CCA MD fisheries symposium set for Dec. 5

The second annual Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) Mid Atlantic Fisheries Symposium, again sponsored by Costa del Mar, will focus on striped bass, forage fish and oysters. It is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Loews Annapolis Hotel and is free and open to the public.

The one-day event will bring together top scientists on the Chesapeake Bay along with representatives of stakeholder groups and recreational anglers to discuss the current state of marine resources in the Chesapeake and what the future holds. It will run from 9 a.m to 3 p.m.

Dr. Elizabeth North, assistant professor, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), will open the symposium, discussing “A tale of two shellfisheries: oysters, scallops, and a path toward a brighter future for oysters in Chesapeake Bay.” The second session will feature Dr. Edward Houde, vice president for education and professor, UMCES, talking on“Little fish, big impact - forage fish, menhaden and ecosystem-based fisheries management.”

The afternoon will feature a discussion of “Striped Bass management update, and discussion of the regulations in the coming years for Maryland’s fishermen”led by Michael Luisi, assistant director, Estuarine and Marine Fisheries Division, Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

All sessions will conclude with a panel discussion with stakeholders and audience members.

The symposium is being moderated by David Sikorski, chairman, CCA MD government relations committee.

Registration is free but must be made on the CCA MD website, http://www.ccamd.org/?ai1ec_event=fisheries-symposium-2015&instance_id=2427. Attendance is limited to 125 participants.

Maryland Weekly Fishing Report Overview | April 01, 2015

Maryland Weekly Fishing Report Overview | April 01, 2015 



It certainly was a cold opening day for trout fishermen this past Saturday and one that will be talked about for many years. One can imagine many of our young anglers 20 or 30 years from now relating to their children. "When I was your age it was so cold on opening day that my fishing rod guides froze with ice". The weather service tells us that so far this is the coldest spring on record in Maryland. Warmer weather is in the forecast and continued trout stockings will make for good fishing this week and for weeks to come. Neil Villanueva and Brandon Collins braved cold fingers and toes on opening day but proudly hold up their reward.

Photo Courtesy of Neil Villanueva

The big story for anyone watching for the window of opportunity to be able to fish the anticipated spawning runs of white perch, is the fluctuating water temperatures. Water temperatures in the tidal rivers recently took a nose dive due to chilly weather and the tidal rivers and are barely holding at 50ºF today. Warmer weather is in the forecast for the rest of the week and a few sunny days will help a lot. Water temperatures at the mouth of the Susquehanna are a finger numbing 40ºF. A few folks have been out trying some catch and release fishing for striped bass around the flats but there have been no takers and the large females might not even be there yet since the bay water temperatures are not much warmer. There are some yellow perch being caught in the deeper waters of the lower Susquehanna River and a little bit of action in the Northeast River. Other tidal rivers in the upper bay such as the Sassafras and Chester can provide some good fishing action for post spawn yellow perch in the upper sections and the vanguard of the white perch spawning run may also be experienced.

Farther down the bay; the Calvert Cliffs Power Plant warm water discharge seems to be the only show in town when it comes to catch and release action for striped bass. Bouncing soft plastic jigs or metal in the wash of the discharge in a drifting boat has been providing some rod bending catch and release action.

Since fall/winter 2014, Fisheries Service has been taking steps to assure recreational anglers are aware of recreational and commercial striped bass fishery management rule changes necessary to comply with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's (ASMFC) approval of Addendum IV to the Interstate Striped Bass Fishery Management Plan. Addendum IV required a 25% reduction in the coastal fisheries and a 20.5% reduction in the Chesapeake Bay fisheries.

After public input and lengthy discussions with the Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission (SFAC) of several different options to achieve the mandated reduction, the Department proposed the option which best meets the diversity of interests among Maryland's anglers. It continues to provide an opportunity for a trophy fish (>40") while also providing an opportunity to those which would like to have a better chance to bring a fish home. It also provides increased protection to the female spawning stock which is an objective of ASMFC's recent management action. In mid-March we learned that the ASMFC Striped Bass Technical Committee had approved Maryland's proposal. Therefore, regulations for this year are as follows:

A person may only take or possess:

• One striped bass between 28 inches and 36 inches or one striped bass larger than 40 inches from April 18, 2015 to May 15, 2015.
• Two striped bass larger than 20 inches, only one of which may be larger than 28 inches, from May 16, 2015 to December 15, 2015.

EXCEPTION: A person may only keep one striped bass between 20 inches and 26 inches in the Susquehanna Flats and the Northeast River, as described in COMAR 08.02.15.09A(3), from May 16, 2015 through May 31, 2015.

Maryland has submitted an appeal to the ASMFC concerning the 20" minimum for striped bass in Maryland's portion of the Chesapeake Bay.

There are white perch staged in just about every tidal river in the middle and lower regions of the bay. Cold water temperatures have most of the white perch holding in deeper water a few miles downriver from the spawning areas. Fisheries biologist Butch Webb has been monitoring the white perch spawning run in the Choptank River recently and offered us these observations. We are seeing a lot of smaller white perch this year. There hasn't been a run of big perch to this point and they are starting to spawn so we may not get a run of good ones further up the river. The water temps have been variable from 47º to 50º depending on night time air temperature. We have caught at least one blue catfish a day for the past four days.

Although rain is predicted towards the end of the week; warm air temperatures and plenty of sun penetration into the waters of the tidal rivers should spur the white perch runs this coming weekend which will fit nicely into folk's schedules. Small shad darts tipped with a piece of minnow or other favorite baits will be a good choice for weeding through the surge of small white perch in the upper reaches of the tidal rivers. The throwback ratio is usually high on spawning white perch runs so lures such as shad darts get you back into the action faster than the classic grass shrimp bait under a bobber.

There seems to be a bit of a shortage in the bloodworm market so far this season. Cold temperatures and heavy snow in Maine have made it difficult for diggers to supply enough bloodworms to go around. Apparently European buyers are also purchasing as many bloodworms as they can for their fishermen. Hopefully the market will ease up as we get farther along into spring.

Trout fishing is now shifting gears as anglers begin to find more elbow room at trout management waters and additional trout stockings at numerous locations. In season trout stocking will continue into May. Anticipated stockings can be found on the trout stocking schedule link; anglers are reminded that the date listed means "the week of". Completed stockings can also be observed on the trout stocking website.

An ultra light spinning outfit, some hooks, a few split shot and some Powerbait are the basics for trout fishing in the put and take areas. Something to put your trout in is a handy thing to have and a landing net can be a very valuable tool to have especially if you happen to run into one of the trophy sized trout that are stocked at every location. There was a funny video several years ago of an angler jumping into the Patapsco to bear hug his trophy trout because he did not have a landing net. Ronny Rice looks happy and dry in this photo of the largest trout he has ever caught; Ronny was fishing on the Gunpowder this past Monday.

Photo Courtesy of Ronny Rice

There are many ponds near populated areas that are stocked with trout which make them ideal for taking young anglers, some are even set aside just for young anglers so be sure to check out the trout stocking website and the trout stocking maps site can also be very helpful.

Fisheries biologist John Mullican sent us a wonderful report from the upper Potomac River. The upper Potomac River is in great shape with slightly below average flow. Temperatures are now in the mid-40s and climbing. Smallmouth bass are becoming more active and fishermen are catching quality-size bass on tubes, hair jigs, and suspending jerkbaits.

Photo by John Mullican

Walleye have begun spawning and consequently the fishing has been slow. However, once the spawn is complete, walleye will resume feeding and the fishing should improve. After completing their spawning activities, walleye will spread out throughout the river. This is a good time to throw jerkbaits and crankbaits to cover water more efficiently and find fish. A lightweight jig and grub combo presented slowly near the bottom will be more effective when the fish are not as active.

Inland Fisheries staff recently collected brood walleye for the Manning Warmwater Hatchery in Cedarville. Ice and high water resulted in a very small window of opportunity to conduct the collection. Unfortunately for fishermen, the pre-spawn walleye fishing was reduced to only a week or two before spawning began. The fingerlings produced from the Potomac River walleye are used to supplement existing natural reproduction in the river as well as supply fingerlings for stocking throughout Maryland. Several large muskie were captured during the survey as well.

Photo by John Mullican

Maryland's many small ponds and impoundments are beginning to warm up as sunny days prevail and night time air temperatures are becoming more moderate. Largemouth bass, bluegills and crappie are beginning to stir and can be found in the deeper areas of transition zones leading from the deepest waters to shallower areas. Sunny afternoons can be a good time to fish as species such as largemouth bass respond favorably to the warming sun. Soft plastics worked slowly and close to the bottom in these areas is a very good tactic. Crappie and bluegills can be caught under slip bobbers rigged with a small jig or bait about 3' to 5' under the bobber. Crappie tend to be found near deep structure right now, such as bridge piers, fallen tree tops or sunken wood.

More and more open water is being seen at Deep Creek Lake this week; most of the coves are open and the state boat ramp is open. The shorelines of the main lake are open but main lake ice still prevails. Winter is always a little less than ready to give up its grip on the western most sections of Maryland and Deep Creek Lake is no exception.

The parking lots and every other available space in the Ocean City area tends to be full of boats up on chocks, but more and more activity can be seen as owners and crew prepare boats for the upcoming season. A few boats have been venturing offshore though in search of tautog at some of the wreck sites farther offshore. Boats have also been traveling out to the canyons for deep drop fishing and one boat while trolling in the Baltimore Canyon area recently caught a small mako shark.

Maryland Weekly Fishing Report

Maryland Weekly Fishing Report Overview | March 25, 2015 



It has been quite a struggle back and forth in the last month between spring and winter and the last vestiges of winter are not quite ready to loosen their grip on the Maryland Landscape. Warmer temperatures have prevailed to a greater degree in the last two weeks and this past Tuesday for example the middle region of the Choptank River was showing 50ºF water temperatures. The yellow perch began spawning in the upper reaches of most rivers about a little more than a week ago when water temperatures hit 48ºF. Some of the best fishing occurred last week in the Eastern Shore Rivers but yellow perch are still spawning in many areas this week. Jay Fleming sent us a beautiful picture he took on Sunday in the upper Magothy River of spawning yellow perch.

Photo by Jay Fleming

Yellow perch fishermen are urged to sign up for the yellow perch volunteer angler survey; the information is very useful to fish managers and there will be a drawing for prizes from Bass Pro Shops and Costa sun glasses. A fact that is painfully clear to many angler is that you must fish on the perch's schedule and not your own. Perhaps one of the most common "How's the fishing" answers one receives from a fellow streamside fisherman is "you should have been here yesterday". There is a consolation though for those who can only fish on the weekends and that is the fact that yellow perch can be caught after spawning occurs as they head back down the upper regions of the rivers. Casting small jigs or shad darts tipped with grass shrimp, garden worms or a small minnow are a fun way to catch them while waiting for the white perch runs to begin. One note on minnows; when fishing with a shad dart of similar jig you do not have to put the whole minnow on. Often a piece is enough to temp yellow perch to strike. Another method is to fish a bottom rig with the same baits; worms will get you more action but minnows usually will account for larger yellow perch. When fishing in this manner, a good chair, some snacks and in this case a fish retrieving dog named Izzy all help for some fun and relaxing fishing.

Photo by Keith Lockwood

The white perch are not far behind in their spawning endeavors and tend to be in the middle regions of most tidal rivers at the moment. With a little luck they may begin to show up in the upper reaches of the spawning rivers and creeks by the weekend. Grass shrimp, bloodworms or minnows are popular baits to use. If the run is on at your location try to find a place where you can cast out with a shad dart tipped with a piece of your favorite bait. Cast on an angle upstream and keeping a tight line twitch the shad dart in a "walk the dog" method and you should do well. The vanguard of this spawning run is usually the small male white perch followed later on by larger perch, which are most often females. Fishermen should also keep their eye out for hickory shad in watersheds such as the Susquehanna, Potomac, Patuxent and Choptank to name a few. These feisty fish will readily take a shad dart, small jig or small spoon and are strictly catch and release.

The ice has finally cleared from the bay and a few hearty souls are fishing the Calvert Cliffs Power Plant warm water discharge this week with soft plastic and metal jigs for a chance to catch and release a large striped bass on light tackle. Fishermen are urged not to go too light and to get the fish to the boat and released as quickly as possible since these fish hold the future of our fishery.

This is a big weekend coming up for anyone interested in trout fishing; the traditional opening day of Maryland's trout season. Anglers of all ages will be out in force trying their luck at favorite trout management waters. There are plenty of good fishing areas spread around the state; some in areas not noted for trout fishing and the more traditional trout waters of the central and western regions of the state. Trout stocking crews have had an extremely difficult time this year with the cold February and March weather; snow and ice conditions really put crews to the test and they worked very hard to keep trout fishermen from being disappointed. Several of our regional biologists and our trout rearing guru Marshal Brown offered a few insights.

Central Regional biologist Mark Staley offered these encouraging words. At 5:30 am on Saturday, March 28th, Maryland trout anglers will find trout in every put and take area across the state. Fisheries Service staff has struggled with record cold temperatures, ice, and snow this stocking season. Our stocking schedules have been changed, rescheduled, and postponed more in 2015 than any spring I can remember. In spite of all the winter weather, we have ensured that every area that opens on Saturday will have its allotment of trout.

Water levels in nearly all streams in MD are above normal and the water temperatures are colder than most normal years. We just achieved "ice out" on some of our central Maryland ponds and impoundments last week. Plan on a cold start to Saturday morning, current forecast is for freezing air temperatures until at least 10 am (you can count on the guides on your rod freezing up in the early morning). Dress warm, take plenty of snacks for the kids, and enjoy the day.

Remember that after Saturday's opening day, all put and take areas in Maryland will remain open to fishing for 2015. Trout will be stocked in the put and take areas until mid-late May and you can fish for them as soon as we stock them.

Regional biologist John Mullican offered these few insights and a nice picture of some free swimming trout.Crews have been busy this week stocking area streams and ponds in preparation for Saturday's opening day of trout season. It has been cold in the Catoctin Mountains and remnants of earlier snowfalls are still present on shady slopes. Streams are running full and clear and should be in great shape for the weekend. Area lakes and ponds still have some ice cover, but are beginning to open up giving fishermen a shot at cruising trout.

Photo by John Mullican

Western Regional biologist Alan Klotz offered these few words. Trout anglers can expect a chilly opening day in Western Maryland, as Old Man Winter is reluctantly releasing his grip to springtime. The good news is that the snow-pack has melted, and streams should have about normal flows for Saturday's opener. The trout stocking crews have been busy, and all streams should have plenty of trout waiting to be caught.

Mary Groves is the regional biologist for the southern region and she offered some good advice for trout fishermen. Most of our trout fishing spots have already been stocked with pre-season trout. That occurred in the last couple weeks. Stocking was delayed due to ice on the holding ponds. A new spot that has been stocked with put and take trout in 2015 is Governors Bridge Pond in Bowie, Maryland. It was formerly an Izaak Walton League pond but is now operated by the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission and it open to the public. Governors Bridge Pond has a 2 fish/person limit. Folks have already been out enjoying the slightly warmer weather and catching trout. Severn Run is the only closed trout stocking stream but it will be stocked and ready to go come opening day.

Eastern regional biologist Brett Coakley offered these words concerning trout fishing at Elk Creek. We stocked Big Elk Creek this week in preparation for opening day. The stream was running clear and at a perfect flow for fishing. That could change depending on what the Wednesday-Thursday storm does. Either way, the banks and parking lots will be muddy from all the late winter precipitation so plan accordingly.

Finally the guy who is responsible for all trout production in the Maryland Coldwater hatcheries, Marshal Brown finishes off with a few words and a picture of a nice trout from the Albert Powell Hatchery. With Maryland's opening day of trout season only days away, rest assured that all locations will be stocked for fishing. Our Coldwater crews have had another outstanding growing season due to their commitment to provide you with a memorable fishing experience. Expect to catch fish that are beautiful in size and color and keep a tight line in case you land one of our trophy fish. Good luck and enjoy your day.

Photo by Keith Lockwood

There are plenty of other freshwater fishing opportunities in Maryland besides trout this week. Chain pickerel continue to be very active and largemouth bass are beginning to stir. Largemouth bass can be found along the deeper parts of transition zones such as channel edges and often near some kind of structure. Soft plastic jigs worked slow right on the bottom are a good choice or a slow rolled spinner bait on the bottom may entice a pick up. The smallmouth bass and walleye fishing action is picking up on the upper Potomac and the ice is retreating at Deep Creek Lake. At present the edges of the main lake are open and several coves are opening up.

Blue catfish offer some action on the tidal Potomac River and channel catfish can be found in most of the tidal rivers feeding into the Chesapeake Bay. Crappie and bluegill fishing has been very good in many of the ponds, lakes and the upper sections of many tidal rivers. The fish are holding deep near structure such as brush piles, fallen tree tops or bridge piers. A few popular spots are the bridge piers over Loch Raven Reservoir at Dulaney Valley Road, the Nicodemus Road Bridge over Liberty Reservoir and small ponds and lakes throughout Maryland. A small jig or minnow fished about 3' to 5' or so under a slip bobber is a great way to catch crappie this time of the year. Angelina Watts holds up a nice slab sized crappie she caught at Wye Mills Lake before releasing it back into the water.

Photo by Rich Watts

Fishing in the Ocean City area centers mostly on long trips out to some of the more distant wreck sites due to cold water conditions inshore. Captains report catches are fair to good on most trips.

CCA MD to host blue catfish tournament

As a brighter spotlight is being shined on the dangers of invasive blue catfish, the Coastal Conservation Association Maryland’s (CCA MD) Central Region Chapter has scheduled a tournament and day of information to create greater awareness of the harm this species can do to the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

The event will be Saturday, March 21, at Smallwood Park in Marbury, MD. Festivities will run from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. The tourney is set for 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a party and information sharing following from 1-3 p.m. In addition to CCA MD, Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Potomac Riverkeeper are co-sponsoring the day.

“The exploding population of blue catfish in the Chesapeake watershed has begun to upset the imbalance of the ecosystem, and the blue cats rapidly expanding numbers show no signs of slowing down,” said Rick Elyar, Central Region Chapter president. “Although trophy sized blue catfish are a valued recreational fishery, they’re now negatively affecting commercially and recreationally important bay species that migrate through on spawning runs or use the watershed areas to release eggs each spring.  All of this is creating an overall imbalance of our Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.”

The tournament will include three categories— shore, boat and youth fishing— with single person kayaks qualifying for the shore division. Maryland, Virginia or District of Columbia tidal Potomac waters are open for tourney fishing.

Anglers must pre-register at http://www.ccamd.org/?ai1ec_event=central-chapter-blue-cat-tournament&instance_id=2356 where they can find complete rules.

Starting at 1 p.m. there will be presentations by NOAA and DNR along with music and a blue catfish taco buffet, prepared by Baltimore's Alewife Restaurant head Chef Chad Wells.

 The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) is one of 17 state chapters of the Coastal Conservation Association, which has 100,000 members nationally. CCA MD is an organization of recreational anglers fighting for Maryland’s marine resources and believing the sustainability of the resource must be the priority in any fishery management decision.

$25,000 Diamond Jim on the Loose

     Annapolis, Md. -- The Diamond Jim component of the 2012 Maryland Fishing Challenge has entered its third and final phase as Chesapeake Bay charter captains and Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) biologists recently caught, tagged and released more than 150 striped bass into the Chesapeake Bay. One of the tagged fish is the official Diamond Jim worth $25,000 to the angler who catches it between August 1 and midnight September 3, with the other tagged rockfish known as imposters worth at least $500 each. New this month, gift certificates have also been provided by a handful of generous, local tackle shops. So far this year, four potential Diamond Jim fish have been caught and are awaiting certification.

     “The Maryland Fishing Challenge is a great opportunity for families and friends to enjoy our State’s great outdoors,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “I encourage all Marylanders and visitors to join in making lasting memories by fishing in our beautiful waters.”

     As an exciting added incentive, six Maryland fishing tackle stores -- All Tackle of Annapolis, Clyde’s Sport Shop of Landsdowne, Fishbone’s Bait and Tackle in Pasadena, Herb’s Tackle Shop of North East, Marty’s Tackle Shop in Edgewater, and Tochterman’s Tackle in Fell’s Point in Baltimore -- are each offering a $1,000 gift certificate to the angler that catches the authentic Diamond Jim.

     Additionally, the angler who catches the August Diamond Jim will receive a set of one-carat total weight, round, brilliant diamond stud earrings worth approximately $4,000 from Zachary’s Jewelers in Annapolis. Zachary’s is also providing five- to six- carat blue topaz charms for anglers who catch imposter fish. All told, the value of Diamond Jim for the month of August, including the Zachary’s Diamonds and the tackle store gift certificates, is $35,000.

     “The Chesapeake Bay is one of the best places on earth for weddings, proposals, anniversaries, birthdays, and of course, fishing,” said Zachary’s Jewelers owner Steve Samaras. “It just seems appropriate that the quest for a rockfish named Diamond Jim should have diamonds as a prize. All of us at Zachary’s are happy to provide these jewels with sincere hope that on September 8, we will have a winner.”

     Over the summer, more than 300 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 Hunt for Diamond Jim is a special summer feature of the Maryland Fishing Challenge, with roots that ran in the late1950s. The original contest featured a single, tagged striped bass worth $25,000. DNR revived this fun, family event in 2007 to highlight Maryland’s State fish, promote recreational fishing, recognize angler achievement and inspire natural resources stewardship. The contest still features a guaranteed $25,000 payout: If one of the three authentic Diamond Jims is not caught by midnight Labor Day, the cash prize will be split equally among the anglers who catch imposters this summer.

Now in its eighth year, the Challenge showcases Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay as a premier sport fishing destination with accessible, affordable, diverse and high quality fishing for anglers of all ages - from the crystal mountain streams, to the central Maryland lakes and the mighty Potomac River, down to the Chesapeake Bay, the Coastal Bays and the Atlantic Ocean.

     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.

     Anglers who catch and register any of the more than 80 Maryland Angler Award eligible sport fish species 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 the day after Labor Day through the following Labor Day each year. All fish must be caught recreationally by rod and reel. The Angler Award species list and the official Maryland Fishing Challenge and Diamond Jim contest rules are located at 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.

     Anglers are invited to follow Diamond Jim on Facebook at facebook.com/diamondjim.md, and DNR Fisheries atfacebook.com/MDDNRFisheriesService and on Twitter at @mddnrfish.

     More information on the Maryland Seafood Festival is available at www.MDseafoodfestival.com.

     Anglers that catch a tagged striper must not remove the tag. They should put the fish in their freezer and call the number printed on the tag. A DNR representative will follow-up to examine and certify the tag. The Diamond Jim component of this year’s challenge ends at midnight on September 3.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

Keith Lockwood's Maryland Fishing Report

     Oxford, Md. -- The upcoming weekend will be an extended one for many families as folks get together to not only honor those who have sacrificed so much that we may enjoy the freedoms we have but to also get together for family outings such as fishing. The Ocean City area is hopping with all kinds of fishing opportunities, freshwater fishing for largemouth bass, chain pickerel, trout and bluegills is very good and striped bass, croakers and white perch will aim to please bay fisherpersons this weekend. Pack up the kids and give that local pond a try or fish the bay or ocean and enjoy some time together.

     Thursday May 24th, fisheries biologists will be out tagging the first group of striped bass for the 2012 Diamond Jim Fishing Tournament. Young anglers will be doing the catching throughout the bay and biologists will be tagging the fish with lime green colored tags. This first round of Diamond Jim fish will be eligible starting June 1st until June 30th and can be worth up to $25,000 if a lucky angler catches Diamond Jim. To find out more about Diamond Jim and the Maryland Fishing Challenge check out the following link.

     Fishermen are finding some striped bass action in the Susquehanna Flats area channels and the lower Susquehanna River up to the boundary line at the Susquehanna State Park boat ramp and enjoying the fact that they can keep a fish. Crankbaits, soft plastic jigs and swim baits worked close to the bottom have been a favorite choice. There is excellent fishing for white perch in the lower Susquehanna and most fishermen are using small jigs with good success. Channel catfish are abundant and some fishermen have been specializing in catching large flathead catfish in the dam hole on large gizzard shad baits and large swim shad lures.

     Fishermen farther down the bay are describing fishing for striped bass as a slow pick for those under 28" in length with a large one thrown in now and then. Fishing for striped bass seems to be in a transition at the moment; some fishermen are putting the blame on May worm spawns, others mention mahogany tides and others talk about bait. At this stage only the striped bass have the answer and it will take every trick in each fisherman's bag of tricks to cut down the odds in their favor.

     Many fishermen are trolling with 6" swim shads in tandem or umbrella rigs along channel edges or any good looking bottom structure. Chumming and chunking for striped bass is beginning to become more productive this week as many boats begin to make the switch. Light tackle fishermen have been checking out all their favorite locations such as sharp channel edges, the Bay Bridge piers, points and coveted ballast stone pile locations to jig for suspended fish. Many savvy fishermen or just lucky fishermen through trial and error are finding cooperating fish throughout the bay this week.

     Water temperatures in the middle bay region this week have crept over the 70-degree mark this week so many of our summer migrants should feel right at home. Fishermen have been catching croakers in the southern region of the bay in the shallower areas in the evenings and deeper waters during the day. The fishing for croakers in the lower Potomac has been good this week with white perch mixed in and lots of blue catfish in the 4lb to 6lb size range. Croaker fishing in the lower Patuxent and the Hooper's Island/Tangier Sound area has been steadily improving. Shore line fishermen have also been catching croakers from prominent points in the Somerset County area and around the mouth of the Patuxent. Croakers have been a bit of a mystery this year so far; especially those coveted 19" croakers; once again despite all kinds of theories only the croakers know what is going on. One very bright spot for fishermen in the Tangier Sound area continues to be the speckled trout fishing. Black drum are starting to show up at traditional locations and the soft crab dunking crowd will surely begin to scan the depths of shoal areas this weekend looking for those heavy blips on their depth finders that often resemble the sonar signature of a submarine.

Freshwater

     Freshwater fishermen are enjoying the aggressive nature of post-spawn largemouth bass over a wide area of Maryland this week. Many fishermen are reporting that the fishing hardly gets any better than this time period when bass are off the nests and looking for something to eat. Fishermen are targeting grass and spatterdock fields with chatterbaits and similar topwater lures as well as plastic craws. Soft plastics, spinnerbaits and crankbaits are good choices for docks, and any kind of submerged structure such as tree tops and sunken wood or rocks.

     Deep Creek Lake fishermen report good fishing for medium sized smallmouth bass and walleyes on crankbaits and minnows this week. Trout fishermen in the western and central regions are enjoying good fishing opportunities for trout in all of the management areas. Flows in some of the creeks have been elevated due to recent rains but should return to good levels by the end of the week.

At the Ocean
     Fishermen in the Ocean City area have a lot to look forward to this week; especially if you like to fish along the beaches. The striped bass migration of large fish is moving through the area and fishermen are making some memorable catches. Most fishermen are using stout surf gear and cut menhaden baits, sand fleas or clams on bottom rigs with good success. This wonderful fishing opportunity will not last much longer, so be sure to not miss it. Fishermen are also catching a few black drum in the surf, sandbar and sand tiger sharks (which must be released) and of course skates and dogfish. A few small bluefish and blowfish are also being caught when fishermen switch up to smaller rigs and offerings.

     Inside and around the inlet tautog are being caught off bulkheads and the south jetty. Small bluefish keep moving in and out of the inlet and are being caught on Got-Cha plugs and spoons. A few striped bass are being caught each night on swim shads and bucktails. Flounder are being caught around the inlet and back bay areas when water conditions are favorable.

     The party boats headed to the wreck sites are finding plenty of sea bass for their fishermen along with tautog and a few flounder. The federal sea bass season for areas beyond 3-miles is now open also. Boats heading out to the canyons are finding some yellowfin tuna and mako sharks.