Upper Bay Fishing Reports

Upper Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report, February 6 Update:

The Upper Bay is close to 90% locked up with ice thanks to the brutal winter temperatures that we can’t seem to get a break from. Getting a boat out on the water safely is almost out of the question thanks to ice covered boat ramps and rivers, but there is enough hard water to try some ice fishing. We haven’t received any reports from the northern Bay tribs as of yet, but it should be possible to find good ice in coves if not more open waters. The Angler In Chief, along with FishTalk contributors Eric Packard, Adam Greenberg, and David Rudow did get out for a late week trip on the upper Magothy near Beechwood Park to try ice fishing. The AIC reports that ice on the creek was seven inches thick, plenty deep for safe conditions. After drilling several holes and setting their tip-ups with live minnows, it was time to play the waiting game. Unfortunately, after several hours, only four tip-ups had been triggered and none of them had fish on, though a few minnows had bite marks, which indicates there are at least a few active fish under the ice. Remember that ice four inches thick or more is considered best for safety reasons. If you need a refresher on the ice fishing in our zone, be sure to check out Mid-Atlantic Ice Fishing Spectacular and Cheap and Easy Ice Fishing. Considering the weather, you might want to opt for land-based activities this weekend, in which case a great option is hitting the Chesapeake Bay Boat Show in Timonium at the Maryland Fairgrounds. They usually have a pretty good selection at the “Tackle Pier,” the Hawg Trough will be there, and FishTalk will be on hand, so be sure to swing by our booth and say hi!