Answer
Coastal Bays and nearshore waters hold cownose rays, clearnose skates, and occasional butterfly rays—flat cartilaginous cousins of sharks, not bony fish. Cownose rays migrate in schools; skates often lie on bottom structure. Identification matters for handling and regulations.
Sources: Maryland DNR · Maryland Coastal Bays Program
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
