What if I were to tell you that you can go fishing, keep your catch, help rid the ecosystem of invasive species, AND get paid for it? For an angler, that’s a dream come true. Well, if you’re in Baltimore, you’re in luck, because that’s exactly what The Environmental Justice Journalism Initiative in Baltimore has established.
Parts of Maryland’s Baltimore Harbor are loaded with invasive fish species: Snakehead, Blue Catfish, and Flathead Catfish. These invasive species prey on and decimate resources that native species rely on.
To help solve this problem, the EJJI has set up a bounty program they call “Reel Rewards”. Established in 2024, it’s been renewed for 2025 with a slight modification. This year, anglers can turn in 12 fish per week and they’ll be rewarded with $30 per fish.
Here’s the skinny:
- Register as an angler on iAngler and join the 2025 Reel Rewards Tournament.
- Catch an invasive fish species (Snakehead, Blue or Flathead Catfish) in the Baltimore Harbor (limited to the area in blue in the map).
- Visit us at a drop-off station to turn in the heads or bodies and collect your reward.
- There is a cap of 12 fish allowed to be turned in per week.
For more details, check out the Reel Rewards page.
Happy Fishing!
