Tilghman Island MARI Reef Site

This 8-acre site is located within a larger 989-acre oyster sanctuary due north of Cook's Point in the Choptank River. The average depth is about 18 feet. From 2008 to 2014, more than 1,400 reef balls were deployed here to enhance oyster habitat. The bottom is primarily hard shell, with reef balls placed across scattered patches to create complex structure for oysters and a variety of fish species.

In July 2016, the Coastal Conservation Association and Chesapeake Bay Foundation deployed 72 reef balls off the coast of Tilghman Island as part of the Living Reef Action Campaign. These concrete structures, each seeded with 1,700 baby oysters (spat), were designed to rebuild critical oyster habitat, improve water quality, and support marine biodiversity in the Chesapeake Bay.

From fourth graders engineering oyster shell funnels to high school masonry students crafting reef balls, the effort brought together conservationists, educators, and volunteers across Maryland. With plans to expand the reef to support millions of oysters, this project shows how small contributions can make a big impact.

Want to fish Tilghman Reef?

Below is an article by FishTalk that breaks down how to fish this productive and biodiverse reef just west of Tilghman Island. From reef balls and bridge rubble to sunken wreckage, the 84-acre site offers structure-rich habitat that attracts a variety of species including spot, croaker, flounder, rockfish, black sea bass, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel. The article also includes GPS coordinates, tactical advice, and a video showcasing multispecies action filmed right at the reef.