Delaware Saltwater Fishing Regulations: What You Need to Know

Are you planning to go saltwater fishing in Delaware? Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, it’s essential to understand and follow the state’s fishing regulations. Delaware offers fantastic opportunities for saltwater fishing along its Atlantic coastline and Delaware Bay shores. However, there are strict regulations in place to protect marine life and ensure sustainable fishing practices. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Delaware’s saltwater fishing rules, including licensing requirements, size limits, seasons, best fishing spots, and more.

Fishing License Requirements

Before you cast your line, make sure you’ve obtained the appropriate licenses. In Delaware, a fishing license is required for anyone aged 16 or older who plans to fish, crab, or clam in tidal and non-tidal waters.

Key Licensing Details:

• General License: A fishing license is required for both residents and non-residents. Delaware residents pay $8.50 annually, while non-residents pay $20 annually.
• Free License Options: Certain exemptions apply:
  • Residents aged 65+: No license required with proof of residency.
  • Farm Fishing: No permit is needed for fishing on a private farm of 20+ acres.
  • Surf Fishing Permit: Residents and non-residents with a valid Delaware surf fishing vehicle permit can fish from designated Delaware State Park beaches without a license. However, all other passengers will still need a license.
  • Other Exemptions: Certain exemptions apply to legally blind residents, veterans, military personnel, and those fishing in fee-based areas.

Where to Obtain a License:

• Online: You can purchase your fishing license easily on the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website at www.fw.delaware.gov.
• In Person: Visit DNREC headquarters in Dover or an authorized agent throughout the state.

For more information, visit the official Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website.

Seasons, Size Limits, and Creel Limits

Delaware’s saltwater fishing regulations include specific seasons, size limits, and daily creel (catch) limits that vary by species. It’s crucial to check the current regulations before each fishing trip, as they are updated frequently to reflect the health of fish populations. Below are key regulated species and their requirements for the 2025 season.

Common Species Regulations:

Striped Bass:

• Slot Limit: 28-37 inches
• Bag Limit: 1 per day
• Season: The spring season runs from April 1 to April 30. There is a no-harvest period from July 1 to August 31.

Summer Flounder (Fluke):

• Minimum Size: 16.5 inches
• Bag Limit: 4 per day
• Season: Open year-round, but size limits apply to specific months.

Black Sea Bass:

• Minimum Size: 12.5 inches
• Bag Limit: 15 per day
• Season: May 15 to December 31

Bluefish:

• Bag Limit: 3 per day for shore/private boat anglers, 5 per day for charter/headboat anglers

Tautog:

• Minimum Size: 15 inches
• Bag Limit: 5 per day
• Season: Closed season from July 1 to August 31.

Weakfish (Speckled Trout):

• Minimum Size: 13 inches
• Bag Limit: 1 per day

Sharks, Tuna, and Swordfish:

• You must follow federal HMS regulations and obtain the appropriate HMS permit.

Species Without Size or Creel Limits:

Species like spot, croaker, kingfish, sheepshead, and certain sharks have no size or creel limits. However, endangered or protected species, including sturgeon, river herring, and dusky sharks, cannot be harvested.

Free Fishing Days

Delaware offers Free Fishing Days, where anglers can fish without needing a fishing license. These days are typically announced by the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife each year. For 2025, the Free Fishing Days are expected to occur on June 6-7, 2025.

On these dates, both residents and non-residents can fish in Delaware’s tidal and non-tidal waters without a license. However, all other fishing regulations, including size and creel limits, still apply.

Make sure to check the official Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website for any updates or changes to these dates. Stay informed and take advantage of this opportunity to fish for free!

For more details, visit the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife official website.

Best Saltwater Fishing Spots in Delaware

Delaware may be small, but it boasts excellent saltwater fishing opportunities along its Atlantic coast and Delaware Bay. Whether you prefer shore fishing, pier fishing, or boat fishing, Delaware has something for everyone. Here are the top spots for saltwater fishing:

1. Indian River Inlet

• Known for striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and shad. You can fish from the shore or the inlet bridge.

2. Delaware Seashore State Park

• Surf fishing is popular along the beaches for kingfish, croaker, bluefish, and more. A drive-on beach access permit is required.

3. Cape Henlopen State Park

• Great for fishing from the beaches and jetties where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic. Popular species include stripers, blues, flounder, and shad.

4. Broadkill Beach

• A lesser-known gem that offers good fishing for flounder, croaker, spot, and kingfish.

5. Delaware Bay Beaches

• Excellent spots for surf fishing at Woodland, Collins, Bowers, and Slaughter beaches. These are prime locations for striped bass and drum during the spring and fall migrations.

For offshore enthusiasts, charter boats are available for fishing in Delaware Bay and the deeper waters of the Atlantic. The Indian River Marina is a popular departure point.

Artificial Reef Program

The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife maintains a network of 14 artificial reefs in Delaware Bay and along the Atlantic coast. These reefs provide habitat for various species and enhance the fishing experience.

• Inshore/Bay Reefs: Popular spots include Redbird Reef and Del-Jersey-Land Reef.
• Offshore Reefs: Fenwick Shoal and Boom Wreck are great for targeting species like flounder, black sea bass, tautog, and triggerfish.

The reefs are located between 4 and 26 miles offshore and depths range from 30 to 120 feet. These reefs are great for anglers looking to catch fish in both shallow and deep waters.

Responsible Fishing Practices

To protect Delaware’s marine life and ensure sustainable fishing, anglers should adopt responsible fishing practices. Here’s how you can help preserve fish populations:

• Catch and Release: Handle fish carefully and release them promptly to minimize stress and improve survival rates.
• Use Circle Hooks: Non-offset circle hooks are recommended to reduce gut-hooking, especially when using live bait.
• Proper Disposal: Dispose of fishing lines, hooks, and other waste responsibly to avoid wildlife entanglements.
• Avoid Spawning Areas: Respect spawning seasons for vulnerable species like striped bass and weakfish.
• Report Tagged Fish: Report tagged fish to contribute to ongoing scientific research.

By following these best practices and adhering to regulations, you can contribute to preserving Delaware’s saltwater fisheries for future generations.

Conclusion

Delaware’s saltwater fishing regulations are designed to protect marine life while allowing anglers to enjoy the state’s rich fishing opportunities. By staying informed and adhering to the regulations, you can help maintain the sustainability of Delaware’s fisheries. Remember to check the latest updates on the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website before heading out on your next fishing adventure.

Be sure to get your fishing license, stay updated on the latest regulations, and practice responsible fishing to ensure that Delaware’s saltwater ecosystems remain healthy for years to come.

Resources:

• Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife Official Website
• Fishing License Purchase Portal