American Eel (nontidal) regulations in Maryland

· Freshwater · 2026 season

Is it a keeper? A american eel (nontidal) is a keeper today if it measures at least 9 inches, with a daily limit of 25.

American Eel (nontidal) size limit, season and daily limit

Where	Season	Size limit	Daily limit
Nontidal (inland) waters	Open year-round	9 inch minimum	25 daily / 25 possession

Notes

Nontidal waters are open year-round (tidal waters close Sept 1-Dec 31 to hook and line).

Exact Maryland DNR Fishing & Boating Services wording

Season: Open Year Round
Size: 9 inches
Limit: Daily—25 Possession—25
Nontidal (inland) waters — as printed: “AMERICAN EEL | 9 inches | Open Year Round | Daily—25 Possession—25”

Source: Maryland DNR Fishing & Boating Services, captured 2026-10-04 (2026 season).

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About the american eel

Species of fish

The American eel is a facultative catadromous eel found on the eastern coast of North America. Freshwater eels are fish belonging to the elopomorph superorder, a group of phylogenetically ancient teleosts. The American eel has a slender, supple, snake-like body that is covered with a mucus layer, which makes the eel appear to be naked and slimy despite the presence of minute scales. A long dorsal fin runs from the middle of the back and is continuous with a similar ventral fin. Pelvic fins are absent, and relatively small pectoral fins can be found near the midline, followed by the head and gill covers. Variations exist in coloration, from olive green, brown shading to greenish-yellow and light gray or white on the belly. Eels from clear water are often lighter than those from dark, tannic acid streams.

Text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0. Regulations on this page come from Maryland DNR Fishing & Boating Services, not Wikipedia.

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Frequently asked

What is the size limit for American Eel (nontidal) in Maryland?

9 inch minimum in Maryland state waters.

How many American Eel (nontidal) can you keep per day in Maryland?

25 daily / 25 possession.

When is American Eel (nontidal) season in Maryland?

Open year-round.

Is my American Eel (nontidal) a keeper today?

A american eel (nontidal) is a keeper today if it measures at least 9 inches, with a daily limit of 25.