Can I Keep?Croaker Regulations in Maryland (2026)
Recreational croaker rules in Maryland saltwater, as published by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Fishing and Boating Services. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
9 in minimum
Bag limit
25 per person
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Croaker rules in Maryland
- Where
- All waters
- Size limit
- (1) A recreational angler may not catch or possess a croaker less than 9 inches total length.
- Bag limit
- Recreational Catch Limit. Except for a person licensed to catch finfish for sale, a person may not catch or possess more than 25 croaker per day.
Commercial rules
Show 2 commercial rules
- Where
- Chesapeake Bay and tidal tributaries (bays & inshore)
- Size limit
- 9"
- Season
- 3/16 through 12/31 / Season CLOSED All Other Dates
- DNR commercial summary table; consult COMAR and public notices for full legal text.
- Where
- Atlantic Ocean, coastal bays and tributaries (ocean)
- Size limit
- 9"
- Season
- 3/16 through 12/31 / Season CLOSED All Other Dates
- DNR commercial summary table; consult COMAR and public notices for full legal text.
Quick answers
What is the croaker size limit in Maryland?
(1) A recreational angler may not catch or possess a croaker less than 9 inches total length..
How many croaker can I keep in Maryland?
Recreational Catch Limit. Except for a person licensed to catch finfish for sale, a person may not catch or possess more than 25 croaker per day..
More inshore in Maryland
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.