Stripers in Maryland

[Dan33]

I've heard mixed info on hunting stripers in Maryland. Does anyone have any info on that? My uncle lives near the Cheasapeake and wanted me to teach him to hunt, but he said that he later found out that it was illegal in his area. What's the deal?

[Spear One]

Glad to see you guys got your area on the Board. See, all you gotta go is ask!

[SeaWitch]

You may not spear striped bass in Maryland.

Maryland Spear Gun Regs read:
.01 Use of a Spear Gun in Tidal Waters
A. Use of a Spear Gun or Spear
(1)As used in this regualtion, "spear gun" means any type of device used for propelling a spear underwater by any means other than manual in order to catch fish.
(2) A person may not kill, or otherwise injure fish by the use of a spear gun except as provided in this regulation.
(3) A person may take or shoot fish with a spear gun and spear in tidal waters of the state from June 15 to December 31, inclusive, with the following exceptions:
(a) A person may not take or shoot striped bass (Morone saxatilis) with a spear gun and spear in the tidal waters of the state;
(b) A person may take or shoot carp, garfish, skate, bullfish, shark, oyster toads, swelling toads, American eel, sea lamprey, sting rays, or any other ray fish with a spear gun and spear at any time.
(4) A person may not use a spear or spear gun without specific advanced permission within 100 yards of any:
(a) Human being;
(b) Public or private swimming area;
(c) International diving flag; or
(d) Vessel other than that used by the spear fisherman.

This basically means we have a spearfishing season of June 15-Dec 31....you can shoot what you want with the exception of striped bass within the legal size and Creel limits of recreational fishing.

However, you CAN spearfish striped bass in Delaware! Just a hop, skip and a jump from here (OC Maryland). If your ever out this way and need a partner let us know.

[Dan33]

THanks for the information. I'll have to give it a shot.