Fisheries in the Chesapeake Bay focus on species like blue crabs and oysters, which are vital to both the local economy and ecosystem.

Two of the most iconic and economically significant species in the area, blue crabs and oysters, are the main focus of Chesapeake Bay's fishing operations. Oysters are an important biological component because they filter water and promote biodiversity, while blue crabs are a popular catch in both commercial and recreational fisheries. Both the local seafood sector and initiatives to restore the Bay's ecosystem depend heavily on these species. These fisheries have had difficulties due to pollution, habitat loss, and overfishing, which has prompted conservation initiatives and sustainable management techniques to guarantee their long-term survival.