JULY
Sandy Point State Park,
MARYLAND
Sandy Point State Park, located on the shores of Chesapeake Bay, offers myriad angling and non-angling options. The park sits just north of the western end of the Bay Bridge.

For the serious angler, Sandy Point provides a great spot for headquartering a trip aimed at striped bass, known locally as rockfish. Once threatened, the striped bass fishery has responded in fine shape, thanks to more stringent regulations.

Throughout the summer months, anglers can target stripers of various age-classes in the bay waters near Sandy Point. Charters are not available directly through the state park, but it's not difficult to arrange a trip through local private marinas and sporting goods outlets. It would be wise, however, to do so in advance of visiting the park.

Other species commonly taken from bay waters proximate to Sandy Point include perch and croakers. Bluefish are an important fish, but tend to show up later in the year.

Anglers/vacationers bringing their own boats to the park will find a full- service marina that features 22 ramps. Six finger piers are provided, available on a first-come, first-served basis. The marina store sells fishing licenses, crabbing permits, bait, tackle and fuel. Also found at the store are snacks, drinks and limited picnic supplies.

A separate launch area is available for windsurfers, sail boats, canoes, kayaks and catamarans.

The park also has a boat-rental concession that offers 16-foot motorboats powered by 6-horse outboards, which can be rented for $13/hour. A $100 deposit is also required.

Folks who prefer to fish from shore will find good spots to cast from: numerous rock jetties as well as a fishing pier located next to the launch ramps. A crabbing area is also provided here.

Non-anglers will find Sandy Point a great place to enjoy the sun. The park's beaches are considered among the finest on Chesapeake Bay. Lifeguards are provided during the summer season. Amenities at the beach include showers and restrooms.

Picnic areas are found next to the beach, including 12 large shelters in the park. These are rentals, and must be reserved in advance.

Daily admission to the park is $5 per person for residents, $6 for non-residents during weekends. During weekdays, the fee is $1 less.

Lodging can be found in nearby Annapolis. Sandy Point State Park is located near the west end of the Bay Bridge on U.S. Route 50/301. Take Exit 32. You can obtain additional information by calling (410) 974-2149.

Delaware & Raritan Canal
State Park,
NEW JERSEY
A July visit to Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park will give the family a chance to enjoy various fishing option, and also partake in a history lesson.