Rockfish, Bluefish, Spot, Croaker, Blue Crabs

The first bluefish and big croaker catches of the season were reported this week, both in the lower Potomac. These are in the ones on twos for starters, but as the June brings in the more mature summer temperatures, the numbers will increase.

Double header spot from Potomac on Capt. Bernie Sheas charter this week.

Spot are in our waters along with tiny croakers in many areas. Spot are good food fish as well as bait used for live-lining for rockfish. Spot love hot weather and will be more abundant each day as June progresses. 

Another Erick with rockfish from the mouth of the Patuxent this week.

The Patuxent River opens up completely for rockfish harvest Monday, June first. Trollers and lure casters should find stripers in the shallows and on the drop offs all up and down the river. 

Rockfish near 301 bridge in Potomac on Capt. Bernie's Charter

There were good reports of striper catches in the Potomac near the 301 bridge and in the mouth of the Upper Machodoc Creek and at Tylers Lump. This has been one of the hottest areas for rockfish for the last few years. The mouth of the Patuxent had rockfish at Point Patience, the Solomons bridge pilings, Cedar Point and many other areas in both Calvert and St. Mary's. 

Eric Packard found eager rockfish at Point Lookout.

The seasons and catch regulations for striped bass have been mostly aligned in Maryland and Potomac waters with the slot at 19 to 24 inches, and one per day.

Hefty bluefish mixed with rock.

Crabs are now in the creeks and shedding. Hard crab catches for residential crab pots off waterfront properties are very good. Hand liners and trappers are beginning to find crabs in the creeks and rivers.

Plenty of catfish too!

The daily temperatures look really good for the next ten days and the winds are going to be calmer. The early morning and late day bites should be very good as the high tides are coordinated with dawn and dusk next weekend.