Free Fishing Days Announced in Maryland

No License or Trout Stamp Required on June 4, 11 and July 4

Get outside with your rod and reel, and take advantage of Maryland’s excellent angling opportunities during three, free fishing days (June 4 and 11, and July 4). No license or trout stamp is required to recreationally fish in state waters on these days.

”Maryland has a wealth of public fishing waters where anglers can enjoy catching anything from cold water trout to striped bass to tasty white perch and more than 60 other species,” Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Service Director Dave Blazer said. “Check out the interactive online Angler Access Map to find your way to the best fishing spots.”

During the free fishing days, anglers must adhere to all state regulations and rules, including size and possession limits, which are outlined in the Maryland Fishing Guide.

New this year, Maryland is offering half-price fishing licenses for 16-year-old anglers purchasing a license for the first time. If you are 16 years old at the time of purchase in 2016, you will automatically receive a 50 percent discount on your 365-day resident, non-resident, nontidal or Chesapeake Bay and Coastal fishing license. Not included are recreational crabbing licenses, trout stamps, short-term licenses and sport boat licenses. (Anglers 15 years old and younger do not need a license to fish in Maryland.) Licenses can be purchased online, at regional service centers or at most bait and tackle shops and outdoor outfitters.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources encourages anglers of all ages and skill levels to share photos and details of their catches on the department’s Angler’s Log.