Chesapeake Bay Fish Species

Target Species – What You’ll Catch with Screaming Eagle Charters

Fishing the Choptank River & Chesapeake Bay: Year-Round Action for All Anglers

Screaming Eagle Charters offers exciting opportunities to catch some of the Chesapeake Bay’s most sought-after fish. The Striped Bass—commonly known as rockfish—is the crown jewel of this region, especially from April through late fall. Spring and fall bring peak trolling conditions for trophy rockfish, while summer is ideal for lighter tackle and higher volume catches. White Perch, Catfish, Spot, and Croaker are perfect for family-friendly fishing during the warmer months, giving beginners and younger anglers plenty of action on the rod.

Throughout the year, the Choptank River delivers something for everyone. In early spring, you’ll find Catfish and Perch feeding in the shallows. As the water warms, rockfish start showing up in greater numbers, with summer offering reliable catches and calm water conditions for easy-going trips. Late summer sometimes surprises guests with tropical fish like Bluefish and Spanish Mackerel moving into the lower Bay. Come fall, the bigger rockfish return, making it one of the best times to target trophy fish before winter sets in.

With Captain Herman Haddaway’s expert guidance, you’ll not only have the best chance at landing your target species, but also enjoy a personalized, stress-free day on the water. Whether you’re looking for fast action with panfish or chasing that once-in-a-lifetime trophy rockfish, Screaming Eagle Charters makes it happen. The bite changes with the seasons—so check our latest reports and secure your trip during prime fishing windows.

H3: What fish are in season now on the Choptank River?

Right now (late summer through early fall), we’re seeing great numbers of Striped Bass along with White Perch and Catfish. This is the time when both experienced anglers and families can enjoy steady action and pleasant conditions. If you’re looking to get out before the rockfish season closes, now’s the best time to book.

H3: When is the best time to catch trophy rockfish in Chesapeake Bay?

The best window for targeting trophy Striped Bass is in the spring (April–May) and again in the late fall (October–November). During these cooler months, big rockfish migrate through the Bay and into the rivers, offering excellent chances to hook a personal best. Captain Herman’s trolling setups are dialed in for these peak bites.

H3: What bait or technique works best for catching rockfish?

For big rockfish, we primarily use trolling methods with umbrella rigs and tandem rigs, which produce consistent results in deeper channels. During summer, light tackle jigging and live-lining Spot can also be very effective, especially when the fish are schooling in mid-depth water.

H3: Can I bring kids for a family-friendly fishing trip?

Absolutely! Summer is the best time for family-friendly fishing, with White Perch, Spot, and smaller rockfish offering non-stop action. We customize every trip to suit your group’s experience and age range—Captain Herman ensures everyone has a safe, fun, and successful day on the water.

H3: How do I book a trip to catch rockfish with Screaming Eagle Charters?

Booking your trip is easy—just reach out to Screaming Eagle Charters through our contact page or call directly to lock in your preferred date. Availability fills fast during peak rockfish seasons, so we recommend booking early, especially in spring and fall. Let us know what you’d like to target, and we’ll tailor the perfect Chesapeake Bay fishing adventure for you.