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Damn Good River Fishing Charters In Maryland

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Maryland river fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked River Fishing Charters In Maryland

Fishing in Berlin

Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in Berlin

Clamming, Island Hopping, Booze Cruise

NEW
1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Berlin

Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in Berlin

Ocean City Bay Bowfishing

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

River Fishing Trip in Berlin

Eastern Shore River Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700

Top Species for River 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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Other Trips in Maryland

Fishing in Berlin
Fishing in Berlin
Fishing in Berlin
trip description for Eastern Shore River Bowfishing in Berlin

If you've never experienced the action of nighttime bowfishing, this trip might be for you! Captain Greg has thirty years of experience helping his clients whack fish on the rivers around The Eastern Shore, and he knows exactly where all the local hot spots are. You can target a range of species on this trip, so whether you're aiming to fill your cooler, nail a trophy fish, or both, Captain Greg has got you covered. The species you're most likely to see on this nighttime adventure are Carp, Gar, and Snakehead—an invasive species of predatory freshwater fish originally from East Asia. All of these fish are active at night, and make perfect bowfishing targets! You'll be shooting from the deck of Captain Greg's 26' Long Beach custom, which sports three individual engines—a 115 HP Suzuki, plus two 25 HP kicker engines—as well as a trolling motor to sneak up on your quarry. She's a shallow-draft boat, which allows you to cruise around the shallow flats with ease. This vessel also has a Cobia tower, which is extremely useful for spotting fish at night. There's no need for sunglasses, hats, or sunscreen on this night trip—just bring a smile and get ready to shoot some fish! Read More

River Fishing Trip in Berlin

Eastern Shore River Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Berlin
Fishing in Berlin
Fishing in Berlin
trip description for Ocean City Bay Bowfishing in Berlin

Head out with Captain Greg for an action-packed evening of saltwater nighttime bowfishing! This trip is perfect for those who want to go after a range of species in a way that few fishermen have tried. On this trip, you'll be bowfishing the inshore bays off of Ocean City , MD. This area is home to several species that make perfect bowfishing targets, including giant Cownose Rays and Butterfly Rays, Flounder, and the long, skinny Houndfish (sometimes called a "crocodile needlefish"). This is not your ordinary bowfishing trip! You'll be shooting from the deck of Captain Greg's 24' Long Beach custom, which sports three individual engines—a 115 HP Suzuki, plus two 25 HP kicker engines—as well as a trolling motor to sneak up on your quarry. She's a shallow-draft boat, which allows you to cruise around the shallow flats with ease. This vessel also has a Cobia tower, which is extremely useful for spotting fish at night. There's no need for sunglasses, hats, or sunscreen on this night trip—just bring a smile and get ready to whack some fish! Read More

Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in Berlin

Ocean City Bay Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Berlin
Fishing in Berlin
Fishing in Berlin
trip description for Clamming, Island Hopping, Booze Cruise in Berlin

Clamming in the Bay , Boat ride down near Assateague Island , seeing the Wild Ponies , Booze Cruise, etc.. 4 hour trip can be extended at $100 an hour Read More

Flats, Inshore, River Fishing Charter in Berlin

Clamming, Island Hopping, Booze Cruise

NEW
1 - 6 People From $450
Fishing in Annapolis
Fishing in Annapolis
Fishing in Annapolis
trip description for Annapolis Fishing Charters in Annapolis

If you're looking for a premier Annapolis fishing charter, you're in the right place! There’s no better way to experience the Chesapeake Bay than a trip with Captain Dorothy—she's fished here for years, and her knowledge of the Bay is bar none. When you go out with Captain Dorothy, you'll be more than comfortable aboard her 46' sportfisher, a beautiful boat built by Glass Boat Works and powered by a single 450-HP Caterpillar engine. This beauty will accomodate up to 30 passengers, so bring along as many friends and family as you want! This boat is packed with amenities, including a head to keep you having fun. Captain Dorothy and her mate aim to make your day on the Bay as enjoyable as possible! You'll enjoy great fishing in the mid-Bay areas, from Annapolis to the Eastern Shore and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. The Chesapeake Bay is a rich fishery that's home to a bunch of sport species, including Striped Bass (known locally as Rockfish), Bluefish, Spot, Croaker, and Spotted Sea Trout! In terms of techniques, you'll use trolling, bottomfishing, and live-lining to get bites, and when a lunker takes the hook, you'll feel it! Captain Dorothy will supply everything you need for a great day, including all the rods, reels, bait, and tackle. Just bring some sunscreen, warm clothing (it can be breezy!) and some snacks and drinks, and you'll be all set. Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Annapolis

Annapolis Fishing Charters

NEW
46 ft 1 - 30 People From $650
Fishing in Ocean Pines
Fishing in Ocean Pines
Fishing in Ocean Pines
trip description for Giant Butterfly Ray Bowfishing in Ocean Pines

Experience the Thrill of Bowfishing for Giant Butterfly Rays with Captain Greg! Join us for a unique bowfishing adventure that specifically targets the awe-inspiring Giant Butterfly Rays. With a maximum of just four people per trip, you'll enjoy an intimate and exciting experience on the water with Captain Greg at the helm. What's in store? Specifically Targeting Giant Butterfly Rays: This trip is all about the majestic Giant Butterfly Rays. These incredible creatures provide a challenging and thrilling bowfishing experience. Responsible Harvesting: To ensure the conservation of these magnificent rays, Captain Greg limits the trip to a maximum of two harvested Butterfly Rays per outing. However, there's no limit on other rays you can shoot, providing endless excitement. Bowfishing Expertise: Captain Greg is your expert guide, with years of experience in bowfishing. He'll provide you with the knowledge and equipment needed for a successful outing. Book Your Bowfishing Adventure Today! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Ocean Pines

Giant Butterfly Ray Bowfishing

NEW
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $1,000
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Rock Hall
Fishing in Rock Hall
Fishing in Rock Hall
trip description for Chesapeake Bay Half-Day Rockfish Trip in Rock Hall

Captain Wayne invites you to bring your family, friends and business associates to spend a fun filled day fishing aboard his 46′ charter boat! Captain Wayne has a tried and true method for fishing in Chesapeake Bay, with over 50 years of experience and 7500+ trips. He offers half-day trips departing at 5:30 AM and 12:30 PM. He starts by fishing at the end of May primarily chumming for Rockfish. By the beginning of June he also uses live lining with spot. Then in mid August Bluefish are mixed in with the Rockfish. Also by this time White Perch and Catfish can be caught by bottom fishing. Unless you ask to catch a specific species we try to catch our limit of Rockfish first and then finish our trip out by catching Perch, Catfish or Bluefish. Prices include all bait and tackle. You will need to bring food, beverages and coolers large enough to carry home your “catch of the day”. Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Rock Hall

Chesapeake Bay Half-Day Rockfish Trip

NEW
46 ft 1 - 18 People From $770

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Everything to Know About Booking a Maryland river fishing charter

What are the best river fishing charters in Maryland?

The best river fishing charters in Maryland are:

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

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 3 river trips in Maryland, and the most popular trips in the area are Clamming, Island Hopping, Booze Cruise guided by Greg, Ocean City Bay Bowfishing guided by Greg, and Eastern Shore River 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 river guides / fishing lessons in Maryland? Check out our beginner and family friendly river guides in Maryland.

What types of river fishing charters are common in Maryland?

The most commonly sought after species for river fishing are: 1. blue catfish, 2. carp, 3. channel catfish, 4. garfish, and 5. flounder.

The most common fishing techniques in Maryland are bowfishing, gigging, and wading.

How much do Maryland river fishing charters cost?

Prices for river fishing in Maryland can range anywhere from about $520 to $830, but the average price for a half day trip for river fishing in Maryland is $600. The average price for a full day trip for river fishing in Maryland is $788.

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 river fishing in Maryland?

The most popular season for river fishing in Maryland is summer, and most anglers book their trips 9 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 river in Maryland all about?

Maryland is blessed with a diverse network of rivers that meander through its picturesque landscapes, offering both natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The state's rivers, such as the Potomac, Patapsco, and Chesapeake Bay tributaries like the Patuxent and Susquehanna, play crucial roles in Maryland's ecosystem and cultural heritage. These waterways not only provide habitats for diverse wildlife but also serve as lifelines for local communities, supporting activities ranging from fishing and boating to tourism and agriculture.

The Potomac River, perhaps Maryland's most iconic, flows gracefully from the Appalachian Mountains, carving a path through the state's western regions before emptying into the Chesapeake Bay. Its broad waters are renowned for fishing, especially for smallmouth bass and catfish, drawing anglers from far and wide. In contrast, the Patapsco River winds through central Maryland, offering scenic views and opportunities for kayaking and canoeing amidst rocky outcrops and lush forests. These rivers not only offer recreational enjoyment but also serve as important water sources for irrigation and drinking water, highlighting their critical role in sustaining Maryland's ecosystems and economy.

Beyond their practical roles, Maryland's rivers are integral to its cultural fabric, influencing everything from local cuisine to folklore. The Chesapeake Bay, fed by numerous rivers, supports a rich maritime heritage, where crabbing and oystering are not just industries but traditions passed down through generations. For many Marylanders, weekends spent along the riverside, picnicking or simply enjoying the scenery, are cherished rituals that foster a deep connection to nature and community. Thus, Maryland's rivers not only shape its physical landscape but also contribute significantly to its social and cultural identity.

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

In Maryland, the seasons bring a dynamic transformation to its rivers, each time of year offering unique experiences and opportunities. Spring heralds the awakening of the rivers after winter's slumber, with melting snow and spring rains swelling their banks. This season marks the beginning of the fishing season for species like striped bass, shad, and perch, as they migrate upstream to spawn. Anglers eagerly take to the waters, drawn by the promise of plentiful catches amidst the blooming flora along the riverbanks.

Summer in Maryland sees the rivers bustling with activity as families and outdoor enthusiasts flock to their shores. The warm, sunny days make it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and tubing adventures. Fishing remains popular, with species like largemouth bass thriving in the warmer waters. Alongside recreational pursuits, summer also brings vibrant wildlife displays, from ospreys diving for fish to turtles sunning themselves on rocky outcrops. It's a time when the rivers not only provide recreational joy but also sustain a flourishing ecosystem of flora and fauna.

As autumn arrives, Maryland's rivers undergo a scenic transformation, with foliage turning fiery shades of red, orange, and gold. Cooler temperatures begin to slow the pace of activities on the water, but fishing enthusiasts know this season brings some of the best catches. Species like trout become more active as they prepare for winter, making it an excellent time for fly fishing along the clear, cool streams that feed into larger rivers. The quieter ambiance also appeals to nature lovers who seek peaceful hikes along wooded river trails, soaking in the beauty of fall reflected in the shimmering waters. Thus, throughout the year, Maryland's rivers offer a rich tapestry of seasonal delights, each bringing its own magic to those who cherish these natural wonders.

What techniques are popular for river in Maryland?

In Maryland, rivers offer diverse opportunities for fishing enthusiasts, with different types of rivers and techniques catering to various preferences and skill levels. Larger rivers like the Potomac and Susquehanna are known for their robust populations of smallmouth bass, catfish, and carp. Anglers often employ techniques such as casting from shorelines or using boats to access deeper waters where these species thrive. Baits like live minnows, worms, or artificial lures that mimic local baitfish are popular choices.

For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Maryland's smaller streams and creeks provide excellent opportunities for fly fishing. These clear, shallow waters are home to trout species such as brook, rainbow, and brown trout. Fly fishing techniques, which involve using lightweight flies that imitate aquatic insects or other small prey, require finesse and patience. Anglers often wade into the water to stealthily approach their targets, making careful casts to avoid spooking the fish.

Kayak and canoe fishing has also gained popularity in Maryland's rivers, offering anglers the ability to explore more remote and less accessible stretches of water. This method allows for stealthy approaches to fish in shallower areas or near structures where larger boats can't reach. Techniques such as jigging or trolling with lures or bait can be effective when paddling along riverbanks or drifting downstream with the current. Overall, whether fishing from shore, in a boat, or from a kayak, Maryland's rivers provide ample opportunities to hone skills and enjoy the serene beauty of its waterways.

What species are popular for river in Maryland?

In Maryland's rivers, anglers have a diverse array of fish species to target throughout the year, each offering its own unique challenge and appeal. One of the most sought-after species is the striped bass, locally known as rockfish, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries like the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers. Spring and fall are prime seasons for striped bass fishing, with anglers using techniques such as trolling with lures or live bait to entice these powerful fish known for their strong fight.

Smallmouth bass are another favorite among Maryland anglers, especially in rivers like the Potomac and Susquehanna. These feisty fighters are active throughout the warmer months, with peak fishing often occurring in late spring and early summer when they spawn. Techniques such as casting with crankbaits, soft plastics, or topwater lures along rocky outcrops or near submerged structures are effective for enticing smallmouth bass.

For those seeking a variety of fishing experiences, Maryland's rivers also host species like largemouth bass, catfish (including channel and blue catfish), perch (including white perch and yellow perch), and various panfish such as crappie and sunfish. Depending on the season and specific river conditions, anglers adapt their techniques, whether it's bottom fishing with cut bait for catfish, using jigs or live bait for perch, or fly fishing for trout in cooler, clear streams. Overall, Maryland's rivers provide a rich tapestry of fishing opportunities, ensuring there's always something exciting to catch for anglers of all skill levels and preferences.

The Best Places to Fish in Maryland

Other Types of Fishing in Maryland

How are fishing conditions in Maryland?

View Maryland Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

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