The DNREC Division of Fish and wildlife provides first-class fishing and boating access to Delaware’s many waterways. 

Information for Recreational Anglers

The Delaware Fishing Report offers information on when to fish, where to fish, which species are biting and how to catch them. It is written weekly by Eric Burnley, Sr.

The Delaware Fishing Guide is an annual guide to all things fishing in the state of Delaware.

A Delaware Recreational Fishing License covers recreational fishing, crabbing and clamming in all Delaware waters. 

Fishing and Boating Access Areas in the State of Delaware include locations on the Atlantic Ocean, including artificial reefs, the Delaware Estuary, and several rivers and freshwater ponds.  

The annual Sport Fishing Tournament recognizes both young and adult anglers for outstanding catches. It includes Fishing Records set by anglers in Delaware.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife manages permits for local Largemouth Bass Tournaments and other boating or fishing events in the state.

The Freshwater Trout Program stocks selected streams and ponds with rainbow trout, brown trout and/or brook trout.

The DNREC Aquatic Resources Education Center in Smyrna offers free fly-fishing lessons for adults.

DNREC and the Department of Health and Social Services work together to monitor the presence of chemical toxins in the flesh of finfish and shellfish in Delaware waters and issue periodic Fish Consumption Advisories.

Special Considerations and Requirements

Gamefish and General Freshwater Fishing Restrictions

Scientific Collection Permits

Federal Highly Migratory Species Permits

About Delaware Fish Species

The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife provides information for over 180 species of fish and shellfish that reside in, frequent or occasionally visit Delaware’s fresh, estuarine, coastal and/or offshore waters.

Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

Atlantic Rock Crab vs. Jonah Crab Identification Guide

Most Commonly Misidentified Sharks

Shad and River Herring Guide

Circle Hooks for Striped Bass

State Circle Hook Regulations require using inline circle hooks when fishing for striped bass using cut or whole natural baits like clams, squid, mackerel, menhaden, seaworms, or eels. Using inline circle hooks significantly increases survival of released striped bass by reducing occurrences of gut hooking.

Learn other ways to help striped bass survive catch and release.

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