Paddling in Fishing Bay (as well as on the Blackwater River) represents a different experience than paddling in the upper parts of the Bay and its tributaries. The area is much flatter and is characterized by “salt marsh” vegetation. While paddling in the lower parts of the Chesapeake such as Fishing Bay, one sees small islands of Loblolly Pine that seem to float in the marsh.

Representing the largest parcel of publicly owned tidal wetlands in Maryland, Fishing Bay is also the state's largest wildlife management area. Large expanses of tidal marshes in this 21,000- acre area are punctuated by small islands of loblolly pine. Adjacent to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Fishing Bay contributes to one of the largest parcels of land set aside for wildlife in Maryland. Historically, Guinea and Chance's Islands, within Fishing Bay, were sites of early Native American settlements. The Nause-Waiwash tribe members still make annual visits to their ancestral homeland here.

Both the native white-tailed deer and the Asian sika deer can be found grazing on the wetland plants. Muskrats build their houses within the marsh and compete for habitat with the South American nutria, a large rodent whose voracious appetite for marsh plants threatens this fragile ecosystem. Bald eagles and osprey fish the open waters while ducks and geese enjoy the lush wetland plants. Most commonly seen waterfowl at Fishing Bay include mallards, black ducks, teal, gadwall, pintails, scaup and Canada geese. Many species of shorebirds may be seen or heard, including the secretive black rail.

Situated adjacent to the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on the lower Eastern Shore, Fishing Bay's 28,500 acres offer boaters and paddlers a remote wilderness experience. Miles of meandering creeks, marsh grass habitats, secluded ponds and islands of loblolly pine have inspired some to refer to Fishing Bay as Maryland's Everglades. These tidal wetlands are rich in wildlife, from the common to the exotic and rare, promising a unique wildlife viewing experience.

The Fishing Bay WMA is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Division to conserve wildlife and provide for wildlife-dependent recreation. Funds used to manage the area are derived from the sale of hunting licenses and equipment and are dedicated to wildlife purposes only. The result has been the restoration and conservation of a nearly pristine salt marsh habitat that supports wildlife species characteristic of the lower Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay.

At the border between land and water is a special place where two ecosystems collide to produce magical results. This is the salt marsh, once the disdain of humans, but now recognized for its incredible productivity and critical role in maintaing the health of the Chesapeake Bay. Here wildlife flourishes. It is not the place for someone in a hurry or anxious to get to the next destination. The marsh's special qualities are only appreciated with time, patience and a willingness to meander.