What the Nonresident Trout Stamp Covers

Maryland's Nonresident Trout Stamp is a separate permit you buy on top of a nonresident fishing license if you want to fish for trout in the state. It does not replace your license—you need both. The stamp costs $15.97 and is valid for one calendar year, January through December. It covers all trout species in Maryland: brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout.

The stamp lets you fish designated trout waters during their open seasons. Some waters are open year-round; others close seasonally. The stamp itself does not change those seasons—the water's rules do. You must carry both your nonresident license and the trout stamp when you fish, and both must be in your possession at all times.

Maryland does not issue a separate stamp for residents. Residents pay a higher base license fee that includes trout fishing rights. The stamp exists only for nonresidents to avoid paying the full resident license cost if they fish only once or twice a year.

Key Takeaways

  • The Nonresident Trout Stamp costs $15.97 and is valid for the calendar year; you must also hold a current nonresident fishing license.
  • You can purchase the stamp online through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website, by phone, or at authorized retailers.
  • The stamp covers brook, brown, and rainbow trout on all designated trout waters, but each water has its own season and regulations.
  • Trout waters in Maryland include tailwaters below dams, limestone streams in the western part of the state, and put-and-take ponds managed by the state.

Where to Buy the Stamp

You can purchase the Nonresident Trout Stamp through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) online licensing system at dnr.maryland.gov. The online system is open 24 hours and issues your stamp immediately as a printable document or digital file. You will need a valid email address and a payment method (credit or debit card).

If you prefer not to buy online, you can call the DNR licensing office at 410-260-8DNR (410-260-8367) during business hours. Staff can process your order over the phone and mail the stamp to you, though this takes longer than online purchase. You can also buy the stamp at authorized retailers across Maryland—bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores, and some outdoor retailers stock them. Call ahead to confirm the retailer has them in stock.

Bring your nonresident license number when you buy the stamp, whether online or in person. If you do not yet have a nonresident license, you must purchase that first. The license and stamp are separate transactions.

Trout Waters Open to Nonresidents

Maryland manages several categories of trout water. Tailwaters—sections of rivers below dams—hold the most consistent trout populations and are open year-round in most cases. The Savage River below the dam in Garrett County, the Youghiogheny River below Deep Creek Lake, and the Patuxent River below the dam near Woodstock are the main tailwaters. These waters are stocked regularly and hold both wild and stocked fish.

Western Maryland's limestone streams in Allegany and Washington counties support wild brook and brown trout. These include streams like the Antietam Creek and sections of the Potomac River tributaries. Many limestone streams have special regulations—catch-and-release only, artificial lures only, or restricted seasons. Check the specific water's rules before you fish.

Maryland also operates put-and-take trout ponds stocked weekly during the open season. These are smaller, easier-access waters ideal for beginners or families. They close during summer months when water temperatures rise above what trout can tolerate. The state publishes a complete list of trout waters and their seasons on the DNR website under "Trout Fishing in Maryland."

Seasons and Regulations by Water Type

Trout season timing varies by water. Most tailwaters open January 1 and close around October 31, though some remain open year-round. Put-and-take ponds typically open in early spring (late March or early April) and close in late May or early June. Limestone streams often have different seasons than tailwaters—some open earlier, some later, and some have year-round seasons with special restrictions.

Bag limits and size restrictions also vary. Some waters allow you to keep five trout per day; others allow two. Some require trout to be at least 12 inches long; others have no minimum. A few waters are catch-and-release only, meaning you must return all trout to the water. The Maryland DNR publishes a detailed regulation guide each year listing every trout water, its season, and its rules. You can download it free from dnr.maryland.gov or pick up a printed copy at retailers that sell licenses.

Regulations change year to year, so check the current guide before each trip. Fishing under outdated rules can result in a citation, even if you bought your stamp in good faith.

What Gear and Methods Are Allowed

Most Maryland trout waters allow both spin fishing and fly fishing. You can use live bait, artificial lures, or flies unless the specific water has a restriction. Some waters require artificial lures only; a few require flies only. Check the regulation guide for the water you plan to fish.

You may use one rod and reel or one fly rod per person. Trout fishing with multiple rods, nets, or other methods requires a special permit and is not common for recreational fishing. If you plan to use anything beyond a standard rod and reel or fly rod, contact the DNR to confirm it is allowed on your chosen water.

Nonresident License Requirements

The Nonresident Trout Stamp is only valid if you also hold a current Maryland Nonresident Fishing License. The license itself costs $30.97 for a calendar year and covers all freshwater species except trout—you need the stamp for trout. If you fish for bass, catfish, or other species on the same trip, your base license covers those; the stamp covers only trout.

You can buy the nonresident license and stamp together online or at a retailer. Many people purchase them as a package to simplify the process. Both must be current and in your possession when you fish. If your license expires, the stamp becomes invalid even if its calendar year has not ended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the trout stamp if I only fish for bass or catfish in Maryland?

No. The trout stamp covers only trout species. If you fish for other freshwater fish, your nonresident license is sufficient. You only buy the stamp if you plan to fish for brook, brown, or rainbow trout.

Can I fish trout in Maryland with just the stamp and no license?

No. You must have both a current nonresident fishing license and the trout stamp. The stamp is an add-on to the license, not a replacement. Fishing with only a stamp and no license is a violation.

What happens if I fish a trout water during the closed season?

Fishing during a closed season is a violation, even with a valid stamp and license. Seasons vary by water, so check the current regulation guide before you go. If you are cited, you may face a fine and loss of your license.

Can I use the trout stamp to fish in other states?

No. The Maryland Nonresident Trout Stamp is valid only in Maryland. Each state has its own licensing system. If you fish in another state, you must buy that state's license and stamps.

How long does it take to receive a trout stamp if I order by phone?

Online orders are instant—you receive a printable or digital stamp immediately. Phone orders are mailed to you and typically arrive within 5 to 10 business days. If you need the stamp quickly, buy online.