Fishing is a beloved pastime for many visitors to Ocean City, Maryland. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore, pier, or boat, it’s essential to understand the state’s fishing license requirements. In 2024, anglers fishing in Ocean City, Maryland must possess a valid saltwater fishing license to legally fish in the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters of the state.
Types of Fishing Licenses in Maryland
Maryland offers several types of fishing licenses to accommodate different needs and preferences:
Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License: $15 for Maryland residents
Non-Resident Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License: $22.50 for non-residents
Resident Seven-Day Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License: $6 for Maryland residents
Non-Resident Seven-Day Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License: $12 for non-residents
Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Boat License: $50, allowing everyone on the boat to fish without individual licenses
These licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, unless otherwise specified.
How to Obtain a Fishing License in Maryland
Anglers have several options to purchase their fishing licenses in 2024:
Online: Visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website and purchase a license through the state’s compass system.
In Person: Visit one of the over 250 sport license agents across the state. The Maryland DNR website provides a list of locations by region, county, and city.
By Mail: Download the application from the Maryland DNR website, complete it, and mail it to a Service Center in your area along with a check for the license and any applicable fees.
It’s important to note that if you already have a Chesapeake Bay Saltwater license, it will cover both the Chesapeake Bay and the coastal waters of Ocean City, so you don’t need to purchase a separate license.
Exceptions and Free Fishing Zones
In 2024, a select group of individuals can fish in Maryland without a license:
Individuals under the age of 16 do not need a license for sport fishing and crabbing.
Waterfront property owners and their family members can fish without a license.
Passengers on a boat displaying a valid Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Boat Decal from Maryland, Virginia, or the Potomac River Fisheries Commission can fish without individual licenses.
Ocean City also offers two free fishing zones where anglers can fish without a license:
The bulkhead from 2nd to 4th Street (Chicago Avenue)
Northside Park at 125th Street
However, anglers fishing in these zones must obtain a free registry by calling 1-855-855-3906 during daytime hours (7am-7pm) or registering online.
It’s important to note that surf fishing or surf casting is prohibited on public beaches in Ocean City from Memorial Day weekend Friday to September 30, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., unless you have permission from the Mayor and Council. This rule is in place to maintain safety and enjoyment for swimmers and beachgoers. Surf fishing or surf casting is also prohibited within 50 yards of anyone swimming, walking, sitting, lying, surfing, or standing on the beach.
For more information on fishing licenses, rules, and regulations in Maryland, visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website or contact Fisheries Service via email at [email protected] or by calling 410-656-9526.