Easton, MD – According to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, spring has arrived in earnest along Maryland’s Eastern Shore, bringing eager anglers to the waters around Easton as white perch spawning runs gain momentum in the Choptank River and preparations intensify for the upcoming striped bass catch-and-release season.
The latest fishing report, issued on March 25, 2026, highlights the transition from winter to spring fishing opportunities across the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Water temperatures in the main Bay and river mouths hovered in the upper 40s Fahrenheit, while smaller rivers and streams reached the 50s, prompting fish to migrate toward spawning grounds. In low-salinity areas (0 to 2 parts per thousand), striped bass—commonly known as rockfish in Maryland—began moving from overwintering sites toward tidal rivers, including those near Easton in Talbot County. Anglers targeting these iconic fish focused on channel edges, where the species congregates before spawning.
For Easton-area fishers, the Choptank River emerged as a hotspot. Reports indicated that white perch were advancing up the river and into Tuckahoe Creek, with smaller male fish leading the vanguard as far upstream as Greensboro and below Hillsboro. Water temperatures at Denton reached 58 degrees, while Cambridge recorded 52 degrees, ideal conditions for the spawn expected in the coming weeks. Local anglers employed small jig heads or shad darts tipped with grass shrimp or minnows, or used bottom rigs baited with bloodworms, to hook the perch. These runs not only provided recreational catches but also signaled the broader ecological shift toward spring in the Chesapeake watershed.
The report emphasized the ongoing catch-and-release restrictions for striped bass in the middle Bay, where Easton residents frequently fish. Trolling along steeper channel edges proved popular, with anglers adhering to regulations: barbless hooks on lures, no stinger hooks, and a limit of six lines per vessel. Jigging with large soft plastic jigs—six inches or longer—offered another effective method, particularly when fish appeared on sonar. These measures aimed to protect the striped bass population during spawning, as the species faced pressures from overfishing and environmental changes in the Bay.
A significant update pertained to season boundaries. In the upper Chesapeake Bay, catch-and-release fishing for striped bass remained permitted in designated areas, such as the Susquehanna Flats upstream of a line from Sandy Point to Turkey Point, and the lower Susquehanna River downstream from specific coordinates near Lapidum, Twin Rocks, and Tomes Wharf in Port Deposit. The Northeast River also fell within these open zones. However, starting April 1, 2026, these upper areas closed through April 30 to minimize stress on spawning fish. Below these boundaries, catch-and-release continued until April 30 across the Bay. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources enforced these lines rigorously, with Natural Resources Police monitoring compliance to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
Beyond rockfish, blue catfish activity increased throughout the tidal rivers, including the Choptank. Warming waters activated smaller to medium-sized catfish, while larger specimens over 20 pounds remained consistently active. Easton anglers found success using non-offset circle hooks (sizes 8/0 or 9/0) on sliding sinker or bottom rigs, baited with cut fish like gizzard shad, menhaden, or white perch. This provided a harvestable alternative during the striped bass restrictions, supporting local fishing economies.
The report also noted broader trends. Youth Trout Fishing Day on March 21 drew families statewide, with children under 16 enjoying stocked waters. The traditional trout opener on March 28 promised further excitement in central and western regions, though Eastern Shore focus remained on tidal species. Maryland’s ranking as the second-best U.S. fishing state, per FishingBooker, underscored the region’s appeal, citing abundant access to bays, rivers, and coastal waters at reasonable costs.
Environmental factors influenced the week’s fishing. Average river flows and clarity prevailed, with above-average tidal currents expected Sunday through Tuesday due to the April 2 full moon. Anglers were advised to consult Eyes on the Bay’s Click Before You Cast for real-time conditions, including water clarity via satellite maps.
In Talbot County, these developments why local conservation efforts matter. The Choptank River, vital to Easton’s heritage as a watermen’s community, hosts essential spawning habitat for striped bass and perch. By following regulations, fishers contribute to the health of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem, ensuring future generations can enjoy the sport. As April 1 approached, excitement built for the adjusted striped bass season, balancing recreation with preservation. For more information, visit Maryland Department of Natural Resources.