Chesapeake Bay boating and fishing news updated daily

Talk Like a Pirate Today

2016-09-19T09:33:00.003-04:00

It's Talk Like a Pirate Day

http://time.com/4497168/international-talk-like-pirate-day/

Boat Show Coming to Town Jan. 28-31

2016-01-25T11:32:00.000-05:00

Maritime Museum will be Free in February

2015-12-13T10:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks to generous sponsor support, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum will be offering free admission Monday through Friday during the month of February. Free admission covers access to the entire museum, including the working boatyard and 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse, as well as numerous permanent and changing exhibitions along CBMM’s waterfront campus in historic St. Michaels, Md.

The Free in February program includes President’s Day and is only made possible through the generous sponsor support of the Talbot Bank and Awful Arthur’s of St. Michaels, Md. February museum guests will also receive a discount card offer for 15% off all meals at Awful Arthur’s through March 15, 2016.

“Winter offers a great time to explore our 12 exhibition buildings and beautiful campus, especially while enjoying the town’s great restaurants, shops, hotels and inns,” said CBMM’s President Kristen Greenaway. “We have a great number of inside exhibitions for all ages to enjoy, the waterfowl are abundant along a quieter harbor and the Miles River, and you can see great things happening in our boatyard as education programs and the restoration of our historic fleet of Chesapeake vessels ramp up in the colder months.”

Guests can also take in CBMM 50th anniversary exhibition, A Broad Reach: 50 Years of Collecting, which features 50 significant objects that have been accessioned into the museum’s collection over the past 50 years, and is presented on both floors of the Steamboat Building. The exhibition will be closing to the public in 2016.

Admission will be free weekdays in February for all museum guests. General admission is otherwise good for two consecutive days and is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students with ID, $6 for children 6-17, and free for museum members and children five and under. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Inclement weather closings are announced on the museum’s website at www.cbmm.org.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2015, CBMM is the only museum in the world preserving and exploring the history, environment, and people of the entire Chesapeake Bay. For more information, call 410-745-2916 or visit www.cbmm.org.

CCA MD fisheries symposium set for Dec. 5

2015-11-26T09:39:00.002-05:00

The second annual Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) Mid Atlantic Fisheries Symposium, again sponsored by Costa del Mar, will focus on striped bass, forage fish and oysters. It is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Loews Annapolis Hotel and is free and open to the public.

The one-day event will bring together top scientists on the Chesapeake Bay along with representatives of stakeholder groups and recreational anglers to discuss the current state of marine resources in the Chesapeake and what the future holds. It will run from 9 a.m to 3 p.m.

Dr. Elizabeth North, assistant professor, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES), will open the symposium, discussing “A tale of two shellfisheries: oysters, scallops, and a path toward a brighter future for oysters in Chesapeake Bay.” The second session will feature Dr. Edward Houde, vice president for education and professor, UMCES, talking on“Little fish, big impact - forage fish, menhaden and ecosystem-based fisheries management.”

The afternoon will feature a discussion of “Striped Bass management update, and discussion of the regulations in the coming years for Maryland’s fishermen”led by Michael Luisi, assistant director, Estuarine and Marine Fisheries Division, Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

All sessions will conclude with a panel discussion with stakeholders and audience members.

The symposium is being moderated by David Sikorski, chairman, CCA MD government relations committee.

Registration is free but must be made on the CCA MD website, http://www.ccamd.org/?ai1ec_event=fisheries-symposium-2015&instance_id=2427. Attendance is limited to 125 participants.

2015-09-24T23:32:00.001-04:00

Entries now open for HUK-CCA Red Trout tourney

2015-09-09T08:39:00.003-04:00

CRISFIELD — Anglers can now sign up for the third annual Huk Performance Fishing-CCA Red Trout Catch & Release Tournament, Sept. 18-20 in Crisfield.

The tournament, headquartered at Somers Cove Marina, will host many of our region's top light tackle, fly, and kayak anglers. This year a live bait category has been added. The tourney promotes sustainable, catch-and-release fishing methods where anglers photograph their catch for digital submittals in lieu of a weigh in.

The Crisfield/Tangier Sound area boasts some of the best redfish and speckled trout fishing on the Eastern Seaboard. Winners will be selected based on the total length of their three longest fish caught Saturday and Sunday. At least one of those three fish must be a speckled trout or redfish. The remaining two can be a striped bass, flounder, bluefish, or additional speckled trout and redfish.

Categories include a boat division for bait and light tackle anglers and individual divisions for fly and kayak anglers. Boat teams will consist of two fishermen. All entrants must attend check-in meetings Friday and Saturday nights where food will be served.

All rules and registration information can be found on the CCA MD website, www.ccmd.org.

The tournament was founded in 2013 to draw attention to the value of redfish and speckled trout that recently have been making a comeback in the Chesapeake Bay.

2015-08-08T09:51:00.000-04:00

Maryland Weekly Fishing Report Overview | April 01, 2015

2015-04-02T09:01:00.000-04:00

Maryland Weekly Fishing Report Overview | April 01, 2015

It certainly was a cold opening day for trout fishermen this past Saturday and one that will be talked about for many years. One can imagine many of our young anglers 20 or 30 years from now relating to their children. "When I was your age it was so cold on opening day that my fishing rod guides froze with ice". The weather service tells us that so far this is the coldest spring on record in Maryland. Warmer weather is in the forecast and continued trout stockings will make for good fishing this week and for weeks to come. Neil Villanueva and Brandon Collins braved cold fingers and toes on opening day but proudly hold up their reward.

Photo Courtesy of Neil Villanueva

The big story for anyone watching for the window of opportunity to be able to fish the anticipated spawning runs of white perch, is the fluctuating water temperatures. Water temperatures in the tidal rivers recently took a nose dive due to chilly weather and the tidal rivers and are barely holding at 50ºF today. Warmer weather is in the forecast for the rest of the week and a few sunny days will help a lot. Water temperatures at the mouth of the Susquehanna are a finger numbing 40ºF. A few folks have been out trying some catch and release fishing for striped bass around the flats but there have been no takers and the large females might not even be there yet since the bay water temperatures are not much warmer. There are some yellow perch being caught in the deeper waters of the lower Susquehanna River and a little bit of action in the Northeast River. Other tidal rivers in the upper bay such as the Sassafras and Chester can provide some good fishing action for post spawn yellow perch in the upper sections and the vanguard of the white perch spawning run may also be experienced.

Farther down the bay; the Calvert Cliffs Power Plant warm water discharge seems to be the only show in town when it comes to catch and release action for striped bass. Bouncing soft plastic jigs or metal in the wash of the discharge in a drifting boat has been providing some rod bending catch and release action.

Since fall/winter 2014, Fisheries Service has been taking steps to assure recreational anglers are aware of recreational and commercial striped bass fishery management rule changes necessary to comply with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's (ASMFC) approval of Addendum IV to the Interstate Striped Bass Fishery Management Plan. Addendum IV required a 25% reduction in the coastal fisheries and a 20.5% reduction in the Chesapeake Bay fisheries.

After public input and lengthy discussions with the Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission (SFAC) of several different options to achieve the mandated reduction, the Department proposed the option which best meets the diversity of interests among Maryland's anglers. It continues to provide an opportunity for a trophy fish (>40") while also providing an opportunity to those which would like to have a better chance to bring a fish home. It also provides increased protection to the female spawning stock which is an objective of ASMFC's recent management action. In mid-March we learned that the ASMFC Striped Bass Technical Committee had approved Maryland's proposal. Therefore, regulations for this year are as follows:

A person may only take or possess:

One striped bass between 28 inches and 36 inches or one striped bass larger than 40 inches from April 18, 2015 to May 15, 2015.
Two striped bass larger than 20 inches, only one of which may be larger than 28 inches, from May 16, 2015 to December 15, 2015.

EXCEPTION: A person may only keep one striped bass between 20 inches and 26 inches in the Susquehanna Flats and the Northeast River, as described in COMAR 08.02.15.09A(3), from May 16, 2015 through May 31, 2015.

Maryland has submitted an appeal to the ASMFC concerning the 20" minimum for striped bass in Maryland's portion of the Chesapeake Bay.

There are white perch staged in just about every tidal river in the middle and lower regions of the bay. Cold water temperatures have most of the white perch holding in deeper water a few miles downriver from the spawning areas. Fisheries biologist Butch Webb has been monitoring the white perch spawning run in the Choptank River recently and offered us these observations. We are seeing a lot of smaller white perch this year. There hasn't been a run of big perch to this point and they are starting to spawn so we may not get a run of good ones further up the river. The water temps have been variable from 47º to 50º depending on night time air temperature. We have caught at least one blue catfish a day for the past four days.

Although rain is predicted towards the end of the week; warm air temperatures and plenty of sun penetration into the waters of the tidal rivers should spur the white perch runs this coming weekend which will fit nicely into folk's schedules. Small shad darts tipped with a piece of minnow or other favorite baits will be a good choice for weeding through the surge of small white perch in the upper reaches of the tidal rivers. The throwback ratio is usually high on spawning white perch runs so lures such as shad darts get you back into the action faster than the classic grass shrimp bait under a bobber.

There seems to be a bit of a shortage in the bloodworm market so far this season. Cold temperatures and heavy snow in Maine have made it difficult for diggers to supply enough bloodworms to go around. Apparently European buyers are also purchasing as many bloodworms as they can for their fishermen. Hopefully the market will ease up as we get farther along into spring.

Trout fishing is now shifting gears as anglers begin to find more elbow room at trout management waters and additional trout stockings at numerous locations. In season trout stocking will continue into May. Anticipated stockings can be found on the trout stocking schedule link; anglers are reminded that the date listed means "the week of". Completed stockings can also be observed on the trout stocking website.

An ultra light spinning outfit, some hooks, a few split shot and some Powerbait are the basics for trout fishing in the put and take areas. Something to put your trout in is a handy thing to have and a landing net can be a very valuable tool to have especially if you happen to run into one of the trophy sized trout that are stocked at every location. There was a funny video several years ago of an angler jumping into the Patapsco to bear hug his trophy trout because he did not have a landing net. Ronny Rice looks happy and dry in this photo of the largest trout he has ever caught; Ronny was fishing on the Gunpowder this past Monday.

Photo Courtesy of Ronny Rice

There are many ponds near populated areas that are stocked with trout which make them ideal for taking young anglers, some are even set aside just for young anglers so be sure to check out the trout stocking website and the trout stocking maps site can also be very helpful.

Fisheries biologist John Mullican sent us a wonderful report from the upper Potomac River. The upper Potomac River is in great shape with slightly below average flow. Temperatures are now in the mid-40s and climbing. Smallmouth bass are becoming more active and fishermen are catching quality-size bass on tubes, hair jigs, and suspending jerkbaits.

Photo by John Mullican

Walleye have begun spawning and consequently the fishing has been slow. However, once the spawn is complete, walleye will resume feeding and the fishing should improve. After completing their spawning activities, walleye will spread out throughout the river. This is a good time to throw jerkbaits and crankbaits to cover water more efficiently and find fish. A lightweight jig and grub combo presented slowly near the bottom will be more effective when the fish are not as active.

Inland Fisheries staff recently collected brood walleye for the Manning Warmwater Hatchery in Cedarville. Ice and high water resulted in a very small window of opportunity to conduct the collection. Unfortunately for fishermen, the pre-spawn walleye fishing was reduced to only a week or two before spawning began. The fingerlings produced from the Potomac River walleye are used to supplement existing natural reproduction in the river as well as supply fingerlings for stocking throughout Maryland. Several large muskie were captured during the survey as well.

Photo by John Mullican

Maryland's many small ponds and impoundments are beginning to warm up as sunny days prevail and night time air temperatures are becoming more moderate. Largemouth bass, bluegills and crappie are beginning to stir and can be found in the deeper areas of transition zones leading from the deepest waters to shallower areas. Sunny afternoons can be a good time to fish as species such as largemouth bass respond favorably to the warming sun. Soft plastics worked slowly and close to the bottom in these areas is a very good tactic. Crappie and bluegills can be caught under slip bobbers rigged with a small jig or bait about 3' to 5' under the bobber. Crappie tend to be found near deep structure right now, such as bridge piers, fallen tree tops or sunken wood.

More and more open water is being seen at Deep Creek Lake this week; most of the coves are open and the state boat ramp is open. The shorelines of the main lake are open but main lake ice still prevails. Winter is always a little less than ready to give up its grip on the western most sections of Maryland and Deep Creek Lake is no exception.

The parking lots and every other available space in the Ocean City area tends to be full of boats up on chocks, but more and more activity can be seen as owners and crew prepare boats for the upcoming season. A few boats have been venturing offshore though in search of tautog at some of the wreck sites farther offshore. Boats have also been traveling out to the canyons for deep drop fishing and one boat while trolling in the Baltimore Canyon area recently caught a small mako shark.

Maryland Weekly Fishing Report

2015-03-26T09:18:00.003-04:00

Maryland Weekly Fishing Report Overview | March 25, 2015

It has been quite a struggle back and forth in the last month between spring and winter and the last vestiges of winter are not quite ready to loosen their grip on the Maryland Landscape. Warmer temperatures have prevailed to a greater degree in the last two weeks and this past Tuesday for example the middle region of the Choptank River was showing 50ºF water temperatures. The yellow perch began spawning in the upper reaches of most rivers about a little more than a week ago when water temperatures hit 48ºF. Some of the best fishing occurred last week in the Eastern Shore Rivers but yellow perch are still spawning in many areas this week. Jay Fleming sent us a beautiful picture he took on Sunday in the upper Magothy River of spawning yellow perch.

Photo by Jay Fleming

Yellow perch fishermen are urged to sign up for the yellow perch volunteer angler survey; the information is very useful to fish managers and there will be a drawing for prizes from Bass Pro Shops and Costa sun glasses. A fact that is painfully clear to many angler is that you must fish on the perch's schedule and not your own. Perhaps one of the most common "How's the fishing" answers one receives from a fellow streamside fisherman is "you should have been here yesterday". There is a consolation though for those who can only fish on the weekends and that is the fact that yellow perch can be caught after spawning occurs as they head back down the upper regions of the rivers. Casting small jigs or shad darts tipped with grass shrimp, garden worms or a small minnow are a fun way to catch them while waiting for the white perch runs to begin. One note on minnows; when fishing with a shad dart of similar jig you do not have to put the whole minnow on. Often a piece is enough to temp yellow perch to strike. Another method is to fish a bottom rig with the same baits; worms will get you more action but minnows usually will account for larger yellow perch. When fishing in this manner, a good chair, some snacks and in this case a fish retrieving dog named Izzy all help for some fun and relaxing fishing.

Photo by Keith Lockwood

The white perch are not far behind in their spawning endeavors and tend to be in the middle regions of most tidal rivers at the moment. With a little luck they may begin to show up in the upper reaches of the spawning rivers and creeks by the weekend. Grass shrimp, bloodworms or minnows are popular baits to use. If the run is on at your location try to find a place where you can cast out with a shad dart tipped with a piece of your favorite bait. Cast on an angle upstream and keeping a tight line twitch the shad dart in a "walk the dog" method and you should do well. The vanguard of this spawning run is usually the small male white perch followed later on by larger perch, which are most often females. Fishermen should also keep their eye out for hickory shad in watersheds such as the Susquehanna, Potomac, Patuxent and Choptank to name a few. These feisty fish will readily take a shad dart, small jig or small spoon and are strictly catch and release.

The ice has finally cleared from the bay and a few hearty souls are fishing the Calvert Cliffs Power Plant warm water discharge this week with soft plastic and metal jigs for a chance to catch and release a large striped bass on light tackle. Fishermen are urged not to go too light and to get the fish to the boat and released as quickly as possible since these fish hold the future of our fishery.

This is a big weekend coming up for anyone interested in trout fishing; the traditional opening day of Maryland's trout season. Anglers of all ages will be out in force trying their luck at favorite trout management waters. There are plenty of good fishing areas spread around the state; some in areas not noted for trout fishing and the more traditional trout waters of the central and western regions of the state. Trout stocking crews have had an extremely difficult time this year with the cold February and March weather; snow and ice conditions really put crews to the test and they worked very hard to keep trout fishermen from being disappointed. Several of our regional biologists and our trout rearing guru Marshal Brown offered a few insights.

Central Regional biologist Mark Staley offered these encouraging words. At 5:30 am on Saturday, March 28th, Maryland trout anglers will find trout in every put and take area across the state. Fisheries Service staff has struggled with record cold temperatures, ice, and snow this stocking season. Our stocking schedules have been changed, rescheduled, and postponed more in 2015 than any spring I can remember. In spite of all the winter weather, we have ensured that every area that opens on Saturday will have its allotment of trout.

Water levels in nearly all streams in MD are above normal and the water temperatures are colder than most normal years. We just achieved "ice out" on some of our central Maryland ponds and impoundments last week. Plan on a cold start to Saturday morning, current forecast is for freezing air temperatures until at least 10 am (you can count on the guides on your rod freezing up in the early morning). Dress warm, take plenty of snacks for the kids, and enjoy the day.

Remember that after Saturday's opening day, all put and take areas in Maryland will remain open to fishing for 2015. Trout will be stocked in the put and take areas until mid-late May and you can fish for them as soon as we stock them.

Regional biologist John Mullican offered these few insights and a nice picture of some free swimming trout.Crews have been busy this week stocking area streams and ponds in preparation for Saturday's opening day of trout season. It has been cold in the Catoctin Mountains and remnants of earlier snowfalls are still present on shady slopes. Streams are running full and clear and should be in great shape for the weekend. Area lakes and ponds still have some ice cover, but are beginning to open up giving fishermen a shot at cruising trout.

Photo by John Mullican

Western Regional biologist Alan Klotz offered these few words. Trout anglers can expect a chilly opening day in Western Maryland, as Old Man Winter is reluctantly releasing his grip to springtime. The good news is that the snow-pack has melted, and streams should have about normal flows for Saturday's opener. The trout stocking crews have been busy, and all streams should have plenty of trout waiting to be caught.

Mary Groves is the regional biologist for the southern region and she offered some good advice for trout fishermen. Most of our trout fishing spots have already been stocked with pre-season trout. That occurred in the last couple weeks. Stocking was delayed due to ice on the holding ponds. A new spot that has been stocked with put and take trout in 2015 is Governors Bridge Pond in Bowie, Maryland. It was formerly an Izaak Walton League pond but is now operated by the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission and it open to the public. Governors Bridge Pond has a 2 fish/person limit. Folks have already been out enjoying the slightly warmer weather and catching trout. Severn Run is the only closed trout stocking stream but it will be stocked and ready to go come opening day.

Eastern regional biologist Brett Coakley offered these words concerning trout fishing at Elk Creek. We stocked Big Elk Creek this week in preparation for opening day. The stream was running clear and at a perfect flow for fishing. That could change depending on what the Wednesday-Thursday storm does. Either way, the banks and parking lots will be muddy from all the late winter precipitation so plan accordingly.

Finally the guy who is responsible for all trout production in the Maryland Coldwater hatcheries, Marshal Brown finishes off with a few words and a picture of a nice trout from the Albert Powell Hatchery. With Maryland's opening day of trout season only days away, rest assured that all locations will be stocked for fishing. Our Coldwater crews have had another outstanding growing season due to their commitment to provide you with a memorable fishing experience. Expect to catch fish that are beautiful in size and color and keep a tight line in case you land one of our trophy fish. Good luck and enjoy your day.

Photo by Keith Lockwood

There are plenty of other freshwater fishing opportunities in Maryland besides trout this week. Chain pickerel continue to be very active and largemouth bass are beginning to stir. Largemouth bass can be found along the deeper parts of transition zones such as channel edges and often near some kind of structure. Soft plastic jigs worked slow right on the bottom are a good choice or a slow rolled spinner bait on the bottom may entice a pick up. The smallmouth bass and walleye fishing action is picking up on the upper Potomac and the ice is retreating at Deep Creek Lake. At present the edges of the main lake are open and several coves are opening up.

Blue catfish offer some action on the tidal Potomac River and channel catfish can be found in most of the tidal rivers feeding into the Chesapeake Bay. Crappie and bluegill fishing has been very good in many of the ponds, lakes and the upper sections of many tidal rivers. The fish are holding deep near structure such as brush piles, fallen tree tops or bridge piers. A few popular spots are the bridge piers over Loch Raven Reservoir at Dulaney Valley Road, the Nicodemus Road Bridge over Liberty Reservoir and small ponds and lakes throughout Maryland. A small jig or minnow fished about 3' to 5' or so under a slip bobber is a great way to catch crappie this time of the year. Angelina Watts holds up a nice slab sized crappie she caught at Wye Mills Lake before releasing it back into the water.

Photo by Rich Watts

Fishing in the Ocean City area centers mostly on long trips out to some of the more distant wreck sites due to cold water conditions inshore. Captains report catches are fair to good on most trips.

CCA MD to host blue catfish tournament

2015-02-25T15:42:00.003-05:00

As a brighter spotlight is being shined on the dangers of invasive blue catfish, the Coastal Conservation Association Maryland’s (CCA MD) Central Region Chapter has scheduled a tournament and day of information to create greater awareness of the harm this species can do to the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

The event will be Saturday, March 21, at Smallwood Park in Marbury, MD. Festivities will run from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. The tourney is set for 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a party and information sharing following from 1-3 p.m. In addition to CCA MD, Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Potomac Riverkeeper are co-sponsoring the day.

“The exploding population of blue catfish in the Chesapeake watershed has begun to upset the imbalance of the ecosystem, and the blue cats rapidly expanding numbers show no signs of slowing down,” said Rick Elyar, Central Region Chapter president. “Although trophy sized blue catfish are a valued recreational fishery, they’re now negatively affecting commercially and recreationally important bay species that migrate through on spawning runs or use the watershed areas to release eggs each spring. All of this is creating an overall imbalance of our Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.”

The tournament will include three categories— shore, boat and youth fishing— with single person kayaks qualifying for the shore division. Maryland, Virginia or District of Columbia tidal Potomac waters are open for tourney fishing.

Anglers must pre-register at http://www.ccamd.org/?ai1ec_event=central-chapter-blue-cat-tournament&instance_id=2356 where they can find complete rules.

Starting at 1 p.m. there will be presentations by NOAA and DNR along with music and a blue catfish taco buffet, prepared by Baltimore's Alewife Restaurant head Chef Chad Wells.

The Coastal Conservation Association Maryland (CCA MD) is one of 17 state chapters of the Coastal Conservation Association, which has 100,000 members nationally. CCA MD is an organization of recreational anglers fighting for Maryland’s marine resources and believing the sustainability of the resource must be the priority in any fishery management decision.

Maryland Rally for Clean Water

2015-02-21T11:02:00.002-05:00

Maryland Rally for Clean Water

Welcome to the "Don't Backtrack on the Bay!" Rally for Clean Water!

We're excited to see you on Lawyer's Mall in Annapolis on February 24. Please register to let us know you're coming!

We will be at Lawyer's Mall with t-shirts, a photo booth, snacks, and poster-making supplies starting at 11:30 a.m.

Please arrive no later than 11:45 a.m. to get a t-shirt, take a photo in our photo booth, and make a poster. A brief program featuring Maryland legislative leaders for clean water will start at 12 noon.

Some helpful tips for a fun rally:

Dress for success! Wear lots of blue, and arrive early to get a t-shirt. Also, dress appropriately for the weather.
Bring a homemade sign that reflects why you care about clean water, or arrive early to make one at the rally
Bring a photo ID so that you can deliver a message to your legislator or attend a hearing later that day. You will need it to get through security in the legislative office buildings to deliver messages to your senator or delegate.

What else is happening that day? At 1:00 pm, a hearing will be held in the Senate Education, Health, and Environmental Affairs Committee on legislation introduced by Senator Paul Pinsky to reduce pollution from agricultural sources. If you are interested in seeing the Maryland General Assembly at work and showing your support for clean water, consider attending the hearing.

Parking and public transportation: Locations for public parking around the State House can be found on this map. You can also park at the Navy Stadium outside of downtown for $5 and take the Navy Blue or State shuttle to the State House for $2. The shuttle runs on a 20-minute interval, so be sure to allow enough time for travel. Further information is available here. Annapolis runs a free Circulator Trolleybetween select downtown locations on a 20-minute interval as well.

If you are coming to the rally from the Eastern Shore, we are arranging bus transportation for those interested. Please register as soon as possible if you would like a ride to the rally.

Eastern Shore bus itinerary:
10:15 a.m.	Depart Easton Walmart 8155 Elliott Road Easton, MD 21601
10:45 a.m.	Pickup additional passengers at Nike Factory Store 441 Outlet Center Drive Queenstown, MD 21658
10:55 a.m.	Depart Nike Factory Store
11:30 a.m.	Drop off passengers at Lawyer's Mall, State House, Annapolis, Maryland
2:00 p.m.	Pick up passengers at Lawyer's Mall, State House, Annapolis, Maryland
2:30 p.m.	Drop off passengers at Nike Factory Store 441 Outlet Center Drive Queenstown, MD 21658
3:15 p.m.	Drop off remaining passengers at Easton Walmart 8155 Elliott Road Easton, MD 21601

Jordan to speak about computerized jet propulsion

2015-02-20T20:48:00.003-05:00

ARLINGTON, Va. -- Jeff Jordan of IntelliJet Marine will present a paper on propulsion and computer simulation for sustainable high speed boats and ships at the American Society of Naval Engineers’ ASNE Day 2015 on March 5 in Arlington, Virginia.

By incorporating similar technology that has vastly improved modern aircraft and cars, marine jet craft can optimize fuel efficiency at low and mid-range speeds without sacrificing high-speed capability.

IntelliJet now has working relationships with a motor supplier and a recreational boat builder and is looking for strategic, manufacturing and financial partners for military, commercial, unmanned watercraft and high speed boats.

Find out more at www.power.iiJet.com.

5th Annual Marine and Maritime Career Fair

2015-02-15T14:04:00.000-05:00

ANNAPOLIS — The 5th Annual Marine & Maritime Career Fair is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 28, from noon to 3 p.m. at Annapolis High School.
The career fair is open to students from grades 6-12 from Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay region.
A registration link is available at eycfoundation.org.
Exhibitors and sponsors are welcome. Marine trades opportunities exist in electronics, carpentry, plumbing, engines, marina management, rigging, sailmaking, publications, boating equipment and supplies and more.
For more information, contact Pam Ray or Marty Lostrom at 2015careerfair@gmail.com or call 888-383-8777.

2014 Annapolis Yacht Club Races Scheduled

2014-03-14T09:34:00.000-04:00

Mariners are advised that the 2014 Annapolis Yacht Club Regattas (17 sail racing events) are scheduled to occur on the Chesapeake Bay and/or Severn River, most held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the following dates during 2014:
April 26 (Spring One Design) and April 26-27 (AYC Overnight);
May 2-4 (NOOD Regatta), May 16-18 (J/22 North Americans) and May 17-18 (Lippincott Regatta);
June 7-8 (CRAB Cup in Annapolis Harbor), June 14-15 (Annual Regatta);
July 2 (Junior Annual Regatta) and July 26 (Summer OD Regatta);
August 30-31 (Labor Day Regatta);
October 4 (Fall Series 1), October 11-12 (Fall Series 2), October 18-19 (Fall Series 3) and October 25-26 (Fall Etchells-Stars and Halloween Howl);
November 1-2 (J/105 Ches Bay Champs) and November 15-16 (I 420 Atlantic Coast).
Most races will occur near the mouth of the Severn River and the adjacent Chesapeake Bay, south of the William P. Lane Jr. Memorial (Chesapeake Bay) Bridges and north of Curtis Point, Maryland.
For additional information, interested persons may link to individual events by contacting the AYC Regatta Manager at website www.race.annapolisyc.org or telephone number (410) 263-9147. Chart: 12270.

Fireworks Schedule Around the Bay

2013-06-27T10:27:00.000-04:00

Mariners are advised that, as described in Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations Section 100.506, the following safety zones are established for fireworks displays planned during the 2013 Independence Day holiday period:
1. Anacostia River, Washington, DC, within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°52′16″ N,
077°00′13″ W, located approximately 500 yards southeast of the shoreline near Washington Nationals Ball Park. This safety
zone will be enforced on July 3, 2013, from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for
approximately 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289.

2. Baltimore Inner Harbor, Patapsco River, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°16′55″ N, 076°36′17″ W, at the entrance to Baltimore Inner Harbor, approximately 150 yards southwest of Pier 6, and
Northwest Harbor (Western Section), Patapsco River, Maryland, within a 250-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°16′37″ N, 076°35′54″ W, located near the western end of Northwest Harbor. These safety zones will be enforced on
July 4, 2013, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled from 9:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Chart 12281.

3. Chesapeake Bay, Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the two fireworks barges in approximate position 38°41′36″ N, 076°31′30″ W and 38°41′28″ N, 076°31′29″ W, located north and south of the jetties at Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2013, from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled from 9:15 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. Chart 12263.

4. Choptank River, Cambridge, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks launch site located at Great Marsh Point, Cambridge at 38°35′06″ N, 076°04′46″ W. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2013 from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Chart 12266.

5. Middle River, Baltimore County, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°17′45″ N, 076°23′49″ W, approximately 300 yards east of Rockaway Beach, near Turkey Point. This safety zone will be enforced on July 6, 2013, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12278.

6. Northeast River North East, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 39°35'26'' N, 075°57'00'' W, located approximately 400 yards south of the North East Community Park. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2013, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (no rain date) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Chart 12274.

7. Patuxent River, Solomons Island, Maryland, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in an area bound by the following points: 38°19′42″ N, 076°28′02″ W; thence to 38°19′26″ N, 076°28′18″ W; thence to 38°18′48″ N, 076°27′42″ W; thence to 38°19′06″ N 076°27′25″ W, thence to the point of origin, located near Solomons Island, MD. This safety zone will be enforced
on July 4, 2013, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:15

8. p.m. Chart 12284.

9. Potomac River, Prince William County, Virginia, within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°34′08″ N, 077°15′34″ W, located near Cherry Hill, Virginia. This safety zone will be enforced on June 29, 2013, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of June 30, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289.

10. Severn River and Spa Creek, within an area bounded by a line drawn from 38°58′39.6″ N, 076°28′49″ W, thence to 38°58′41″ N, 076°28′14″ W, thence to 38°59′01″ N, 076°28′37″ W, thence to 38°58′57″ N, 076°28′40″ W, located near the entrance to Spa Creek in Annapolis, Maryland. This safety zone will be enforced on July 4, 2013, from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled from 9 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Charts 12282, 12283.

11. Tred Avon River, Oxford, Maryland, within a 150-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°41′24″ N, 076°10′37″ W, approximately 500 yards northwest of the waterfront at Oxford. This safety zone will be enforced on July 3, 2013from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 5, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled from 9:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Chart 12266.

12. Upper Potomac River, Alexandria Channel, within a 300-yard radius of the fireworks barge in approximate position 38°48′37″ N, 077°02′02″ W, located near the waterfront of Alexandria, Virginia. This safety zone will be enforced on July 13, 2013, from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. (with a rain date of July 14, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12289. Fireworks barges and launch sites on land will have signs labeled FIREWORKS--DANGER--STAY AWAY to provide on scene notice that the safety zone will be enforced. Vessels may not enter, remain in, or transit through the safety zone during the
enforcement period unless authorized by the Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) or designated Coast Guard patrol personnel on scene. All persons and vessels shall comply with the instructions of the COTP or the designated on-scene-patrol personnel, and upon being hailed by siren, radio, flashing light or other means, the operator of a vessel shall proceed as
directed. Other Federal, State and local agencies may assist these personnel in the enforcement of the safety zone. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674, (410) 576-2693 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.

13. Aquia Creek, Stafford, Virginia, mariners are urged to remain at least 200 yards from the fireworks discharge barge located in Aquia Harbour on July 4, 2013 (no rain date) for a display scheduled from 9:20 p.m. to 10 p.m. Chart 12288.

14. Chester River, Town of Chestertown, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 200 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore near the mouth of Radcliffe Creek on July 4, 2013 (no rain date) for a display scheduled from 9:20 p.m. to 10 p.m. Chart 12272.

15. Fairlee Creek, Great Oak Landing Marina, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 200 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at Shell Point on July 6, 2013 (rain date of August 31, 2013) for a display scheduled at 9:25 p.m. Chart 12274.

16. Herring Bay, Herrington Harbour South Marina, Rose Haven, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on the south jetty on July 3, 2013 (rain date of July 4, 2013) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12266.

17. Miles River, St. Michaels, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least within a 200-yard radius of the fireworks discharge site located on a point of land at the mouth of Long Haul Creek on July 6, 2013 (rain date of July 7, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9:30 p.m. Chart 12263.
18. Nanticoke River, Nanticoke, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 70 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on the end of a pier at the Jay Pepper Campground on July 5, 2013 (rain date of July 6, 2013) for a fireworks display scheduled for 9 p.m. Chart 12261.

19. Patuxent River, Golden Beach/Patuxent Knolls Civic Association, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 200 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore near Long Point on June 29, 2013 (rain date of June 30, 2013) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12284.

20. Potomac River, Colonial Beach, Virginia, mariners are urged to remain at least 50 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on the shoreline near the entrance to Monroe Bay on June 29, 2013 (rain date of July 7, 2013) for a display scheduled
at approximately 9 p.m. Chart 12286.

21. Potomac River, Town of Colonial Beach, Virginia, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the Municipal Pier on July 4, 2013 (rain date of July 6, 2013) for a display scheduled at approximately 9 p.m. Chart 12286.

22. Rock Hall Harbor, Rock Hall, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore on July 3, 2013 (rain date of July 4, 2013) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12278.

23. Severn River, Sherwood Forest, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of the Sherwood Forest Club’s Main Pier on July 3, 2013 (rain date of July 6, 2013) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12282.

24. St. Mary’s River, St. Mary’s City, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 150 yards from the fireworks discharge site located at the end of a dock at St. Mary’s College of Maryland on July 5 2013 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 9 p.m. Chart 12233.

25. Susquehanna River, Havre de Grace, Maryland, mariners are urged to remain at least 300 yards from the fireworks discharge site located on shore at Park Island on July 6, 2013 (no rain date) for a display scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Chart 12274

Mariners are urged to transit these areas with caution, to keep a sharp lookout for other watercraft in these areas, and are reminded to heed the directions of patrolling law enforcement and public safety officials. Absent specific guidance, mariners should remain 300 yards from any fireworks discharge site. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore Waterways Management Division at telephone number (410) 576-2674, (410) 576-2693 or email
Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil.

Safety-At-Sea Seminar on the Severn April 6

2013-03-26T09:49:00.000-04:00

Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the U.S. Naval Academy Sailing Squadron will sponsor its annual Safety-at-Sea Seminar in the Severn River adjacent to the U. S. Naval Academy, between the Naval Academy (SR-450) Bridge and Triton Light (LLN-19780), on Saturday, April 6, 2013, at 11:30 a.m. The event includes on-water activities involving small boats and other vessels, a lowflying helicopter and pyrotechnics demonstrations.
Coast Guard special local regulations establish a regulated area for all waters of the Severn River (from shoreline to shoreline), bounded to the northwest by a line drawn from the south shoreline at
39°00'38.9" N, 076°31'05.2" W, thence to the north shoreline at 39°00'54.7" N, 076°30'44.8" W, this line is approximately 1300 yards northwest of the Severn River (US-50) Bridge. The regulated area is bounded to the southeast by a line drawn from the Naval Academy Light at 38°58'39.5" N, 076°28'49" W, thence southeast to a point 700 yards east of Chinks Point, at 38°58'1.9" N, 076°28'1.7" W, thence northeast to Greenbury Point at 38°58'29" N, 076°27'16" W. The regulated area will be enforced from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on April 6, 2013. The effect will be to restrict vessel traffic on certain waters of the Severn River.
The Coast Guard Patrol Commander may forbid and control the movement of all vessels in the regulated area. Coast Guard vessels enforcing this regulated area can be contacted on marine band radio VHF-FM channel 16 or 22A. When hailed or signaled by an official patrol vessel, a vessel in the area shall immediately comply with the directions given. Failure to do so may result in expulsion from the area, citation for failure to comply, or both. Mariners are urged to schedule their transits on this waterway beyond the enforcement times.
For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Charts 12282, 12283.

Dredge Boat Working in the Nanticoke River

2013-01-08T16:36:00.000-05:00

Sharptown, Md. -- The Dredge LEXINGTON will be conducting dredging operations in the Nanticoke River in the vicinity ofNanticoke River Channel Light 61 (LLNR 24315) and Nanticoke River Channel Daybeacon 70 (LLNR 24350 from 05 January until 25 February, 2013. The dredge will monitor VHF-FM channels 13 and 16. Mariners are cautioned to stay clear of dredge, booster, floating (pontoon) and submerged pipelines, barges, derricks and operating wires associated with dredging and marine construction operations. Operators of vessels of all types should be aware that dredges and floating pipelines are held in place by cables, attached to anchors some distance away from the equipment.
Buoys are attached to the anchors so that the anchors may be moved as the dredge advances and the location of the submerged pipelines are marked by buoys on each side of the channel. Mariners are cautioned to strictly comply with the Inland Rules of the Road when approaching, passing and leaving the area of operations, and remain a safe distance away from the dredge, booster, buoys, cables, pipeline, barges, derricks, wires and related equipment.
Owners and lessees of fishnets, crabpots and other structures that may be in the vicinity and that may hinder the free navigation of attending vessels and equipment must be remove these from the area where tugs, tenderboats and other attendant equipment will be navigating. Dredging projects are usually conducted twenty-four (24) hours a day seven (7) days a week, all fishnets, crabpots and structures in the general area must be removed prior to commencement of any work. A NO WAKE transit is requested of all vessels passing the dredge and if necessary to clarify a SAFE PASSAGE contact the dredge on the appropriate VHF-FM channels. Chart: 12261.

Dates Announced for Fall Annapolis Yacht Club Regattas

2012-10-16T09:17:00.000-04:00

Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the 2012 Annapolis Yacht Club’s Regattas (15 sail racing events) are scheduled to occur on the Chesapeake Bay, most held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the following dates: October 20-21 and October 27-28; and November 3 and November 17-18. The races will occur near the mouth of the Severn River, between the William P. Lane Jr. Memorial (Chesapeake Bay) Bridges and Bloody Point (Kent Island), Maryland. For additional information, interested persons may link to individual events by contacting the AYC Regatta Management website at www.race.annapolisyc.org. Chart 12270.

Boat Shows at the Annapolis City Dock

2012-10-09T09:37:00.000-04:00

Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that United States Yacht Shows, Inc. will conduct in-water operations in support of its annual United States Sailboat and Powerboat Shows in Annapolis Harbor October 2-17. Temporary pilings, floating docks and submerged electrical cables will be placed in Annapolis Harbor.
To support the in-water operations at Annapolis Harbor, long tows will cross the Severn River between Spa Creek and Carr Creek during October 2-5 and during October 14-17. During these periods, mariners are urged to use extreme caution when transiting the area and to reduce speed near the towing operations. In-water operations will continue at the mouth of Carr Creek during October 17-31. Information regarding special anchoring restrictions in the Harbor in the event of severe weather during the boat shows should be directed to the Annapolis City Harbormaster’s Office on marine band radio channel 71 VHF-FM or telephone (410) 263-7973.
For further information on the boat shows, contact the United States Yacht Shows, Inc. at (410) 268-8828, info@usboat.com, or visit usboat.com. Chart 12228.

Maryland DNR Certifies New Clean Marina in Deale

2012-08-23T07:50:00.001-04:00

Deale, Md. -- Bay Harbor Boatyard, a family run facility on Rockhold Creek off of Herring Bay, has been certified as the newest Maryland Clean Marina.

“We really wanted to make our place the best it could be, so we decided to go for the Clean Marina Award,” said Co-owner Denise Klein. “The improvements are noticeable as soon as you walk in.”

“Our customers are on board too, which is great,” said Co-owner George Klein.

To meet award criteria, the Kleins worked with on-site contractors to remove old items stored in the yard, and established stormwater pollution prevention plans and regulations. The marina also maintains a spill response kit and recycles used shrink-wrap.

“This is an excellent example of a facility being brought up to modern standards by dedicated owners,” said Program Coordinator Donna Morrow. “We really enjoy working with enthusiastic marina owners who want to help protect our waterways. We encourage others to participate too.”

Bay Harbor Boatyard is known for its wooden boat restoration skills and also houses a marine transport trucking company.

This is the 123rd certified Maryland Clean Marina. There are a total of 148 certified facilities in the State, including 25 smaller Clean Marina partners. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources oversees the Clean Marina Initiative, a voluntary program that promotes and celebrates efforts of marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs to reduce their pollution.

Each of the 148 certified facilities has adopted a significant portion of recommendations in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook and passed a rigorous site inspection. Certifications are good for three years, at which time DNR staff re-inspects the properties. Marinas and boatyards of any size can participate.

More information and free program materials are available by calling 410-260-8773 or visiting dnr.maryland.gov/boating/cleanmarina.

Eastport Yacht Club Regattas Scheduled for the mid-Bay

2012-08-22T08:08:00.000-04:00

Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the Eastport Yacht Club’s Regattas are scheduled to occur in the middle Chesapeake Bay, between Hackett Point and Thomas Point and in the Severn River, with seven individual sail racing events scheduled on the following dates in 2012: August 25, September 24, October 1, November 24.
The Eastport Yacht Club’s Race Committee can be contacted on marine band radio, at (410) 263-0415 or race.committee@eastportyc.org. For any comments or questions, contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Chart 12270.

$25,000 Diamond Jim on the Loose

2012-08-13T12:27:00.002-04:00

Annapolis, Md. -- The Diamond Jim component of the 2012 Maryland Fishing Challenge has entered its third and final phase as Chesapeake Bay charter captains and Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) biologists recently caught, tagged and released more than 150 striped bass into the Chesapeake Bay. One of the tagged fish is the official Diamond Jim worth $25,000 to the angler who catches it between August 1 and midnight September 3, with the other tagged rockfish known as imposters worth at least $500 each. New this month, gift certificates have also been provided by a handful of generous, local tackle shops. So far this year, four potential Diamond Jim fish have been caught and are awaiting certification.

“The Maryland Fishing Challenge is a great opportunity for families and friends to enjoy our State’s great outdoors,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “I encourage all Marylanders and visitors to join in making lasting memories by fishing in our beautiful waters.”

As an exciting added incentive, six Maryland fishing tackle stores -- All Tackle of Annapolis, Clyde’s Sport Shop of Landsdowne, Fishbone’s Bait and Tackle in Pasadena, Herb’s Tackle Shop of North East, Marty’s Tackle Shop in Edgewater, and Tochterman’s Tackle in Fell’s Point in Baltimore -- are each offering a $1,000 gift certificate to the angler that catches the authentic Diamond Jim.

Additionally, the angler who catches the August Diamond Jim will receive a set of one-carat total weight, round, brilliant diamond stud earrings worth approximately $4,000 from Zachary’s Jewelers in Annapolis. Zachary’s is also providing five- to six- carat blue topaz charms for anglers who catch imposter fish. All told, the value of Diamond Jim for the month of August, including the Zachary’s Diamonds and the tackle store gift certificates, is $35,000.

“The Chesapeake Bay is one of the best places on earth for weddings, proposals, anniversaries, birthdays, and of course, fishing,” said Zachary’s Jewelers owner Steve Samaras. “It just seems appropriate that the quest for a rockfish named Diamond Jim should have diamonds as a prize. All of us at Zachary’s are happy to provide these jewels with sincere hope that on September 8, we will have a winner.”

Over the summer, more than 300 imposters worth at least $500 each and one genuine Diamond Jim will be pursued by anglers. Each month Diamond Jim goes uncaught the bounty increases - from $10,000 in June, to $20,000 in July, and $25,000 in August.

The Hunt for Diamond Jim is a special summer feature of the Maryland Fishing Challenge, with roots that ran in the late1950s. The original contest featured a single, tagged striped bass worth $25,000. DNR revived this fun, family event in 2007 to highlight Maryland’s State fish, promote recreational fishing, recognize angler achievement and inspire natural resources stewardship. The contest still features a guaranteed $25,000 payout: If one of the three authentic Diamond Jims is not caught by midnight Labor Day, the cash prize will be split equally among the anglers who catch imposters this summer.

Now in its eighth year, the Challenge showcases Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay as a premier sport fishing destination with accessible, affordable, diverse and high quality fishing for anglers of all ages - from the crystal mountain streams, to the central Maryland lakes and the mighty Potomac River, down to the Chesapeake Bay, the Coastal Bays and the Atlantic Ocean.

This year’s challenge honors the life and times of world renowned fly-fishing legend Lefty Kreh. Over his remarkable 75-year career the Maryland native has shared his enthusiasm and skill for fishing through his columns, books and presentations. He is also known for his commitment to Maryland’s natural resources, promoting conservation and clean water, and giving back to the outdoors. Kreh will be honored by Governor Martin O’Malley at the dedication of the Lefty Kreh Fishing Trail in the Hereford Area of Gunpowder Falls State Park on June 11.

Anglers who catch and register any of the more than 80 Maryland Angler Award eligible sport fish species receive certificates of achievement and free passes to the Maryland Fishing Challenge Finale, which will be held in conjunction with the Maryland Seafood Festival at Sandy Point State Park on September 8, 2012. This year’s Celebration will include chances to win a boat, trailer and motor package from Tracker Marine, a tropical vacation package from the World Fishing Network, tackle packages from Bill’s Outdoor Center and Bass Pro Shops and collectable Maryland Fishing Challenge shirts from Under Armour.

The Maryland Fishing Challenge runs annually from the day after Labor Day through the following Labor Day each year. All fish must be caught recreationally by rod and reel. The Angler Award species list and the official Maryland Fishing Challenge and Diamond Jim contest rules are located at dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/challenge.

Catch a fish is included in the Maryland Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, issued by Governor Martin O’Malley in April 2009. The Bill is part of the Maryland Partnership for Children in Nature, an initiative to ensure all Maryland young people have the opportunity to connect with their natural world and grow to become informed and responsible stewards.

Anglers are invited to follow Diamond Jim on Facebook at facebook.com/diamondjim.md, and DNR Fisheries atfacebook.com/MDDNRFisheriesService and on Twitter at @mddnrfish.

More information on the Maryland Seafood Festival is available at www.MDseafoodfestival.com.

Anglers that catch a tagged striper must not remove the tag. They should put the fish in their freezer and call the number printed on the tag. A DNR representative will follow-up to examine and certify the tag. The Diamond Jim component of this year’s challenge ends at midnight on September 3.

Rock Hall to Host Pirates and Wenches Weekend

2012-08-06T11:12:00.003-04:00

     Rock Hall, Md. -- Avast Me Hearties! Buccaneers and Landlubbers of All Ages! Come by land or come by sea to the Town of Rock Hall, on the Isle of DelMarVa, for a Town Wide Theme Party you won't forget!
     This year's 5th annual Pirates & Wenches Fantasy Weekend, August 10-12, will feature:
Decorated Dinghy Flotilla & Race to the Beach with a Caribbean-Style Beach Party
Buccaneer's Ball
Kid's Games, Crafts, Storytelling, Tattoos, and more
Live Pirate Encampment
Live Entertainment & Street Performers
Merchants, Artisans and Crafters
Sea Shanty Sing-a-long
Rum Tasting
Plenty of Grub and Grog
Music, Mayhem and More Surprises.
     Find out more at rockhallpirates.com.

Corn and Cantaloupe Sailing Regatta Today on the Lafayette

2012-08-05T11:50:00.000-04:00

Norfolk, Va. -- Mariners are advised that the Norfolk Yacht and County Club will host its Corn and Cantaloupe Sailing Regatta today beginning at noon and ending at 4 p.m.

The event will begin and end at the mouth of the Lafayette River and will round Newport News Middle Ground Light.

Mariners are requested to use caution and bare steerage when transiting the area.

Governor's Cup Yacht Race Scheduled for August 3-4

2012-07-29T12:15:00.000-04:00

Annapolis, Md. -- Mariners are advised that the “Governor’s Cup Yacht Race” is scheduled to occur during August 3-4, 2012, with up to 150 participating sailboats (24 to 75 ft in length) competing on two courses planned for the annual overnight sail race. The 70-mile distance race on the Chesapeake Bay will start near the mouth of the Severn River at Annapolis, Maryland between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Friday, and finish in the St. Mary’s River at St. Mary’s City, Maryland by 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.

A 47-mile distance race on the Potomac River will start near Dahlgren, Virginia at 6 p.m. on Friday and also finish in the St. Mary’s River at St. Mary’s City, Maryland by 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Additional information can be obtained from the Sailing Association on the St. Mary's College of Maryland website at www.smcm.edu/govcup.

For any comments or questions contact Coast Guard Sector Baltimore, Waterways Management Division, at (410) 576-2674 or Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. Charts 12280, 12285.