Can I Keep?American Shad Regulations in Maryland (2026)
Recreational american shad rules in Maryland saltwater, as published by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Fishing and Boating Services. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Season
(1) A person may not catch, offer for sale, purchase, or possess any…
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational American Shad rules in Maryland
- Where
- All waters
- Season
- (1) A person may not catch, offer for sale, purchase, or possess any American shad or any parts of American shad, including roe, caught in Maryland waters except as permitted here.
- Harvest/possession prohibited in Maryland waters (see regulation for exceptions).
Quick answers
When is american shad season in Maryland?
(1) A person may not catch, offer for sale, purchase, or possess any American shad or any parts of American shad, including roe, caught in Maryland waters except as permitted here.. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
Compare American Shad limits in other states →
More offshore & pelagic in Maryland
- Atlantic Menhaden
- Hickory Shad
- River Herring
- Sharks - Finetooth, Blacknose, Tiger, Blacktip, Spinner, Bull, Lemon, Nurse, Porbeagle, Common Thresher, Blue
- Sharks - Hammerheads (Scalloped, Great, Smooth)
- Sharks - Smoothhound, Atlantic Sharpnose, Bonnethead
- Spanish Mackerel
All Maryland saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Fishing and Boating Services. Most anglers need a Maryland saltwater license or registry: get one here.