Answers to your Questions from the Experts

Scott age 12 asks: I just started fishing and was wondering what might be the best type of fishing for a beginner?

Answer: Targeting largemouth bass and bluegill in a local community pond or farm pond may be the best place to get started. Most of these small ponds contain abundant bluegills that are fairly easy to catch. If you do chose to fish a farm pond, be sure to get permission from the landowner.

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Fisheries Service is highlighting our newly formed Maryland Youth Fishing Club.

The club is open to all youth between the ages of 5 and 15. Membership is free and each new member will receive a Maryland Youth Fishing Club Patch. Find out where special youth events are being held, share your fishing stories and photos on the Youth Angler's Log and learn new things about fishing. Be sure to check back for weekly fishing tips and advice from expert anglers. Throughout the year DNR will have exciting features for members of the club.

Download Sign-up Sheet (.pdf)

Already a Member? Log on and fill out your fishing activity form.

Pasadena Sportfishing Group Fishing Derby - July 14th, 2012

The Pasadena Sportfishing Group hosted their annual Kid's Fishing Derby at Down's Park on July 14th. Just as the kids were heading to the pier to begin fishing, a thunderstorm rolled in. After safely riding out the storm under the pavilion, the kids headed back down to the pier and began fishing about 9:15 am. It turned out to be a beautiful day and a great day for fishing. However, Jewelia and Jordon were playing it safe and keeping their raincoats on just in case. (pictured on right) Forty of the 63 kids registered caught fish which included croaker, spot, white perch, a few striped bass and even a crab or two. After fishing the kids were treated to lunch and a visit by "Roxy Rockfish". Prizes were awarded for the largest fish in two age groups, and the winners received a new fishing rod and trophy.

Each year, MD DNR Fisheries Service partners with various groups to promote the Youth Component of the Maryland Fishing Challenge featuring Diamond Jim by selecting one youth angler from 20 statewide events. The lucky youth selected to move on to the finale' which will be held in conjunction with the Maryland Seafood Festival on September 8, 2012 at Sandy Point Park was Brien Power, age 5, of Bowie, MD (pictured in yellow shirt).Brien is new to fishing and this was the first fish he ever caught; now he will have another opportunity to experience the joy of fishing when he wins one of the many trips donated by our partners.