From sea to stream and from flounders to sharks, experience some of the world’s best fishing in Worcester County. Located on the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Chesapeake Bay, fishing is always in season here! From the “White Marlin Capital” of the world, Ocean City, down to the smallest of creeks, use this guide to explore endless angling possibilities.
Saltwater Fishing on the Atlantic
Located on the Atlantic Coast, Ocean City is a sport fishing mecca with plenty of activities to enjoy. Bottom fish the nearshore Atlantic for flounder, rockfish or sea bass, or go crabbing in the back bays for a fun and exciting experience! From surf to deep sea fishing, Ocean City has it all. Be prepared to reel in all types of large fish including: white and blue marlin, mako, tiger and thresher sharks, skate, sea bass, trout, blue fish, tautog, yellowfin, bluefin and bigeye tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi and rockfish. Launch your boat from one of nine free public boat ramps located in Worcester County. Whether you charter a boat from one of many marinas, rent one from a full service outfitter, or bring your own vessel, you are sure to have a blast!
More of a fishing spectator? Ocean City is home to some of the most highly regarded tournaments in the entire world including the largest tuna tournament in the U.S., The Ocean City Tuna Tournament, and the world’s largest billfish tournament, The White Marlin Open. Take in the electrifying atmosphere at the marinas as fortunes hang in the balance of the scales!
Shoreline Fishing
Fish and relax without ever leaving the shore! Plenty of piers, beaches and docks, are available to fish off of, with hot spots including Ocean City Inlet, Taylors Landing and George Island Landing. The surf fishing here, especially at Assateague Island, is excellent because of the low tide and full moon periods, allowing you to catch drum, bass and sharks. Stop into Pocomoke City or the town of Snow Hill for license free fishing areas! Be sure to review the current licensing and fishing regulations with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Fisheries Services before your visit.
Freshwater Fishing on the Pocomoke River
In between the sea and the bay is the Pocomoke River,and its many creeks and tributaries. The river and tidal creeks offer great fishing spots where you can expect to catch shad, channel catfish, chain pickerel, largemouth bass, yellow perch, crappie and longnose gar. Check out the river’s largest tributary, Nassawango Creek, where you can set out on your canoe or kayak and cast a line, or simply enjoy the 18 miles worth of scenery. Need some gear? Stop by one of the many local bait and tackle shops to purchase or rent equipment, and trade stories about the big one that got away!
Après-Fish
After a long day of fishing, visit Sinepuxent Brewing Company, outside of Assateague Island, or grab some ice cream at Worcester County’s only working dairy farm, Chesapeake Bay Farms. Enjoy scenic views of the Pocomoke River and wildlife as you shop or dine in Pocomoke City and the town of Snow Hill.
VisitMarylandsCoast.org
Fish Tips!
Fish conservatively! Know the current legal-size limits of game fish, use circle hooks or non-stainless hooks, do not hold fish by the gills, use a net, unhook fish while in the water and catch what you can, but keep only what you need.
