Maryland state waters, out to 3 miles
Harvest closed statewide under moratorium.
MD DNR 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
Maryland state record
MD DNR Sport Fish State Records · checked 2026-08-23
How to tell it
Deeper body, jaws even; the classic spring run. More on the American shad page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
American shad in other states14 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask3
Can you keep American shad in Maryland?
No. Harvest is prohibited in Maryland. Release it in the water where you can. Harvest closed statewide under moratorium.
What is the Maryland record American shad?
8.1 lb, Wicomico River (1975).
How current is this Maryland American shad rule?
Source: MD DNR 2026, last checked Sep 20, 2026. A watchman re-reads the agency's pages nightly. Rules change mid-season by proclamation; the official rulebook is the final word.
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