Episodes

  • Frosty Chesapeake Bass Bonanza: Trophy Stripers Await on December 27, 2024

    Frosty Chesapeake Bass Bonanza: Trophy Stripers Await on December 27, 2024
    Dec 27 2024
    For December 27, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area, here's what you need to know.

    First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you've got a high tide at 5:26 AM with a height of 2.5 feet, followed by a low tide at 11:50 AM with a height of just 0.22 feet. The next high tide is at 5:39 PM, reaching 1.81 feet, and the final low tide of the day is at 11:28 PM with a height of 0.03 feet[2].

    Weather-wise, expect a chilly winter day with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. Sunrise is at 7:16 AM, and sunset will be at 4:55 PM.

    Fishing has been excellent lately, especially for striped bass. Reports from the holiday period indicate an epic bite for rockfish, with many trophy-sized fish being caught. Yesterday saw big schools of fish, with sizes ranging from 22 inches and up, and some breaking the 40-inch mark. The largest catches verified were a 49-inch and a 50-inch striper[1].

    For the best spots, head to the east side of the bay where areas like Bloody Point, the mouth of Eastern Bay, south Poplar, the mouth of the Choptank and Little Choptank, and off Hooper’s Island have been producing great results. On the west side, try off Deale, Chesapeake Beach, Cove Point, and Point Lookout[1].

    Given the striped bass season in Maryland waters has closed for keeping, but catch-and-release is still allowed, make sure to handle the fish gently and release them quickly[3].

    For lures and bait, jigs and spoons are often effective for striped bass. Live bait such as eels or shad can also work well, especially in the deeper waters around structure like bridges and points.

    In summary, today looks promising for some great catch-and-release fishing in the Chesapeake Bay. Dress warm, check your gear, and head out to those hot spots for a chance at catching some impressive striped bass.
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    2 mins
  • Chesapeake Bay Winter Fishing Report - Trophy Stripers, Big Cats, and Pickerel in the MD/DC Area

    Chesapeake Bay Winter Fishing Report - Trophy Stripers, Big Cats, and Pickerel in the MD/DC Area
    Dec 26 2024
    For December 26, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area, here's what you need to know.

    First off, let's talk about the tides. Today, the first low tide will be at 4:39 AM, followed by a high tide at 11:04 AM, and then another low tide at 4:48 PM. The tidal coefficient is average, ranging from 52 to 49 throughout the day[2].

    Sunrise is at 7:13 AM, and sunset will be at 4:51 PM, giving you about 9 hours and 37 minutes of daylight[2].

    The fishing pattern is changing as we close out 2024, with large numbers of migratory fish moving into the lower Potomac and other areas. In the lower Chesapeake Bay, anglers have been finding striped bass in the 35 to 55 feet depth range, particularly from the mouth of the St. Mary’s River down to where the Potomac meets the Bay. These fish are often covered in sea lice, indicating they've migrated from the Atlantic[1].

    On the Rappahannock River, striped bass action is slower but still present, with fish scattered down river from Urbanna out to the mouth. Trollers have reported catching trophy-sized fish over 35 inches. Additionally, the Rappahannock and other rivers like the James and Potomac are great spots for big blue catfish, with reports of fish up to 72 pounds. Fresh cut eel and shad are excellent baits for these catfish[1].

    For striped bass, trollers have been successful using tandems and umbrella rigs, especially with chartreuse baits. Light tackle anglers are finding success working ledges in the same depths, with side scan sonar being a big help in locating schools of fish[1].

    If you're looking for hot spots, consider the area around the Bay Bridge in the upper Bay, where trollers have picked up several trophy-sized striped bass using umbrella rigs with five-inch skirted sassy shads in chartreuse and white. The Patapsco River is also a hotspot, with fish being caught in 45 feet of water along the main river channel edge[3].

    For those targeting pickerel, the Magothy River has been producing a good bite, especially around docks and shorelines with fallen trees. Inline spinners with 4-inch paddle tails and minnows on shad darts are working well[5].

    So, bundle up, take advantage of the average tidal conditions, and get out there to catch some of these winter migrants before the season ends. Happy fishing
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    3 mins
  • Chesapeake Bay Fishing Forecast: Pickerel Bite, White Perch Hotspots, and Winter Angling Tips

    Chesapeake Bay Fishing Forecast: Pickerel Bite, White Perch Hotspots, and Winter Angling Tips
    Dec 22 2024
    For December 22, 2024, in the Chesapeake Bay area around Baltimore and Washington D.C., here’s what you can expect:

    First, let's look at the tides. Today, you'll have a high tide at 5:02 AM with a height of 0.87 feet, followed by a low tide at 11:21 AM at 0.15 feet. The next high tide will be at 5:12 PM with a height of 0.86 feet, and the final low tide of the day will be at 11:44 PM at 0.08 feet[2].

    Sunrise is at 7:17 AM, and sunset will be at 4:50 PM, giving you a decent window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

    The striped bass season in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay has already closed as of December 10th, but catch and release fishing is still allowed. However, the bite hasn't been as strong as hoped this fall. Instead, the pickerel bite has been quite consistent, especially in the tributaries. Anglers in the Magothy River have reported a good pickerel bite, with fish hanging out around docks, shorelines with fallen trees, and other structure. Inline spinners with 4” paddle tails and minnows on shad darts have been effective lures[1].

    For those targeting other species, the Patapsco River has been a hotspot, with deep channels holding schools of white perch, mostly found in the 40’ to 50’ range. Blade baits have been successful for catching striped bass and perch, which are holding close to the bottom[1].

    If you're looking for hot spots, consider the Patapsco River, particularly the main river channel edge and the deep channels for white perch. The rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel on the main stem of the Bay are also worth a try. For pickerel, the upper Magothy River and its creeks are excellent choices[1].

    In terms of bait, fresh cut bait has been working well, especially for the remaining striped bass. For pickerel, the mentioned lures and minnows on shad darts are your best bets.

    Overall, it's a good time to focus on pickerel and other species like white perch, as the winter fishing season sets in.
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    3 mins
  • "Chesapeake Bay Fishing Forecast: Chilly Striped Bass Action on the Lower Potomac and Rappahannock"

    "Chesapeake Bay Fishing Forecast: Chilly Striped Bass Action on the Lower Potomac and Rappahannock"
    Dec 21 2024
    For December 21, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay, here's what you need to know:

    First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you'll have high tides at 2:01 AM and 2:16 PM, with low tides at 8:59 AM and 9:34 PM. Sunrise is at 7:14 AM, and sunset will be at 4:51 PM[2].

    The weather has been quite chilly, but that's not stopping the fish from biting. Yesterday saw a significant influx of migratory striped bass into the lower Potomac River, particularly from the mouth of the St. Mary’s River down to where the Potomac meets the Bay. These fish are showing up with sea lice, indicating they're fresh from the Atlantic[1].

    Trollers and light tackle anglers are finding success in waters ranging from 35 to 55 feet deep. One boat near Piney Point reported catching their limit of four slot fish (19 to 24 inches) along with a dozen more under slot and some larger trophy fish that were released. Chartreuse baits have been outperforming other colors recently[1].

    Down on the Rappahannock River, the striped bass action is slower but still worth the effort. Fish are scattered but can be found downriver from Urbanna out to the mouth. Big blue catfish are also active in this area, and further upriver, with fresh cut eel and shad working well as bait[1].

    For hot spots, consider the Patapsco River, where deep channels are holding schools of white perch and some striped bass. The lower Potomac River, especially around Colonial Beach down to the mouth, has been very productive for striped bass[1][5].

    In terms of gear, tandems and umbrella rigs are doing well for trollers, while light tackle anglers are having success with ledges in the same depths. Side scan sonar is a big advantage for finding schools of fish[1].

    So, bundle up, grab your gear, and head out to make the most of the last days of the striped bass season in Maryland, Virginia, and Potomac waters. Handle those trophy fish with care and use ethical catch and release techniques to ensure their survival. Good luck out there
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    3 mins
  • Chesapeake Bay Fishing Update: Striped Bass Catch-and-Release, Patapsco Hotspot, and Pickerel Championship

    Chesapeake Bay Fishing Update: Striped Bass Catch-and-Release, Patapsco Hotspot, and Pickerel Championship
    Dec 20 2024
    For December 20, 2024, the fishing scene in the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, is shaping up to be quite interesting despite the closing of the striped bass season in Maryland waters on December 10th. Though the season is closed, catch and release fishing is still permitted.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    Today, the tidal conditions are as follows: low tide at 5:07 AM with a height of 1.23 meters (4.05 ft), high tide at 10:04 AM with a height of 1.42 meters (4.67 ft), low tide again at 4:10 PM with a height of 1.19 meters (3.92 ft), and finally, high tide at 10:53 PM with a height of 1.55 meters (5.09 ft). Sunrise is at 7:21 AM and sunset at 4:45 PM. The weather is expected to be cool, which is typical for this time of year.

    ### Fish Activity
    The fish activity has been somewhat inconsistent, but there are still some promising spots. The Patapsco River has been one of the hotspots, with anglers catching striped bass and white perch. These fish are often found in deep channels, particularly in the 40’ to 50’ range. Blade baits have been particularly effective for catching both striped bass and white perch, with most of these fish holding close to the bottom[1].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For targeting striped bass and white perch, umbrella rigs and blade baits are highly recommended. Trolling along the main river channel edges, especially in the Patapsco River, has yielded recent bites. Additionally, the rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel on the main stem of the Bay are other areas worth exploring[1].

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best areas to fish right now is the Patapsco River, where deep channels are holding schools of white perch and some striped bass. Another promising spot is around the rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel. For those looking to target pickerel, the upper reaches of creeks and shorelines with fallen trees and other structure in tributaries like the Magothy River are excellent choices[1].

    ### Other Notes
    Pickerel fishing has been quite consistent and will remain a great option throughout the winter season. Anglers interested in pickerel might want to consider participating in the CCA Pickerel Championship, which runs until the end of February 2025[1].

    Overall, while the striped bass bite has not been as strong as hoped, there are still plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish in the Chesapeake Bay, especially with the right lures and knowledge of the best spots.
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    3 mins
  • Tides, Fishing, and Wintery Conditions in the Chesapeake Bay Around Baltimore and Washington D.C. on December 19, 2024

    Tides, Fishing, and Wintery Conditions in the Chesapeake Bay Around Baltimore and Washington D.C. on December 19, 2024
    Dec 19 2024
    For December 19, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area, here's what you need to know.

    First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you can expect a low tide at 4:33 AM with a height of -0.01 meters, followed by a high tide at 10:59 AM with a height of 0.82 meters. The next low tide will be at 5:25 PM with a height of 0.01 meters, and the final high tide of the day will be at 11:25 PM with a height of 0.65 meters[2].

    Weather-wise, it's going to be a chilly day, typical for this time of year, so make sure to bundle up. Sunrise is at 7:13 AM and sunset will be at 4:50 PM.

    Fishing activity has been decent, especially in certain hotspots. The striped bass season officially closed on December 10th, but catch and release fishing is still allowed. However, the pickerel bite has been the most consistent option lately. Anglers in the Magothy River have reported a good pickerel bite, especially around docks in the upper reaches of creeks and along shorelines with fallen trees and other structure[1].

    For striped bass, although the season is closed, catch and release fishing can still yield some results. The Patapsco River has been a hotspot, with anglers trolling umbrella rigs along the main river channel edge finding bites in about 45 feet of water. Deep channels in the Patapsco are also holding schools of white perch, mostly in the 40-50 foot range. Blade baits have been particularly effective for catching both striped bass and white perch[1].

    If you're targeting pickerel, look for areas with structure like docks and fallen trees. For striped bass and white perch, the rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel are also good spots[1].

    In terms of lures, umbrella rigs and blade baits are your best bets. For bait, live or artificial lures that mimic baitfish or crustaceans tend to work well.

    Some of the best spots to try today include the Patapsco River, especially the deep channels, and the rock piles at the Bay Bridge. Rocky Point Park and Beach, due east of Baltimore, also offers good access to the river, creeks, and open bay[3].

    So, gear up, stay warm, and enjoy the day on the water
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    3 mins
  • Chilly Chesapeake Bounty: Stripers, Pickerel, and More Amid Shifting Tides

    Chilly Chesapeake Bounty: Stripers, Pickerel, and More Amid Shifting Tides
    Dec 14 2024
    For December 14th, 2024, the fishing scene in the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, is shaping up to be quite interesting despite the cold weather.

    First off, let's look at the tidal conditions. Today, the high tide at Tangier Sound Light is at 10:50 AM with a height of 0.63 meters (2.06 feet), and the low tide is at 5:20 PM with a height of -0.06 meters (-0.2 feet)[2].

    The weather is cold, but this time of year often brings active fish. Sunrise is at 7:11 AM, and sunset is at 4:45 PM, giving you a good window to get out on the water.

    For striped bass, the season is now closed except for catch and release, but anglers are still finding some success. Light tackle guide Pete Dahlberg reports that while the striper bite has been challenging, he's still managing to catch fish on most trips. However, the action has been better in the tributaries, especially for pickerel. Pickerel have been hitting large baits, including 5-inch white Zman paddletails, and this bite seems to be the most consistent right now[1].

    In the lower Bay, trollers have been finding some striped bass in the 30’ to 50’ range, often close to the bottom. Chartreuse baits have been outperforming other colors recently. Light tackle anglers are also working ledges in these depths with side scan technology helping to locate schools of fish[3].

    For other species, sea bass have been caught in very deep waters, with some keepers reported. Cutlassfish are also still being caught in the southern Bay tributaries, even with the cold weather[3].

    If you're looking for hot spots, consider the area between Pooles Island and the Bay Bridge, where you can target bluefish and striped bass. The Middle Grounds near Tangier and Pocomoke Sound are great for bottom fishing, with species like fluke, bluefish, sea trout, and spot available[4].

    In terms of lures and bait, for striped bass, umbrella rigs with five-inch sassy shads are working well. For pickerel, those 5-inch white Zman paddletails are a good choice. If you're after sea bass, deep waters with appropriate tackle are your best bet.

    Overall, while the cold weather might be challenging, the tidal conditions and fish activity make today a good day to get out and try your luck in the Chesapeake Bay.
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    3 mins
  • "Wintertime Chesapeake Fishing: Pickerel Bites, Perch Hauls, and Bridge Bass"

    "Wintertime Chesapeake Fishing: Pickerel Bites, Perch Hauls, and Bridge Bass"
    Dec 13 2024
    For December 13, 2024, in the Chesapeake Bay area around Baltimore and Washington D.C., here’s what you can expect:

    First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you'll have a high tide at 6:08 AM with a height of 3.23 feet, followed by a low tide at 12:32 PM at -0.27 feet, and another high tide at 6:29 PM with a height of 2.31 feet[2].

    The weather is chilly, marking the onset of winter, with sunrise at 7:09 AM and sunset at 4:48 PM. This cold snap has actually improved the bite for some species.

    Striped bass season in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay has just closed after December 10th, but catch and release fishing is still allowed. However, the bite hasn't been as strong as hoped this fall. You can still find some striped bass, particularly in areas like the Patapsco River, where anglers have been trolling umbrella rigs along the main river channel edge in about 45 feet of water. Deep channels in the Patapsco are also holding schools of white perch, mostly in the 40-50 foot range. Blade baits have been effective for catching both striped bass and white perch[1].

    For more consistent action, the pickerel bite has been excellent, especially in the tributaries. Anglers in the Magothy River have reported a good pickerel bite with the colder temperatures, with fish hanging out around docks, shorelines, and areas with fallen trees and other structure. This will remain a great opportunity throughout the winter season[1].

    If you're looking for hot spots, the rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel on the main stem of the Bay are worth checking out. Another good spot is the lower Susquehanna and above the Conowingo Dam, where smallmouth bass and walleye are active due to the cold temperatures. Rocky shorelines with deep ledges are producing fish here[1][3].

    In terms of lures and bait, blade baits have been particularly effective for both striped bass and perch. For pickerel, using lures that mimic baitfish or other small prey can be very effective.

    Overall, while the striped bass season has ended, there are still plenty of fishing opportunities in the Chesapeake Bay, especially for pickerel, white perch, and other species that thrive in the colder waters.
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    3 mins