What the Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License Covers

Maryland's Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License lets you fish in tidal waters — the Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, and Atlantic coastal areas — using rod and reel. This license is separate from Maryland's freshwater fishing license and covers saltwater species like striped bass, flounder, bluefish, and drum in the bay and ocean.

The license is valid only for residents of Maryland and covers recreational fishing in state tidal waters. You can fish from shore, piers, boats, or other structures, but the license does not cover commercial fishing, spearfishing, or netting. Each person fishing must have their own license.

Maryland issues this license through the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). You can purchase it online, by phone, by mail, or in person at authorized vendors across the state.

Key Takeaways

  • The Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License costs between $20 and $25 per year and covers tidal water fishing with rod and reel only.
  • You must be a Maryland resident and carry your license with you whenever you fish in tidal waters.
  • You can buy the license online through the DNR website, by phone at 410-260-8DNR (8367), or at tackle shops and sporting goods retailers statewide.
  • Some people do not need this license, including children under 16, residents over 65, and active-duty military members.
  • Certain species like striped bass have additional harvest limits and seasons that apply even with a valid license.

Who Needs This License and Who Does Not

Any Maryland resident 16 years or older who fishes in tidal waters with rod and reel must have a Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License. This applies whether you fish from a boat, dock, pier, or shore.

You do not need this license if you are under 16, a Maryland resident 65 or older, on active duty with the U.S. military, or a resident with a disability who holds a free disabled resident fishing license from the DNR. Residents 65 and older can purchase a discounted license or fish without one — check the DNR website for current age-based exemptions, as these occasionally change.

If you fish in freshwater (ponds, lakes, rivers above the tidal zone), you need a separate freshwater license. Some people fish both waters and need both licenses.

How to Purchase the License and What It Costs

The Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License costs between $20 and $25 per year. The exact price varies slightly depending on how you purchase it — online purchases may have a small processing fee, while in-person purchases at a vendor do not.

You can buy the license four ways: online through the Maryland DNR website (the fastest option, valid immediately), by phone at 410-260-8DNR (8367) during business hours, by mail by sending a check or money order to the DNR, or in person at authorized vendors including tackle shops, sporting goods stores, and some Walmart locations. When you purchase, you will receive a license number or a printed license card to carry with you.

The license is valid for one calendar year, from January 1 through December 31. If you buy it partway through the year, it still expires on December 31 of that year — there is no prorated pricing for mid-year purchases.

What to Carry When You Fish and Inspection Rules

You must have your license with you at all times while fishing in tidal waters. Maryland Natural Resources Police can stop and inspect your license at any time. If you purchased online, carry either the printed license or a photo of your license on your phone — both are valid proof.

If you cannot produce a valid license when asked, you may be cited and fined. The fine for fishing without a license starts at $100 and can go higher depending on the violation. Having the license number memorized is not enough — you must show the physical license or digital copy.

Keep your license in a waterproof pocket or bag so it does not get damaged by spray or rain. If your license is lost or damaged, contact the DNR to request a replacement.

Species Regulations and Seasonal Restrictions That Apply

Having a valid license does not mean you can keep every fish you catch. Maryland has specific harvest limits, size requirements, and seasons for different species. Striped bass, for example, has a strict daily catch limit and minimum size — these rules change year to year based on fish population surveys.

Flounder, bluefish, drum, and other species each have their own rules. Some are open year-round; others have closed seasons. The DNR publishes a current Sport Fish Regulations Guide that lists every species, the minimum size you can keep, the daily limit, and any seasonal closures. You can download this guide from the DNR website or pick up a printed copy at tackle shops.

Regulations change annually, so check the current guide before each fishing season. Fishing in violation of size or bag limits can result in fines separate from the cost of the license itself.

Renewing Your License and Keeping It Current

Your license expires on December 31 each year. You can renew it anytime after November 1 of the previous year — many people renew in November or December to avoid the rush in January. Renewing is the same process as purchasing: online, by phone, by mail, or at a vendor.

If you let your license expire and fish without one, you are subject to citation and fines. There is no grace period. If you fish regularly, set a reminder in November to renew so you do not accidentally fish illegally in January.

If you move out of Maryland, your license becomes invalid. If you move back to Maryland, you can purchase a new resident license. Out-of-state visitors need a different, non-resident license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish in the Chesapeake Bay with just a freshwater license?

No. The Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries require the Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License. A freshwater license covers only non-tidal rivers, lakes, and ponds. If you fish both waters, you need both licenses.

Do I need a license to fish from a charter boat or party boat?

Yes. Even if you are on a charter or party boat, you must have your own Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License. The boat captain and crew have their own licenses, but each angler must carry one.

What happens if I lose my license while I'm fishing?

Contact the DNR as soon as possible to report it lost and request a replacement. If you are stopped by a Natural Resources Officer before you get a replacement, explain the situation and provide your license number if you remember it. Carry a photo of your license on your phone as backup in case the physical copy is lost or damaged.

Can I buy a license for someone else as a gift?

Yes. You can purchase a license for another person online or at a vendor, but the license must be issued in their name. You will need their name and Maryland residency information. Some vendors sell gift certificates that the recipient can use to purchase their own license.

Is there a license for catch-and-release fishing only?

No. Maryland does not offer a separate catch-and-release license. If you fish in tidal waters with rod and reel, you need the standard Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License regardless of whether you keep fish or release them.