April 2, 2026 — New Maryland regulations for 2026 recreational striped bass fishing take effect April 1, returning catch-and-release fishing in April for the first time since 2019 while closing the entire month of August to protect the species during hot weather.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the seasonal shift to simplify rules and support long-term conservation of striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay. The changes align with the Interstate Fishery Management Plan and were developed after extensive stakeholder engagement and review of thousands of public comments.
The 2026 recreational striped bass season in the Chesapeake Bay and tidal tributaries is as follows: January 1 through April 30, catch-and-release fishing only; May 1 through July 31, harvest season; August 1 through 31, closed to all targeting; September 1 through December 5, harvest season; December 6 through 31, catch-and-release fishing only.
Spawning rivers remain closed to targeting from March 1 to May 31 to protect spawning striped bass. Closed areas include the Choptank, Chester, Manokin, Nanticoke, Patuxent, Transquaking and Wicomico rivers as well as the Upper Bay spawning area, including the Susquehanna Flats. Anglers can refer to the DNR website for maps and additional information regarding these closures. Striped bass fishing on the main stem of the Potomac River is managed separately by the Potomac River Fisheries Commission.