Public Notice: 2021-2022 Recreational Oyster Rules

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WHAT THIS NOTICE DOES 

The Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources establishes the rules for the  recreational oyster season, days of the week that an individual may catch oysters, catch limits, and catch times. Effective at 12:01 a.m. July 4, 2021:

  • Season
    • The recreational oyster season is open from October 1, 2021 through and including
      March 31, 2022.
    • The season is closed on all other dates.
  • Daily Catch Limit
    • The recreational catch limit is 100 oysters per person per day.                                             .
  • Days of the Week That an Individual May Catch Oysters
    • An individual may catch oysters for recreational purposes only from Monday through Saturday.
  • Catch Times
    • An individual may catch oysters for recreational purposes only from sunrise to 12 p.m. (noon).

WHERE THESE RULES APPLY 

All open oyster harvest areas. Oyster harvest areas are submerged ground where an individual is  allowed to catch oysters. “Oyster harvest area” does not include an area leased for aquaculture,  restricted by the Maryland Department of the Environment, or designated as a submerged aquatic  vegetation protection zone, harvest reserve area, or sanctuary.

WHO THIS NOTICE AFFECTS 

Anyone who catches oysters for recreational purposes. These rules do not apply to individuals legally harvesting oysters from an aquaculture lease.

AUTHORITY 

Code of Maryland Regulations 08.02.04.11G

Maryland Department of Natural Resources