Ocean City, Maryland, home of the White Marlin Fishing Tournament, is approximately 150 miles south of Baltimore. Ocean City offers visitors a wealth of activities for the outdoor enthusiasts. With more than 10 miles of sandy beach stretching from the Inlet to the Delaware state line, sunbathers, surfers and fishers head to the beach.
Activities
Surf fishing is a way for you to enjoy the outdoors, relax, read a book and interact with your children. Stroll along the surf line and scope out a suitable place to set up your chairs and lines. Take time to walk on the boardwalk--the three-mile stretch starts at the inlet--relax and enjoy the numerous restaurants and outlet shopping in Ocean City, Maryland.
Timing
Surf fishing is available all year long; however the best times of year are the spring and fall. Plan to arrive before dawn and to remain until midmorning. Follow the high tides; arrive 2 hours before high tide for the best yield of blue fish, trout and sea bass.
Supplies
Your rod should be around 10 to 12 feet long; use a heavy weight to ensure that your cast is around 100 yards from shore. Steady and secure your rod into the sand, sit back and be patient. Live bait can be purchased at the many bait stores lining the inlet. Bring along a bucket to keep your catch in, a good beach chair to sit in, sunscreen and good book to read.
History
Ocean City, Maryland, started its life as a sleepy fishing town on the banks of the Sinepuxent Bay. From the mid 1600s until the late 1800s Ocean City was only accessible by stage coach and ferry. The railroad extended its services in 1878 from Berlin, Maryland, to Ocean City by constructing a bridge over the Sinepuxent Bay. Easier accessibility increased Ocean City's popularity along the Eastern Seaboard as a resort town. In 1933 a tropical storm hit the barrier island and a channel was formed between the Sinepuxent Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The 10-mile strip of land bordered on the north by the bay and the south by the Atlantic Ocean is the present day Ocean City.
Warnings
Surf fishing is permitted in Ocean City. Between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., the beach is shared with swimmers and surfers. Be aware of your surroundings when casting; you need to remain at least 50 yards from anyone on the beach. There will be occasions during the summer when the lifeguards will post "No fishing" notifications. Although a fishing license is not required to fish in Maryland's Coastal Bays or the Atlantic, you may want to register with the National Saltwater Angler Registry.
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