Can I Keep?Hickory Shad Regulations in Maryland (2026)
Recreational hickory 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 Hickory Shad rules in Maryland
- Where
- All waters
- Season
- (1) A person may not catch, offer for sale, purchase, or possess any hickory shad or any parts of hickory 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 hickory shad season in Maryland?
(1) A person may not catch, offer for sale, purchase, or possess any hickory shad or any parts of hickory 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 Hickory Shad limits in other states →
More offshore & pelagic in Maryland
- American Shad
- Atlantic Menhaden
- 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.