Non-offset circle hooks are mandatory for live-lining or using cut bait for striped bass, and their use helps reduce the mortality of released fish.

Jigging is a good option that gets you away from the fleet, as is trolling with umbrella rigs. Most anglers are live lining with spot with excellent results. Boats are coming from as far away as the lower Bay to get in on the action.

The real striped bass action unfolds at the mouth of the Patapsco River. Northern snakeheads are protecting fry balls in the grass of the flats and sometimes can be enticed to strike a buzzbait or soft plastic frog. Near the Susquehanna Flats there is some early morning and evening striped bass action along the edges of the channel. Anglers are reporting striped bass action in the dam pool during the early morning while casting a mix of paddletails, jerkbaits, poppers, and crankbaits. The Conowingo Dam continues its midday power generation schedule, bringing cool water to the lower Susquehanna River.

Īs always, the best fishing areas could be further refined by intersecting them with underwater points, hard bottom, drop-offs, and large schools of baitfish.įor more detailed and up-to-date fishing conditions in your area of the Bay, be sure to check out Eyes on the Bay’s Click Before You Cast. To see the latest water clarity conditions, check Eyes on the Bay Satellite Maps. Expect average water clarity in Maryland’s waters. There will be above average tidal currents through Saturday as a result of the recent full moon on July 3. However, localized thunderstorms may increase flows in nearby waters. However, there are still plenty of cool, well oxygenated areas in the Bay to pursue gamefish, including the main Bay from Tolchester north to the Susquehanna Flats, and the area from Bloody Point south to the Virginia line.Įxpect average flows all week. Avoid fishing below 20 feet in these areas. Some areas of low oxygen are present in bottom waters from Tolchester down to Love Point, as well as in the Potomac River from above the 301 Bridge down to Breton Bay. Main Bay surface water temperatures have increased to about 80 degrees. Bay waters will continue to warm with a sunny week ahead, with low winds and a chance of rain Saturday and Sunday.

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