Damn Good Maryland Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Maryland fishing trips. Deep Sea, Inshore, Nearshore, River, and Flats trips available.

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Maryland

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Berlin

Clamming, Island Hopping, Booze Cruise

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1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Berlin

Eastern Shore River Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Annapolis

Annapolis Fishing Charters

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46 ft 1 - 30 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ocean Pines

Giant Butterfly Ray Bowfishing

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24 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Berlin

Ocean City Bay Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ocean City

Ocean City Offshore Fishing

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41 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,200

Top Cities in Maryland

Top Types of Trips in Maryland

Top Species for Fishing in Maryland

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

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More Fishing Charters In Maryland

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ocean City

Ocean City Offshore Fishing

NEW
41 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,200
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Berlin

Ocean City Bay Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ocean Pines

Giant Butterfly Ray Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Annapolis

Annapolis Fishing Charters

NEW
46 ft 1 - 30 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

River Fishing Trip in Berlin

Eastern Shore River Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, River, Flats Fishing Charter in Berlin

Clamming, Island Hopping, Booze Cruise

NEW
1 - 6 People From $450
See All Trips in Maryland

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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Maryland

What are the best fishing charters in Maryland?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Maryland with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 7 trips in Maryland, and the most popular trips in the area are Giant Butterfly Ray Bowfishing guided by Greg, Ocean City Offshore Fishing guided by Doug, and Ocean City Bay Bowfishing guided by Greg.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly charters / fishing lessons in Maryland? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Maryland.

What types of fishing charters are common in Maryland?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Maryland as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and river fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Maryland are: 1. flounder, 2. rockfish, 3. bluefish, 4. ray, and 5. perch.

The most common fishing techniques in Maryland are bottom fishing, bowfishing, and jigging but artificial lure fishing and light tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Maryland fishing charters cost?

Prices in Maryland can range anywhere from about $752 to $3,171, but the average price for a half day trip in Maryland is $1,504. The average price for a full day trip in Maryland is $2,003.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Maryland?

The most popular season for fishing in Maryland is fall, and most anglers book their trips 15 days in advance.

Do I need a Maryland fishing license and what are the bag limits in Maryland?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Maryland, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Maryland. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Maryland.

What is fishing in Maryland about?

Fishing in Maryland offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending diverse fishing opportunities with the state's scenic coastal and inland waters. Along the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland's largest estuary, anglers can pursue a variety of species including striped bass, locally known as "rockfish," which are famous for their strong fights and delicious flesh. Spring and fall are prime seasons for rockfish as they migrate through the bay, attracting anglers who fish from boats, piers, and shorelines using techniques such as trolling, jigging, and live lining.

In addition to the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland boasts numerous rivers and lakes that provide excellent fishing opportunities. The Potomac River, which forms part of Maryland's southern border with Virginia, is renowned for its smallmouth bass fishing. Anglers often target these feisty fish using techniques like casting with crankbaits and soft plastics around rocky structures and submerged vegetation. Inland lakes such as Deep Creek Lake in western Maryland offer diverse fishing for species like largemouth bass, walleye, and trout, making them popular destinations for anglers seeking a variety of fishing experiences.

Maryland's commitment to conservation and fisheries management ensures sustainable fishing opportunities for both residents and visitors. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources oversees regulations and stocking programs to maintain healthy fish populations and protect natural habitats. Whether casting lines in the brackish waters of the Chesapeake Bay, exploring rivers for bass and trout, or enjoying the serenity of mountain lakes, fishing in Maryland promises memorable outings amidst the state's picturesque landscapes and thriving aquatic ecosystems.

What are the most popular months to go fishing in Maryland?

Fishing seasons in Maryland unfold across the state's varied landscapes and waters, offering anglers opportunities throughout the year. Along the Chesapeake Bay, spring heralds the start of the striped bass, or "rockfish," season. As water temperatures rise, these iconic fish migrate through the bay, drawing anglers eager to test their skills against their powerful runs. Techniques such as trolling with lures or live bait and bottom fishing near structure are popular methods for targeting rockfish during this season. Additionally, spring marks the arrival of white perch and other species in the bay's tributaries, providing diverse fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels.

Summer in Maryland brings warmer waters and a shift in fishing targets. Anglers can pursue a variety of species including bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and flounder as they migrate through the Chesapeake Bay and along the Atlantic coast. In freshwater areas like the Potomac River, summer is prime time for bass fishing, with smallmouth bass becoming more active and responsive to topwater lures and jigs. Maryland's numerous reservoirs and lakes also offer excellent opportunities for bass, crappie, and catfish fishing during the summer months, with anglers enjoying both boat and shore fishing experiences.

Fall marks a significant season for fishing enthusiasts in Maryland, particularly for striped bass as they make their return migration through the Chesapeake Bay. This season, known as the "fall run," is highly anticipated by anglers who seek the chance to catch larger rockfish before winter sets in. Techniques such as trolling deep-diving plugs and casting with metal jigs become popular as anglers follow the schools of migrating fish. Additionally, freshwater fishing for species like trout and perch remains productive into the cooler months, providing anglers with ample opportunities to extend their fishing season well into autumn. Understanding Maryland's fishing seasons allows anglers to plan their outings effectively, ensuring they make the most of each season's unique fishing opportunities and experiences.

What types of fishing are popular in Maryland?

Fishing in Maryland offers a variety of types and techniques tailored to its diverse aquatic environments, from coastal waters to inland rivers and lakes. Along the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, anglers often engage in trolling and live lining for striped bass, or "rockfish," using techniques that involve trailing baits or lures behind a moving boat to attract these prized game fish. Another popular method is bottom fishing with bait, targeting species like white perch and croaker near underwater structures and channel edges. Chesapeake Bay also offers opportunities for fly fishing enthusiasts who pursue striped bass in shallower waters or target species like bluefish and Spanish mackerel during their seasonal migrations.

In Maryland's freshwater areas, anglers can enjoy diverse techniques depending on the targeted species. Bass fishing enthusiasts frequent rivers like the Potomac and the Susquehanna, employing techniques such as casting with crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or soft plastics to entice largemouth and smallmouth bass lurking near submerged structures and river bends. Trout fishing in Maryland's coldwater streams like the Gunpowder Falls River is ideal for fly fishermen who use delicate presentations of dry flies or nymphs to fool these elusive fish in clear, fast-moving waters.

For those seeking a quieter fishing experience, Maryland's lakes and reservoirs provide opportunities for a range of fishing styles. Anglers can fish from shore or boat for species such as crappie, catfish, and sunfish using techniques like bobber fishing with live bait, casting with artificial lures, or even drift fishing with natural baits along deeper lake beds. Whether casting lines in the brackish waters of the Chesapeake Bay, exploring rivers for bass and trout, or enjoying the serenity of inland lakes, Maryland's diverse fishing techniques cater to a wide range of preferences and ensure that every outing on the water is both enjoyable and rewarding.

What species are popular for fishing in Maryland?

Fishing in Maryland offers anglers a rich diversity of species to target across its coastal waters, rivers, and lakes, providing a wide range of fishing opportunities throughout the year. Along the Chesapeake Bay, striped bass, locally known as "rockfish," reign supreme as one of the most sought-after catches. Spring and fall are prime seasons for rockfish as they migrate through the bay, attracting anglers who employ various techniques such as trolling with lures, live lining with baitfish, or casting near structure to hook into these powerful and delicious fish.

In addition to rockfish, the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries host a variety of other popular species including bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and white perch. These fish offer diverse angling experiences from trolling for fast-moving pelagic species to bottom fishing for tasty panfish. Further inland, Maryland's rivers like the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers are renowned for their bass fisheries, where anglers can target both largemouth and smallmouth bass using techniques ranging from topwater lures in shallow waters to deep-diving crankbaits and jigs near underwater structures.

For anglers seeking freshwater adventures, Maryland's lakes and reservoirs provide opportunities to catch species such as largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Popular spots like Deep Creek Lake and Loch Raven Reservoir offer productive fishing grounds where anglers can enjoy casting from shore or boat using a variety of baits and lures. Whether pursuing trophy-sized bass in rivers, trolling for migratory species in the bay, or relaxing with family and friends at a local lake, Maryland offers a wealth of species to catch, ensuring that anglers of all skill levels can find excitement and success on the water throughout the seasons.

What are the best places to fish in Maryland?

Maryland offers a plethora of excellent fishing spots across its diverse landscapes, making it a haven for anglers of all preferences. Along the Chesapeake Bay, locations like Kent Island and Solomons Island are renowned for their access to productive fishing grounds. Anglers here can target a variety of species including striped bass, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel, with options for both shore fishing and boat excursions. These areas also boast scenic views and vibrant fishing communities, making them popular destinations for both locals and visitors.

Inland, Maryland's rivers provide ample opportunities for anglers seeking freshwater adventures. The Potomac River, especially its sections near Brunswick and Hancock, is celebrated for its smallmouth bass fishing. Anglers often navigate its rocky shores and swift currents, employing techniques like casting with crankbaits and jigs to entice these feisty fish. The Gunpowder Falls River, located north of Baltimore, offers excellent trout fishing opportunities, with fly fishing enthusiasts drawn to its clear, cold waters and healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout.

For those looking to combine fishing with outdoor recreation, Maryland's numerous lakes and reservoirs provide ideal settings. Deep Creek Lake in western Maryland stands out as the state's largest freshwater lake, offering diverse fishing opportunities for species such as largemouth bass, walleye, and yellow perch. Anglers here can enjoy fishing from the shore, renting boats, or exploring secluded coves for a chance at landing their next big catch amidst the serene beauty of Maryland's mountainous landscapes. Whether casting lines in coastal waters, navigating rivers for bass and trout, or relaxing by a tranquil lake, Maryland's best fishing spots promise memorable experiences surrounded by natural beauty and abundant fish populations.

Does Maryland have good fishing?

Maryland offers excellent fishing opportunities thanks to its diverse aquatic environments, ranging from the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries to inland lakes and rivers. The Chesapeake Bay, one of the largest estuaries in the world, is a renowned fishing destination known for its rich biodiversity. Anglers can target prized species such as Striped Bass (Rockfish), Bluefish, White Perch, and various types of Catfish. The bay's extensive network of tidal rivers and marshes provides fertile fishing grounds throughout the year, with seasonal migrations adding to the excitement for anglers.

In addition to its coastal bounty, Maryland boasts productive freshwater fishing in its lakes and rivers. Places like Deep Creek Lake in western Maryland are popular for Bass, Trout, and Walleye fishing, offering serene settings amidst the Appalachian Mountains. The Potomac River, which flows along the state's western border, is renowned for its Smallmouth Bass fishing, providing anglers with opportunities to catch trophy-sized fish in fast-flowing waters. Maryland's diverse fishing opportunities cater to anglers of all skill levels, from casual weekend fishers to dedicated sportsmen seeking challenging catches.

Maryland's fishing community is vibrant and well-supported by a range of resources and events. The state hosts various fishing tournaments and derbies, such as the Maryland Fishing Challenge and the White Marlin Open, which attract anglers from across the region and beyond. Local bait shops, marinas, and charter services provide valuable assistance and local expertise to help anglers navigate the state's waters effectively. Maryland's commitment to conservation and sustainable fishing practices ensures that its fisheries remain healthy and productive, preserving the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Maryland a great destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time. The fish were not biting but our captain Muscles tried his hardest to put us on fish. The time of year was just not the best for fishing. We did catch a few nice size Rock fish. You can't beat a day on the water fishing with friends. The crew had good conversation and tried multiple spots to get the fish on hooks. We appreciated the effort and the atmosphere. Thank you Muscles, Scott and Wayne was with us in spirit.

    Solomon R. | October 21, 2024

    Trip: Chesapeake Bay Half-Day Rockfish Trip

Top Fishing Techniques in Maryland

Top Types of Fishing in Maryland

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