UPDATE: Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources has just announced a critical two-week extension of the commercial oyster season, now running until April 14, 2026. This decision comes as a direct response to significant ice and freezing conditions that have severely impacted watermen’s ability to harvest oysters during a challenging season.
The extension aims to provide much-needed relief to local watermen who have faced obstacles from both harsh weather and declining market demand. Ice has blocked access to traditional harvesting areas, causing many fishing boats to remain docked, unable to operate. 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.”
Under the new rules, all existing gear restrictions and bushel limits will stay in effect, while handscraping for oysters in hand tong areas will continue to be prohibited. The commercial oyster season was originally set to conclude on March 31, 2026, but the extension will offer watermen an opportunity to recover lost harvesting time.
Maryland’s oyster population is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with recent assessments revealing that adult oyster populations have more than tripled to 7.6 billion oysters since a low of 2.4 billion in 2005. The 2025 Maryland oyster stock assessment shows that the population is at its highest level in over two decades. This positive trend is backed by coordinated restoration and management efforts led by the DNR.
The latest findings also indicate a strong reproductive season. In 2023, scientists recorded an astonishing 87 spat per bushel, nearly four times the median of 23.6 spat per bushel, signaling a healthy and growing oyster population.
Despite this positive trend, the market for oysters remains challenging. Reports indicate that many buyers are purchasing from watermen only once a week or less, compounding the difficulties faced by local fishermen. The extension of the oyster season is a crucial lifeline for these watermen and the communities that rely on them.
The DNR is actively working to address ice impacts on waterways, having conducted ice-breaking operations throughout the winter to maintain navigation channels. However, the harsh conditions have still led to quick refreezing, limiting access to fishing grounds.
As the new regulations take effect on February 23, 2026, Maryland residents are encouraged to support local watermen by purchasing Maryland oysters at seafood markets and restaurants. This support is vital for sustaining livelihoods during this difficult market period.
The DNR is committed to ensuring that Maryland’s oyster-growing waters meet health and safety standards, coordinating closely with the Department of Health and the Department of the Environment. The National Shellfish Sanitation Program oversees regular testing of shellfish waters, ensuring oysters remain safe for consumption.
This urgent update provides a crucial lifeline for Maryland’s watermen and underscores the importance of supporting local fisheries. With the commercial oyster season extended, watermen have a renewed chance to navigate the challenges of this season and contribute to the ongoing resurgence of oysters in the Chesapeake Bay.
