Chesapeake Catfish Cookoff

The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park (AMM) is proud to announce the inaugural Chesapeake Catfish Cookoff, a dynamic culinary event with a purpose, taking place Saturday, May 3 from 12-4 pm at AMM’s scenic Park Campus, located at 7300 Edgewood Road in Annapolis, MD. 

At the heart of this event is a bold mission: to turn the tide on the invasive blue catfish population in the Chesapeake Bay. What threatens our ecosystem may just be our next great local delicacy—and AMM is bringing the community together to prove it. 

A Culinary Competition with a Cause 

The Chesapeake Catfish Cookoff brings together top chefs from across the region—including talent from The Dabney, The Salt Line, Leo, Sea Salt, Boatyard Bar & Grill and others—to showcase creative, delicious takes on blue catfish. Guests will sample their way through chef-prepared tastings. A distinguished panel of judges —Chef John Shields, acclaimed author and TV host; Jay Fleming, award-winning photographer and catfish advocate; and Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Kevin Atticks—will determine the Catfish Cookoff Champion. 

Beyond the Plate: Conservation in Action 

The Cookoff isn’t just about great food—it’s about education and impact. Guests will have the chance to learn about the ecological and economic effects of the invasive blue catfish through interactive demos and talks, a trotline demonstration, and a conversation with a veteran Chesapeake Bay waterman. Acclaimed Chef John Shields of Our Common Table will also do a cooking demonstration.  

The AMM Experience: Food, Fun, and a Mission 

In true AMM style, the event will feature live music, signature cocktails, and complimentary Duffy boat rides, creating a lively waterfront atmosphere while spotlighting an urgent conservation effort. All proceeds support AMM’s mission to preserve and share the maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay and its communities. 

Don’t Miss This First-of-Its-Kind Event 

Tickets are limited and expected to sell out quickly. Be part of this exciting fusion of food, fun, and environmental stewardship.