reel chaos, real fun.

Offering Chesapeake Bay sport fishing, crabbing and cruises

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FISHING, CRABBING, CRUISES + OUTINGS

Chesapeake Bay Charters Done Right

Reel Chaos Charters is a first-class Chesapeake Bay charter fishing and crabbing operation based in Tolchester on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Each trip aboard our Jones 45 comes complete with your rods, reels, bait, tackle and most importantly — fishing licenses. Enjoying a quality fishing experience out on the Chesapeake has never been easier.

Black and white image of man holding a fish on a boat

Steve Smith

CAPT. & OWNER

Born and raised in Rock Hall, Md., Capt. Steve has been fishing and crabbing on the Chesapeake Bay for 30 years. He knows many of hotspots and strategies to catching fish. Capt. Steve’s experience on the water will ensure everyone aboard has a fun (and safe) time!

Black and white close up image of man holding a fish

Paul Reynolds

CAPT.

Born and raised in nearby Queenstown, Md., Capt. Paul Reynolds started his career on the water at age 13. He's been fishing for over 30 years and holds a U.S. Coast Guard 50-ton masters license. Paul enjoys meeting new people and catching lots of fish!

BOAT + EQUIPMENT

"Reel Chaos"

Our Jones 45 is a classic fiberglass and wood boat with plenty of room. It's a die-hard, fish-catching vessel that is well-suited to fish and crab out on the Chesapeake Bay.

  • 45' Jones
  • Twin 250hp CAT diesel engines
  • USCG licensed and insured for up to 17 passengers
  • Fully-operable head
  • Seating for 8+ people
  • Heat and AM/FM, CD, AUX and Bluetooth stereo
  • Radar, GPS, VHF and Fish Finder

Our vessel comes equipped with trolling gear, standard chumming gear, as well as bottom fishing gear — all with Okuma reels that are matched with medium action Ande rods that provide the ultimate fishing experience. In total, we carry over 40 rod and reel combinations primed and ready for fishing.

CHARTER

Fishing

Bate for rockfish on a Reel Chaos charter. Offered during season (May 16–July 16; Aug. 1–Dec. 10) for up to 17 guests, seven days a week. 6:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. reservation times.

$775

$200 deposit required

CHARTER

Crabbing

We provide Chesapeake crabbing charters for up to 6 guests during Maryland's blue crab season (June 1–Nov. 1). Available seven days a week from 6:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

$650

$200 deposit required

EVENTS + OUTINGS

Cruises

Cruise the Chesapeake Bay with us. We offer 3–5 hour custom cruise and event packages to popular destinations like Annapolis, Baltimore, Kent Narrows, St. Michaels and more.

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Packages and pricing

  • When are Maryland's fishing and crabbing seasons?

    The 2024 Maryland striped bass (rockfish) season starts May 16 as there is no trophy season for this year. Rockfish size and limit change to 19"–24", and each person is allowed to keep one (1) rockfish. The rockfish season is closed July 16–31, re-opening August 1–December 10.


    2024 Fishing Season (PDF) →


    The 2024 Maryland blue crab season is from June 1–November 1. The daily creel/possession limit is one (1) bushel of male hard crabs for licensed vessels.

  • Where is your boat docked?

    Reel Chaos Charters is docked at Tolchester Marina, located 21119 Tolchester Beach Rd, Chestertown, MD 21620. Get directions (Google Maps) →


    Take Tolchester Beach Rd to nearly the end, before turning left at Tolchester Marina's entrance gate. Please wait to be admitted into the marina. Free parking is available near boat slip.

  • What should I bring to my charter?

    Though not a complete list, here are some general things to consider bringing on your next Reel Chaos charter:


    • Your food (no bananas) and drinks (absolutely no glass bottles, handles, etc.)
    • Cooler to store the above, ice (available for purchase at marina office)
    • Soft-soled or comfortable shoes
    • Sunscreen, sunglasses, headwear
    • Rain gear (as needed)
    • Warm/cool clothing layers (as needed)
    • Gratuity: our mate works for tips (20-25% of trip total is customary)

  • What are your booking policies?

    A deposit of $200.00 is required for all reservations, and may be made online when booking. Your remaining balance is due day of charter. You may also pay in full when making your reservation.


    For fishing charters, it is an additional $120.00/person for each guest beyond 6 total (maximum of 17).


    If you should cancel or reschedule your reservation, we require 14 days' notice without risk of forfeiting your deposit. Any trips cancelled within 72 hours or no-show of scheduled date are subject to full payment of the base vessel price for your charter ($775.00 for fishing, $650.00 for crabbing).


    We accept all major credit cards, cash and Venmo payments (@Reel-Chaos-42). Credit card payments may be made online or while aboard via our Square card reader.

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