BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds anglers that the state’s striped bass emergency closure is now in effect and will remain in effect through May 15, 2024. This closure, which began on April 1, targets large migratory striped bass and is enacted to protect the species’ populations following several years of below average spawning success.

The emergency regulations state that targeting striped bass in any waters within the Chesapeake Bay or its tributaries is prohibited throughout April. This includes catch and release. Any incidental catch of a striped bass must be immediately released into the water. Striped bass caught in violation of this regulation face fines of up to $1,000 for a first offense and up to one year in jail and/or a $2,000 maximum fine for a second offense.

The DNR plans to conduct regular enforcement patrols to identify striped bass targeting and out-of-season takes during this time. The closure is extended through May 31 in the Susquehanna Flats, Lower Susquehanna River, and North East River, which are known as important striped bass nurseries in the upper Bay. The closure does not apply to blue catfish or snakeheads, which are invasive species and present a health risk to ecosystems in the Bay.

The DNR encourages anglers to target other fish species during this time and to explore tips and methods for fishing blue catfish on the DNR website. The 2024 striped bass season is expected to open in June, but the emergency closure remains in effect to protect the spawning population.

For more information on the emergency closure and other fishing regulations, visit the DNR website.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo courtesy of Maryland DNR and Michael Eversmier