If you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around Baltimore and Washington D.C. today, here's what you need to know. As of January 18, 2025, the weather is cold and snowy, with icy conditions building up in the tidal rivers and smaller tributaries.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today's tide times are as follows: high tide at 00:39 AM and 12:53 PM, with low tides at 7:39 AM and 8:04 PM. Sunrise is at 7:15 AM, and sunset will be at 5:14 PM. The weather remains chilly, with windy conditions that have kept many boats off the water.

### Fish Activity
Despite the harsh weather, blue catfish are offering the best fishing opportunities in the Lower Bay. Before the recent cold snap, anglers were catching significant blue catfish in all the Lower Bay tributaries. On the Potomac, fish ranging from 20 to 44 pounds were caught just north of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge in as shallow as 10 feet of water. The Rappahannock and James rivers have also been productive, with catches including fish up to 62 pounds.

### Best Lures and Bait
For blue catfish, fresh strips of gizzard shad have been the hot bait. If you're targeting striped bass, which are still present but less active due to the cold, umbrella rigs pulling five-inch sassy shads have been effective.

### Hot Spots
Consider heading to the mouth of the Potomac River, particularly just north of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, for blue catfish. The Rappahannock River, especially around the Cut Channel up to channel marker 62, has also been a productive area for striped bass, although the season is now closed for keeping them.

### Additional Tips
Given the cold and windy conditions, tributaries offer some protection and can be good spots to fish. Be prepared for icy ramps and creeks, and dress warmly as the temperatures are expected to remain low.

If you're willing to brave the cold, you have a decent chance at catching some trophy fish, especially the big blue catfish that are active in these waters.