Maryland's extensive coastline along the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean provides exceptional pier fishing opportunities for anglers seeking everything from striped bass to blue crabs. With nearly 25% of the state consisting of water, Maryland offers some of America's finest public fishing piers that operate year-round.
Whether you're searching for 24 hour fishing piers Maryland offers or planning crabbing in Maryland locations, this comprehensive guide covers the state's premier destinations. From the historic Point Lookout State Park fishing pier to modern Chesapeake Bay fishing piers Maryland anglers love, you'll discover detailed information about costs, species, regulations, and insider tips.
Our Maryland fishing pier map reveals the top 10 locations that consistently produce excellent catches while providing family-friendly amenities and easy access.
Quick Answer: Maryland's Best Fishing Piers
Maryland's top fishing piers combine excellent fish populations with convenient amenities. Oceanic Fishing Pier in Ocean City operates 24 hours during summer, while Point Lookout State Park offers a massive 700-foot pier perfect for public crabbing. Matapeake Fishing Pier provides stunning Chesapeake Bay Bridge views with 24 hour access year-round.
Most piers cost $5-10 per angler, though many public fishing piers in Maryland offer free access. Prime locations span from Anne Arundel County waters to Southern Maryland's renowned fishing destinations.
1. Oceanic Fishing Pier - Ocean City
Location: 301 S Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Hours: 24 hours (Memorial Day - Labor Day), Dawn to dusk (off-season)
Cost: $8 per angler, $0.50 for non-fishers
Length: 450 feet
Oceanic Fishing Pier stands as Ocean City's crown jewel and one of the premier 24 hour fishing piers Maryland visitors love. This classic wooden pier stretches 450 feet into the inlet where the Atlantic Ocean meets the bay, creating unique fishing opportunities not found elsewhere.
The pier's strategic location at the inlet attracts diverse species year-round. Anglers regularly catch bluefish, striped bass, flounder, tautog, and sea bass. During summer months, occasional sharks, rays, and horseshoe crabs provide exciting surprises.
What Makes It Special:
- No fishing license required on the pier
- Full tackle shop with rod rentals available
- Fish cleaning stations and restrooms on-site
- Lighted for comfortable night fishing
- Award-winning pier recognized nationally
The 24 hour operation during peak season allows anglers to target different species at optimal times. Early morning produces excellent striper action, while evening hours bring active bluefish and flounder.
Pro Tip: Visit during incoming tides for best results. The deeper water at the pier's end holds larger predatory fish that follow baitfish pushed by strong currents.
2. Point Lookout State Park Fishing Pier
Location: 11175 Point Lookout Rd, Scotland, MD 20687
Hours: Dawn to dusk (night fishing permits available)
Cost: $5 per vehicle (Maryland residents), $7 (out-of-state)
Length: 700 feet
The Point Lookout State Park fishing pier represents Maryland's longest public fishing pier and one of the most productive locations in the state. This massive 700-foot structure extends into the confluence of the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River, creating exceptional fishing opportunities.
Located at Maryland's southernmost tip, Point Lookout offers unique geography that concentrates fish populations. The pier provides access to both deep bay waters and river currents that attract striped bass, bluefish, spot, croaker, and white perch.
Target Species by Season:
- Spring: Striped bass, white perch, catfish
- Summer: Bluefish, spot, croaker, crabs
- Fall: Striped bass, red drum, flounder
- Winter: Catfish, white perch (limited action)
Crabbing Excellence: Point Lookout ranks among the best crabbing in Maryland locations. The pier's length allows crabbers to reach deeper waters where larger blue crabs feed. No license required for recreational crabbing.
Historical Note: This Civil War site adds educational value to fishing trips, making it perfect for family outings combining history and angling.
3. Matapeake Fishing Pier - Queen Anne's County
Location: 904 Matapeake Beach Rd, Stevensville, MD 21666
Hours: 24 hours year-round
Cost: $2.50 per hour (pay and display system)
Length: 650 feet
Matapeake Fishing Pier offers one of Maryland's most scenic fishing experiences with panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. This lighted 650-foot pier provides excellent fishing access combined with convenient amenities.
The pier's position on the Eastern Shore creates ideal conditions for catching striped bass, white perch, catfish, and blue crabs. The 24 hour access makes it popular with dedicated anglers who prefer fishing during optimal tidal conditions.
Unique Features:
- Spectacular Bay Bridge views
- Lighted for night fishing
- Adjacent boat ramp and picnic areas
- Easy highway access via Route 50
- 24 hour fishing piers Maryland convenience
Best Fishing Strategy: Target the deeper waters at the pier's end during daylight hours for striped bass. Evening and early morning periods produce excellent white perch action closer to shore.
Crabbing Success: The pier's depth and structure make it exceptional for blue crab fishing. Use chicken necks or fish heads in collapsible traps for best results.
4. Solomons Island Fishing Pier - Calvert County
Location: 14195 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688
Hours: 24 hours year-round
Cost: Free
Length: 700+ feet (multiple "tongues" off main pier)
Solomons Island Fishing Pier provides free 24 hour access to some of Maryland's most productive waters. This unique pier design features multiple fishing platforms extending from the main structure, offering 700+ feet of fishable space.
Located where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay, Solomons attracts diverse fish populations year-round. The pier's design allows anglers to target different species simultaneously by fishing various depths and structures.
Prime Target Species:
- Striped bass (spring and fall runs)
- White perch (year-round)
- Blue catfish (summer)
- Spot and croaker (late summer)
- Blue crabs (spring through fall)
Why Anglers Love It:
- Completely free access
- Restrooms available April-November
- Bait and tackle available nearby
- Multiple fishing positions reduce crowding
- Excellent public crabbing opportunities
Local Secret: Fish the deeper "tongue" sections during moving tides for larger striped bass. The shallower areas near shore produce consistent white perch action.
5. North Beach Pier - Calvert County
Location: Bay Ave & 3rd St, North Beach, MD 20714
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Cost: Free for Calvert County residents, $8 non-residents
Length: 460 feet
North Beach Pier extends 460 feet into the Chesapeake Bay, offering excellent fishing opportunities in a family-friendly environment. The pier features a dedicated lower-level fishing deck separate from the upper recreational boardwalk.
This well-maintained facility provides consistent catches of bay favorites including striped bass, white perch, spot, and blue crabs. The pier's position creates ideal conditions for both experienced anglers and families introducing children to fishing.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Separate fishing deck prevents crowding
- Welcome Center with fishing pass information
- Clean restrooms and nearby dining
- Two-rod maximum keeps space manageable
- Public fishing piers convenience without chaos
Special Regulations: Fishing closes at 7 PM during summer movie screenings on the beach. Large coolers permitted on fishing deck for bait and catch storage only.
Species Calendar:
- Spring: White perch spawn brings excellent action
- Summer: Spot and croaker dominate catches
- Fall: Striped bass return in numbers
- Year-round: Blue crab populations remain strong
6. Jonas Green Park Pier - Anne Arundel County
Location: 2001 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Annapolis, MD 21409
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Cost: Free
Length: 220 feet
Jonas Green Park Pier sits strategically where the Severn River meets the Chesapeake Bay, creating diverse fishing opportunities in fishing in Anne Arundel County waters. This 220-foot pier offers free access with excellent parking and amenities.
Built from remnants of the former Naval Academy Bridge, the pier provides unique structure that attracts various fish species. The location combines historical significance with productive fishing waters.
Why Anne Arundel County Anglers Choose This Spot:
- Free parking and pier access
- Historical Naval Academy Bridge location
- Excellent striped bass fishing
- Active blue crab populations
- Beautiful Annapolis area scenery
Target Techniques: The pier's underwater structure attracts catfish, white perch, and striped bass. Bottom fishing with bloodworms produces consistent results, while topwater lures work during dawn and dusk periods.
Crabbing Strategy: The oyster-covered bottom structure creates ideal blue crab habitat. Use trotlines along the pier's length for maximum coverage.
7. Fort Smallwood Park "Bill Burton" Fishing Pier
Location: 9500 Fort Smallwood Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Cost: Free
Length: 365 feet
Fort Smallwood's Bill Burton Fishing Pier extends 365 feet over the Patapsco River, providing excellent access to some of Anne Arundel County's most productive waters. This free pier offers family-friendly fishing in a scenic park setting.
The pier's position creates ideal conditions for striped bass, white perch, and blue crabs. Fort Smallwood's protected waters make it perfect for introducing children to pier fishing techniques.
Park Amenities:
- Free parking and pier access
- Picnic areas and playgrounds nearby
- Restrooms and water fountains
- Historical fort ruins to explore
- Protected waters ideal for beginners
Best Fishing Times: Early morning and evening hours produce the most consistent action. The pier's orientation provides good fishing regardless of wind direction.
8. Breezy Point Beach Pier - Calvert County
Location: 5230 Breezy Point Rd, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Cost: Day use fee applies
Length: 200 feet with 55-foot "T"
Breezy Point Beach Pier combines excellent fishing with full beach resort amenities. The 200-foot pier features a substantial "T" section at the end, providing excellent fishing space and deeper water access.
Located along the Chesapeake Bay's western shore, Breezy Point attracts families seeking comprehensive outdoor recreation. The pier consistently produces striped bass, white perch, spot, and blue crabs.
Resort-Style Amenities:
- Beach access and swimming area
- Camping and cabin rentals available
- Picnic groves and grills
- Seasonal snack bar and restrooms
- Playground for children
Fishing Advantages: The pier's "T" design allows multiple anglers to fish without interfering with each other. The deeper end section attracts larger predatory fish.
9. Flag Ponds Nature Park Pier - Calvert County
Location: 1525 Flag Ponds Pkwy, Lusby, MD 20657
Hours: Variable by season (closed Tue-Thu in winter)
Cost: Entrance fee required Memorial Day - Labor Day
Length: 115 feet with 105-foot "T"
Flag Ponds Nature Park Pier offers unique fishing opportunities within a pristine natural setting. This 115-foot pier features a massive 105-foot "T" section that provides excellent deep-water fishing access.
The park combines fishing with fossil hunting, hiking trails, and educational programs. This makes it perfect for families wanting to combine angling with nature education and exploration.
Natural Setting Benefits:
- Pristine Chesapeake Bay environment
- Fossil hunting opportunities on beaches
- Educational visitor center and exhibits
- Hiking trails through diverse habitats
- Public fishing piers in protected setting
Species Focus: The pier's deep water attracts striped bass, while the protected coves nearby hold excellent blue crab populations. White perch fishing remains consistent year-round.
10. Chesapeake Beach Pier - Calvert County
Location: 4079 Gordon Stinnett Ave, Chesapeake Beach, MD 20732
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Cost: Varies by season
Length: 300+ feet
Chesapeake Beach Pier rounds out our top 10 with consistent fishing action and convenient town amenities. This substantial pier provides excellent access to productive Chesapeake Bay waters with nearby restaurants and lodging.
The pier's location creates ideal conditions for targeting the bay's most popular species. Chesapeake Beach's fishing heritage ensures anglers find everything needed for successful trips.
Town Advantages:
- Multiple dining options nearby
- Lodging available for extended trips
- Bait and tackle shops within walking distance
- Beach access for surf fishing alternatives
- Rich Chesapeake Bay fishing piers Maryland tradition
Maryland Fishing Pier Map & Planning Your Trip
Understanding Maryland's pier locations helps maximize your fishing success. The state's piers concentrate along three main areas: the Upper Bay (Baltimore and Anne Arundel County), Middle Bay (Calvert County), and Lower Bay (Southern Maryland).
Geographic Distribution:
- Northern Waters: Fort Smallwood, Jonas Green, Matapeake
- Central Chesapeake: North Beach, Breezy Point, Chesapeake Beach
- Southern Waters: Point Lookout, Solomons Island
- Atlantic Coast: Oceanic Pier (Ocean City)
Planning Considerations:
- Summer weekends create crowding at popular piers
- 24 hour fishing piers Maryland locations reduce timing pressure
- Tidal timing affects success more than time of day
- Weather conditions impact safety and fish activity
Species Guide: What You'll Catch
Maryland's piers offer incredible species diversity thanks to the Chesapeake Bay's unique ecosystem. Understanding seasonal patterns and preferred habitats helps target specific fish.
Striped Bass (Rockfish)
Maryland's state fish dominates pier catches during spring and fall migrations. These powerful fighters average 18-28 inches with occasional trophy specimens exceeding 36 inches.
Best Techniques: Live spot, cut bait, and topwater lures during low-light periods. Focus on deeper water during hot summer months.
Blue Crabs
Maryland's famous blue crabs provide excellent action from spring through fall. Most public crabbing piers in Maryland produce consistent results using simple techniques.
Crabbing Basics: Chicken necks, fish heads, or commercial crab bait work well. Use collapsible traps, trotlines, or hand lines depending on pier regulations.
White Perch
These aggressive pan fish provide consistent action year-round. White perch average 8-12 inches and fight harder than their size suggests.
Prime Locations: Focus on structure around pier pilings and near-shore areas during spawning periods in early spring.
Spot and Croaker
Late summer brings excellent fishing for these popular pan fish. Both species average 8-10 inches and provide fast-paced action perfect for families.
Techniques: Bottom rigs with bloodworms or peeler crab work best. Fish during moving tides for optimal results.
Fishing Techniques for Pier Success
Pier fishing requires specific techniques that account for the elevated position and structure below. Mastering these methods dramatically improves success rates.
Bottom Fishing Fundamentals
Most pier species feed near the bottom, making this the most productive technique. Use sufficient weight (2-4 ounces) to maintain contact with the bottom despite currents.
Essential Rigs:
- High-low rig for multiple species
- Fish finder rig for larger baits
- Carolina rig for live bait presentation
Live Bait Strategies
Live bait consistently outperforms artificial lures from piers. Understanding proper presentation creates natural scenarios that fool wary fish.
Top Live Baits:
- Spot for striped bass
- Bloodworms for bottom species
- Grass shrimp for white perch
- Peeler crabs for multiple species
Crabbing Techniques
Public crabbing piers in Maryland allow various methods depending on local regulations. Most locations permit recreational crabbing without licenses.
Effective Methods:
- Collapsible traps baited with chicken necks
- Trotlines for covering maximum area
- Hand lines for active fishing
- Dip nets for capturing visible crabs
24 Hour Fishing Piers Maryland Operations
Several Maryland piers offer 24 hour access, allowing anglers to fish during optimal conditions regardless of daylight hours. These locations cater to serious anglers who understand that fish activity often peaks during darkness.
Night Fishing Advantages
- Reduced fishing pressure
- More active predatory fish
- Cooler summer temperatures
- Better tidal timing flexibility
- Unique species opportunities
Safety Considerations for Night Fishing:
- Bring multiple light sources
- Inform others of your location
- Fish with partners when possible
- Know emergency contact procedures
- Understand pier layout during daylight first
Lighted Pier Locations
- Oceanic Pier (summer season)
- Matapeake Fishing Pier (year-round)
- Solomons Island Pier (year-round)
Regulations and Requirements
Understanding Maryland fishing regulations ensures legal compliance and helps protect the state's fisheries for future generations. Regulations vary between tidal and non-tidal waters.
Licensing Requirements
Most Maryland piers require valid fishing licenses, though some exceptions exist:
License-Free Fishing:
- Oceanic Pier in Ocean City (no license needed on pier)
- Some designated license-free areas
- Children under specific age limits
- Annual license-free fishing days
Required Licenses:
- Maryland Saltwater Sportfishing License for Chesapeake Bay piers
- Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License
- Additional stamps may be required for certain species
Size and Bag Limits
Maryland maintains strict regulations to ensure sustainable fisheries. Current limits include:
Striped Bass: Complex slot limits varying by season and location. Check Maryland DNR regulations for current details.
Blue Crabs: 5-inch minimum across the shell, no daily limit for recreational crabbers using legal methods.
General Rule: Always verify current regulations at eRegulations.com before fishing.
Gear Recommendations for Maryland Piers
Successful pier fishing requires appropriate tackle that handles the unique challenges these structures present. Understanding proper gear selection improves both success and enjoyment.
Rod and Reel Combinations
Medium-Heavy Spinning Combos: 7-9 foot rods paired with 4000-6000 size reels handle most pier situations. This combination provides casting distance while maintaining sensitivity for detecting bites.
Conventional Tackle: Experienced anglers prefer conventional reels for bottom fishing. These provide more power for handling larger fish and heavy sinkers in current.
Essential Terminal Tackle
- Circle Hooks: Required for striped bass, better fish survival
- Pyramid Sinkers: Hold bottom in sandy areas
- Bank Sinkers: Work well around structure
- High-Low Rigs: Target multiple depths simultaneously
Recommended Tackle Brands
For quality equipment that handles Maryland's challenging conditions, consider various fishing boat types if you plan to expand beyond pier fishing.
Bait and Tackle Shops Near Top Piers
Having fresh bait and backup tackle nearby makes pier fishing more convenient and successful. Here are reliable shops near our top-rated piers:
Ocean City Area:
- Bahia Marina Tackle Shop (near Oceanic Pier)
- Hook Line & Sinker Bait & Tackle
Annapolis/Anne Arundel County:
- Anglers Sport Center (Annapolis)
- Bill's Sport Shop (Glen Burnie)
Southern Maryland:
- Captain John's Crab House (Newburg)
- Southern Maryland Tackle (Hollywood)
Pro Tip: Many piers have on-site bait shops or nearby convenience stores that stock fishing supplies. Calling ahead confirms availability and current bait selection.
Best Times to Fish Maryland Piers
Timing dramatically affects pier fishing success in Maryland waters. Understanding seasonal patterns, tidal influences, and daily activity periods helps maximize your catch potential.
Seasonal Fishing Calendar
Spring (March-May):
- Striped bass migration creates excellent action
- White perch spawn in rivers and near-shore areas
- Water temperatures trigger increased feeding activity
- Crabbing in Maryland locations begins as waters warm
Summer (June-August):
- 24 hour fishing piers Maryland offer escape from heat
- Spot and croaker arrive
