UPDATE: Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has just announced a two-week extension of the commercial oyster season, now running until April 14, 2026. This urgent decision comes in response to severe weather conditions that have hampered harvesting opportunities for watermen across the state.
The extension is crucial for Maryland’s watermen who have struggled this season due to icy waterways and a decline in market demand. As temperatures plunged in January and early February, many traditional harvesting areas in the Chesapeake Bay froze, leading to significant losses for local fishermen.
DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz emphasized the importance of this extension, stating, “This oyster season extension will give them additional opportunities to boost their livelihoods and the local communities where they live.” The extension aims to alleviate some of the financial strain on watermen, who have reported that oyster buyers are purchasing significantly fewer oysters compared to previous years.
The new regulations, effective as of February 23, 2026, maintain all current gear restrictions and bushel limits. Notably, handscraping for oysters in hand tong areas remains prohibited. Despite these challenges, the DNR is confident that extending the season will not hinder ongoing efforts to restore and manage the oyster population in Maryland waters.
Recent data shows that Maryland’s oyster population has surged, with adult oysters now exceeding 7.6 billion, a significant recovery from a low of 2.4 billion in 2005. The fall oyster spat survey revealed strong reproduction rates, marking a vital rebound for the species. In 2023 alone, researchers documented record levels of oyster spat—approximately 87 spat per bushel, nearly four times the historical average.
As the DNR continues to manage waterways, agency staff have conducted ice-breaking operations to keep navigation channels open. Even with these efforts, many commercial vessels remained docked due to rapidly refreezing waters. This extension will provide much-needed relief during a challenging market period for oysters, encouraging Marylanders to support local fishermen by purchasing oysters at seafood markets and restaurants.
The DNR is coordinating closely with the Department of Health and the Department of the Environment to ensure that Maryland’s oyster-growing waters meet health and safety standards under the National Shellfish Sanitation Program. This commitment ensures that oysters harvested during this extended season are safe for consumption.
With the commercial oyster season now extended, watermen and local communities are hopeful for a boost in their livelihoods as they navigate this challenging market landscape. The DNR’s proactive measures reflect a strong commitment to both the economic health of Maryland’s fishing communities and the ongoing resurgence of the oyster population.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Maryland’s watermen prepare for a vital two weeks ahead.
