Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report: Stripers, Catfish, and More on the Bite

Hey there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Chesapeake Bay fishing report for this fine Saturday morning, May 17th, 2025.

Folks, the striped bass season just opened yesterday, and I'm hearing some good news from around the Bay. The regulations remain the same as last year - you're looking at a slot limit of 19-24 inches with a one fish per person daily limit. Remember to check the DNR regulation map before heading out since some areas are still catch-and-release only or completely off-limits.

Good news for those chasing stripers - local netters have been reporting spot and small croaker showing up in their pound nets. This means you'll have plenty of live lining options available. If you're after spot for bait, grab some bottom rigs or Chesapeake sabiki rigs baited with bloodworms (though they're mighty expensive this season) or the more budget-friendly Fishbites.

The white perch haven't quite moved into their summer haunts yet, especially in creeks off the South River. But keep watching - they should be showing up any day now in the shallows of tidal tributaries, areas with oyster bottom, and artificial reef sites throughout the Middle Bay. Small spinners, jigs, minnows, and grass shrimp are your best bets when they arrive.

Catfish action has been spotty on the main Bay, but the tidal rivers are producing well. Blue cats are hitting in the upper Patuxent and Choptank rivers - fresh cut gizzard shad has been the ticket there. Channel cats are abundant in these same areas, making for reliable action. Up north, the Susquehanna has been on fire for catfish, with reports of anglers landing 45 fish in a single outing using worms, and some massive blues up to 40 pounds around Port Deposit and Havre De Grace.

For smallmouth bass and walleye, the area just below Conowingo Dam at Fisherman's Park has been productive.

Hot spots this weekend: I'd recommend trying the artificial reefs in the Middle Bay section, the upper portions of the Patuxent for those catfish, and the area around Havre De Grace if you're willing to make the drive north.

The tides are running about average for May, with a moderate incoming tide through mid-morning. Weather-wise, we're looking at temperatures in the low 70s with a light southeasterly breeze - perfect conditions to be on the water.

Remember, if you're after those stripers, you've got to know where you can legally target them now that the season has opened. Check the DNR website before heading out.

That's it from me today - tight lines, everyone! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time.