Everyone is encouraged to grab a rod, get outside and take advantage of Maryland’s excellent angling opportunities during free fishing day July 4. No license or trout stamp is required to recreationally fish in state waters on this day. Maryland also features 23 unique license-free fishing areas, where anglers can fish without a license throughout the year.
As always, anglers must adhere to regulations, including size and possession limits, which are available online in the digital 2015 Maryland Fishing Guide. Printed copies of the guide are offered at most Maryland tackle shops and at the seven regional DNR Service Centers.
Anglers 15 years old and younger do not need a license to fish year-round.
The Department of Natural Resources invites young anglers to keep up-to-date on youth fishing events by joining the free Maryland Youth Fishing Club. DNR also hosts an active online Maryland Angler’s Log where anglers of all ages share their photos and fishing experiences.
Anglers looking for fishing guides or charters should visit the Map of Licensed Charter Boats & Fishing Guides to find a nearby pro.
While you are fishing, keep in mind that catching a fish meeting or exceeding the minimum Angler Award size for that species will earn you a certificate and an invitation to the Maryland Fishing Challenge Finale at Sandy Point State Park in September, where you may win a prize. To enter, simply take your fish, or a clear photo of your fish if you released it alive into the water, to an Angler Award Center (participating tackle store) to have the species and size confirmed and to receive your ticket and registration information. Catch and Release entries require a photo clearly showing the length of the fish measured on or next to a measuring tape.
Photo by Patricia Colletti