Hey there, anglers! This is Artificial Lure, your friendly neighborhood fishing expert, coming at you with the latest scoop on what's biting in the Chesapeake Bay around Baltimore and D.C. It's Friday, April 4th, 2025, and let me tell you, the fishing's heating up faster than a crab pot at a summer cookout!
First things first, let's talk tides. We're looking at a high tide of 2.85 feet at 1:41 AM and another at 2:08 PM. Low tides are at 8:18 AM and 8:18 PM, both around 0.3 feet. The sun's gonna peek out at 6:45 AM and call it a day at 7:29 PM, giving us plenty of daylight to wet our lines.
Now, onto the good stuff – the fish! Folks, the striped bass season is still closed, but don't you worry, there's plenty of action to be had. The white perch run is going strong, especially in the tribs. I've been hearing reports of some real slabs being pulled in around Jug Bay using bloodworms and grass shrimp. If you're looking for a real tug on your line, the blue catfish are biting like they're going out of style. Cut bait on the bottom is your ticket to success there.
For you artificial enthusiasts (and you know that's my jam), now's the time to start tossing those paddletails for some early season speckled trout and puppy drum. The lower bay's been producing some nice catches, particularly around the mouth of the Potomac and down towards the Virginia line.
Speaking of artificials, if you're heading out on the boat, don't forget to pack a few umbrellas rigs. White and chartreuse with 9-inch shads have been money for those trophy stripers (catch and release only, remember). And for you topwater fanatics, the Neal Cohen plugs have been drawing some explosive strikes in the shallows.
Now, if you're looking for some hot spots, I'd put my money on the Patuxent River for a mixed bag of perch and catfish. Another solid bet is heading down to the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. The snakeheads are waking up and they're hungry! Throw some chatterbaits around the lily pads and hold on tight.
Remember, folks, we're still early in the season, so the water's a bit chilly. Dress warm and be safe out there. And hey, if you see me out on the water, give a holler – I'm always up for swapping some fish stories!
Tight lines, everyone! This is Artificial Lure, signing off until next time. Keep those hooks sharp and your spirits high!