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Freshwater Fishing in Delaware
Delaware Fishing at a Glance
Going fishing in Delaware is a dream come true for anglers, with its plentiful populations of bass, catfish and trout. Whether you prefer to fish in salt or freshwater, there’s sure to be an abundance of success.
The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife ensures all regulations are followed when it comes to freshwater fishing. This includes having the correct valid fishing license, along with dedicated catch-and-release procedures. It’s also important to remember the different kinds of habitats available in the state, as this will impact where fans can fish and may determine which type of fish they’ll encounter.
Whether you’re looking for a giant trophy catch or just want to relax by the water, Delaware has something for everyone. Here are some of the top spots to visit when freshwater fishing:
The Brandywine River is ideal for trout fishermen, who can look forward to plenty of bites thanks to spring stocking efforts. White Clay Creek is another prime choice for those searching for trout, regular stocking makes this spot particularly attractive throughout summer. Meanwhile, Nanticoke River offers an abundant supply of both largemouth and smallmouth bass so big catches are almost guaranteed!
Middletown Pond rounds out the list with satisfying catfish catches year round due to regular spring stocking initiatives.
Key Insights
- Delaware offers abundant populations of bass, catfish, and trout for fishing enthusiasts in both salt and freshwater.
- The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife regulates freshwater fishing, requiring valid licenses and catch-and-release procedures.
- Top spots for freshwater fishing in Delaware include the Brandywine River and White Clay Creek for trout, Nanticoke River for bass, and Middletown Pond for catfish.
Table of Contents
Estimated Fishing Enthusiasts
| Population: | 989,948 |
|---|---|
| Fishing Enthusiasts | 81,800 |
| Fishing License % | 8.26% |
| Hunters Rank | 33 |
The state of Delaware is mostly private land with just 7.05% of acres considered public land -ranking #30 amongst all states.
Land Types (Acres)
| Acres | % | Rank | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | 1,251,200 | ||
| Public | 88,180 | 7.05% | 30 |
| Private | 1,163,020 | 92.95% | 19 |
| Tribal | 0 | 0.00% | no tribal land |
Delaware Fishing Licenses & Requirements
For the most accurate and updated information on fishing licenses and requirements, it’s always a good idea to check the Delaware DNR. We’ve provided their contact information and other helpful information for your convenience here.
Delaware DNR
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19901
- (302) 739-9912
What are the most popular freshwater fish to catch in Delaware?
The most popular types of river or stream fish to fish for in Delaware are striped bass, catfish, trout, bass, and crappie. Each offers its own unique challenges and rewards, making them all worth trying for any fishing enthusiast. Striped bass are one of the most coveted freshwater game fish in the United States, and Delaware’s Nanticoke River is home to a large population of these hard-fighting fish. Catfish are also sought after by Delaware anglers, with both channel and flathead catfish found in abundance in the state’s waterways. Trout fishing is another popular pastime in Delaware, with many stocked streams and rivers providing good opportunities to hook into a speckled beauty. Largemouth and smallmouth bass are two other popular sportfish that are found in many of Delaware’s rivers and lakes, making them another good choice for those looking to wet a line. Lastly, crappie are a favorite target of many Delaware anglers, as these panfish can provide great action when they’re biting well.
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Fishing private land in Delaware
Fishing on private land in Delaware has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Delaware or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.
1. Fenwick Island State Park
2.Delaware Seashore State Park
3. Killens Pond State Park
4. Trap Pond State Park
5. Lums Pond State Park
Fishing private land in Delaware
Fishing on private land in Delaware has some real advantages over public lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds *if you can get access. For instance, there’s nothing like having a quiet lake all to yourself and oftentimes there are simply more fish available to catch, because they haven’t been fished out. There are generally more processes for access private land for hunting than fishing, though some similar methods exist. For instance, you can sometimes join a fishing club in Delaware or if you have the money, it may be possible to rent some private land for fishing. Another option is to knock on doors or work your contacts in an area to see if a landowner would let you fish for the day or possibly be open to a longer term arrangement.
Fortunately Wing It is simplifying land access for fishing, hunting, camping, and more. We’re adding new land every day and if we have some in your area, you’ll see some great options below.