Information about Fishing in Ocean City

Information about Fishing in Ocean City

Here’s what you need to know before going fishing in Ocean City, Maryland.

Fishing License Fees

A valid fishing license is required for the Atlantic Ocean and Coastal Bays. Fishing licenses, stamps and registrations are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, unless otherwise specified.

• Resident Trout Stamp: $5
• Non-Resident Trout Stamp: $10
• Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License: $15
• Non-Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License: $22.50
• Resident Seven-Day Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License: $6
• Non-Resident Seven-Day Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License: $12
• Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Boat License: $50

Click here to read more about purchasing a Maryland Fishing License.

Ocean City Fishing Sizes and Seasons

Species                        Minimum Size Limit             Season

American eel              9 inches                                   Jan. 1–Aug. 31

Black Drum                16 inches                                 Open Year Round

Black sea bass             12.5 inches                              May 15–Dec. 31

Bluefish                      8 inches                                   Open Year Round

Croaker (hardhead)    9 inches                                   Open Year Round

Grouper species          None                                       Open Year Round

Lobster                        3^3/8–5^1/4 inches                        Closed Feb. 1–March 31

Mahi-mahi                  None                                       Open Year Round

Red drum                    18–27 inches                           Open Year Round

Spanish Mackerel       14 inches                                 Open Year Round

Spotted seatrout          14 inches                                 Open Year Round

Summer Flounder       16.5 inches                              Open Year Round

Tautog                         16 inches                                 Closed May 16–June 30

Wahoo                        None                                       Open Year Round

Weakfish                    13 inches                                 Open Year Round

Cobia and Striped Bass have special guidelines that vary throughout season. For more information, visit eRegulations.com

For more information, visit DNR.Maryland.gov

Boater Safety Tips: Be Courteous on the Water

You’ll find an array of boats and boaters while in Ocean City. There are approximately 212,000 registered boats in the state of Maryland. Be aware of other boaters by being courteous and following these tips from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

• Be especially cautious of smaller vessels, such as canoes or kayaks, that may be less stable.
• When overtaking a slower vessel in open water, do so with as much room as depth conditions allow and slow your speed.
• Avoid creating an excessive wake in narrow confined areas.
• Operate slowly when in the vicinity of marinas and launch ramps.