Maryland · Saltwater fishing
Maryland Saltwater & Coastal Fishing Regulations
Inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing: state saltwater licensing, federal permits for highly migratory species, seasons, and the size and bag limits that change mid-season by emergency rule.
Official source
Everything below is a planning checklist. The binding rules live with the agency.
Maryland DNR Wildlife and Heritage Service — current regulationsPre-trip compliance checklist
- State saltwater license or registration, which is separate from the freshwater license in most states.
- Federal registry or permits for offshore species — tuna, billfish, and shark all have their own requirements.
- Season status for managed species: red snapper, grouper, striped bass, and halibut seasons often change by in-season action.
- Size and bag limits by species, including aggregate limits across a species group.
- Circle-hook, descending-device, and venting-tool mandates in many reef and pelagic fisheries.
- Highly migratory species reporting requirements after a landing.
- Vessel and charter rules if you are fishing from a for-hire boat.
Deadline rhythm
Saltwater licenses are sold year-round. Federal seasons for managed species are announced by NOAA Fisheries and state marine agencies weeks in advance and can close early once a quota is met — check within days of your trip, not months.
Typical costs
State saltwater licenses commonly run $10 to $35 for residents and $30 to $100 for non-residents. Some states include saltwater privileges in a combined license, and several offer free shore-fishing registration.