The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has made fishing equipment available to borrow for free at multiple sites across the state. Maryland’s Tackle Loaner Program is available to individuals, families, or to groups, depending on the site.
This free program aims to encourage novice anglers and their families to continue to develop their angling skills in the Maryland outdoors. The department welcomes all ages and families that may be camping, hiking, or using parks for other outdoor recreational activities to loan equipment too. The goal is to make recreational fishing as easy and accessible as possible for anyone wanting to enjoy the sport.
Get Your Fishing License Here
Individuals under the age of 16 are not required to obtain a license to fish.
More information on Maryland Fishing Licenses.
How it works
- Find a site near you. Loaning sites include public libraries, state parks, nature centers and local parks.
- Fill out this brief Borrower Form
- Check out your loaned gear at the selected site. Individual sites may have different check out policies, please communicate with the site to make sure you are following proper procedure.
- Go fishing!!
- Return gear to site on the agreed-upon date (some can be loaned for multiple days at a time).
Tip: consider calling ahead to check that gear is available, as some sites are busier than others!
Fishing Gear Available
- Rod and Reel: Basic spincast reel and rod setup with bobber, split shot sinker, swivel, and circle hook.
- You will need your own bait! Check out
Fish Facts for more information on bait types. Some state parks have bait vending machines and/or sell bait in their park stores.
Current Tackle Loaner Program sites:
If you are interested in becoming a tackle loaner site please fill out this request form!
There are a variety of locations listed below: State parks, Public Libraries, Nature Centers, etc…The maximum number of rods per individual, on-site or off-site use permission, and programmatic offerings may vary at each site. Group programs are by reservation only. Please make sure to plan and coordinate with the contact listed for that site when reserving free tackle.
