I have seen some people out fishing for them on weekends here on the shore. I have heard of some being caught but I haven't witnessed it first hand. They have been fishing at the Wye Mills everytime I go by there the last couple weeks.
Yes its kind of a crap shoot from what I hear. I've been in there twice with a family member. It was not a bad experience either time. That being said I have heard horror stories like some of yours all to often.
I bought a AR from an individual on Sept 15 at Centreville State Police Barracks. Got not disapproved on Dec. 30. By my county (Queen Annes) on the 77R is a #17 in red ink. I just noticed it after reading this post.