Maryland Announces 2026 Striped Bass Fishing Regulations

​New recreational striped bass fishing regulations will take effect April 1, bringing changes to the season structure in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

State officials say the updated rules are designed to simplify regulations while continuing conservation efforts and expanding recreational fishing opportunities.

One major change is the return of catch-and-release fishing in April for the first time since 2019. The annual summer closure has also been expanded to cover the entire month of August.

The 2026 striped bass season is as follows:

• January 1 through April 30: Catch-and-release only
• May 1 through July 31: Harvest season
• August 1 through August 31: Closed to fishing
• September 1 through December 5: Harvest season
• December 6 through December 31: Catch-and-release only

In addition, several spawning rivers will remain closed to targeting striped bass from March 1 through May 31 to protect spawning fish. Those rivers include the Choptank, Chester, Manokin, Nanticoke, Patuxent, Transquaking, and Wicomico rivers, along with the Upper Bay spawning area, including the Susquehanna Flats.

​Anglers are encouraged to review detailed maps and additional information on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.