As of October 17, 2024, the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas is offering some exciting fishing opportunities despite the challenging weather conditions.

### Weather and Tidal Report
The morning is greeted with a cool breeze, signaling the approach of colder weather. Daytime temperatures are expected to be pleasant, but northwest winds are making the back bay areas a bit bouncy. Tides are crucial; the best fishing times are typically during the early morning and late evening when the tides are changing. Today, the sunrise is at around 7:15 AM, and the sunset will be at approximately 6:15 PM.

### Fish Activity
Fishing in the Chesapeake Bay has been good, especially for those targeting striped bass, white perch, and blue catfish. In the upper Bay, schoolie striped bass are active around the Turkey Point area and the Conowingo Dam pool, particularly in 10 to 20 feet of water. Early morning jigging with metal spoons is highly effective here.

White perch fishing remains very good in the shallower waters of the tidal rivers and creeks. Anglers are having success using bottom rigs baited with grass shrimp or minnows, as well as casting small spinnerbaits, soft plastic jigs, and spin-jigs along promising shorelines.

Blue catfish are biting consistently in the deeper waters of the river and on the Flats. Fresh cut menhaden or gizzard shad are popular baits, and anchoring up near the main channel running through the flats can yield fish between 10 and 20 pounds.

### Best Lures and Bait
For striped bass, paddletails and other artificial lures near shallow structure are working well. In the Conowingo Dam area, casting lures far out into the current and working them just above the bottom is effective. Bucktails, jerkbaits, crankbaits, and jigs are also catching smallmouth bass in the same areas.

For white perch, small spinnerbaits, jigs, and spin-jigs are popular, along with fishing minnows under a bobber for larger fish. For blue catfish, fresh cut bait like bunker, blue crab, or clams is recommended.

### Hot Spots
- **Conowingo Dam Pool**: This area is reliable for striped bass and smallmouth bass, especially when water is being released from the dam.
- **Turkey Point Area**: Schoolie striped bass are active here, particularly in the early morning.
- **Upper Susquehanna River and Havre De Grace**: These areas are excellent for catching large blue catfish.
- **Tidal Rivers and Creeks**: For white perch, focus on areas near structure or prominent points in the shallower waters.

With the right gear and knowledge of the tides, you can have a productive day on the Chesapeake Bay. Just be prepared for the windy conditions and enjoy the fall fishing season.