Shore fishing is allowed along the Atlantic beaches in both the Virginia and Maryland sections of Assateague Island National Seashore, except for the beaches with lifeguards. An appropriate state fishing license is needed for those 16 and older. No permit is needed from the National Park Service. For those with 4-Wheel Drive vehicles who are looking to get away from the crowded beaches, permits for driving on the beach can be obtained for a fee. See the Beach Driving web page for details.
Maryland requires a valid Maryland Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing or Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing license. Those who are exempt from licensing and holders of out of state reciprocal licenses must register (free) with the Maryland Saltwater Angler Registry. See the Maryland Sport Fishing and Crabbing Licenses web page.
Virginia requires a valid Virginia Saltwater Fishing or Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing license. See the Virginia Saltwater Recreational Fishing Licenses web page. Those who are exempt from licensing and holders of out of state reciprocal licenses must register (free) with the Virginia Fisherman Identification Program (FIP).
Crabbing and shell fishing is allowed in designated areas in the bay. Inquire about where you can shell fish at one of the Visitor Centers.
The hunting of waterfowl, deer, fox, rabbit, and mourning dove is allowed at designated locations in the Seashore and Refuge. For information, visit the Assateague Island National Seashore’s Hunting at Assateague and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge website.
With a few exceptions, use of any photograph on the National Park Planner website requires a paid Royalty Free Editorial Use License or Commercial Use License. See the Photo Usage page for details.
Last updated on October 3, 2023