CHESAPEAKE BAY, Md.- The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is urging fishermen to catch as many blue catfish as possible and remove them from the water.
Initially introduced in the 1970s as a recreational fishing target species in Virginia, blue catfish populations have exploded in Maryland waters, turning them into a prime destination for anglers. State environmental officials say the more they are caught, the better. According to DNR, studies have shown that blue catfish are voracious predators, consuming significant quantities of native species such as white perch and blue crabs, thereby disrupting the ecosystem.
Here are some upcoming Maryland tournaments and events featuring blue catfish and other invasive species:
Wicomico Invasive Fishing Tournament (April 20, 2024)
Wicomico Environmental Trust is a nonprofit working towards the environmental health of Wicomico County and the Chesapeake Bay. Their tournament – which is free for children – also features live music and a food truck on site at the Riverside Boat Ramp in Salisbury.
Nanticoke River Invasive Fishing Derby (Date TBD)
Salisbury University’s Dr. Noah Bressman has organized a research-based tournament of his own, now in its third year. The tournament in Cherry Beach Park in Sharptown features over $2,000 in prizes, while a portion of all blue catfish and northern snakeheads caught will be analyzed in Bressman’s lab to study their effects on the local ecosystem. Weigh-ins are followed by awards and a free catfish cookout, where anglers can reap the rewards of their catch. A date has not yet been set for the Nanticoke River Tournament.
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Post any tips is it a bottom fish? What kind of rig works best ties etc. thank you.
Well thank you Virginia, great job. Now can you stop Omega from strip mining the Menhaden from the ecosystem? A criminal act by a Canadian company Thank you,
Mr. Osprey
Mrs. Eagle
Rockfish
Crabs
Water quality