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Bluefish

Bluefish

Bluefish are aggressive, migratory predators found throughout Maryland's Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, and Atlantic coastal waters.

Known as the 'marine piranha' for their voracious feeding habits, bluefish are so aggressive they'll kill prey they don't eat and have occasionally bitten swimmers.

Scientific Name: Pomatomus saltatrix

Physical Characteristics:

These greenish-blue fish with silvery sides have pointed snouts, large mouths with razor-sharp triangular teeth, and a distinctive black blotch at the base of their pectoral fins.

In Maryland waters, bluefish average about 12 inches in length, though they can live 12 years and reach 40 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Found throughout Maryland's Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, and Atlantic coastal waters. They're highly migratory, moving north in spring and summer, south in fall and winter, with peak abundance near the Chesapeake Bay mouth occurring April-July and again October-November.

Key Locations

Prime fishing areas include the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, Ocean City beaches (especially fall surf fishing), and throughout the Bay's main stem and tributaries.

Bluefish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Bluefish in Maryland?

Top lures include Roberts Rangers, Cotton Cordell pencil poppers (7" red/white), Hoochies (rubber squid with chain hooks), tube-and-worm rigs, Kastmasters, and diamond jigs.

What flies work for Bluefish in Maryland?

Effective fly patterns include simple white Clousers, Deceivers, all-white patterns, and basic baitfish imitations - expensive flies aren't necessary as bluefish aren't picky and will destroy flies quickly.

When is the best time to fish for Bluefish in Maryland?

Bluefish fishing in Maryland is excellent from May through October, with peak action during April-July and October-November. Early morning and late evening produce the best action.

How do you catch Bluefish in Maryland?

Use fast, erratic retrieves and always strip-set the hook rather than lifting the rod. Always use pliers for hook removal and handle these toothy predators with extreme caution.

What do Bluefish eat?

Bluefish are predominantly piscivorous, feeding on bay anchovies, spot, menhaden, silver perch, weakfish, and mysid shrimp.

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    Tactics, gear and timing from onWater's AI fishing guide, tuned to the species and the water you're on.

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Maryland licenses and regulations

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