Quick Facts

• Location: Trappe, Maryland
• Pier Type: State park fishing pier
• Water Type: Choptank River / Chesapeake Bay watershed
• Access: Public access
• Fishing License: Maryland fishing license requirements apply
• Best For: Striped bass, white perch, catfish, croaker
• Best Time to Fish: Early morning, evening, and moving tides
• Common Species: Striped bass, white perch, channel catfish, blue catfish, croaker
• Tackle Style: Light to medium pier tackle
• Night Fishing: Check current park hours and regulations
• Amenities: Parking, trails, shoreline access, state park facilities

Overview

Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park provides anglers with excellent access to the Choptank River near Cambridge and Trappe on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The fishing structures are associated with the former Route 50 bridge crossing and give shore-based anglers access to deeper river water that would otherwise be difficult to reach without a boat.

The Choptank is a major Chesapeake Bay tributary, creating opportunities to encounter both freshwater and saltwater-tolerant species depending on season, salinity, and location.

Fishing Tips

Bottom rigs are useful for catfish, croaker, and other bottom-oriented species. Anglers targeting striped bass or white perch can work artificial lures or bait around current seams, pilings, and other structure.

Tidal movement can have a major influence on fishing, so checking the Choptank River tide before visiting is worthwhile.

Bottom Line

One of Maryland’s standout shore-fishing destinations, offering extensive pier access to the productive Choptank River.