DNR UPDATE (EDIT) 3/31/2020 Subsistence hunting and fishing — limited hunting and limited recreational fishing and crabbing for sustenance — can continue, however social distancing must be adhered to strictly. News from DNR
Recreational boating is not allowed, as was announced yesterday.
UPDATE: 3/31/2020 4:11 PM DNR FAQ
Can I go hunting?
Limited hunting is allowed if you are seeking food for you or your family, but the social distancing guidelines and the prohibition on social gatherings must be strictly followed.
Can I go fishing?
Limited fishing is allowed if you are seeking food for you or your family, but the social distancing guidelines and the prohibition on social gatherings must be strictly followed.
Can I go boating?
Recreational boating is prohibited until the governor lifts the executive order or until the State of Emergency has ended. However, if an individual is boating to seek food for them or their family, boating is permitted. Boats used to transport essential employees or goods as defined in the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce are also permitted.
Does kayaking or paddle boarding count as recreational boating?
Since kayaking and paddle boarding are both human-powered forms of exercise, akin to bicycling, they are permitted under the executive order. Guidance on social distancing and the prohibition on social gatherings must be strictly followed.
Before you head out to a county or state park, be sure to research whether or not it is open during the restrictions.
The Maryland Executive Order mentions outdoor exercise, but DNR clarifies
II. Stay-at-Home Order
b. As used herein, “Essential Activities” means:
v. Engaging in outdoor exercise activities, such as walking, hiking, running, or biking, but only in compliance with paragraph III below and applicable social distancing guidance published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) and the Maryland Department of Health (“MDH”); vi. Travel required by a law enforcement officer or court order; or vii. Traveling to and from a federal, State, or local government building for a necessary purpose. III. Gatherings Large Than 10 Persons Prohibited. a. Social, community, spiritual, religious, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings and events (“large gatherings and events”) of more than 10 people are hereby prohibited at all locations and venues, including but not limited to parades, festivals, conventions, and fundraisers. b. Planned large gatherings and events must be canceled or postponed until after termination of the state of emergency and the proclamation of the catastrophic health emergency has been rescinded.
Maryland DNR issues guidance “for sustenance” fishing and hunting
From DNR: While the order does allow for outdoor exercise recreation, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reaffirming the need for members of the public who engage in outdoor recreation to follow all rules and guidelines in place to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
Today’s Hunter Gatherer
There is a modern Hunter Gatherer movement in the United States. Whether for health, fitness or sport, people are heading back to the woods, fields and rivers for exercise and food. A modern Gatherer may also maintain their own garden and visit the local grocer and farmers’ market to pick fresh vegetables and make healthy food choices. Read more…
Maryland Outdoor Life 