From December 20 to May 3, the Susquehanna Flats is open to catch and release striped bass fishing. Fishing is allowed at the Flats, upstream of a line from Sandy Point to Turkey Point and the Susquehanna River downstream from a line connecting the Susquehanna State Park boat ramp at Lapidum to Twin Rocks to Tomes Wharf in Port Deposit; and the Northeast River. No harvest, catch and release only.  Striped Bass regulations for March 1 through third Friday in April. Courtesy MD DNR We have seen reports that the MD DNR has increased enforcement in this area so make sure you are practicing catch and release fishing. According to the latest DNR Fishing report, posted on March 22:

Striped bass are present (in the lower Susquehanna River) and those participating in the catch and release fishery are reminded to use barbless hooks, and to stay below the spawning reach line that runs from the Susquehanna State Park boat ramp to Twin Rocks to Tomes Wharf in Port Deposit. Natural Resource Police officers are present in the area, enforcing regulations (no fishing in the spawning reach for striped bass) and are warning anglers that striped bass must be released immediately in the legal Susquehanna Flats Catch and Release area. Striped bass are to be released immediately by law, so be prepared to unhook fish quickly in the water and if you must pose for a picture, be prepared ahead of time, support the fish horizontally and do it quickly, very quickly."

Restrictions

  • Stinger hooks are prohibited.
  • Barbless hooks are required when trolling.
  • Non-offset circle or J hooks with less than 1/2 inch gap are required when using bait.
  • No more than six lines per boat are allowed when trolling.
  • Eels may not be used as bait.

If you must pose for a picture, support the fish horizontally and do it very quickly. Photo courtesy Vista Lady Fishing Charters From May 4-15 the Susquehanna Flats will be closed to striped bass fishing. No harvest, no catch and release fishing. From May 16-May 31 the Susquehanna Flats will reopen.

  • One fish per person, per day between 20 and 26 inches.
  • Eels may not be used as bait.

From June 1-December 20, the Susquehanna Flats and all Bay waters, including tributaries, will be open to striped bass fishing.

  • Two fish per person, per day between 20 and 28 inches.
  • OR one fish between 20 and 28 inches and one fish over 28 inches.

More information on striped bass regulations can be found at eregulations.com.