Outdoor Activities

Fishing and Crabbing
Piers, boat ramps and marinas are located throughout the County, along the Bay, the rivers and creeks. The Cambridge fishing pier, extending out into the Choptank River along the Senator Malkus Bridge, has become a very popular fishing spot. Over fifty charter boats call Dorchester their home port and they are captained by licensed skippers who provide full and half-day fishing trips. A summer day on the Bay can net an angler flounder, sea trout, spot or drum. Blues appear in early spring and again in fall. The rockfish can once again be enjoyed during a special seasons. white perch, catfish, largemouth bass, and many other species abound in the waterways of Dorchester County

Hunting
A variety of hunting is available in the County. Wildlife management areas, private land, and organizations like the Grand National Waterfowl Hunt Club provide many areas on which to hunt waterfowl. Sea duck hunting is fast becoming one of the most exciting and challenging forms of water fowling. Two types of deer are hunted in the area: the whitetail and the sika deer. Whitetails are quite prevalent and the County has the largest wild herd of sika in the Nation. Archery, gun, and black powder hunters come from far and wide to enjoy their sport. Muskrat trapping is popular in the winter months and in February the Annual Outdoor Show and Muskrat Skinning Competition are held.

Biking
" Home of the Cambridge Triathlon Bicycle Course," the County offers bike routes both within the city and in the countryside, including a route in Blackwater Wildlife Refuge. Dorchester was chosen as one of the top ten rides by Bicycling Magazine in 1995.

Boating
With all the water in and around Dorchester County, any type of boating is possible. Tranquil creeks and ponds offer waters for canoeing. Open rivers and bays are perfect for power boating and sailing. Quiet coves and natural harbors are around every bend and welcome your anchorage. Marinas in Cambridge offer a wide range of services to the visitor. Restaurants are always close by. The local sailing association holds races weekly. The annual powerboat regatta takes place on the Choptank River.

Wildlife and Bird Watching
Because of its open rural areas, expansive marshes and abundant waterways, the County provides a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife and birds. Driving or biking through the countryside or being on the water will give you an opportunity to observe many species. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, located just south of Cambridge, was established in 1932 and is a chief wintering area for Canada geese and ducks. It is also a haven for three of the nation's endangered species: the bald eagle, the Delmarva fox squirrel, and the peregrine falcon. Throughout the year, there is a diverse population of birds, mammals, and waterfowl to enjoy watching and photographing.