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More from DNR​​​

A restored oyster reef in the Harris Creek sanctuary in 2021. Photo by the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center.​​​​
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Maryland’s Oyster Restoration Sanctuaries Show Promising Signs for Shellfish Recovery

In a thriving oyster reef, oyster shells accumulate into three-dimensional structures where crabs scuttle, sea squirts dangle and fish dart through clearings.​
Lindsey Straiton may need a larger kayak if she keeps catching blue catfish this large. Photo courtesy of Lindsey Straiton​​​​
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Maryland Fishin​g Report – March 20​

Anglers have a lot of fishing opportunities to look forward to this week. For our trout anglers under the age of 16, Maryland’s first youth-only trout fishing day​ occurs this Saturday, March 23.
Secretary Kurtz with First Lady Dawn Moore at Patapsco Valley State Park
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​Secretary’s Message – March 2024

While our public lands and waters offer access to nature all year, March is an especially busy time as the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) makes preparations for the warm weather months ahead.

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Tree Seedling​​​​​​​​​

5 Million Trees Please​​​​

At the start of the new year, the 5 Million Trees Initiative is approaching a milestone, with nearly half a million trees planted.​

Buy Your Fishing License​​

​Our online COMPASS portal gives you 24/7 self service access to our entire product catalog of recreational licenses, permits and stamps.
Image of the app with hunters on a boat - Photo: Kimberley Kelly

Download the DNR App​​

AccessDNR is the official app from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources for the State's outdoor enthusiasts.

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Maryland Catfish Tournaments

​Offer Invasive Species Angling


This year, avid anglers can fill their calendars with tournaments to try to catch the biggest and most blue catfish. There are no fishing restrictions on the species. In fact, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is urging anglers to catch as many blue catfish as possible and remove them from the water.​

Blue catfish stomach studies​ have determined the invasive fish are eating large quantities of native species such as white perch and blue crabs and harming the overall ecosystem.​


Click here for more!​​​ ​
Photo by: Stephen Badger 


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