The Maryland DNR is seeking input on regulations that would reset the season baseline for striped bass fishing in 2026.
The full proposal can be found on DNR’s fisheries regulation website, which includes a google form link for providing your input.
DNR is hosting a webinar will be held on Friday 11/21. – DNR Calendar Link
CCA Maryland SUPPORTS this proposal for the following reasons:
- The opening of the current 6 week spring closure to 4 weeks of catch and release and 2 weeks of catch and keep in select areas of the Bay. This returns us to traditional access to spring fishing for striped bass, while maintaining area closures for spawning areas.
- The maps below show a comparison of maps for current area closures and the proposed closures which largely match closures in place since the fishery reopened in the 1990’s.
- The proposal shows no positive change in spawning success due to previous regulations which were put in place in 2020 and are
- The proposal provides 92% of days available to striped bass fishing for 2026, vs. 83% of days available in 2025.
- Moving the non-targeting closure from July 16-31 to August 1-31, providing more protection for the fish while they are stressed from summer heat and depleted oxygen conditions that occur in July and August.
- Other species are available to anglers in August while striped bass is closed to targeting, providing opportunities for economic benefit and access to fishing.
