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inshore

Essex, Maryland

Best Time to Catch Weakfish

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

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Seasonal Activity Chart

Current Status: poor

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

BEST

GOOD

FAIR

POOR

Weakfish

Various

Weakfish, known for their delicate mouths and beautiful coloration, can be a thrilling target around Assateague Island, MD. These fish are migratory, so timing is crucial. The best time to target them is during the spring and fall migrations as they move in and out of the bays. Focus your efforts in the Sinepuxent and Chincoteague Bays, especially near grassy flats and channel edges. A local's trick is to use light tackle and small jigs tipped with soft plastics or live shrimp. Weakfish have soft mouths, so avoid setting the hook too hard. They are easily spooked, so stealth is key. Look for access points along the bay side of Assateague Island. These fish are very sensitive to water quality, so pay attention to clarity and temperature. A falling tide can often concentrate them near creek mouths.

How to Catch Weakfish

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

Weakfish Fishing Regulations in Maryland

Open Season

Year-round

Daily Bag Limit

1 per person

Size Limit

13-inch minimum

License Required

Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing License

Check for any seasonal closures or gear restrictions 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's the best bait to use for weakfish around Assateague Island?

Weakfish in this area respond well to a variety of baits. Popular choices include small jigs tipped with soft plastics, live shrimp, or cut bait like squid or bunker.

What is the minimum size weakfish I can keep when fishing near Assateague Island?

In Maryland, the minimum size limit for weakfish is 13 inches. Any weakfish you catch that is smaller than 13 inches must be released.

Is there a bag limit for weakfish in the waters surrounding Assateague Island?

Yes, the bag limit for weakfish in Maryland is 1 per person. Be sure to adhere to this limit to help maintain a healthy weakfish population.

Do I need a fishing license to target weakfish near Assateague Island, MD?

Yes, you'll need a valid Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing License to legally fish for weakfish and other species in the waters around Assateague Island.

More Weakfish Fishing in Maryland

Ocean City Cambridge Solomons Broomes Island Chesapeake Beach Baltimore View all Maryland →

Other Species to Fish in Assateague Island

Tautog Tuna Flounder Black Sea Bass Bluefish Mahi Mahi

Ready to Catch Weakfish in Assateague Island?

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