The State of Maryland Survey has for two years in a row identified the abundance of juvenile menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay at its highest level since 1990.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced findings from its 2024 juvenile striped bass survey, revealing a significant milestone for juvenile menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay. While the survey documented continued challenges for striped bass reproduction, it highlighted a positive trend for two key forage species: menhaden and spot.
‘Encouraging results were documented regarding two species lower on the food chain,’ DNR states.
‘Menhaden abundance was nearly equal to last year, which was the highest measured since 1990. Spot abundance was the highest measured since 1988. These species are vital to the ecology of the Bay as a food source for many other species of fish and wildlife.’
The Maryland DNR juvenile striped bass survey monitors the reproductive success of striped bass as well as the abundance of other fish species in the Chesapeake Bay. Biologists conduct the survey three times each summer at 22 sites across the Choptank, Nanticoke, and Potomac rivers, as well as the upper Chesapeake Bay. In 2024, the survey captured more than 56,000 fish of 56 different species.
‘As many industry opponents baselessly claim low numbers of menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay, this survey is further evidence that the population remains strong,’ said Ben Landry, Vice President of Public Affairs at Ocean Fleet Services, a Menhaden Fisheries Coalition (MFC) member.
‘We’ll continue to use the best science to guide our fishery, which is sustainable thanks to the collaborative efforts of industry, fishery managers, and scientists.’
