A worldwide charter booking service lists Maryland as the No. 2 fishing destination state. Fishing charters and guides introduce many new anglers to Maryland’s waters. Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo
For many Marylanders, springtime is synonymous with fishing and the state’s waterways offer a bounty of different fish to pursue. Most Maryland anglers already know about the diverse fishing opportunities throughout the state, but now the word is spreading about what makes Maryland a premier fishing destination.
The website FishingBooker recently published its fourth annual list of the best US fishing states, and this year Maryland moved up several spaces to No. 2. Maryland previously placed seventh in 2025 and eleventh in 2024. The worldwide online charter booking service considered factors such as consistent demand and widespread appeal among anglers; exceptional access to bays, rivers, tidal systems, and nearshore Atlantic waters; and being a comparatively cost-effective destination.
“With roughly a fifth of the state covered by water, Maryland offers outstanding opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater anglers,” the website noted. I couldn’t agree more.
In addition to being a point of pride, our fishing reputation also means investment. The Bureau of Economic Analysis recently reported that activity related to boating and fishing brought in more than $700 million in added value to Maryland’s economy. That’s a significant portion of an overall $10.6 billion generated by the entire outdoor recreation industry in our state.
Recreational businesses related to fishing support numerous jobs in Maryland, including equipment and gear manufacturers, mechanics, retailers, and charter boat captains and guides.
Anglers interested in unique opportunities in Maryland can pursue blue catfish and Chesapeake Channa, also known as snakehead. These invasive and destructive species continue to grow and spread in Maryland, providing both a challenge and an opportunity.
Both species are capable of growing to world record size in Maryland, are delicious to eat, and due to their invasive nature, have no seasons or limits on catching them. A recent DNR study on Chesapeake Channa showed that bowfishing is removing more Channa than traditional hook-and-line fishing. Each year, new bowfishing guides and Channa charters are offering their services to people interested in discovering this fishery. Their work is helping DNR reduce the harms caused by the increased presence of Chesapeake Channa in local waterways and the same is true for blue catfish charters.
The Department of Natural Resources offers a number of resources to connect with fishing experts and related businesses. DNR developed an online map listing charter boat and guide options to connect potential customers with local charters and guides. The website lists those who specialize in blue catfish charters. DNR’s Office of Outdoor Recreation also has an Outdoor Recreation Business Directory that includes information about a number of tackle shops, outfitters, and other fishing-related Maryland businesses.
As the weather continues to warm, I encourage all to get outdoors in Maryland and see first-hand what makes our state a premier angling destination.
Josh Kurtz is Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources
