Hey guys...i need some help finding out if its legal to use a live bluegill on a hook for bait here in maryland. thanks.

I did not see anyything on the DNR site prohibiting it. My understanding is that since bluegills have no minimum size in MD (except in certain special regulation areas) they can be used as live bait where live bait fishing is permissible.

Md. has just about the most complicated and diverse set of fishing regulations in this country due to the diverse nature of its waters. To get an answer to your question you need to contact the DNR and as about the specific waters that you are fishing.

I would do no assuming in Md. on any regulation!

Finding information on regulations is usually pretty easy.

Just google "(state) fishing regulations" and you will get the website.

If you can't find the information your looking for, then call one of the contact numbers. I also look for an email address and send a quick email.

Calling can sometimes be a hassle, voice mail ya' know, but some states will actually list phone numbers for the game wardens in different counties.  If this is the case, calling the local game warden directly will put you in touch with the official who is patrolling the area you fish.  

I have called game wardens and Fish and game depts a number of times and have always been greeted with very friendly, helpful people.

i know i just got the new booklet a few days ago and it confuses the hell outta me! :

i tried calling yesterday but it was after hours so i got a machine. i will try calling again today.

i also need to know if it is legal to transport any live fish...in particular bluegill and bass. any help?

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/pdfs/2007MSFG.pdf

In most places, if it meets the minimum size and maximum possession limits it is legal.

ok there is no minimum size for bluegill here and the maximum in possesion is 15. so it should be legal.

ok there is no minimum size for bluegill here and the maximum in possesion is 15. so it should be legal.

This cracks me up: you get good sound advice to contact you DNR - I give you two net addresses to read what you can. Your final comment without checking with the DNR is the above jump to the conclusion that it should be legal. Why bother asking? Further you wonder if it is legal to transport live fish. If it is to transplant them then the answer to that one is clearly written in the information that I gave you the address to.

where is the answer if its legal to transplant live fish? is it the thing where it says you can only transplant bluegill, golden shiner, fathead minnows, and channel catfish? that doesnt say anything about transporting...your post just confused me...alot :-/

Dave,

Do yourself a big favor tomorrow. Call the DNR and they will give you the most accurate answers to Md. law. 410-260-8320