Want a Chesapeake Bay fishing report today? We do not write our own. We send you to the real ones. They come from the states that run the fish rules.

Quick answer: For a Chesapeake Bay fishing report today, start with the Maryland DNR. It posts a new report about once a week. The last ones came out on October 21, October 28 and November 4, 2026. In Virginia, look at the Saltwater Journal.

Contents

Maryland Fishing Report

The Maryland DNR posts its fishing report on its fishing page. The last three came out on October 21, October 28 and November 4, 2026.[1] You can even send in a photo of your catch.[2]

Virginia Side

In Virginia, the state fish agency links to the Saltwater Journal. It also has a free guide for anglers.[3]

What to Check Before You Go

A report tells you what is biting. But the rules change too. Check seasons, sizes and limits before each trip.[4] Then check the tides on our tides page.

Licenses

A Maryland Bay license costs $15 if you live there.[5] A Virginia one costs $17.50 if you live there.[6]

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find a Chesapeake Bay fishing report? The Maryland DNR posts the Maryland Fishing Report about once a week; Virginia anglers can read the VMRC’s Saltwater Journal.

How often is the Maryland Fishing Report updated? Recent reports came out a week apart: October 21, October 28 and November 4, 2026.

Do I need a license to fish the Bay? Yes, in most cases, in both Maryland and Virginia; kids under 16 are exempt in both states.

References

Find a launch town on our Chesapeake Bay map.