Representing the largest parcel of publicly owned tidal wetlands in
Maryland, Fishing Bay is also the state's largest wildlife
management area. Large expanses of tidal marshes in this 21,000-
acre area are punctuated by small islands of loblolly pine.
Adjacent to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Fishing Bay
contributes to one of the largest parcels of land set aside for
wildlife in Maryland. Historically, Guinea and Chance's Islands,
within Fishing Bay, were sites of early Native American
settlements. The Nause-Waiwash tribe members still make annual
visits to their ancestral homeland here.
What To See
Both the native white-tailed deer and the Asian sika deer can be
found grazing on the wetland plants. Muskrats build their houses
within the marsh and compete for habitat with the South American
nutria, a large rodent whose voracious appetite for marsh plants
threatens this fragile ecosystem. Bald eagles and osprey fish the
open waters while ducks and geese enjoy the lush wetland plants.
Most commonly seen waterfowl at Fishing Bay include mallards, black
ducks, teal, gadwall, pintails, scaup and Canada geese. Many
species of shorebirds may be seen or heard, including the secretive
black rail.
What To Do
Hunters will find white-tailed and sika deer along the woodland
fringe and marsh. Listen for the bugling and whistling of the sika
deer stags from September through December. Mallards and black
ducks are abundant on the inland ponds, while the best bet for
bagging diving ducks, like scaup, is on the bays and river
shoreline. Canada geese can be found on the marsh and in the open
water. Fur trapping is offered by yearly lease. Saltwater fishing
and crabbing are excellent. Public boat launching facilities at
Bestpitch, Elliot Island and Shorter's Wharf are convenient to
Fishing Bay. Mosquitoes and other biting insects are plentiful from
spring through early fall. Bring insect repellent, minimize exposed
skin and wear light-colored clothing. Check out a map of the area.
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Check out a copy of the Fishing Bay water trail guide.
This waterproof trail guide shows marked water trails. Guides are free through the State Forest and Park Service. |
From the Bay Bridge, take U.S. Route 50 east to Cambridge. Follow Bucktown Road south to Bestpitch Ferry Road. Proceed south crossing the Transquaking River to the Fishing Bay entrance. Other sections of the area can be reached by Griffith's Neck Road, Maple Dam Road and Elliot Island Road. For additional information, contact the LeCompte Wildlife Office at (410) 376-3236.
Funding for Maryland's State and local parks and conservation areas is provided through The Department of Natural Resources' Program Open Space. Established in 1969, Program Open Space symbolizes Maryland's long term commitment to conserving natural resources while providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities.
Kayak photo by Tom Darden