As of October 4, 2024, the Chesapeake Bay around the Baltimore and Washington D.C. areas is buzzing with fishing activity. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
The tide is expected to be moderate, with high tide around 9:30 AM and low tide at 3:30 PM. Weather conditions are looking favorable, with partly cloudy skies and a gentle breeze out of the northwest at about 10 mph. Sunrise is at 7:04 AM, and sunset will be at 6:34 PM.

### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a lot of action across the bay. In the upper Chesapeake Bay, smallmouth bass were active in the rivers, particularly around the Susquehanna and Patapsco rivers, where topwater lures and bait like live minnows were effective.

In the middle bay, rockfish (stripers) were scattered but still catchable using topwater lures like yozuri knock pencils and three-inch baits. The lower Choptank, Herring Bay, and the lower Patuxent were hot spots for redfish, with four-inch Gulp Paddleshad in Chrome working well.

### Best Lures and Bait
For rockfish, livelining spot or jigging with eels are good options, especially around areas like Love Point and the Sewer Pipe. However, due to size restrictions, many anglers are opting for livelining spot instead.

For redfish and speckled trout, the lower bay areas saw success with zman micro chatterbaits and three-inch paddle tail trailers. Catfish are also moving shallow, and fish finder rigs with catfish candies or Texas-style rattles are proving effective.

### Hot Spots
- **Upper Bay:** The Susquehanna and Patapsco rivers for smallmouth bass.
- **Middle Bay:** The lower Choptank, Herring Bay, and the lower Patuxent for redfish.
- **Lower Bay:** Areas around Windmill Point, Smith Point, and the Target Ship for a mix of rockfish, redfish, and speckled trout.

Overall, the fall bite is in full swing, and the Chesapeake Bay is offering a diverse range of fishing opportunities. Make sure to check the local regulations and enjoy the great fishing conditions.