Potomac River Fisheries Commission

Important Commercial Gill Net License Early Relocation Opportunity (Stand Fee Waived During This Period). Click here for details.

Commercial License Renewal:

Oyster license sales begin on Sept. 22, 2025. Renewal applications have been mailed.

Gill net license sales begin November 3, 2025. Renewal applications will be mailed the last week of October. Appointments must be made if intending to move a gill net stand.

All other commercial fish and crab license sales begin on December 1, 2025. Renewal applications for these licenses will be mailed the last week of November. Appointments must be made if intending to move a pound net and/or fyke net stand.

Hook and Line and Crab Pot Lotteries (Reg. I, Sec. 1(d)(1)). The Commission will take lottery registrations beginning November 3, 2025 through January 30, 2026. The drawing will take place on the first Monday in February. Click here for lottery details for both hook and line and crab pot:

Important Gill Net, Fyke Net, and Pound Net License: Beginning November 3, 2025, if you want to move a stand at license renewal, you must call the office to schedule an appointment. This requirement applies to ALL commercial fixed gear licenses throughout the limited entry renewal period. Walk-ins that would like to move their stand upon arrival might not be accommodated during busy periods or if staff is not available. At that time, you will be required to make an appointment for a later time to complete the renewal of such licenses. Normal license fees apply. An appointment is not necessary for all other commercial fish and crab licensing.

Commercial Striped Bass Tags – All commercial striped bass tags must be picked up in our office during normal business hours, Monday – Friday, 8:30 – 4:00. Please see our calendar for holiday or last-minute closings. If you are unable to pick up your own striped bass tags, you are required to complete the Designee Form and have your designee bring it with them. We will not accept phone calls to verify permission.

PRFC/DC DOEE Atlantic Striped Bass Draft Addendum III Public Hearings
September 25, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Webinar Hearing: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/3066670320879563349

PRFC Finfish Advisory Committee Vacancies:
1. VA Recreational Crabber (4-year term)
2. VA Upper River Recreational Fisherman (4-year term)
3. VA Lower River Recreational Fisherman (4-year term)
4. VA Recreational Fisherman At-Large (1-year term)
5. Maryland Recreational Fisherman At-Large (1-year term)
If you, or someone you know, who would be interested in filling this vacancy, please complete the nomination form and submit it via mail, email (contactprfc@gmail.com), or dropping it off in person at the Commission office. These positions remain vacant until filled.

PRFC Fin Fish Harvest Report