Harry L. Bowen sold this land to the state for $1.00 in 1955. From the standpoint of river tidal marsh conservation, that purchase was more than a bargain. Due to the nature of the wet terrain, Bowen WMA's 313 acres can be difficult to get to, but it's more than worth the effort.

What To See

Covering more than 90 percent of the area, the tidal marsh is a stop over point for migrating and wintering waterfowl. Black ducks, mallards, American wigeon, canvasbacks, lesser scaup, buffleheads and wood ducks are often seen resting and feeding here. Rails, historically hunted from push boats on the river, still stalk the grasses for aquatic insects. Their slim bodies are designed to get them easily through the narrow spaces between blades of grass, hence the popular expression, "Thin as a rail." Mink and muskrats cruise the shoreline and marsh creeks, while river otters play together in the water.

What To Do

Bowen is a much-sought-after site for waterfowl hunting, which is limited to permanent blinds located on the river. Hunters who are interested in pursuing waterfowl at Bowen can get a free permit for the blinds from the Myrtle Grove Wildlife Office. Trapping is also available. From the waters, crabbers can harvest a memorable meal. Anglers can expect to catch white perch, catfish, carp and rockfish. A canoe trip up one of Bowen's many creeks is an excellent way to savor the diverse wildlife that Maryland's river tidal wetlands support.

Area Regulations

• Click here to apply for the free Southern Region Public Hunting Permit.
• Use of Bowen WMA is generally permitted seven days a week throughout the year.
• Hunting is allowed in accordance with open seasons, bag limits, and shooting hours.
• Bowen WMA is a popular site for waterfowl hunting, which is limited to six permanent blinds located on the river shoreline.
• Trapping and waterfowl hunting by permit only.
• Motorized vehicles are prohibited.

Non-Hunting Users

• Non-hunting visitors are welcome.  Be aware of open hunting seasons and visit accordingly.
• A canoe trip up one of Bowen's many creeks is an excellent way to savor the diverse wildlife supported by Maryland's tidal wetlands.
• One can expect to catch crabs, white perch, catfish and striped bass from the adjacent waters.
• Expect wet footing most of the year.

Site Management Practices

• Providing wintering habitat for waterfowl is the overriding goal of Bowen WMA.
• Vegetation control is practiced on 140 of Bowen’s 313 acres.

Directions

Bowen WMA is accessible only by boat. A ramp is available at Magruder's Ferry Landing. Take U.S. Route 301 south to Croom Road and turn left. Take Croom Road to Magruder's Landing Road and to the Clyde E. Watson Memorial Boat Ramp. For additional information, contact the Myrtle Grove Work Center at (301) 743-5161.

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