Maryland Fishing Report - August 14

Maryland’s August striped bass closure remains in effect: the Maryland Department of Natural Resources says targeting striped bass in the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries is prohibited from August 1 through August 31. Anglers are encouraged to shift to other species, including Chesapeake channa and blue catfish. DNR’s forecast for August 12–18 puts main Bay and river mouth surface temperatures in the low 80s, while smaller rivers run in the upper 70s; bottom oxygen should stay stable after recent storms. Oxygen is reported as adequate in most bottom waters, except near Indian Head to Colonial Beach in the Potomac and from the Bush River down to the Rhode River area. With the new moon on August 12, tidal currents will be above average. In the upper Bay, the Conowingo Dam pool and lower Susquehanna are highlighted for blue catfish and flathead catfish, with Chester River waters above Chestertown also noted. Recommended baits include cut menhaden or gizzard shad, as well as scented chicken pieces or chicken liver.