Reminder- Free Saltwater Angler Registration

Type: Tidal/Coastal
Region: Chesapeake Bay/Tributaries and Atlantic Coast
Location:

As a reminder, most individuals that fish in Maryland�s coastal and tidal waters are required to have either a valid Maryland Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License or Maryland Saltwater Angler Registration. To make it even easier to obtain the state�s free saltwater registration, Maryland now provides this convenient form that does not require you to create an account in the state licensing system.
compass.dnr.maryland.gov/Registration/Express/SaltWaterRegistration

In 2010, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) began requiring anglers to pay a fee and register with the National Saltwater Angler Registry before fishing for anadromous species�those that move between saltwater and freshwater habitats. To comply with this requirement. Maryland created its own free saltwater angler registration, required on an annual basis.

Possession of a Maryland Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License or Maryland Saltwater Angler Registration is required with a few exemptions (see link below). The registration is an important part of protecting Maryland�s fishing opportunities. The recreational fishing data collected in this registry helps state and federal agencies sustainably manage U.S. fish stocks.

This website lists the situations where you need to register, and exemptions for folks that not required to register:
news.maryland.gov/dnr/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/09/Saltwater-Angler-Registration.png Have a great summer of fishing and tight lines!