Fishing in Delaware. About fish. lakes, licenses and regulations

What kind of fish can you catch in Delaware

Below are 38 types of fish that can be caught in Delaware. The data have been collected based on fishing reports from Delaware and have undergone serious moderation. Explore the map of Delaware to find out where a particular type of fish is biting.

Lakes and reservoirs for fishing in Delaware

Below are the largest and most popular lakes, reservoirs, and bays for fishing in Delaware. Each Delaware body of water includes information on fish species, analytics, and a map with fishing spots

Delaware Bay (DE, NJ)

Indian River Bay (DE)

Assawoman Bay (MD, DE)

Little Assawoman Bay (DE)

Red Mill Pond (DE)

Silver Lake (Kent, DE)

Lake Como (DE)

Diamond Pond (DE)

Wagamons Pond (DE)

Licenses for fishing in Delware

For more detailed information and to purchase a fishing license, you can visit the eRegulations website and the DNREC website.

License Type	Resident Fee	Non-Resident Fee
General Fishing License	$8.50	$20.00
7-day Tourist Fishing	NA	$12.50
Boat Fishing License (20 ft or less)	$40.00	$40.00
Boat Fishing License (more than 20 ft)	$50.00	$50.00
Head Boat License	$300.00	$600.00
Charter Boat License	$150.00	$300.00
Fishing Guide License	$100.00	$300.00
Young Angler Trout Stamp (12-15)	$2.10	$6.20
Adult Trout Stamp (16-64)	$4.20	$6.20

Additional notes:

The boat fishing license covers the license holder and all occupants in the boat. Residents who purchase a boat fishing license are also given a regular fishing license to use anywhere in the state. Non-resident boat license holders need a separate non-resident fishing license to fish elsewhere in Delaware when not aboard their vessels.
There are various exemptions and discounted licenses available, particularly for residents over 65, the legally blind, and those with disabilities.

Fishing Regulations in Delaware

Prohibited Gear and Fishing Methods

Use of explosives, poisons, or electrical devices for fishing is illegal.
Fishing with nets, traps, or seines is restricted to specific permits and designated areas.
Use of live fish as bait is limited in certain waters to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Snagging fish is not allowed except in designated areas during specific seasons.
Spearing and bowfishing are permitted for certain species in specified waters, with restrictions.

Catch Limits

Trout: Daily limit varies by area, typically 4 fish, with size restrictions in some waters.
Striped Bass: Daily limit and size restrictions vary, especially in the Delaware River and Bay.
Bluefish: Daily limit varies, often 10 fish, with no size limit.
Black Sea Bass: Daily limit and size restrictions vary, with specific seasons.
Tautog (Blackfish): Daily limit varies by season, with size restrictions.
Summer Flounder: Daily limit and size restrictions vary, with specific seasons.
Weakfish: Daily limit varies, often 1 fish, with size restrictions.
Crab (Blue Crab): Daily limits and size restrictions apply, with specific regulations for recreational crabbing.
Lobster: Harvesting generally prohibited, with exceptions for specific areas and sizes.
Shellfish (Clams, Oysters): Daily limits and size restrictions apply, with areas closed due to water quality.

Restrictions on Access to Water Bodies

Access to some waters may be restricted for environmental conservation or public safety reasons.
Fishing on private property requires explicit permission from the landowner.
Special regulations for fishing in state parks and wildlife areas.
No fishing zones enforced around certain infrastructures like dams and fish hatcheries.
Seasonal access restrictions in certain areas for fish spawning and habitat management.

Zones of Special Regulation

Catch-and-release areas for certain species, especially trout and striped bass.
Areas with gear restrictions, such as artificial lures only or barbless hooks.
Slot limits for striped bass and other species in certain areas.
Special regulations in waters with high fishing pressure or ecological sensitivity.
Managed areas for shellfish harvesting, with regulations to protect water quality and populations.

Protection of Rare Species

Fishing for endangered or threatened species is strictly prohibited.
Special regulations in habitats of rare or sensitive aquatic species.
Research fishing for rare species requires special permits and adherence to guidelines.
Conservation measures for native fish species and habitat restoration projects.
Monitoring and enforcement to protect critical habitats and vulnerable species.

Seasonal Restrictions

Closed seasons for specific species during spawning or migration periods.
Seasonal fishing regulations for certain species to ensure sustainability.
Temporary closures of specific waters for conservation or emergency reasons.
Regulations adjusted based on fish population surveys and environmental conditions.
Special rules for ice fishing, including gear and shelter regulations, in colder regions.

Most popular cities for fishing in Delaware

The largest and most popular fishing cities in Delaware. Cities in Delaware include information on fishing, as well as a map with fishing spots. Explore the cities to know what fish are caught and in which bodies of water.