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inshore

Essex, Maryland

Best Time to Catch Flounder

Flounder can be caught year-round in Cobb Island. Right now in February, activity is low.

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Seasonal Activity Chart

Current Status: poor

Low activity season. Flounder are less active and catches may be limited. Consider targeting other species.

BEST

GOOD

FAIR

POOR

Flounder

Various

Cobb Island offers some productive flounder fishing, especially in the shallow, grassy areas of the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay. These flatfish are ambush predators, so look for them around structure like docks, oyster beds, and channel edges. The best time to target flounder is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, when water temperatures are above 60 degrees. Flounder fishing here involves drifting or anchoring and presenting baits close to the bottom. A local tactic is to use a flounder rig with a squid or minnow tipped with a spinner blade to attract attention in the often murky waters. Try drifting along the edges of the grass flats on an outgoing tide for best results. Be patient and persistent, as flounder can be finicky eaters. A good access point is the public boat ramp on Cobb Island, which provides easy access to the productive fishing grounds.

How to Catch Flounder

Typical Size

Length: Varies by fishery

Weight: Varies by fishery

Habitat

•Local structure and edges
•Current seams
•Bait concentrations
•Depth changes

Where & When to Fish

Target Locations

•Current seams
•Points/edges
•Structure holding bait

Best Times

•Dawn/dusk and nights
•Moving tides or peak current

Bias patterns to Cobb Island area: use local structure (passes/bridges for coastal; channels/points for inland) and match depth to temperature.

Flounder Fishing Regulations in Maryland

Open Season

Year-round

Daily Bag Limit

4 per person

Size Limit

16-inch minimum

License Required

Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing License

Possession limit equal to daily bag limit. Check for any seasonal closures in specific areas.

⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Maryland state wildlife agency before fishing.

Related Species in Maryland

Striped Bass

Bluefish

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for flounder around Cobb Island?

Live minnows, squid, and small crabs are all effective baits for flounder in the Cobb Island area. Many anglers also have success with artificial lures like bucktails and soft plastics.

What is the size and bag limit for flounder in Maryland?

In Maryland, the minimum size limit for flounder is 16 inches, and the bag limit is 4 flounder per person.

Do I need a license to fish for flounder in Cobb Island?

Yes, you'll need a valid Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing License to fish for flounder in the waters around Cobb Island.

When is the best time to fish for flounder near Cobb Island?

Flounder fishing is good throughout the year, but the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, are generally considered the best time to target them.

More Flounder Fishing in Maryland

Assateague Island Baltimore Cambridge Ocean City Solomons Annapolis View all Maryland →

Other Species to Fish in Cobb Island

Tuna Weakfish Bluefish Black Sea Bass Tautog Striped Bass

Ready to Catch Flounder in Cobb Island?

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