A distinctive migratory ray with a indented cow-like snout, long whip tail with a small venomous barb, and golden-brown winged pectoral fins. Schools in vast numbers across the Bay during summer.
Season
May – October (Peak Summer Schools)
Where
Upper Chesapeake Bay Main Channel, Tangier Sound, Choptank River
Salinity band
Coastal & Ocean Marine (25 - 35 ppt)
Status
Native Atlantic Coastal Species
Record
MD Record: 49 lbs 0 oz
How we fish for them
Accidentally hooked while bottom fishing for bull drum or stripers; handle with extreme caution and cut leader near hook if landed.
Rod: Susquehanna Striper Rod 7'6" MHF Reel: 3000-size reel • 30lb Braid + 40lb Leader
Gear for this in the catalog →Handle with care
Safe release: Wet hands or rubber net before handling to preserve protective slime layer.
Seasons & limits are the law's, not ours
Size, season and creel rules change; always verify with the official regulations before you fish. Maryland DNR regulations →
Profile last reviewed: August 2026