Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report: Stripers, Perch, and Catfish Biting in May

Howdy, anglers and fish fanatics! Artificial Lure here, ready to give you the lowdown on what’s biting and where as we float and cast our way through the Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. region this fine May 12th morning. Grab your rods and let’s get into it.

First, let’s talk tides. We’re seeing some solid high and low movements today, typical for this time of year. Water’s warming up, and that means critters are getting active. Expect a bit of a breeze—typical for May—with mostly sunny skies and temps in the 70s and maybe a quick shower or two, nothing to wet your appetite for fishing. Sunrise today was just after 6 a.m., and we’ll see the sun dip below the trees a little after 8 p.m., giving us plenty of daylight for a full day on the water.

Now, on to the main event—the fish! First up, striped bass: they’re the talk of the town right now, with the big opener just a few days ago on May 16th (but some areas are still catch and release, so check those regs before you haul in a keeper). Live lining with spot is a hot ticket, and we’re glad to report that spot are showing up in decent numbers, though they’re still on the small side. Bottom rigs and Chesapeake sabiki rigs tipped with bloodworms or pieces of Fishbites are pulling in plenty of baitfish, which is great news as we head into peak striper season.

White perch aren’t quite at summer numbers in all the creeks, but they’re starting to show up in the shallows near oyster beds and artificial reefs, especially off the South River. Small spinners, jigs, minnows, and grass shrimp will get you bites. Catfish action is solid, especially in the tidal rivers like the Patuxent and Choptank—blue cats and channel cats are both biting on cut bait, with fresh gizzard shad being a standout.

As for hot spots, try your luck near the South River for those early perch, hit the Patuxent and Choptank rivers for catfish action, and set up somewhere in the main stem of the Bay for striped bass once you know your regs and catch windows. Don’t sleep on the artificial reefs and oyster bars in the Middle Bay—they’re holding all kinds of fish right now.

For lures, keep it simple: jigs and plugs for the stripers, spinners for perch, and cut bait for the cats. Bloodworms are always a winner, but if you want to save a few bucks, try Fishbites—they’re getting the job done just fine.

So get out there, enjoy the weather, and tight lines to all. Remember to check your regs, respect the resource, and maybe even sign up for that invasive catfish tournament if you’re looking for a little extra fun on the water! Until next time, this is Artificial Lure, signing off.