Saint Martin River

The Saint Martin River is a popular location to enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, kayaking, crabbing, or simply sightseeing. Spanning over 4 miles in Worcester County, the river consists of two main tributaries that broaden and empty into the Isle of Wight Bay to the West of Ocean City.

The Isle of Wight Park, located at the end of Saint Martins Neck Road, features a public pier from which kayaks and canoes can be launched and of course where fishing can be done. The park also offers a few picnic tables and with its wonderful view of the bay and Ocean City, makes it a relaxing place to unwind. The park is open from 6AM until dusk. 

The Bishopville Park is another popular location within walking distance of the Saint Martin River and makes a great picnic location or a great place for outdoor activities with it's grassy open area and its shaded picnic tables. The park is open from 6AM until dusk. 

Human Impact

The condition of the Saint Martin River has been impacted by human activity over the years. This river played and still remains an important part of the area's agriculture. Ditches have been dug for irrigation and through residential areas such as Holiday Harbor and Ocean Pines for added curb appeal and easy access to the river for residents. However, this has led to a number of issues such as heavy nutrient load and pollution from runoff. Thankfully, projects have been working towards restoring the river, such as the Bishopville Dam project by Maryland Coastal Bays. 

At the beginning of the Bishopville Tributary of the Saint Martin River, by the Bishopville Pond, was a 4 foot dam that had been in place for over 50 years. However, this restricted the movement of fish, such as alewife and blueback herring, that need to lay their eggs in freshwater. In 2014 the dam was replaced by a series of steps and pools, removing the barrier to fish migration and allowed for increased vegetation to grow. This in turn has begun helping lower the levels of nitrogen in the river.