WASHINGTON — From year-round fishing spots near Maryland’s biggest city to miles of shoreline around the Chesapeake Bay, the greater D.C. area is rife with opportunities for anglers to cast their rods.
Click through the gallery below for some of the best places to go fishing in the D.C. metro area, and read up on local rules and regulations before aiming for your next catch.
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D.C.
The District’s fishing regulations help preserve and increase fish diversity in D.C. waters, home to more than 67 fish species. A fishing license, which costs $10, is required for anyone between the ages of 16 and 65 to fish in D.C. A District Fishing License can be purchased online or at the following vendor locations:
The Boathouse at Fletcher’s Cove
4940 Canal Road, NW, Washington, D.C. 20007
202-244-0461
Fragers Hardware
1115 Penn. Ave., SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
202-543-6157
Dicks Sporting Goods (#1276)
2470 Market Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20018
202-971-8214
Cheverly Sports Fair
5621 Landover Road, Hyattsville, Maryland 20784
301-277-8145
Fred’s Sports & Furniture
2895 Crain Highway, Waldorf, Maryland 20601
301-843-3040
National Bass Guide Service
8619 Camden Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22308
703-360-3472
The licenses are valid from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 of the calendar year marked on the license, and must be displayed while the permit holder goes fishing. Find more information on the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment website.
Maryland
Anyone over the age of 16 who plans on fishing in Maryland waters must have a license. Anglers can purchase a license online through the Department of Natural Resources website. The licenses are valid for 365 from the date of purchase.
Annual non-tidal licenses that allow fresh water fishing in the state cost $20.50 for residents. Nonresidents can purchase licenses at a minimum of $30.50. Short-term licenses are also available. Seven day non-tidal licenses cost $7.50 for residents. Out of state anglers can purchase a license for a fee equal to that a Maryland resident is charged in the visitor’s home state. Three day licenses are only available for nonresidents to purchase.
Find more information on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.
Virginia
Virginia requires various fishing licenses depending on location and type. More information on the licenses can be found on the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website. Anglers can purchase their licenses online, by calling 1-866-721-6911 Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or in person from licensed agents around the Commonwealth.