Maryland state waters, out to 3 miles
MD guide defers tilefish to federal limits with permit/reporting requirements; no state-specific numbers published.
MD DNR 2026 · checked · likely · the official rulebook is the final word
Past 3 miles: federal waters Different rule
Private boats need a Private Recreational Tilefish Permit north of the VA/NC border; rod-and-reel only, max 5 hooks per rod.
NOAA GARFO / MAFMC 2026 · checked 2026-09-20
Maryland state record
MD DNR Sport Fish State Records · checked 2026-08-23
How to tell it
Blue line under the eye on a long tan body; deep mud bottom. More on the blueline tilefish page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Blueline tilefish in other states14 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask5
What is the size limit for blueline tilefish in Maryland?
Federal rules apply.
How many blueline tilefish can you keep in Maryland?
Federal rules apply.
When is blueline tilefish season in Maryland?
Open year-round.
What is the Maryland record blueline tilefish?
21.3 lb, Washington Canyon (2025).
How current is this Maryland blueline tilefish 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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