%2Ffit-in%2F250x250%2Fguide_websites%2F11704%2Fimages%2Fmaryanne.png&w=1200&q=100)
Beginner-Friendly Chesapeake Bay Fishing Charter
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Chesapeake Bay
- $750 price range
- Updated Date: September 26, 2025
Summary
%2F%2Fusers%2F33f546a2-b1e8-4c31-a92a-6c27aa2608c8%2Fratecard%2F499408175_1214432997143553_3352087061372454502_n.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Chesapeake Bay Catches
Striped Bass, Massive Size - Oxford, MD.
Stripe Bass Success - Oxford, MD.
Catfish Day - Oxford, MD.
Off to the game spot! - Oxford, MD.
Striped Bass Solid Catch! - Oxford, MD.
Family Super Haul!
Father and Son Success - Oxford, MD.
Power Catch! - Oxford, MD.
Decent Haul - Oxford, MD.
This Family got a Big haul! - Oxford, MD.
Striped Bass, Massive Size - Oxford, MD.
Stripe Bass Success - Oxford, MD.
Catfish Day - Oxford, MD.
Off to the game spot! - Oxford, MD.
Striped Bass Solid Catch! - Oxford, MD.
Family Super Haul!
Father and Son Success - Oxford, MD.
Power Catch! - Oxford, MD.
Decent Haul - Oxford, MD.
This Family got a Big haul! - Oxford, MD.
Striped Bass, Massive Size - Oxford, MD.
Stripe Bass Success - Oxford, MD.
Catfish Day - Oxford, MD.
Off to the game spot! - Oxford, MD.
Full Day Fishing Adventure in Chesapeake Bay
Ready to wet a line in one of the East Coast's most legendary fishing grounds? Captain Gary Bramble and the crew of Maryanne Fishing Charters have got you covered with this full-day trip on Chesapeake Bay. Whether you're a first-timer or an old salt, you'll find plenty to love about this 7-hour adventure targeting some of the Bay's most sought-after species. From the thrill of battling a hard-fighting bluefish to the satisfaction of landing a tasty sea trout, this trip offers a little bit of everything that makes Chesapeake Bay fishing so special.
What to Expect on the Water
When you step aboard the Mary Anne, you're in for a day of fishing that's as relaxed or as action-packed as you want it to be. Captain Gary's years of experience mean he knows just where to find the fish, whether they're hanging around structure or chasing bait in open water. The boat's comfortable setup and smaller group size (max 6 guests) means you'll have plenty of elbow room to cast and reel. Don't sweat it if you're new to fishing – the crew's got a knack for showing beginners the ropes without making them feel out of place. They'll set you up with all the gear you need and give you pointers on everything from baiting hooks to fighting fish. As for the old hands, Captain Gary's always got a few tricks up his sleeve to keep things interesting.
Techniques & Tackle Talk
Fishing the Chesapeake is all about versatility, and you'll likely use a mix of techniques throughout the day. Expect to do some light tackle casting around structure for stripers and drum, maybe some trolling for Spanish mackerel if they're running, and definitely some bottom fishing for those tasty sea trout. The Mary Anne is decked out with quality rods and reels, and the crew keeps a good stock of both live and artificial bait on hand. They'll show you how to work a soft plastic for stripers or jig for bluefish like a pro. And if the fish are being stubborn? No worries – Captain Gary's got a few secret spots and special rigs that usually do the trick.
Top Catches This Season
While every day on the water is different, Chesapeake Bay rarely disappoints. Striped bass (or "rockfish" as the locals call 'em) are the stars of the show for much of the year. These hard-fighting fish can range from schoolies to real trophy-sized bruisers. When the blues are in, hold onto your rod – these toothy critters punch well above their weight class and will give you a run for your money. Spanish mackerel offer high-speed thrills, often hitting lures at full tilt. Black drum are the heavyweight champs of the Bay, offering a true test of angling skill. And let's not forget about the sea trout – they might not be the biggest, but they're some of the tastiest fish you'll ever pull from these waters.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Striped Bass: The undisputed kings of Chesapeake Bay, stripers (or rockfish) are prized for their fighting spirit and table quality. These fish can grow to impressive sizes, with 30-pounders not uncommon. Spring and fall are prime times, but you can find them year-round. They love to hang around structure, so Captain Gary will often target bridge pilings, rocky points, and channel edges. There's nothing quite like the thrill of a big striper smashing a topwater lure at dawn.
Bluefish: Pound for pound, blues are some of the hardest fighting fish in the Bay. These toothy predators travel in schools, and when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They're known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs. Blues typically show up in the Bay in late spring and stick around through fall. While they have a reputation for being oily, when properly handled and cooked, they can make for some mighty fine eating.
Spanish Mackerel: These speedsters offer some of the most exciting light tackle fishing in the Bay. Spanish mackerel typically arrive in the summer months, chasing bait schools near the surface. Trolling small spoons or casting light jigs into feeding frenzies can result in multiple hookups. They're not huge, averaging 2-4 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and fight.
Black Drum: The gentle giants of the Bay, black drum can reach sizes over 80 pounds. They're bottom feeders, often found around oyster beds and other structure. Fishing for them is a game of patience, but when you hook into one, you're in for a true test of strength. Spring is typically the best time to target these bruisers, and they make for some excellent fish stories.
Sea Trout: Also known as weakfish, these spotted beauties are prized for their delicate flavor. They typically show up in the Bay in spring and fall, often found over grass beds or around structure. Light tackle and finesse presentations are key to success with sea trout. While their numbers have declined in recent years, catching one is always a special treat.
Time to Book Your Spot
A day out on Chesapeake Bay with Maryanne Fishing Charters is more than just a fishing trip – it's a chance to experience one of America's most storied fisheries with a crew that knows it like the back of their hand. Whether you're looking to bend a rod on some hard-fighting blues, learn the finer points of striper fishing, or just enjoy a relaxing day on the water with a shot at some great catches, Captain Gary and his team have got you covered. The Mary Anne is a comfortable, well-equipped vessel that's perfect for small groups or families, and with all gear provided, you just need to show up ready for adventure. So why wait? The fish are biting, and there's a spot on the boat with your name on it. Give Maryanne Fishing Charters a call and get ready to make some Chesapeake Bay memories that'll last a lifetime. Just remember, those deposits are non-refundable – but trust us, once you experience fishing here, you won't want your money back anyway!
Learn more about the species
Black Drum
Black Drum are hefty bottom-feeders that can really pull. In the Bay, you'll find them from 5 to over 50 pounds. They hang around oyster beds, pilings, and channel edges, usually in 10-30 feet of water. Spring and early summer are prime times, especially during the spawn. Black Drum use their sensitive barbels to root out crabs and shellfish, so fresh crab or clam baits work best. Use a fish-finder rig with a circle hook to keep your bait near the bottom. When a big one takes off, hang on tight - they've got some serious power. Smaller "puppy drum" under 10 pounds are great eating, with sweet, white meat. The big ones can be tough, so most folks release those. Here's a local tip: If you're having trouble finding them, look for slight depressions or holes in a flat bottom. Drum like to hang out in these spots waiting for food to come by.
Bluefish
Bluefish are hard-fighting predators that'll test your gear and your skills. These toothy critters typically run 3-10 pounds in the Bay, though bigger ones show up too. Look for them from spring through fall, often in schools near the surface or around structure. Bluefish love moving water, so tide rips and inlets are prime spots. They're aggressive feeders - you'll see them busting bait on top, which is always exciting. To catch 'em, try casting metal lures, topwater plugs, or live bait like spot or menhaden. When they're in a feeding frenzy, just about anything will work. Bluefish put up a mean fight with lots of jumps and runs. Be careful when handling them though - those teeth are no joke. For eating, smaller ones under 5 pounds are best. Try grilling or smoking them fresh for the best flavor. One local trick: if you see birds diving, there's a good chance bluefish are pushing bait to the surface. Race over there and get ready for some fast action!
Sea Trout
Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite inshore species here in the Bay. Most run 1-3 pounds, though gator trout over 5 pounds show up too. Look for them around grass flats, creek mouths, and channel edges, especially in 3-10 feet of water. They're most active in spring and fall when water temperatures are mild. Sea Trout are known for their soft mouths and light bites, so a sensitive rod and light line help detect strikes. Try casting soft plastics, mirrolures, or live bait like spot or shrimp. These fish put up a decent fight with some acrobatic jumps. They're also excellent eating, with delicate, white meat that's great fried or broiled. Here's a local tip: on calm mornings, look for subtle swirls on the surface. That's often sea trout feeding on bait, and a well-placed cast can lead to some exciting topwater action.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel are a speedy, streamlined fish that put up a great fight. They typically run 1-2 feet long and 2-3 pounds, with a silvery body and yellow spots. You'll find them in the Bay from late spring through fall, often in large schools near the surface. They like to hang around structures and drop-offs in 10-30 feet of water. These fish are popular for their tasty meat and exciting strikes. To catch 'em, try trolling with small, shiny lures or spoons at a good clip - about 7 knots does the trick. Spanish Mackerel hit hard and make blistering runs, so be ready for some action when you hook up. For the best shot at finding a school, look for diving birds or bait getting busted on the surface. Once you locate them, you can often catch a bunch in short order. Just remember to handle them carefully, as they have some sharp teeth.
Striped Bass
Striped Bass, or "stripers," are the crown jewel of Chesapeake Bay fishing. These powerful fish range from schoolies of a few pounds up to trophy-sized 40-pounders or bigger. You'll find them around structure, drop-offs, and bait schools throughout the Bay. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're migrating. Stripers put up an amazing fight, with strong runs and head-shaking jumps. They're also excellent eating, with firm, white meat. To catch 'em, try live-lining spot or eels, casting bucktails or soft plastics, or trolling with umbrella rigs. Stripers often feed aggressively at dawn and dusk, so those are great times to be on the water. One local trick: when fishing structure, make repeated casts to the same spot. Sometimes it takes a few presentations to trigger a bite from a big striper holding tight to cover. Just be ready when that rod doubles over - these fish can really pull!
About the Robbins (Pilothouse)
%2F%2Fusers%2F33f546a2-b1e8-4c31-a92a-6c27aa2608c8%2Fvehicle_picture%2Fboat.jpg&w=1200&q=75)
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Cummins
Maximum Cruising Speed: 32
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 500
