Episodes

  • Tides, Fishing, and Wintery Conditions in the Chesapeake Bay Around Baltimore and Washington D.C. on December 19, 2024

    Tides, Fishing, and Wintery Conditions in the Chesapeake Bay Around Baltimore and Washington D.C. on December 19, 2024
    Dec 19 2024
    For December 19, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area, here's what you need to know.

    First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you can expect a low tide at 4:33 AM with a height of -0.01 meters, followed by a high tide at 10:59 AM with a height of 0.82 meters. The next low tide will be at 5:25 PM with a height of 0.01 meters, and the final high tide of the day will be at 11:25 PM with a height of 0.65 meters[2].

    Weather-wise, it's going to be a chilly day, typical for this time of year, so make sure to bundle up. Sunrise is at 7:13 AM and sunset will be at 4:50 PM.

    Fishing activity has been decent, especially in certain hotspots. The striped bass season officially closed on December 10th, but catch and release fishing is still allowed. However, the pickerel bite has been the most consistent option lately. Anglers in the Magothy River have reported a good pickerel bite, especially around docks in the upper reaches of creeks and along shorelines with fallen trees and other structure[1].

    For striped bass, although the season is closed, catch and release fishing can still yield some results. The Patapsco River has been a hotspot, with anglers trolling umbrella rigs along the main river channel edge finding bites in about 45 feet of water. Deep channels in the Patapsco are also holding schools of white perch, mostly in the 40-50 foot range. Blade baits have been particularly effective for catching both striped bass and white perch[1].

    If you're targeting pickerel, look for areas with structure like docks and fallen trees. For striped bass and white perch, the rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel are also good spots[1].

    In terms of lures, umbrella rigs and blade baits are your best bets. For bait, live or artificial lures that mimic baitfish or crustaceans tend to work well.

    Some of the best spots to try today include the Patapsco River, especially the deep channels, and the rock piles at the Bay Bridge. Rocky Point Park and Beach, due east of Baltimore, also offers good access to the river, creeks, and open bay[3].

    So, gear up, stay warm, and enjoy the day on the water
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    3 mins
  • Chilly Chesapeake Bounty: Stripers, Pickerel, and More Amid Shifting Tides

    Chilly Chesapeake Bounty: Stripers, Pickerel, and More Amid Shifting Tides
    Dec 14 2024
    For December 14th, 2024, the fishing scene in the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, is shaping up to be quite interesting despite the cold weather.

    First off, let's look at the tidal conditions. Today, the high tide at Tangier Sound Light is at 10:50 AM with a height of 0.63 meters (2.06 feet), and the low tide is at 5:20 PM with a height of -0.06 meters (-0.2 feet)[2].

    The weather is cold, but this time of year often brings active fish. Sunrise is at 7:11 AM, and sunset is at 4:45 PM, giving you a good window to get out on the water.

    For striped bass, the season is now closed except for catch and release, but anglers are still finding some success. Light tackle guide Pete Dahlberg reports that while the striper bite has been challenging, he's still managing to catch fish on most trips. However, the action has been better in the tributaries, especially for pickerel. Pickerel have been hitting large baits, including 5-inch white Zman paddletails, and this bite seems to be the most consistent right now[1].

    In the lower Bay, trollers have been finding some striped bass in the 30’ to 50’ range, often close to the bottom. Chartreuse baits have been outperforming other colors recently. Light tackle anglers are also working ledges in these depths with side scan technology helping to locate schools of fish[3].

    For other species, sea bass have been caught in very deep waters, with some keepers reported. Cutlassfish are also still being caught in the southern Bay tributaries, even with the cold weather[3].

    If you're looking for hot spots, consider the area between Pooles Island and the Bay Bridge, where you can target bluefish and striped bass. The Middle Grounds near Tangier and Pocomoke Sound are great for bottom fishing, with species like fluke, bluefish, sea trout, and spot available[4].

    In terms of lures and bait, for striped bass, umbrella rigs with five-inch sassy shads are working well. For pickerel, those 5-inch white Zman paddletails are a good choice. If you're after sea bass, deep waters with appropriate tackle are your best bet.

    Overall, while the cold weather might be challenging, the tidal conditions and fish activity make today a good day to get out and try your luck in the Chesapeake Bay.
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    3 mins
  • "Wintertime Chesapeake Fishing: Pickerel Bites, Perch Hauls, and Bridge Bass"

    "Wintertime Chesapeake Fishing: Pickerel Bites, Perch Hauls, and Bridge Bass"
    Dec 13 2024
    For December 13, 2024, in the Chesapeake Bay area around Baltimore and Washington D.C., here’s what you can expect:

    First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you'll have a high tide at 6:08 AM with a height of 3.23 feet, followed by a low tide at 12:32 PM at -0.27 feet, and another high tide at 6:29 PM with a height of 2.31 feet[2].

    The weather is chilly, marking the onset of winter, with sunrise at 7:09 AM and sunset at 4:48 PM. This cold snap has actually improved the bite for some species.

    Striped bass season in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay has just closed after December 10th, but catch and release fishing is still allowed. However, the bite hasn't been as strong as hoped this fall. You can still find some striped bass, particularly in areas like the Patapsco River, where anglers have been trolling umbrella rigs along the main river channel edge in about 45 feet of water. Deep channels in the Patapsco are also holding schools of white perch, mostly in the 40-50 foot range. Blade baits have been effective for catching both striped bass and white perch[1].

    For more consistent action, the pickerel bite has been excellent, especially in the tributaries. Anglers in the Magothy River have reported a good pickerel bite with the colder temperatures, with fish hanging out around docks, shorelines, and areas with fallen trees and other structure. This will remain a great opportunity throughout the winter season[1].

    If you're looking for hot spots, the rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel on the main stem of the Bay are worth checking out. Another good spot is the lower Susquehanna and above the Conowingo Dam, where smallmouth bass and walleye are active due to the cold temperatures. Rocky shorelines with deep ledges are producing fish here[1][3].

    In terms of lures and bait, blade baits have been particularly effective for both striped bass and perch. For pickerel, using lures that mimic baitfish or other small prey can be very effective.

    Overall, while the striped bass season has ended, there are still plenty of fishing opportunities in the Chesapeake Bay, especially for pickerel, white perch, and other species that thrive in the colder waters.
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    3 mins
  • Chesapeake Bay Fishing Forecast: Striped Bass Catch and Release, White Perch, and Pickerel Hotspots

    Chesapeake Bay Fishing Forecast: Striped Bass Catch and Release, White Perch, and Pickerel Hotspots
    Dec 12 2024
    As of December 12, 2024, the fishing scene in the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, is showing some promising signs despite the closing of the striped bass season in Maryland waters on December 10th. However, catch and release fishing for striped bass is still allowed.

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    Today, the tidal conditions are as follows: High tide at 5:13 AM with a height of 3.08 feet, low tide at 11:36 AM with a height of -0.16 feet, high tide again at 5:32 PM with a height of 2.29 feet, and low tide at 11:29 PM with a height of -0.39 feet. Sunrise is at 7:08 AM, and sunset is at 4:48 PM. The moon sets at 4:01 AM and rises at 2:26 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    The fish activity has been somewhat subdued this fall, but there are still pockets of active fish. The Patapsco River has been one of the hotspots, with anglers catching striped bass and white perch. Deep channels in the Patapsco River are holding schools of white perch, mostly found in the 40-50 foot range. Blade baits have been particularly effective for catching both striped bass and white perch, with fish holding close to the bottom.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For targeting striped bass and white perch, umbrella rigs and blade baits are highly recommended. In the tributaries, pickerel have been biting well, especially around docks in the upper reaches of creeks and along shorelines with fallen trees and other structure. For pickerel, consider using lures that mimic baitfish or small jigs.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the best areas to fish right now is the Patapsco River, particularly along the main river channel edge and deep channels. Another hotspot is the rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel on the main stem of the Bay. For those targeting pickerel, the Magothy River has been producing a good bite with the colder temperatures.

    ### Recent Catches
    Yesterday, anglers reported catching a few striped bass and several white perch in the Patapsco River using blade baits. Pickerel action has been consistent in the tributaries, with anglers in the Magothy reporting a good number of catches.

    Overall, while the striped bass season has ended, there are still plenty of fishing opportunities in the Chesapeake Bay, especially for those interested in catch and release or targeting other species like pickerel and white perch.
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    3 mins
  • Chesapeake Bay Fishing Forecast: Chasing Stripers, Perch, and Pickerel in the Mid-40s Waters

    Chesapeake Bay Fishing Forecast: Chasing Stripers, Perch, and Pickerel in the Mid-40s Waters
    Dec 8 2024
    For December 8th in the Chesapeake Bay area around Baltimore and Washington D.C., here’s what you can expect for your fishing trip.

    First, let's look at the tidal conditions. Today, the first low tide at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel was at 4:11 AM, with the first high tide coming in at 10:40 AM. The next low tide will be at 5:07 PM, and the next high tide at 11:08 PM. The tidal coefficient is average, at 62, indicating moderate tidal amplitudes[2].

    Sunrise today is at 7:03 AM, and sunset will be at 4:47 PM, giving you about 9 hours and 44 minutes of daylight[2].

    As for the fish activity, with water temperatures dipping into the mid-40s, striped bass are starting to stack up close to the bottom to pass the winter months. You can find them suspended near the bottom at depths of 30 feet and deeper, especially along the edges of the shipping channel. Jigging with soft plastic jigs or metal jigs is highly effective for catching these bass. For white perch, heavy but small metal jigs are the way to go, particularly around rock piles and behind concrete bridge span abutments[3].

    Chain pickerel are also active in the colder waters, making them a great target for inland anglers. Trolling with umbrella rigs can catch suspended striped bass, while jigging remains the best method for those hugging the bottom[3].

    For hot spots, consider the areas around North Beach down to Rocky Point, including Breezy Point and Calvert Cliffs. These spots are known for their productivity, especially the popular Power Plant area in the Lower Middle Chesapeake Bay[4].

    Given the current conditions, using lures that mimic baitfish or small crustaceans will be effective. Soft plastic jigs in natural colors and small metal jigs that can reach the bottom quickly are your best bets.

    Overall, it's a good day to get out on the water, especially during the early morning and late afternoon when the fish are most active. Just be sure to check the weather forecast as well, as it can significantly affect tidal and fishing conditions.
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    3 mins
  • Windy and Cold Fishing in the Chesapeake, Slot Stripers and Perch Bite Persists

    Windy and Cold Fishing in the Chesapeake, Slot Stripers and Perch Bite Persists
    Dec 7 2024
    For December 7, 2024, fishing in the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, is facing some challenges due to the cold and windy conditions. Here’s what you need to know:

    ### Tidal and Weather Conditions
    Today's tide times at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel are as follows: High tide at 12:21 PM with a height of 2.59 feet, and low tide at 6:04 AM and 6:51 PM with heights of 0.21 feet and 0.05 feet, respectively. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset is at 4:47 PM. The weather remains cold, with brutal winds that have been affecting fishing activities.

    ### Fish Activity
    Despite the harsh conditions, there are still some pockets of fish activity. In the Middle Chesapeake Bay, anglers have reported steadier action near the mouth of the Patuxent River. Trollers using umbrella rigs and tandems with five-inch shad baits have found success on ledges from Cedar Point to Drum Point. Jiggers are also catching fish on these ledges, although bird shows indicating blitzing fish have been sporadic and hard to pattern, ranging from Broomes Island to Solomons[1].

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Striped bass, particularly slot stripers, and some speckled trout are being caught. The bite at the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant (CCNPP) has been hit or miss, with short bite windows. In the Upper Chesapeake Bay, striped bass and white perch are holding close to the bottom, especially in deep channels like those in the Patapsco River[3].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    Umbrella rigs and tandems with five-inch shad baits are working well for striped bass. For white perch, blade baits have been effective. In the tributaries, pickerel are actively biting, and anglers are using various lures and baits to target them[1][3].

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Patapsco River**: Known for its deep channels holding schools of white perch and striped bass.
    - **Mouth of the Patuxent River**: Steadier action reported here, especially on ledges from Cedar Point to Drum Point.
    - **Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant (CCNPP)**: Though the bite is hit or miss, it's still a spot to consider for slot stripers and speckled trout.
    - **Rock piles at the Bay Bridge**: Another area where fish are congregating, especially striped bass[1][3].

    Keep in mind that the striped bass season in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay will close after December 10th, but catch and release fishing will still be allowed[3].
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    3 mins
  • Chesapeake Bay Winter Fishing: Tackle, Tactics, and Tides for the Chilly Conditions

    Chesapeake Bay Winter Fishing: Tackle, Tactics, and Tides for the Chilly Conditions
    Dec 6 2024
    For December 6, 2024, if you're planning to head out to the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, here's what you need to know:

    ### Tidal Report
    Today, the tidal conditions in Chesapeake Beach, which can be indicative of the broader Bay area, show a low tide at 10:54 AM and the next high tide at 6:07 PM. The tidal coefficient is average, at 67, which suggests moderate tidal movements[1].

    ### Weather
    The weather is quite chilly, with strong cold winds prevailing. As of yesterday, temperatures were around 33°F with a wind chill making it feel like 23°F. There was a morning snow squall, and while it melted quickly, the freezing air is still a factor, especially in inland areas. Be prepared for cold conditions, and a warm-up is expected starting Sunday[2].

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise today is at 7:08 AM, and sunset will be at 4:44 PM[1].

    ### Fish Activity
    This time of year, the Chesapeake Bay is still active with various fish species. Rockfish (striped bass) are a primary target, and they have been caught in the Potomac River, particularly around the channel edges and near bridges. The bite has been inconsistent, but cold fronts are expected to improve the fishing conditions. Schools of stripers are moving out of the creeks and smaller tributaries, so look for them in deeper structures like bridges and drop-offs[4].

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday, trollers and jiggers in the Potomac reported catching rockfish, though the numbers were not high due to the inconsistent bite. There were also reports of decent jigging action around the Whitestone Bridge, with a few slot fish caught on jigs and bucktails. Cutlassfish are also present near the mouth of the river, but the cold fronts may affect their presence soon[4].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For rockfish, using jigs and bucktails is highly effective, especially when combined with side scan electronics to locate schools of fish. Baitfish patterns and lures that mimic them are also good choices. For cutlassfish, traditional bottom fishing gear with appropriate bait can work well[4].

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Whitestone Bridge**: Known for decent jigging action for rockfish.
    - **Channel Edges of the Potomac River**: Look for schools of stripers in depths of 20’ to 40’.
    - **Bridges and Deep Structures**: These areas are good for finding rockfish as they exit the creeks and smaller tributaries.

    Remember to check the latest water clarity conditions and intersect your fishing spots with underwater points, hard bottom, and drop-offs for the best results. Stay warm and good luck on the water
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    3 mins
  • Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report: Stripers, Perch, and Ideal Conditions for December Anglers

    Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report: Stripers, Perch, and Ideal Conditions for December Anglers
    Dec 1 2024
    As of December 1, 2024, the fishing scene in the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, is shaping up nicely with the onset of cooler weather.

    ### Weather and Tidal Conditions
    Expect cooler weather to dominate the first week of December, with main Bay surface water temperatures already in the low 50s[2]. Tidal currents will be above average due to the new moon on December 1, which should enhance fishing conditions. Sunrise today is at around 7:00 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:30 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Striped bass activity has seen an uptick with the recent cold fronts. Anglers are reporting decent action around the Bay Bridge, particularly on both the east and west sides, where trolling along the edges of the shipping channel and jigging in the eddies behind the pilings have been productive[1].

    In the Upper Bay, the mouth of the Patapsco River is a hot spot, with fish being caught at depths of around 30 feet in the main channel. Jigging and trolling are the preferred methods here, with soft plastic jigs and umbrella rigs with 5-inch shad baits working well[2].

    White perch have moved to deeper waters, typically 30-35 feet deep, and can be found schooled up near the mouths of the Patapsco and Chester rivers. Metal jigs, especially those with a firetiger pattern, are effective for catching these perch[1].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For striped bass, soft plastic jigs and umbrella rigs with 5-inch shad baits are highly recommended. Trollers should use heavy inline weights to get down to the suspended fish. For white perch, shiny metal jigs are the way to go, as they are attracted to the reflective surface[1][2].

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Bay Bridge**: The rockpiles and edges of the shipping channel are excellent spots for both striped bass and white perch.
    - **Mouth of the Patapsco River**: This area is seeing good action for striped bass at depths of around 30 feet.
    - **Mouth of the Chester River**: Another good spot for white perch and striped bass, especially with the fish moving into deeper waters.

    Overall, the cooler weather and increased tidal currents are making for some exciting fishing opportunities in the Chesapeake Bay. Keep an eye out for bird shows, as they can indicate active schools of fish.
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    3 mins