Maryland opens its public oyster grounds to recreational harvesters through the colder months, from October to the end of March. Harvest is limited to mornings and is closed on Sundays.
Fishing Season
Maryland Recreational Oyster Season
Maryland public oyster grounds, Chesapeake Bay and tributaries (not aquaculture leases) Annapolis MD
Season
Maryland Recreational Oyster Season 2026–27 Oct 1, 2026 – Mar 31, 2027 Open now · closes March 31, 2027
As published by Maryland Department of Natural Resources, last checked October 24, 2026. Rules change — check Maryland Department of Natural Resources before you fish.
Future editions
- 2027–28 — Oct 1, 2027 – Mar 31, 2028 · provisional
- 2028–29 — Oct 1, 2028 – Mar 31, 2029 · provisional
2026–27 as published by the organiser at content.govdelivery.com.
From ALL AT SEA