As of January 9, 2025, the fishing scene in the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, is facing some challenges due to the weather. The wind has been strong, and the cold temperatures are keeping many boats off the water.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, the tidal conditions at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel are as follows: high tide at 3:52 AM with a height of 0.83 meters, low tide at 10:20 AM, another high tide at 4:10 PM, and a final low tide at 10:12 PM. Sunrise is at 7:17 AM, and sunset is at 5:05 PM. The weather forecast indicates more cold weather on the way, which may affect fishing conditions.

### Fish Activity
Despite the adverse weather, there has been some notable fish activity. In the Middle Chesapeake Bay, big rockfish are still being caught, although the action has been slow in recent days. Chesapeake Beach and the mouth of Eastern Bay have been hot zones, with fish over the 40-inch mark caught using soft plastics on 1.5-ounce heads. However, the bite has been inconsistent, with some days seeing very little action[3].

In the southern part of the bay, near Cape Charles, there has been migratory striped bass action. Boats like Sho-Nuf Sportfishing have reported steady catching with some trophy fish caught and released. Additionally, bluefin tuna have been active in the ocean off the Virginia Beach area, with reports of large catches, including a 94-inch fish weighing 502 pounds[1].

### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, soft plastics on 1.5-ounce heads have been effective. Jigs and crankbaits can also work well, especially in areas with underwater structures. For bluefin tuna, traditional tuna lures and bait such as ballyhoo or squid are recommended.

### Hot Spots
- **Chesapeake Beach**: Known for its short-lived bird action and larger rockfish catches.
- **Mouth of Eastern Bay**: Fish can be located on sonar suspending in 40’ to 60’ of water.
- **Kiptopeke State Park**: Offers direct access to the Chesapeake Bay and is a good spot for striped bass, cobia, and summer flounder.
- **Pooles Island**: Situated in the upper parts of the bay, it's a busy spot for targeting bluefish and striped bass[4].

Given the current conditions, it's crucial to be prepared for the cold and potentially rough waters. Dress warmly, and make sure your gear is in good condition before heading out.

For those venturing out onto the Chesapeake Bay today, January 5, 2025, here’s what you can expect:

First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you'll have a low tide at 5:48 AM and a high tide at 11:56 AM, with another low tide coming in at 6:18 PM. These tidal shifts can be crucial for finding active fish[2].

Weather-wise, it's a typical winter day with crisp temperatures, so make sure to bundle up. Sunrise is at 7:18 AM, and sunset will be at 5:02 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and late afternoon fishing.

The striped bass season for the Potomac River and other parts of the Lower Chesapeake Bay has closed, but catch and release fishing is still allowed. However, many anglers reported successful catches just before the season closed. The mouth of the Potomac was particularly productive, with boats catching slot-sized fish and even some trophy fish. On the Rappahannock, the striped bass bite picked up near the mouth, especially around the Cut Channel up to channel marker 62. Boats were using umbrella rigs with five-inch sassy shads to great effect[1][3].

If you're looking to put some fish in the cooler, blue catfish are abundant in the Lower Bay tributaries. Anglers on the James and Potomac rivers have reported catching multiple blue cats over 30 pounds, with one bank angler on the Potomac catching a 44-pounder[1].

For lures, umbrella rigs with sassy shads are a good choice for striped bass. For blue catfish, use sturdy bottom rigs with bait like nightcrawlers, chicken livers, or even cut bait.

As for hot spots, consider the mouth of the Potomac River and the Cut Channel on the Rappahannock. Another great spot is Elizabeth River Park in Chesapeake, Virginia, which offers a 125-foot pier and convenient boat access. This area is excellent for catching a variety of species, including striped bass and blue catfish[4].

Stay warm and tight lines

As of January 4, 2025, the fishing scene in the Chesapeake Bay around Baltimore and Washington D.C. is looking promising despite the chilly winter conditions.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, the high tide in the Chesapeake Bay is at 12:57 PM with a height of 0.54 meters (1.78 feet), and the low tide is at 7:38 AM and 8:14 PM with heights of -0.03 meters (-0.1 feet) and -0.05 meters (-0.17 feet) respectively[2]. Sunrise is at 7:28 AM, and sunset will be at 4:58 PM.

### Fish Activity
Despite the cold weather, several species are active. Striped bass, particularly migratory stripers, are spreading north through the Bay and can be found in good numbers around Cape Charles, where live eels are the go-to bait[3][5].

Tautog and sea bass are also plentiful. Tautog are being caught at inshore locations like the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel using green crab, sand fleas, and other crab baits. Sea bass are abundant at inshore wrecks and reefs, hitting metal jigs, squid, and minnows[3].

Speckled trout and puppy drum are biting consistently around Lynnhaven Inlet and the Elizabeth River. For speckled trout, Mirr-O-Lures, swim baits, and lead head jigs with soft plastic tails are effective. Redfish are taking three-to-five-inch paddletail swimbaits[3].

### Best Lures and Bait
- For striped bass: Live eels, especially around Cape Charles.
- For speckled trout: Mirr-O-Lures, swim baits, and lead head jigs with soft plastic tails.
- For tautog: Green crab, sand fleas, and other crab baits.
- For sea bass: Metal jigs, squid, and minnows.
- For redfish: Three-to-five-inch paddletail swimbaits[3].

### Hot Spots
- **Cape Charles**: A hotspot for migratory striped bass.
- **Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel**: Good spot for tautog using crab baits.
- **Lynnhaven Inlet and the Elizabeth River**: Consistent locations for catching puppy drum and speckled trout.
- **Broad Bay**: Another strong location for speckled trout fishing[3][4].

With the right gear and knowledge of the tides, you should have a productive day fishing in the Chesapeake Bay. Remember to handle the fish gently to ensure their survival after the catch.

As of January 3, 2025, the Chesapeake Bay around Baltimore and Washington D.C. is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the chilly winter conditions.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, the tides in the Baltimore area of the Chesapeake Bay are as follows: Low tide at 3:54 AM with a height of 3.96 feet, high tide at 8:39 AM with a height of 4.62 feet, low tide again at 2:45 PM with a height of 3.73 feet, and high tide at 9:22 PM with a height of 5.25 feet[2]. The weather has been cold, with temperatures dipping into the 30s and 40s at night, which has actually helped to turn on the fish bite.

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at 7:25 AM, and sunset is at 4:55 PM, providing a good window for both morning and late afternoon fishing trips.

### Fish Activity
Striped bass, smallmouth bass, and even some walleye have been active in the area. At the Conowingo Dam, anglers have reported catching striped bass up to 30 inches, with many over-slot fish being caught by those who can cast far out into the discharge waters. Smallmouth bass and walleye are also in the mix, particularly at night[1].

### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, using a mix of soft plastics and crankbaits has been effective, especially along the main channel of the Susquehanna Flats and at the mouth of the Susquehanna River. Anglers casting these lures are finding good success, with birds occasionally giving away the fish's location[1].

### Hot Spots
One of the best spots right now is the Conowingo Dam, where the cooler weather has improved the fishing conditions. Anglers are finding fish not only in the current below the dam but also along the rocky shorelines away from the dam. Another hotspot is the Patapsco River, which has been mentioned in recent reports as a good location for catch-and-release striped bass fishing[3].

In summary, the cold weather is working in favor of anglers in the Chesapeake Bay area, with striped bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye being caught in decent numbers. Using the right lures and targeting the right spots like the Conowingo Dam and the Patapsco River can make for a successful fishing trip.

As of January 2, 2025, the Chesapeake Bay, particularly around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas, is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the chilly winter conditions.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, you can expect a low tide at 9:07 AM with a height of -0.11 m (-0.35 ft), followed by a high tide at 3:07 PM with a height of 0.68 m (2.22 ft)[2]. The weather is cold, but the sun will rise at 7:20 AM and set at 4:55 PM, providing a decent window for fishing.

### Fish Activity
The big news is the continued presence of migratory striped bass, which have been making their way up the Bay. These fish are being caught in significant numbers, especially in the lower Bay areas such as Virginia Beach and Cape Charles. However, in the upper Bay, areas like the Magothy River and the Patapsco River are also producing good catches[1][3][5].

### Types and Amounts of Fish
Trophy-sized striped bass, some up to 50 inches, have been reported in the lower Bay. In the upper Bay, white perch and pickerel are also abundant. Pickerel up to 25 inches are being caught in the Baltimore area creeks, and white perch up to 13 inches are being found in the deepest holes of the rivers[1][3].

### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, live lining eels is highly effective, especially for the ocean-run stripers. Swimbaits and metal jigs are also working well in the upper Bay[1][3]. For pickerel, five-inch paddletails, inline spinners with 4” paddle tails, and minnows on shad darts are recommended. As water temperatures drop, slower bait presentations such as slow twitching jerkbaits and slow rolling spinners may be necessary[3].

### Hot Spots
- **Cape Charles**: A hotspot for catching trophy-sized striped bass in the lower Bay[1].
- **Magothy River**: Known for its pickerel and white perch, especially around docks, rip-rap shorelines, and fallen wood along the bank[3].
- **Patapsco River**: Another good spot for pickerel and other species in the upper Bay[3].

Overall, despite the cold weather, the Chesapeake Bay is offering some great fishing opportunities for those willing to brave the conditions. Make sure to bundle up and use the right gear to make the most of your fishing trip.

For December 29, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area, here's what you can expect:

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, the tidal cycle starts with a low tide at 2:58 AM and a high tide at 8:37 AM. The next low tide is at 4:04 PM, followed by a high tide at 8:54 PM. Sunrise is at 7:17 AM, and sunset is at 4:56 PM. The moon rises at 6:23 AM and sets at 3:33 PM.

### Fish Activity
The fishing has been exceptional lately, especially for rockfish (striped bass). Reports from the past few days indicate an epic bite, with many trophy-sized fish being caught. Yesterday, anglers reported catching big schools of rockfish, with some fish measuring up to 49 and 50 inches. The action has been consistent in areas like Bloody Point, the mouth of Eastern Bay, south Poplar, the mouth of the Choptank and Little Choptank, and off Hooper’s Island on the east side. On the west side, hot spots include Deale, Chesapeake Beach, Cove Point, and Point Lookout.

### Best Lures and Bait
For targeting these rockfish, using lures that mimic baitfish such as jigs, spoons, and plugs can be highly effective. Live or cut bait like eels, shad, or herring can also attract these larger fish. Given the cold winter conditions, fish are likely to be deeper, so using lures that can reach these depths or fishing near underwater structures like ledges and drop-offs is advisable.

### Hot Spots
If you're looking for specific places to try your luck, consider the following hot spots:
- **Bloody Point Light Station**: Known for its consistent rockfish action, especially during the winter months.
- **Chesapeake Beach**: This area has seen a lot of activity recently, with multiple boats landing trophy-sized fish.
- **Mallows Bay Park**: While it's more known for its historical significance, it also offers good fishing opportunities for various species, including rockfish.

Overall, the conditions are favorable for a productive day of fishing in the Chesapeake Bay. Make sure to dress warmly and be prepared for the cold winter weather. Good luck on the water

For December 28, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area, here's what you need to know.

First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you'll see a low tide at 2:13 AM and a high tide at 7:53 AM. The second low tide will be at 3:19 PM, followed by a high tide at 8:08 PM. Sunrise is at 7:16 AM, and sunset will be at 4:56 PM[2].

The fishing has been exceptional lately, especially for striped bass. Reports from the Middle Chesapeake Bay indicate an epic bite for rockfish, with many trophy-sized fish being caught. Yesterday, anglers reported catching big schools of fish, with sizes ranging from 22 inches up to 49 and 50 inches. Hot spots include Bloody Point, the mouth of Eastern Bay, south Poplar, the mouth of the Choptank and Little Choptank, and off Hooper’s Island on the east side. On the west side, fish have been found off Deale, Chesapeake Beach, Cove Point, and Point Lookout[1][3].

For catching these striped bass, five- to eight-inch soft plastics on jigheads have been highly effective, especially in 35 to 50 feet of water along the western shore channel edge. Jigs weighing 1 to 1 1/2 ounces are recommended to reach and stay in the strike zone[3].

Besides striped bass, there have been reports of pickerel biting well in the upper creeks and ponds off the Severn River. Large baits like 5-inch white Zman paddletails have been successful even for smaller pickerel[1].

If you're looking for specific hot spots, consider the areas around Chesapeake Beach and Cove Point. These spots have seen a lot of action recently, with multiple boats landing trophy-sized fish. Another good spot is the mouth of Eastern Bay, which has been consistent for both striped bass and other species[1][3].

Make sure to bundle up as the winter weather sets in, and enjoy the holiday fishing season on the Chesapeake Bay.

For December 27, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area, here's what you need to know.

First off, let's look at the tides. Today, you've got a high tide at 5:26 AM with a height of 2.5 feet, followed by a low tide at 11:50 AM with a height of just 0.22 feet. The next high tide is at 5:39 PM, reaching 1.81 feet, and the final low tide of the day is at 11:28 PM with a height of 0.03 feet[2].

Weather-wise, expect a chilly winter day with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit. Sunrise is at 7:16 AM, and sunset will be at 4:55 PM.

Fishing has been excellent lately, especially for striped bass. Reports from the holiday period indicate an epic bite for rockfish, with many trophy-sized fish being caught. Yesterday saw big schools of fish, with sizes ranging from 22 inches and up, and some breaking the 40-inch mark. The largest catches verified were a 49-inch and a 50-inch striper[1].

For the best spots, head to the east side of the bay where areas like Bloody Point, the mouth of Eastern Bay, south Poplar, the mouth of the Choptank and Little Choptank, and off Hooper’s Island have been producing great results. On the west side, try off Deale, Chesapeake Beach, Cove Point, and Point Lookout[1].

Given the striped bass season in Maryland waters has closed for keeping, but catch-and-release is still allowed, make sure to handle the fish gently and release them quickly[3].

For lures and bait, jigs and spoons are often effective for striped bass. Live bait such as eels or shad can also work well, especially in the deeper waters around structure like bridges and points.

In summary, today looks promising for some great catch-and-release fishing in the Chesapeake Bay. Dress warm, check your gear, and head out to those hot spots for a chance at catching some impressive striped bass.

For December 26, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area, here's what you need to know.

First off, let's talk about the tides. Today, the first low tide will be at 4:39 AM, followed by a high tide at 11:04 AM, and then another low tide at 4:48 PM. The tidal coefficient is average, ranging from 52 to 49 throughout the day[2].

Sunrise is at 7:13 AM, and sunset will be at 4:51 PM, giving you about 9 hours and 37 minutes of daylight[2].

The fishing pattern is changing as we close out 2024, with large numbers of migratory fish moving into the lower Potomac and other areas. In the lower Chesapeake Bay, anglers have been finding striped bass in the 35 to 55 feet depth range, particularly from the mouth of the St. Mary’s River down to where the Potomac meets the Bay. These fish are often covered in sea lice, indicating they've migrated from the Atlantic[1].

On the Rappahannock River, striped bass action is slower but still present, with fish scattered down river from Urbanna out to the mouth. Trollers have reported catching trophy-sized fish over 35 inches. Additionally, the Rappahannock and other rivers like the James and Potomac are great spots for big blue catfish, with reports of fish up to 72 pounds. Fresh cut eel and shad are excellent baits for these catfish[1].

For striped bass, trollers have been successful using tandems and umbrella rigs, especially with chartreuse baits. Light tackle anglers are finding success working ledges in the same depths, with side scan sonar being a big help in locating schools of fish[1].

If you're looking for hot spots, consider the area around the Bay Bridge in the upper Bay, where trollers have picked up several trophy-sized striped bass using umbrella rigs with five-inch skirted sassy shads in chartreuse and white. The Patapsco River is also a hotspot, with fish being caught in 45 feet of water along the main river channel edge[3].

For those targeting pickerel, the Magothy River has been producing a good bite, especially around docks and shorelines with fallen trees. Inline spinners with 4-inch paddle tails and minnows on shad darts are working well[5].

So, bundle up, take advantage of the average tidal conditions, and get out there to catch some of these winter migrants before the season ends. Happy fishing

For December 22, 2024, in the Chesapeake Bay area around Baltimore and Washington D.C., here’s what you can expect:

First, let's look at the tides. Today, you'll have a high tide at 5:02 AM with a height of 0.87 feet, followed by a low tide at 11:21 AM at 0.15 feet. The next high tide will be at 5:12 PM with a height of 0.86 feet, and the final low tide of the day will be at 11:44 PM at 0.08 feet[2].

Sunrise is at 7:17 AM, and sunset will be at 4:50 PM, giving you a decent window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

The striped bass season in Maryland waters of the Chesapeake Bay has already closed as of December 10th, but catch and release fishing is still allowed. However, the bite hasn't been as strong as hoped this fall. Instead, the pickerel bite has been quite consistent, especially in the tributaries. Anglers in the Magothy River have reported a good pickerel bite, with fish hanging out around docks, shorelines with fallen trees, and other structure. Inline spinners with 4” paddle tails and minnows on shad darts have been effective lures[1].

For those targeting other species, the Patapsco River has been a hotspot, with deep channels holding schools of white perch, mostly found in the 40’ to 50’ range. Blade baits have been successful for catching striped bass and perch, which are holding close to the bottom[1].

If you're looking for hot spots, consider the Patapsco River, particularly the main river channel edge and the deep channels for white perch. The rock piles at the Bay Bridge and the ledges along the shipping channel on the main stem of the Bay are also worth a try. For pickerel, the upper Magothy River and its creeks are excellent choices[1].

In terms of bait, fresh cut bait has been working well, especially for the remaining striped bass. For pickerel, the mentioned lures and minnows on shad darts are your best bets.

Overall, it's a good time to focus on pickerel and other species like white perch, as the winter fishing season sets in.