The Nanticoke River is one of the largest rivers on the Delmarva Peninsula, supported by a watershed that is nearly 530,000 acres in size, and draining into the Chesapeake Bay. In 1993, the Nature Conservancy, the Conservation Fund and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation assisted the Maryland Department of Natural Resources in purchasing the 1,587 acre Nutter’s Neck tract (Wic. Co.). With this purchase, the Nanticoke River WMA was established to help conserve the wildlife habitats found along this mostly tidal river, and to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for the public to be able to enjoy. Over time additional tracts have been added to the WMA which include: Calloway Wharf (Dor. Co.) 55 acres, Lower Marshyhope Swamp (Dor. Co.) 415 acres, and Sharptown Dunes (Wic. Co.) 198 acres What to see Visitors to Nanticoke River WMA might glimpse one of the many bald eagles that frequent the river in search of food. Any trip along the bottomland forests could yield abundant opportunities to see a number of wading birds and waterfowl, as the marshes are extremely productive and support a wide variety of birds. Wild turkeys have long been established in the area, and Sika deer continue to expand into habitats surrounding the stream corridors in the watershed. Great Blue Heron on marshWhat to do Upland areas and wetlands provide opportunities for deer hunters to pursue white-tail deer and a few sika deer found here. Fields and woodland edges provide habitat for mourning doves, cottontail rabbits, bobwhite quail, and woodcock. The wetlands, rivers, and creeks offer opportunities for waterfowl hunting. Trapping is offered by yearly lease. Anglers will find bass, catfish, rockfish and perch and may fish along the shoreline or from a boat. Boat access is available via public ramps at Wetipquin, Sharptown, Federalsburg and Vienna. A peninsula jutting from Nutter’s Neck into the wetlands and the Nanticoke River offers a scenic hike which may include bird watching and nature photography. Area Regulations Use of Nanticoke River WMA is generally permitted seven days a week throughout the year. Hunting is allowed in accordance with open seasons and shooting hours, unless otherwise noted. All State and Federal Hunting Laws and Regulations are applicable. Trapping is by permit only. Dove hunting is restricted to certain days and shooting hours. No motorized vehicles are allowed.