Map of the Middle Branch Harbor located in South Baltimore, MD. The neon green, dotted outline shows where invasive fish must be caught in order to receive Reel Rewards bounty money. Anglers must provide proof of catch through iAngler to receive bounty.

Reel Rewards Program Policies

Anglers participating in the Reel Reward Program must adhere to the following policies:

• Adhere to all applicable fishing regulations for the area in which you fish.
• Click here to see Maryland DNR page on fishing regulations. 
• Follow consumption guidelines to ensure safety in preparation and consumption of fish.
• Click here to see consumption guidelines from MDE. 
• Avoid harming native species while fishing for invasives. Intentionally harming of protected wildlife or native wildlife is prohibited.
• Log accurate information on the catch in iAngler to receive the bounty.
• Fish must be caught in the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River in Baltimore City (see map).
• Fish must be caught by the participant submitting them for the reward.
• Photo or video evidence of catch  as well as location must be logged in iAngler. We reserve the right to reject a log if there are factual inconsistencies in the information provided.
• You may log multiple catches per iAngler log for fish caught in the same area and time. 
• Submitted fish heads or bodies must be in good condition and identifiable.
• There are no restrictions on whether the fish is caught on land or by boat. 
• There are no size restrictions on the invasive species that are eligible for the reward. This is subject to change due to volume and demand.
• There are no restrictions on where a participant resides. 
• Participants may receive $30 for every invasive species head dropped off. Bounty amount is subject to change due to volume and demand.
• Must be 18 years of age or older to receive the reward.
• Violation of above policies or abusive, violent, and otherwise disruptive behavior are grounds for restriction or disqualification from the program.