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Fishing for Rockfish

The Chesapeake Bay supports many species of fish. From small minnows to striped bass several feet long can be found in the region. In the region, striped bass are also known as rockfish or stripers. I can tell you it’s some good eating! The 2009 Spring rockfish season runs from April 18 – May15.

DNR recommends…

…minimizing the catch and release of striped bass once anglers daily bag limits have been achieved to minimize stress on striped bass. If anglers must release a fish, efforts should be made to release the fish at the side of the boat with a dehooking device, and avoid removing the fish from the water. If a fish has to be removed from the water, handling should be minimized and out of water time should kept to 15 seconds or less. More information on ethical practices for catch and release fishing can be found *here*.

Anglers on private vessels, charter boats and those fishing from shore in the mainstem of the Chesapeake, stretching from the mouth of the Patapsco River south to the Virginia line and including the waters of Tangier Sound will be allowed to keep 1 fish per person per day, 28 inches or greater in length. There are also specific striped bass catch and release areas that will remain open in order to provide additional opportunities to anglers.