Want to fish the Bay in Maryland? You will need the right Chesapeake Bay fishing license. Here is what it costs and who can skip it.

Quick answer: A Maryland Chesapeake Bay fishing license costs $15 a year for residents and $22.50 for non-residents. Seven-day licenses cost $6 and $12. Kids under 16 do not need one. Some anglers need a free Saltwater Angler Registration instead. Free fishing days are the first two Saturdays in June and July 4.

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License Prices

License Resident Non-resident
Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing $15 $22.50
7-day Chesapeake Bay and Coastal $6 $12
Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Boat $50 $100
Senior consolidated (65+) $12 –

Source: Maryland DNR fishing guide.[1] Licenses last 365 days from purchase.[1]

The Boat License

With a sport boat license, your passengers do not need their own license. But they need the free Maryland Saltwater Angler Registration.[1]

Who Does Not Need a License

You can fish without a license if you are under 16, or on a free fishing day: the first two Saturdays in June and July 4. Some areas are license-free, but you may need the free registration there.[1]

Where to Buy

Buy online at Maryland Outdoors, at a DNR service center, or at a license agent like a tackle shop.[1]

Seasons and Limits

Sizes, seasons and limits change. Maryland DNR posts summaries for the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers.[2] Check them before every trip.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a Maryland Chesapeake Bay fishing license? $15 for residents and $22.50 for non-residents, per year.

Do kids need a fishing license in Maryland? No, not under 16.

When are the free fishing days in Maryland? The first two Saturdays in June and July 4.

References

Find a fishing town on our Chesapeake Bay map.