to win a boat, trailer and motor package from Tracker Marine, a tropical vacation package from the World Fishing Network, tackle packages from Bill’s Outdoor Center and Bass Pro Shops and collectable Maryland Fishing Challenge shirts from Under Armour. 

     The Maryland Fishing Challenge runs annually from Labor Day through the day before the following Labor Day. To be eligible for the contest, all fish must be caught recreationally by rod and reel. To see the Angler Award species list and the official Maryland Fishing Challenge and Diamond Jim contest rules, visit dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/challenge.

     Catch a fish is included in the Maryland Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, issued by Governor Martin O’Malley in April 2009. The Bill is part of the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature, an initiative to ensure all Maryland young people have the opportunity to connect with their natural world and grow to become informed and responsible stewards.

     Follow Diamond Jim on Facebook at facebook.com/diamondjim.md. DNR Fisheries is also on Facebook atfacebook.com/MDDNRFisheriesService and Twitter, @mddnrfish.