March 11, 2026 — A new bill in Annapolis that could change how striped bass fishing rules are set in Maryland is drawing strong reactions from both the seafood industry and conservation groups.
Supporters say the proposal would require economic studies before certain regulations take effect, while opponents warn it could weaken protections for the Chesapeake Bay’s most iconic fish.
Robert Newberry with the Delmarva Fisheries Association traveled to Annapolis Tuesday to advocate for Senate Bill 755. He says many fishing communities feel recent regulations have hurt their livelihoods.
“We have said that this adversely affects our industry, but there’s been no economic study done,” Newberry said. “You know, all we get is from DNR. Well, you know, some of the guys are going to get hurt, not some — everybody’s hurt.”
The bill would change how some striped bass regulations are implemented by limiting certain authority of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and requiring additional economic review before new rules are finalized.
For local seafood businesses, the issue hits close to home.
Mason Little, who owns Choptank River Crab & Oyster in Cambridge, says he understands both sides of the debate.