As of October 2, 2024, the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the transitioning fall weather.
### Weather and Tidal Conditions
Today, expect a mild fall day with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s. The sunrise is at around 6:55 AM, and the sunset will be at approximately 6:30 PM. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at 9:30 AM and a low tide at 3:30 PM, making the changing tides ideal for various fishing techniques.
### Fish Activity
The fall season has brought a mix of species to the bay. Striped bass, although not as abundant as in the summer, can still be found, particularly around the Bay Bridge and the rocks at Poplar Island. Early morning and late evening are the best times to catch them using topwater plugs or subsurface plugs like Rapala X-Raps. Live-lining spot around the bridge pilings is also effective.
White perch fishing remains excellent, especially in the tidal creeks and rivers. Anglers are having success using small spinnerbaits near riprap and bottom rigs tipped with bloodworm-flavored Fishbites. The Severn River, particularly near the Naval Academy Bridge, has been a hot spot for white perch.
Spanish mackerel and bluefish are still present in the lower bay, with trolling using Clark spoons and planers being a successful method. The east side of the bay, from Solomon’s to the Target Ship, is a good area to target these species.
### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, use topwater plugs, subsurface plugs like Rapala X-Raps, or live-line spot. For white perch, small spinnerbaits and bottom rigs with bloodworm-flavored Fishbites are effective. Spanish mackerel and bluefish can be caught using Clark spoons, small metal or epoxy jigs, and planers.
### Hot Spots
- **Bay Bridge**: A prime location for striped bass, especially around the eastern side of the bridge in 10 to 30 feet of water.
- **Poplar Island**: Early morning fishing around the rocks here can yield good results for striped bass.
- **Severn River**: The area near the Naval Academy Bridge is excellent for white perch.
- **Lower Bay**: From Solomon’s to the Target Ship, this area is great for trolling for Spanish mackerel and bluefish.
Overall, the Chesapeake Bay is offering a diverse range of fishing opportunities as the fall season sets in. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and adjust your tactics accordingly to make the most of your fishing trip.