You will need a State of Maryland non-tidal fishing license. (Patuxent Parking Passes are no longer needed.)
Children under the age of 16 do not need a license. Visitor are expected to know and follow Maryland refuge regulations.
Fishing Areas & Schedules:
South Tract- Fishing is permitted on all of Cash Lake April through September. Do not fish from floating bridges. Masks are required when encountering people not in your party. Anglers may park at the Visitor Center or at Cash Lake pier.
North Tract- Fishing is restricted to designated areas and available from 8 am to 4 pm. Please see North Tract Map. Lake Allen, a popular fishing destination, has a restricted schedule and is only open on selected dates. Call 301-497-5770 for updates on Lake Allen’s access schedule.
Lake Allen is open for fishing on
March 4, 5, 12, 18, 25, and 26,
April 1, 2, 8, 15, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30.
Fishing in all other areas of the refuge is prohibited.
Permitted Bait & Tackle:
Hook, line, and tackle, as permitted by Maryland law, is allowed on the refuge. Earthworms are the only live bait allowed. Visitors may not gather bait on the refuge. Barbless or circle hooks are encouraged, along with the practice of catch-and-release fishing.
Due to the risk of habitat contamination, the possession or use of lead sinkers is prohibited.
Learn more in these publications: