To keep the coronavirus from spreading, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s stay at home order has made recreational boating and sailing in the Terrapin State verboten until further notice.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources says nobody should leave their home except for an essential reason, and recreational boating is not considered essential.
Hunting, fishing and crabbing for sustenance are allowed, and charter fishing can continue, but under limited circumstances. Kayaking and paddleboarding are permitted because they are considered forms of exercise, but all sanctioned activities are subject to social distancing rules.
The Annapolis spring boat shows have been cancelled and recreational boating is prohibited until the state of emergency is lifted.
Rockfish season (striped bass) opens on May 1. Maryland fishermen and boaters will be holding their breath that the ban will be lifted by then.
You can read more about it in the Annapolis Capital Gazette
