Last updated on February 10th, 2024 at 02:51 pm
Surf Fishing in Delaware? I know, not the first destination that comes to mind when you think of surf fishing. But yes, with over 380 miles of shoreline, Delaware has some great surf fishing options. Let’s face it, if you have a beach anywhere in the world, somebody will be fishing form it. So, if you find yourself in the northeastern US and are looking for a fun and exciting way to enjoy the outdoors. Surf fishing in Delaware might be just the ticket for you.
Key Takeaways
- Surf fishing is a popular activity in Delaware, with miles of beautiful coastline and a variety of fish species to catch.
- Before you start surf fishing, you’ll need to obtain a general fishing license and the right equipment.
- With the right knowledge and safety measures in place, surf fishing in Delaware can be a fun and rewarding activity for anglers of all skill levels.
- Like anywhere that has a beach, in Delaware, people will be fishing from it.
Top Spots for Surf Fishing in Delaware:
- Cape Henlopen State Park – The park offers a variety of different fishing opportunities, including surf fishing, bay fishing, and fishing from the park’s fishing pier.
- Delaware Seashore State Park – This park offers over six miles of beach access for surf fishing, as well as bay fishing opportunities.
- Fenwick Island – Fenwick Island offers over two miles of beach access for surf fishing, as well as bay fishing opportunities.
- Lewes Beach: – This beach on the Delaware Bay is a good spot for catching flounder, striped bass, bluefish, croaker, spot, weakfish, or drum.
- Rehoboth Beach: – This beach on the Atlantic Ocean is a popular tourist destination, but also a good place for surf fishing.
Nestled between the densely populated states of New Jersey and Maryland, sits the small state of Delaware with miles of beautiful coastline and a variety of fish species to catch, surf fishing is a popular pastime for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, Delaware’s beaches offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and do some beach fishing.
Before you jump in to surf fishing in Delaware, it’s important to understand some basics. You will need to obtain a general fishing license, which is required for fishing, crabbing, or clamming in tidal and non-tidal waters in Delaware.
Also, you will need to have the right equipment, including a surf rod, reel, line, lures, rigs and bait. Once you have your gear, you can head to one of Delaware’s great surf fishing locations and start your adventure.
The Basics of Surf Fishing in Delaware
If you’re new to surf fishing, it can seem overwhelming and confusing at first. But with some basic knowledge and a little practice, you can enjoy this exciting and rewarding style of fishing. Let’s go over some of the essential elements of surf fishing, including understanding the equipment and choosing the right bait.
You’ll need a sturdy rod and reel combo that can handle the surf and the fish. A 10-12 foot rod with a medium action and a high-speed reel is a good choice. You will also need some heavy braided line, pyramid or spider sinkers, and a variety of rigs and hooks. You can buy pre-made rigs or make your own with wire leaders, swivels, beads, and floats.
Understanding the Equipment
Before you hit the beach, it’s essential to understand the basic equipment you’ll need for surf fishing. Here’s a rundown of the essential gear:
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Surf Rod | A long, sturdy rod designed for surf fishing. Look for a rod that is at least 9 feet long, made of graphite or fiberglass, and can handle 12-20 lb test line. |
| Surf Reel | A spinning reel that can hold at least 200 yards of line. Look for a reel with a high gear ratio for fast retrieval. |
| Fishing Line | Monofilament or braided line with a test strength of 12-20 lbs. |
| Terminal Tackle | Swivels, hooks, weights, leaders or rigs, and other small items that attach to the end of your line. |
| Sand Spike | Hold you rods while fishing and allow you to fish multiple rods at the same time. |
| Beach Cart | For beaches with no driving access. A cart to transport your gear from your vehicle to your fishing spot. |
Choosing the Right Bait
The right bait can make all the difference in your surf fishing success. Here are some popular options:
- Shrimp: Seems everything in the ocean eats shrimp. Live or dead, shrimp is a great bait choice for surf fishing.
- Bloodworms: These small, red worms are a favorite of striped bass and other fish. You can find them at bait shops or dig them up yourself.
- Squid: Cut squid into strips or use whole squid to target larger fish like red drum and shark.
- Mullet, sardines, porgies or other bait fish. Live works best, but cut baits work as well.
- Artificial Lures: Many surf fishermen have success with artificial lures like jigs, spoons, and soft plastics. Check with local bait and tackle shops to see what is working then experiment with different colors and sizes to find what works best.
Essential Surf Fishing Gear:
- Surf Fishing Rods, surf rods are typically longer and heavier duty than standard rods. – read more.
- Surf fishing Reels,larger and stronger with greater line capacity to handle big fish. – read more.
- Surf fishing Rod and Reel Combos, pre-matched rod and reel set ups for surf fishing – read more.
- Sand Spike Rod holder, holds your rods securely while you wait for that big bite. – read more.
- Surf Fishing Rigs, terminal tackle for fishing the surf. – read more.
- Surf fishing Carts, for beaches that won’t allow vehicles you need a way to carry your gear – read more.
- Rod Racks for Vehicles, carry your rods out of harms way and easy to access- read more.
- Beach Camping Gear, in case you want to fish all night or for several days – read more.
Remember, the key to success in surf fishing is to be patient, pay attention to the conditions, and adjust your tactics as needed. With a little practice and the right equipment and bait, you’ll be catching fish in no time!
Basic Surf Fishing Gear Setup
Good Sources of Local Delaware Fishing Information
Surf fishing is a popular activity in Delaware, especially along the Atlantic coast. Surf fishing involves casting a line from the shore or a pier into the surf, where fish such as striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and drum can be caught. To find local information sources on surf fishing in Delaware, you can try the following options:
Visit the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website, which provides information on fishing regulations, licenses, seasons, and locations. You can also find tips and reports on surf fishing from their experts and anglers.
Join a local surf fishing club, such as the Delaware Mobile Surf Fishermen or the Delaware Surf Fishing Association. These clubs offer opportunities to learn from experienced surf fishermen, participate in tournaments and events, and access exclusive fishing spots.
Check out online forums and blogs dedicated to surf fishing in Delaware, such as Delaware-Surf-Fishing.com or StripersOnline.com. These sites feature news, updates, and discussions on surf fishing in the state. You can also ask questions and get advice from other surf fishermen.
The Best Time of Year for Surf Fishing in Delaware
If you’re planning a surf fishing trip to Delaware, it’s important to know when the best times to fish are. The optimal time for surf fishing in Delaware is during the spring and fall months, when the water temperature is cooler and the fish are more active. However, you can still catch fish during the summer months if you know where to look and what to use.
Spring: – Spring is a great time for surf fishing in Delaware. The water temperature is still cool, which means the fish are more active and feeding more.
You can catch a variety of fish during this time, including striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, and flounder.
Summer: – During the summer months, the water temperature in Delaware can get quite warm, which can make it more difficult to catch fish. However, there are still plenty of fish to be caught if you know where to look. The best time to fish during the summer is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the water is cooler and the fish are more active. You can catch a variety of fish during the summer, including bluefish, flounder, and kingfish (whiting).
Fall: – Fall is another great time for surf fishing in Delaware. The water temperature is starting to cool down again, which means the fish are more active and feeding more. You can catch a variety of fish during this time, including striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, and flounder.
Remember to check the weather and tide conditions before heading out and always follow local fishing regulations.
Tips for Surf Fishing in Delaware
Consider the following tips when planning a surf fishing trip to Delaware, or anywhere really.
Pick the right time and tide: – Surf fishing is best when the water is moving, especially during the incoming or outgoing tide. You will also want to avoid fishing during high winds or storms, as they can make the surf rough and murky. The best time of day is usually during the low light conditions of early morning or late evening, when the fish tend to be more active and less wary.
Find the structure: – Fish tend to congregate around areas that provide cover, food, or current breaks. Look for jetties, piers, sandbars, cuts, troughs, or any other structure that may attract and hold fish. Check with the locals for tips on where to find the best spots along the beachfront.
Vary your bait and presentation. – Depending on what you’re targeting, you’ll want to use different types of bait and lures. Some of the most popular baits for surf fishing are bloodworms, sand fleas, clams, squid, bunker, mullet, or shrimp. You can also use artificial lures like spoons, plugs, jigs, or soft plastics. When using lures, experiment with different colors, sizes, shapes, and actions until you find what works.
Learn how to read the water. – One of the most important skills for surf fishing is being able to spot signs of fish activity in the water and spot the troughs, cuts, sandbars and rips in the surf. Look for birds diving, baitfish jumping, waves breaking differently, or dark patches in the water. These are all good indicators that there are fish nearby and are good spots to cast your baits.
Be patient and persistent. – Surf fishing can be rewarding, but also challenging. Sometimes you’ll catch a lot of fish in a short time, other times you’ll have to wait for hours without a bite. Don’t give up too easily, but if after a time you haven’t had any luck, don’t be afraid to try different spots, baits, or techniques until you find what works. Remember that surf fishing is not only about catching fish, but also about enjoying the scenery and the experience.
The Best Locations for Surf Fishing in Delaware
The First State has a lot of coastline to offer, from the Delaware Bay to the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re looking for some of the best surf fishing locations in Delaware, you won’t be disappointed. Delaware has a number of great surf fishing spots, both on the bay side and the ocean side, each with their own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular surf fishing locations in Delaware:
Cape Henlopen State Park
Cape Henlopen State Park is a popular surf fishing destination in Delaware. The park offers a variety of different fishing opportunities, including surf fishing, bay fishing, and fishing from the park’s fishing pier. It is home to a variety of fish species, including striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and more.
This park also offers a number of amenities for anglers, including restrooms, picnic areas, and a bait and tackle shop. A surf fishing permit is required to fish in the park, and can be obtained from the park office or online.
Delaware Seashore State Park
Delaware Seashore State Park is another popular surf fishing location in Delaware. This park offers over six miles of beach access for surf fishing, as well as bay fishing opportunities. The park is home to a variety of fish species, including striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and more.
It also offers a number of amenities for anglers, including restrooms, picnic areas, and a bait and tackle shop. A surf fishing permit is required to fish in the park, and can be obtained from the park office or online.
Fenwick Island
This beach on the Atlantic Ocean is a great surf fishing destination in Delaware. Fenwick Island offers over two miles of beach access for surf fishing, as well as bay fishing opportunities. It is home to a variety of fish species, including striped bass, bluefish, flounder, weakfish, black drum, and more.
The Island also offers a number of amenities for anglers, including restrooms, picnic areas, and a bait and tackle shop. You can fish from any of the beaches between Fenwick Island State Park and Ocean City Inlet, but you’ll need a surf fishing permit to drive on the beach. Permits can be obtained from the park office or online.
Lewes Beach:
This beach on the Delaware Bay is a good spot for catching flounder, striped bass, bluefish, croaker, spot, weakfish, or drum. You can fish from the shore or from the pier at Cape Henlopen State Park. There’s also a walk-on area near Gordon’s Pond that has a jetty with good structure.
Rehoboth Beach:
This beach on the Atlantic Ocean is a popular tourist destination, but also a good place for surf fishing. You can catch striped bass, bluefish, kingfish, pompano, or sharks. You can fish from any of the jetties or storm drains along the beach, but be mindful of the lifeguards and swimmers during peak hours.
Overall, Delaware offers a number of great surf fishing locations for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’re sure to find a great spot to cast your line and enjoy the beautiful Delaware coast.
Delaware Surf Fishing Species
Some of the most popular fish to catch while surf fishing in Delaware include striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and weakfish. Using the right gear and bait can greatly increase your chances of success, so be sure to do your research and come prepared.
Striped Bass
Striped bass, also known as “stripers,” are a highly sought-after fish in Delaware. These fish can be caught year-round, but the best time to target them is in the spring and fall. Stripers can grow to be quite large, with some specimens weighing in at over 50 pounds. To catch stripers, you’ll want to use live bait like eels or bunker, or lures like bucktails or swim shads.
Bluefish
Bluefish are another popular species to target while surf fishing in Delaware. These fish are known for their aggressive strikes and fighting abilities.
Bluefish can be caught from May through October, with the peak season being in the summer months. These fish can be caught using a variety of lures, including metal spoons, jigs, and soft plastics.
Flounder
Flounder are a flatfish species that are commonly caught while surf fishing in Delaware. These fish are bottom-dwellers, so you’ll want to use bait that sits close to the ocean floor. Flounder can be caught year-round, but the best time to target them is in the summer months. To catch flounder, you’ll want to use bait like squid, minnows, or sand crabs.
Weakfish
Weakfish are a close relative of the speckled trout and a member of the Drum family. They spend much of their young life in estuaries and coastal waters.
They especially like to hang out near grassy beds where their prey is concentrated. Weakfish eat smaller fish like croaker, spot, as well as shrimp and crabs.
Overall, these are just a few of the many fish species that you can target while surf fishing in Delaware. It’s important to do your research and figure out which species are in season and what bait and lures work best for each species. Happy fishing!
Safety Tips for Surf Fishing
When it comes to surf fishing, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some essential safety measures to keep in mind before heading out to the beach:
Check the Weather and Tides: – Before you head out to surf fish, it’s important to check the weather and tides. Strong winds, high waves, and rip currents can make surf fishing dangerous. Make sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast and tide charts to ensure that you are fishing during safe conditions.
Wear Appropriate Clothing: – Make sure to wear appropriate clothing for surf fishing. This includes a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and waders, or wading boots, if you plan on wading into the water. If you will be wading the surf, it is highly recommended that you wear a life jacket. Dress in layers so that you can adjust your clothing as needed throughout the day.
Basic Surf Fishing Safety Gear
Know Your Limits: – It’s important to know your limits when surf fishing. If you are not a strong swimmer, avoid wading into deep water. If you are new to surf fishing, start in shallow water and work your way up to deeper water as you gain experience.
By following these safety measures, you can enjoy a safe and successful surf fishing trip in Delaware. Remember to always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a fun and enjoyable experience.
Delaware Surf Fishing Regulations
If you’re planning to go surf fishing in Delaware, it’s important to be aware of the state’s regulations to avoid any legal issues. Here are some of the key regulations you should know before you head out. You will need a fishing license and a surf fishing permit to fish on the beaches in Delaware. You can buy them online or at local bait shops. You will also need to follow the size and creel limits for each species. You can find the latest regulations on the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website.
Fishing License: – A general fishing license is required for fishing, crabbing, or clamming in tidal and non-tidal waters in Delaware. You can obtain a license online through the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) website or in person at a licensed agent. The license is valid for one year from the date of purchase.
Surf Fishing Permit: – In addition to a fishing license, you’ll need a surf fishing permit to fish on Delaware’s beaches. The permit is required for all vehicles that drive on the beach for the purpose of fishing. You can purchase the permit online through the DNREC website or in person at a licensed agent.
The surf fishing permit is valid only for two-axle vehicles that are licensed and registered to operate on public highways. The surf fishing vehicle plate and current sticker must be properly displayed on the vehicle for which the permit was issued and shall be affixed prior to operation on the beach.
Beach Access: – Surf fishing is only allowed in designated areas on Delaware’s beaches. There is some limited beach driving access. But, on other beaches, you must park your vehicle in a designated parking area and walk to your fishing spot. Driving on the dunes or any vegetation is strictly prohibited and can result in a fine.
Catch Limits: – There are catch limits in place for certain species of fish in Delaware. It’s important to be aware of these limits to avoid exceeding them and facing legal consequences. The Delaware Fishing Guide, published by the DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife, provides comprehensive information about catch limits and other fishing regulations in the state.
Other Regulations
There are other regulations in place for surf fishing in Delaware, including restrictions on the use of certain types of bait and gear. It’s important to review all the regulations before heading out to ensure that you’re in compliance with the law. By following these regulations, you can enjoy a safe and legal surf fishing experience in Delaware.
Surf Fishing in Delaware Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reserve a spot for surf fishing in Delaware?
To reserve a spot for surf fishing in Delaware, you need to make a reservation through the Delaware State Parks website. You can choose a date and time slot for your drive-on access to the beach. The reservation fee is $4 per booking. Annual and two-year surf fishing permit holders, including resident, senior resident, senior non-resident, non-resident, and Delaware firefighter/EMT permit holders, must make a reservation for drive-on access to the beach from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during peak periods.
What are the requirements for obtaining a Delaware fishing license?
To fish in Delaware, you need to have a Delaware fishing license. You can purchase a fishing license online or in person at a licensed agent. Delaware residents and non-residents have different fees for licenses. Senior citizens and military personnel may be eligible for discounted rates. For more information on obtaining a Delaware fishing license, visit the Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife website.
Where can I find information about Delaware surf fishing rules?
You can find information about Delaware surf fishing rules on the Delaware State Parks website. It is important to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations before you go surf fishing. Some of the rules include driving on designated beaches only, using a designated surf fishing vehicle, and following size and possession limits for fish caught.
What is the best rig for surf fishing in Delaware?
The best rig for surf fishing in Delaware depends on the type of fish you are targeting and the conditions of the beach. A popular rig for surf fishing is the fish finder rig, which allows you to detect when a fish is biting. Other popular rigs include the high-low rig and the Carolina rig. It is important to research and experiment with different rigs to find what works best for you.
What types of fish can I catch while surf fishing in Delaware?
You can catch a variety of fish while surf fishing in Delaware, including striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, kingfish, and flounder. It is important to follow size and possession limits for fish caught. For more information on fish species and regulations, visit the Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife website.
What are the vehicle requirements for surf fishing in Delaware?
To drive on designated beaches for surf fishing in Delaware, you must have a designated surf fishing vehicle. The vehicle must have a valid surf fishing permit, a valid state registration, and a valid insurance policy. The vehicle must also meet certain requirements, such as having four-wheel drive and a minimum tire size. For more information on vehicle requirements, visit the Delaware State Parks website.
Grab Your Gear and Hit the Beach in Delaware
Surf fishing in Delaware is a fun and rewarding outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by anglers of all skill levels. With the right equipment, some local knowledge, and a bit of patience and persistence, you can have a great time exploring the state’s beautiful beaches and catching some fish.
With miles of coastline and numerous beaches to choose from, there are plenty of places to cast your line and try your luck. When surf fishing in Delaware, it is important to follow the rules and regulations set forth by the state’s Division of Parks and Recreation. This includes obtaining the necessary permits, using designated fishing areas, and respecting the environment and other beachgoers.
So, next time you find yourself traveling the northeastern US why not try some surf fishing in Delaware? It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and potentially catch some delicious fish in the process. So pack up your gear, head to the beach, and see what the waters of Delaware have in store for you!
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A life long surf fisherman with 50+ years of experience, I am also an avid hunter and outdoorsman. I will be sharing my passion for the outdoors with you so be prepared for hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and more. Along with gear reviews and the latest trends and innovations in the outdoor industry.
