As of September 23, 2024, the Chesapeake Bay area around Baltimore and Washington D.C. is experiencing moderate and pleasant weather conditions, making it an ideal day for fishing. Here’s what you need to know:

**Weather Conditions:**
The day is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s. Wind speeds are moderate, around 10-15 mph, coming from the northeast. There is a slight chance of scattered showers, but overall, it should be a comfortable day on the water.

**Water Conditions:**
The Chesapeake Bay's surface water temperatures have cooled down to the lower 70s, which is perfect for increased fish activity. Water levels are normal, and clarity is good, especially in the upper and middle bay areas.

**Best Fishing Spots:**
- In the upper Bay, the Severn and Patapsco rivers are hotspots for striped bass, with breaking schools observed during tide changes. Topwater action is excellent during morning hours.
- The lower Bay, particularly the Tangier and Pocomoke sounds, and the lower Potomac River, are great for catching striped bass, puppy drum, and speckled trout. Casting topwater poppers, Zara Spooks, and paddletails are highly effective.
- For bluefish, the main channels near the Target Ship are productive, using spoons and surgical tube lures behind planers or inline weights.
- The tidal Potomac River from the Wilson Bridge to the mouth of the river is filled with blue catfish, which can be caught using soft crab baits or other bottom-dwelling baits.

**Bait and Tackle Recommendations:**
- For striped bass, use topwater poppers, Zara Spooks, and paddletails. Live-lining with spot is also very effective, especially at channel edges like the 30-foot edge in front of Cove Point.
- For puppy drum and speckled trout, drifting soft crab baits or casting paddletails works well.
- For bluefish, troll spoons and surgical tube lures in red or green behind planers or inline weights. Metal jigs are also effective for catching these fish.
- For blue catfish, use soft crab baits or other bottom-dwelling baits in the tidal rivers.

**Fish Activity:**
- Striped bass are active during morning and evening hours, often found in shallow waters and at channel edges.
- Puppy drum and speckled trout are mixed in with striped bass in the lower Bay, particularly in the Tangier and Pocomoke sounds.
- Bluefish are found in the main channels, often chasing bait on the surface.
- Blue catfish are bottom-dwellers and can be found in the tidal rivers.

**Local Events and Regulations:**
- Cobia season is now closed, and any cobia caught must be released.
- Large red drum must also be released after a catch-and-release struggle.
- Be mindful of catch limits and slot sizes for species like striped bass and red drum.

**Tips from Local Anglers:**
- Captain Monty Hawkins of Morning Star Fishing recommends targeting sea bass, which were feeding heavily before the recent northeast winds.
- Taylor Bakke of Always Bent Fishing OC notes that the weakfish bite is the best it’s been in years, with many 25- to 30-inch fish being caught.

**Best Times for Fishing:**
- Early morning and late evening are the best times to catch striped bass, puppy drum, and speckled trout due to cooler water temperatures and increased fish activity.
- For bluefish, mid-day when they are actively chasing bait on the surface can be very productive.

With these conditions and tips, you’re set for a great day of fishing in the Chesapeake Bay. Enjoy your time on the water