Devon,
Sorry so long getting back, and thank you for the compliments.
The fishery for SB this spring, until May 15, is a bit complicated. Both Virginia and Maryland have "slots". This means you must carefully measure your fish, and be sure to be within the limits of the state in which you catch the fish.
The latest information on fines for "illegal?" or fish of the slightly wrong length is that if you're lucky you may get a warning the first time, and a serious fine for the repeater. This originally included boat confiscation, however, in the last couple years that has been much less frequent.
I, of course, would suggest fishing the first week on a charter, with a knowledgeable captain. I know this sounds self serving, but no matter how good one is, there are always better anglers/length negotiators.
I understand that after May 15, the MD, PRFC, and Virginia will go to their normal regulations. In the meantime, if in MD, be careful, as the way the regulations are written, there are no instructions to fisheries officers. It's sorta like a 0 tolerance radar trap, if the officer wants.
Anyhow, don't let this first month of "slots" discourage you. Enjoy your fishing and the beautiful Chesapeake resource.
CaptRichie