Yearly Archives

2016

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Sunday Funday

Rich King Jul 3, 2016

The kingfish have been hitting well in the surf on bloodworms, as well as fishbites bloodworm or crab formula. Some small blues were hitting cut bait on top and bottom rigs and mullet rigs. This was early morning on the outgoing tide. Into and out of slack tide, the fishing shut down at Herring point. We did hook into a huge…

Canary Creek Bridge Down To One Lane

Rich King Jul 1, 2016

I meant to put this up last week. A sink hole closed a lane on Canary Creek Bridge on Pilot town road in Lewes. So you have to wait to let people pass going to and from the Lewes boat ramp. There are barricades up. On a side note there is a huge area to fish now, just avoid the sinkhole on the one end of the bridge. Lots of…

New Delaware Record 20.5-pound False Albacore

Rich King Jul 1, 2016

New Delaware record 20.5-pound false albacore taken in Masseys Canyon by Pennsylvania angler LEWES (July 1, 2016) – On the eve of what many consider the biggest recreational fishing weekend of the year, DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife has confirmed a new state record in the Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament – a false…

Striped Bass Slot Season Starts In Delaware July 1st

Rich King Jun 30, 2016

July first to August thirty first is the slot season for striped bass in the Delaware Bay and River, as well as the tributaries. The creel limit is 20 to 25 inches and 2 fish per day per angler. That size was reduced slightly to comply with the ASMFC twenty five percent reduction, but at least we got to keep our slot season. …

Chimera Blue Crab

Rich King Jun 30, 2016

Ever see one of these? A Chimera blue crab was caught in the Wye river by Derek Zavetz. The Chesapeake Outlaws posted this picture on their Facebook page. It is a wild looking crab that is fine to eat. This process is known as Chimera which by definition is ... "A monster from Greek mythology that breathes fire and has a lion's…

High Bacteria Levels for Dewey and Bethany Beaches

Rich King Jun 29, 2016

The waters at Dewey and Bethany beach tested for high levels of unsafe bacteria Wednesday. The water will be tested again tomorrow around 4 PM, but as of right now there is a high bacteria advisory and swimming advisory for Dewey and Bethany Beaches. The Delaware Recreational Water website section has the alerts listed there. We…

Flounder Fishing Is Picking Up

Rich King Jun 29, 2016

Okay ... that all depends on who you ask, but for the most part flounder fishing is getting better. The Old Grounds has been a go to spot, but crowded. A and B buoy is producing as well as site 9, 10, and 11. No surprises these are usually the hot spots. Inland bay flounder fishing is slow, you have to put in some time for a keeper. Same…

Take A Gander At Bethany Beach’s New Traffic Problem

Rich King Jun 29, 2016

It isn't new if you live here, everyday these geese cross route 1 with their goslings to forage grass in the median strip. Everyday traffic has to stop, more than once, to allow them to cross the road. Today one person decided he didn't want to wait and ran a goose over. Needless to say a few locals are irate about that, the out of…

Osprey Tagging With Cape Water Tours and Taxi

Rich King Jun 29, 2016

Last week I went with the Cape Water Tours and Taxi crew to tag osprey on the Broadkill River. Captain Steve has been banding osprey for a long time and his knowledge is extensive. They have the permits to do this work. You will learn a lot about osprey on these banding tours. The kids will love the experience. We cruised up the Broadkill…

Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Program

Rich King Jun 28, 2016

Boating safety is very important, it can be the difference between life and death. In an effort to promote safe boating the Sea Tow Foundation is placing life jacket stands at local marinas and possibly state boat ramps soon. These stations are for boaters to borrow a life jacket if they need one for their children or infant. …

Fireworks On The Fourth Of July Weekend

Rich King Jun 28, 2016

Places to see fireworks this year for the fourth of July. If you know of any others let us know but these three are the main attractions. July 3 ... Rehoboth Beach .... 9:30 PM ... you can go by boat and sit in front of the area just mind the coast guard's perimeter. Get there early in case of bad weather they will shoot the fireworks…

Two Poachers Banned from Striped Bass Fishery

Rich King Jun 27, 2016

MD DNR press release ...... Two Poachers Banned from Striped Bass Fishery June 27, 2016 Additional Restrictions Placed on Commercial Fishing Activity Two Talbot County watermen convicted of poaching and selling nearly $500,000 of striped bass over four years have received lifetime bans from taking part in that fishery by the Maryland…

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter June 13-19

Rich King Jun 24, 2016

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: June 13-19 Reminder for the week: Visitors to fishing areas, boat ramps and wildlife areas reminded to take trash with them when they leave DOVER (June 24, 2016) – To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware’s fish and…

Three broods of piping plover chicks spotted foraging

Rich King Jun 24, 2016

Three broods of piping plover chicks spotted foraging on the Point at Cape Henlopen LEWES (June 23, 2016) – Three broods of piping plover chicks are now foraging on the Point at Cape Henlopen State Park, two on the bayside and one inside the dunes, DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife announced today. Two more piping plover pairs are…

Fishing Report

Rich King Jun 23, 2016

Well now it has been an interesting week, from whales washing up on beaches to capsized boats. Never a dull moment here at the beach. The weekend is looking decent for fishing I think Sunday will be the best day. No flies will be a bonus the last few days have been horrible. Like, I am not going to the beach today horrible. Our…

Swimming Advisory Issued for Rehoboth Beach

Rich King Jun 23, 2016

DNREC has issued a swim advisory for Rehoboth Beach. There are signs posted from Baltimore to Norfolk Streets. The advisory is form elevated bacteria levels due to heavy rainfall and run off. The state has a water monitoring section on their website where you can look for these advisories. When the advisory is lifted the red mark will be…

Kayakers Watch Shark Eat Another Shark

Rich King Jun 23, 2016

This happened yesterday in Florida,filmed by Palm Beach Pete. These kayak and SUP anglers caught a black tip shark and before they could release the shark. A couple of bull sharks came in and ate the shark. You can see the small fish that travel with the sharks feeding as well. The crazy part is these guys are in Kayaks and on…

Capsized Boat Update Huge Props To Some Local Boaters

Rich King Jun 22, 2016

You probably already heard, but a boat capsized about eight miles off the coast today. About an hour ago Captain Brian Wazlavek of Delaware Family Fishing called me with the story of what happened today. "I was at site 9 when the call came over the radio ... May Day May Day, boat in distress taking on water. I pulled anchor and…

Water Rescue Off Rehoboth Beach

Rich King Jun 22, 2016

Update to this event ... The coast guard and Rehoboth beach volunteer fire company responded to a water rescue around 11 AM this morning. A vessel was taking on water, there were three passengers wearing life jackets. The rescue was 8.4 miles east of Indian River Inlet. Vessel and all involved are being transported to the Indian…

Andy And Opie Fishing Tournament 2016

Rich King Jun 22, 2016

On July 16th, in Milton's Memorial park, Techno Goober & Delaware Surf Fishing will host the second annual 'Andy and Opie Fishing Tournament' for parents and kids. Registration begins at 8 AM and the tournament will start at 9 AM and end at 1 PM. We have several friends who will be volunteering their time to help judge…

Maryland Gears Up for Operation Dry Water

Rich King Jun 22, 2016

Maryland DNR press release .... Maryland Gears Up for Operation Dry Water Beginning Friday, Natural Resources Police, the Coast Guard and other maritime law enforcement agencies will participate in Operation Dry Water, a nationwide crackdown on alcohol- and drug-impaired boaters. From Deep Creek Lake and the Patuxent River to the…

Hearns Pond dam and boat ramp now closed for up to a year

Rich King Jun 21, 2016

Hearns Pond dam and boat ramp now closed for up to a year while replacement structures are built SEAFORD (June 21, 2016) – The Hearns Pond dam and boat ramp, located north of Seaford, are now closed and will remain closed for up to one year while a replacement dam and ramp are built, DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife, which…

Delaware promoting Operation Dry Water

Rich King Jun 21, 2016

Delaware promoting Operation Dry Water June 24-26 to prevent boating under the influence and help save lives on the water DOVER (June 21, 2016) – DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police today announced Delaware’s active participation in Operation Dry Water, an annual nationwide enforcement and education campaign…

Environmental News

Watch For Turtles And Not Just On Roads

Rich King Jun 21, 2016

Lots of turtles are out there and they are not only trying to cross the road but they can get into crab pots. You are required to have turtle guards (excluders) on your crab pots. If you do not and DNREC finds them you will be fined. "Officer Field Report June 20, 2016: AFC Adam Roark sent this picture in to show the importance of…

Tree Blocking Assawoman Canal

Rich King Jun 21, 2016

UPDATE .... As of 1 PM the tree has been removed by parks ...... A tree fell across Assawoman canal last night and the top landed on a pontoon boat. Witnesses say there is no gas leaking into the water as far as they could tell. DNREC has been alerted. Sam Ellis " I don't know if this happened overnight or if it's been there…

Great White Caught Near B Buoy

Rich King Jun 20, 2016

It is that time of year. Another great white pup weighing around one hundred and thirty pounds was caught near B buoy over the weekend. The head boat Pirate King from Anglers Fishing Center was out fishing B buoy when they hooked up with the great white. Will Mace from Forest Hills Maryland was the angler who hooked up fishing…

Biggest Flounder To Hit The Scales This Year

Rich King Jun 20, 2016

A 9.6 pound flounder was landed by angler Shaine Mann aboard Fish Whisperer Charters on Father's Day. So far that is the the biggest flounder of the 2016 season for Delaware and Maryland A and B buoy action has been great. There are some large quality flounder like this catch north of us off the coast of Jersey. There have been a…

Ocean City Fishing Pier Is Open

Rich King Jun 20, 2016

The ocean city fishing pier repairs were completed a couple of days ago. The pier is now open for business. The pier was damaged heavily during storm Jonas. Crews spent the better part of three months making repairs, setting new pylons and rebuilding the decking. Not an easy task when you are twenty feet in the air over the surf.…

June’s Full Moon Marks The Summer Solstice

Rich King Jun 19, 2016

Junes full moon is known as the Strawberry Moon by the Algonquin tribes because is corresponded with the harvesting of many fruits including strawberries. In the month of June strawberries have a small harvesting season. It is also known as the Rose moon in Europe. The moon will be full on June 20th at 7:02 AM The exciting…

2016 Delaware Jet Ski Fishing Tournament Results

Rich King Jun 18, 2016

It was great meeting everyone today. I want to thank you all for coming out and participating. First and foremost I want to thank Michael Duncan at Helly Hansen for the killer prizes. Reelsnot, Maverick Fish Hunter, and Diamond State Custom Tackle's donations for prizes. Big thanks to Midway Fitness & Raquetball, Techno Goober, and…

Weekend Outlook

Rich King Jun 17, 2016

Well the winds calmed down a bit finally. We are looking at better weather Saturday and Sunday. There are shad at the Indian River Inlet, great fun on light gear. Small spoons or speck rigs work the best. Short striped bass are hitting small lures and sandfleas. Just put a flea on a four to six aught hook and toss the flea into…

Mullet Around The Inland Bays

Rich King Jun 16, 2016

Small mullet are around the inland bays near the grass lines. Look in the usual places. Few throws of a cast net and you will get enough for a day in the surf. This will just get better as the summer progresses. Whole mullet is great for bluefish on mullet rigs, but fillets of fresh is good to use whole or as pieces of cut bait. …

Delaware State 2016 Fish Rulers Now Available

Rich King Jun 16, 2016

The new 2016 fishing rulers are here finally. They were delayed due to the fact the original samples would lose their ink once they got wet. Must have been a gag gift company. Seriously, a fish ruler that loses its ink once it gets wet. Otherwise known as made by the lowest bidder. The state got it all worked out and the new 2016…

Cast For A Cure 2016

Rich King Jun 16, 2016

Cast For A Cure is an annual team surf fishing tournament in Delaware. Proceeds go to the Tunnel Cancer Center Special Needs Fund. Last year a storm postponed the tournament. Everyone came back this year and then some to participate. \ "The 3rd Ever Cast for a Cure Tournament was held on Saturday, June 11 (last years event was…

Wear Your Personal Flotation Devices

Rich King Jun 16, 2016

Yes I used that picture to get your attention. He has the right idea just not the most politically correct flotation device for a family beach atmosphere. Flotation devices save lives, use them at all times. Especially if you are not familiar with the area waters. There have been a few accidents and deaths around the country…

Broadkill Beach Swimming Advisory

Rich King Jun 15, 2016

DNREC has issued a swimming advisory for the Broadkill Beach area from June 13th to the 14th due to elevated bacteria levels. This would also be for Beach Plum Island State Park since they share the same beach area and currents. The water will be tested again today around 2 PM, and the website will be updated. This is the section for…

NOAA Fisheries Announces Interim Management Measures for Blueline Tilefish

Rich King Jun 15, 2016

NOAA Fisheries Announces Interim Management Measures for Blueline Tilefish in the Greater Atlantic Region Today, NOAA Fisheries announces interim management measures for the blueline tilefish fishery in the Greater Atlantic Region. The interim measures, which go into effect on Friday, June 17 for vessels fishing north of the…

Traffic-Safety Advisory for Long Neck Road

Rich King Jun 13, 2016

From the desk of Senator Brian Pettyjohn ... (2016) ... Long Neck, DE- Delaware State Police are currently looking for violators who drive off-highway vehicles in the Long Neck area. This addresses the concerns of residents about the dangers of golf carts and motor scooters on the public roads. There has been an increase in the illegal use of…

Beach-quariums, Kiddie Pools and Live Wells

Rich King Jun 13, 2016

A few years ago James Blackstock and his family were on the beach and the kids were collecting all kinds of sand fleas, crabs, and anything else that swam or crawled near them. James took a small kiddie pool and made a holding tank or beach-quarium. The kids spent the day catching "pet" spot. Little did the girls know dad was…

Great White Caught By The Overboard Near Ocean City

Rich King Jun 11, 2016

The crew of the Overboard out of Ocean City caught a great white about ten miles off the beaches of OCMD today. Captain Dustin, John French, and Angler Marshall Vitalle hooked into a about a one hundred and fifty pound great white shark. John said "It was in an area you would not think to look for a great white shark. We were thresher shark…

Stretch of beach at Gordons Pond in Cape Henlopen State Park will close starting Monday

Rich King Jun 11, 2016

Stretch of beach at Gordons Pond in Cape Henlopen State Park will close starting Monday, June 13 to safeguard first nest of piping plovers found there this season LEWES (June 11, 2015) – The first piping plover nest of the season at Cape Henlopen State Park’s Gordons Pond has been discovered by DNREC beach-nesting bird monitors…

Public asked to report sick or dead wild birds to DNREC’s Mosquito Control Section

Rich King Jun 10, 2016

Public asked to report sick or dead wild birds to DNREC’s Mosquito Control Section for 2016 West Nile virus monitoring DOVER (June 10, 2016) – DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife Mosquito Control Section is again asking for the public’s help in monitoring West Nile virus in Delaware by reporting the discovery of sick or dead…

Commercial waterman faces charges for fishing violations and undersized conch

Rich King Jun 10, 2016

Commercial waterman faces charges for fishing violations including possession of numerous undersized conch LEWES (June 9, 2016) – DNREC Division of Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police arrested a commercial waterman June 3 for nearly 300 fishing violations, most of them for illegal take of knobbed conch after boarding his…

Fishing This Weekend Should Be Decent

Rich King Jun 9, 2016

Windy, windy, windy if it isn't windy it is raining, but at least we have had some nice days. The weekend is looking a little nautical but the fish don't care, they still have to eat. The water temperatures are leveling off through the week. Masseys Landing topped out at seventy two degrees and drops to about sixty six at the peak of high…

Delaware Jet Ski Fishing Tournament Update and Changes

Rich King Jun 9, 2016

The Delaware Jet Ski Fishing Tournament is still on and will still be the 18th of June, or next Saturday at Holts landing State Park in Ocean View, from 7 AM to 3 PM. We are still working on a food vendor or a way to supply some food. We had issues getting sponsors for this event so some friends of mine came together and helped us…

All Species Tournament Update

Rich King Jun 7, 2016

The second annual DSF All Species Fishing Tournament has been underway since March. The tournament lasts until November 30th. So far we only have 18 people fishing this year but some of the anglers have been really putting up some catches. Frank Payton Sr. our winner last year is up to seventeen species. Connor Fisher and James…

Dead Terrapins Next Twenty Miles

Rich King Jun 7, 2016

There is a sign along route 1 below Dewey beach that reads " Turtles crossing road next 20 miles" There are few here and there that have the same saying with less mileage. These signs need to be bright yellow, because people are running over turtles more this year it seems. It is also possible there are just more turtles, and that…

Environmental News

DNREC, DHSS issue new fish consumption advisories

Rich King Jun 7, 2016

DNREC, DHSS issue new fish consumption advisories reflecting significant improvements in New Castle County DOVER (June 7, 2016) – Updated consumption advisories for fish caught in Delaware waterways show some of the most significant improvements in fish tissue contaminant concentrations since the state began assessing contaminants…

Big Sand Tiger Sharks In The Surf

Rich King Jun 4, 2016

The fishing so far this weekend has been decent. There is a ton of weakfish in the Delaware bay on the sites and around all the structure. There is a rumor of a large school of bigger unicorns moving around the Delaware Bay. The bluefish action was slower at the pier this morning to almost non-existent. The same for the surf at…

View From The Deep Blue

Offshore Action Is Hot For Mako Mania

Rich King Jun 3, 2016

The Mako Mania in Ocean City at Bahia Marina started today and fifty eight boats are competing this year. Fifty boats went out today and so far Rhonda's Osprey brought in a 142 pound mako, but was bested by a 176 pound mako landed by the Outnumbered. The "Teaser" weighed in a 318 pound thresher shark. For the first day that is a…

Delaware Selfie King Ups His Game

Rich King Jun 3, 2016

On Memorial Day Delaware’s National Guard headquarters in New Castle was dedicated to the late Major Joseph R. "Beau" Biden. Many people including his family and friends attended this dedication. Everyone spoke of the legacy he left behind, and his father,Vice President Biden thanked the community for the for their support over the…

DNREC Police Blotter Know Your Paddleboard Regulations

Rich King Jun 3, 2016

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: May 23-29 Reminder for the week: Paddle boards are vessels – and boating regulations apply DOVER (June 3, 2016) – To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware’s fish and wildlife resources and ensure safe boating and…

Sunday Funday Is Going To Be Wet And Wild

Rich King Jun 3, 2016

Looks like we are going to see some severe weather on Sunday. Not to worry but it is a good idea to keep an eye on the sky just in case. Then again this is Delaware and the weather could change in fifteen minutes. Below I added the latest weather reports. be safe and smart if the storms are severe. Our roads tend to flood very fast in the…

Memorial Day Week Fishing

Rich King Jun 2, 2016

The weather is playing havoc with everyone, the fish don't seem to care as much. Frankly the bad weather, and these overcast days have produced a lot of fish. Anglers who stuck it out in the rain were doing well on Memorial Day, with bluefish blitzing the beaches at 3rs and lots of kingfish and burrfish in the surf at Conquest beach. Surf…

Statewide Activity Approval process for Delaware shellfish aquaculture activities

Rich King Jun 2, 2016

DNREC to hold public hearing Wednesday, June 8 in Millville on Statewide Activity Approval process for Delaware shellfish aquaculture activities DOVER (June 2, 2016) – The DNREC Division of Water’s Wetlands and Subaqueous Lands Section will conduct a public hearing Wednesday, June 8 to solicit input on the proposed Statewide…

See Spot Swim

Rich King Jun 1, 2016

Yeah buddy, the striper candy is here, the striper candy is here. Not to be confused with Candy the stripper, who is not here. No you didn't read that wrong spot are around the Indian River bay. Mike Kendle was tossing a cast net today just tt see if anything has shown up and he pulled two small spot out of the Indian River Bay. …

Relentless Lands First White Marlin For 2016 Season

Rich King May 31, 2016

The first white marlin was landed on Sunday by the crew of the relentless and a couple of friends. Captain Chris Hertrich took two of his friends Dana DuQuette and Matt Dammeyer, " I had a hell of a weekend offshore. Cpt Chris Hertrich and mate Will Wildeburgh caught and released this white marlin Sunday morning. We were told it…

First four piping plover chicks of the season

Rich King May 31, 2016

No idea if the one nest will close a large section of Gordons Pond, but be prepared for that because it could happen. It usually does, last year the nest was destroyed in a storm just before the fourth of July and the closed section was reopened ... Rich King ______________________________________________________________________________…

Gov. Markell proclaims Sunday June 5 as Delaware State Parks Day

Rich King May 31, 2016

Gov. Markell proclaims Sunday, June 5 as ‘Delaware State Parks Day,’ with free admission to most state parks LEWES (May 25, 2016) – Governor Jack Markell today proclaimed Sunday, June 5 as “Delaware State Parks Day” – and along with his proclamation offered the reminder that, through sponsorship from the Delaware Tourism Office’s…

First Thresher Of 2016 In Delaware

Rich King May 28, 2016

Linda Nasko was near the marina today at the Indian River Inlet when she saw this thresher hanging by the scales. The shark weighed in at 291 pounds. The Kelly family caught the thresher on a trip off the Delaware coast. They are staying at the marina on their boat, and are headed home tomorrow. What a way to end a stay at the…

Whale Breached Off Herring Point Today

Rich King May 28, 2016

A whale breached in front of a few thousand beach goers today. The whale watching boats out of jersey were chattering on the radio about a longfin whale, but I don't think it was this whale. It breached about noon today and I know the beach was packed by ten. We have received many messages asking if anyone saw the whale. I was…

Happy Memorial Day Weekend Fishing Report

Rich King May 27, 2016

Bluefish blitzed the beach today at Cape Henlopen. Always love that phone call, "hey man get down here the fish are hammering the surf." I'm stuck doing other stuff I can't just drop. The boys cleaned up on some nice big blues. That is how the action has been,1 random here and there and you have too be there when it happens. …

Old Lewes Boat Ramp Closed

Rich King May 27, 2016

The town of Lewes closed the old floating dock sections and removed the center section and a few others. Anglers and baoters have been asking me why there is a stockade looking fence around the old dock sections, it looks like a fort along the water. Alice Erickson, Administrative Assistant ... "It is a safety issue we don't want…

Maryland Snakehead Record Broken

Rich King May 26, 2016

MD DNR press release ... Maryland Snakehead Record Broken – 18.42 Pounds! Emory (Dutch) Baldwin III from Indian Head, Md., and his regular bow-hunting partner Franklin Shotwell were wrapping up a night of stalking northern snakehead from Baldwin’s boat along the Maryland side of the Potomac River on May 20, when they decided to…

Lionfish The Other White Meat

Rich King May 24, 2016

Lionfish are not only good to eat but an invasive species. I went to Florida and visited the South East American Lionfish Eradication Group (SEALEG) to learn more about lionfish eradication. I am very familiar with the aquarium trade so this is an interesting subject for me in that aspect, as well as an angler. I used to own a saltwater…

Sussex waterman arrested for multiple commercial crabbing violations

Rich King May 22, 2016

Sussex waterman arrested for multiple commercial crabbing violations REHOBOTH BEACH (May 20, 2016) – DNREC Division of Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police arrested a Sussex County man May 19 for multiple commercial crabbing violations on the Inland Bays. John L. Fabryka, 53, of Ocean View, was charged with one count of unlawful…

Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier Opens May 25th

Rich King May 21, 2016

The work on the Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier pier for the most part is done. The crews have the fence up, lights installed, and are removing their trailers and equipment. They just have to do a final punch list of some details and they are done. Governor Jack Markell will be here Wednesday to cast the first line from the renovated…

The 2016 Canal Flounder Tournament

Rich King May 21, 2016

Friday was the canal flounder tournament and it was a great day. Over 390 anglers participated this year, which is a new record. Lewes Harbor Marina raised $1,970 for the Youth Fishing Tournament. Anglers said it was tough fishing, but there were some decent fish landed. The top two winning fish were just over six pounds and…

Mighty Mo’s’ big gun moved to permanent resting place at historic Fort Miles in Cape Henlopen State Park

Rich King May 20, 2016

Mighty Mo’s’ big gun moved to permanent resting place at historic Fort Miles in Cape Henlopen State Park 16-inch gun which fired 2,700-pound shells was mounted on USS Missouri when Japan surrendered on Sept. 2, 1945 to end the Second World War LEWES (May 20, 2016) – After wartime service in the Pacific aboard the storied “Mighty Mo”…

Spring Fishing Is Decent

Rich King May 19, 2016

Well Florida was nice but it is good to be back. Took a few days to get back into the swing of things and get over that jet lag. No seriously, it took a few days to acclimate back to these cooler temperatures. It was rather hot down there, like twice as hot as it is up here. We are finally warming up and the fishing is decent if…

13 Annual Horseshoe Crab and Shorebird Festival

Rich King May 18, 2016

The thirteenth annual Horseshoe Crab festival is in Milton, DE. This year the event is on Saturday, May 28 at 10 AM - 4 PM in Milton Memorial Park. The Milton Chamber of Commerce is looking for a few volunteers with pontoon boats to give tours of the Broadkill River from 9 AM to 3 PM. If you are interested in volunteering please…

The Lead Pot A New Tackle Shop

Rich King May 17, 2016

The Lead Pot will open this Friday the 20th of May, I know many people have seen the shop sign and have been wondering when this will open. Friday they will be open at 6 AM until 9 PM. Recently Chris Kramer and his family found a nice spot on 113 or Dupont Highway near Dagsboro. They decided to put a bait and tackle shop in the…

Fishing is Decent Put In The Time

Rich King May 12, 2016

Northern kingfish are showing up in the surf on bloodworms. A lot of them have been caught the last couple of days. Big striped bass action has been okay and random as far as locations. Cape Henlopen saw some nice fish today. The bluefish action at the pier has slowed down and some more flounder are being caught. The pier will…

Ride The Rails Or Go Ape In the Trees

Rich King May 12, 2016

I recently took some trips to area Delaware State Parks and checked out some of the concessions. I especially wanted to try the rail bikes up north in Yorklyn, DE. I don't think people realize not only how many concessions the state parks have, but why they are businesses within the parks and not just run by the state itself. I contacted Greg…

Warning To Delaware Anglers About A Fishing License Scam

Rich King May 12, 2016

I received this today from John Clark, Fisheries Section Administrator Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, There is a website that is scamming anglers trying to buy a fishing license. DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife has received a number of calls recently from anglers who thought they were buying a Delaware fishing…

Angler Rescued From South Jetty

Rich King May 11, 2016

A few days ago some anglers up north were rescued from the south jetty at Reedy Point on the C&D canal. They were trapped by high water on the unusually high tide. A few days later it happened down here. On Saturday the Coast Guard was called to help rescue an angler from the jetty at the south side of the Indian River Inlet.…

First piping plover nest of the season found at Cape Henlopen

Rich King May 10, 2016

First piping plover nest of the season found at Cape Henlopen – and an American oystercatcher nest, too LEWES (May 9, 2016) – Recent wet weather has not deterred beachnesting birds from beginning their nesting season at Cape Henlopen State Park – with this year’s first piping plover nest found late last week on the Point, along with an…

Oil Washing Up On Delaware Beaches

Rich King May 9, 2016

Yes you read that right, but apparently the oil companies are prepackaging their spills now. Don't panic there isn't oil everywhere ... yet. I just wanted to get your attention. A few days ago I ran around and checked the tournament beaches to give everyone updates on conditions. While out there I found a bucket of oil. A black,…

2016 Old Inlet Annual Spring Surf Fishing Tournament

Rich King May 9, 2016

Saturday was the annual Old Inlet spring surf fishing tournament. The weather the last few weeks and especially weekends has not been nice enough to entice people to get out and fish. When the tournament comes around it is rain or shine so you fish regardless. Some prefish the tourney looking for fish and spots holding fish at certain times…

Striped Bass Move Into The Surf

Rich King May 6, 2016

Today, of course the day before the tournament. Striped bass moved into the surf. anglers were hooking up from Fenwick to Cape Henlopen and places between. The fish were hitting bunker chunks, and bluefish schools are running the surf. They are cutting lines like crazy. Skates and dogfish are numerous. I ran into Chad Bayless at…

Puffers Added To Tournament List And Beach Conditions

Rich King May 5, 2016

The annual Old Inlet Spring Surf Fishing Tournament is Saturday. "Many are waiting to see how the weather does before they sign up, once this turns I expect to get bum rushed on Friday by people signing up" said Clark Evans ... "There are fish here, and when people get out we are seeing some nice fish." Puffers were added to the…

Route 24 Is Closed

Rich King May 5, 2016

Route 24 is closed at Swan Creek near the chicken plant to allow work on the bridge. The detours are listed below. It has been a bit of a nightmare for drivers detoured to the back roads. I had to take back back roads to get to a back rod to my own back road. That has been the issue for many people. The project is supposed to…

Rest Easy Joe Morris

Rich King May 4, 2016

It has been a sad day in the Delaware fishing community. Joe Morris, owner of Lewes Harbor Marina passed the other day. He will be sorely missed by friends and family. Joe was one of a kind, there are so many great stories people have of growing up around the docks, hanging around the cleaning table, and just visiting the store. I…

Bluefish Showing Up In All The Spots Like Last Year

Rich King May 3, 2016

The bluefish action has been great for about three weeks, or so. The fish have been showing up at the beaches, the Broadkill River one day , and the Indian River Inlet the next. You can't predict when and where, like last year but it is getting closer. The henlopen flats as you may already know have been hot for a while. You just…

The One That Wasn’t Getting Away

Rich King May 3, 2016

We all have a fishing story about the one that got away. It is usually about the largest fish you ever caught and keeps you up at night in a cold sweat thinking about it. Every year the fish gets bigger and the story gets better. You tell the story over and over again through the years, and it always gets better with age. The one…

Burtons Pond Has Been Reopend

Rich King May 2, 2016

Rich Cordeaux contacted me the other day and said he spoke to Mr. Burton about the pond. "So Mr burton called me and the pond is fully open until at least the fall. He saw a few different trucks picking up trash over the past few weeks. I guess he came to visit. Well since he saw that he picked up the really big trash and took the…

First Annual Jet Ski Fishing Tournament

Rich King May 2, 2016

June 18th we are hosting the first annual Delaware Jet Ski Fishing Tournament at Holts Landing State Park. The tournament is hoping to raise money for the Childrens Beach House in Lewes, DE. They have sponsorhsips available for any business that would like to get involved. This is full tax wrote off since all monies go through the…

All Species Fishing Tournament Update

Rich King May 2, 2016

The All Species Fishing Tournament was started last year to coincide with our fish ID page. We decided to set it up so that everyone had to catch at least one species from a list. First person to fill the list wins. This is an online contest, and has been rather fun to watch. Participants have a weekly card they have to hold in a…

Fishing Tournaments In Delaware 2016

Rich King May 1, 2016

Here is a list we have compiled of the area fishing tournaments this year. If you don't see a tournament listed here please let us know by sending an email to admin@delaware-surf-fishing.com. March to November ........ Second Annual All Species Fishing Tournament you can sign up for this any time during the tournament. …

The Steelgard A Rarity For Any Seasoned Angler

Rich King May 1, 2016

We have all seen the legendary Steelgard catch depicted in cartoons and movies. Some anglers have nightmares about Steelgards also known as the "skunk royale", and usually followed by a boot or toilet seat. Scott Wahl was drum fishing in Hatteras when he spied something in the surf. We caught up with him and asked him…

Drone Fishing For Tuna

Rich King May 1, 2016

Yep, you read that right. Jaiden Maclean and friends at Sea Ulcer Aerial Media fished for longtail tuna with a Phantom Drone, from land. These guys used the drone to run a bait out to a school of longfin tuna and then lowered the bait with the drone. When the tuna hits, the line releases, so the drone doesn't do a peter pan into the drink. …

Decent Fishing Action All Around Put In The Time

Rich King Apr 28, 2016

Bluefish made an appearance on 3Rs the other day in some decent sizes. You have to be there when these schools come in with the tides. They also came into the Henlopen pier area and were hitting bucktails. Same gators we saw last year in the twenty four to thirty inch range. One was weighed in at Bill's Sport Shop at sixteen…

Boat Sinks Near Port Mahon All 3 Aboard Rescued

Rich King Apr 28, 2016

This was posted earlier this evening on the Little Creek Fire Company's Facebook page. Big thanks to all the crews that worked this and the other boat this afternoon. Been a long day on the water for some people. These incidents are not related. How the boat sank has not been reported. Just good to see that all three on board are safe and…

Canal Flounder Tournament is Friday May 20th

Rich King Apr 28, 2016

The Canal Flounder tournament is Friday May 20th. Entry fee is $25 payable at Lewes Harbour Marina. Tournament starts at 7 AM and ends at 3 PM. rules are below ..... Good Luck Everyone!! Rich King CASH ENTRY FEE OF $25 PER ANGLER IS TO BE PAID AT LEWES HARBOUR MARINA BAIT & TACKLE SHOP BEFORE 7AM MAY 20TH, 2016. FIVE…

Coast Guard Rescues Crew After Collision

Rich King Apr 28, 2016

News Release ... ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The Coast Guard rescued three men Thursday from their life raft approximately six miles east of Cape May, New Jersey. The Coast Guard received a request for assistance from the captain aboard the 42-foot boat Last Stand, reporting they were sinking following a collision with the 78-foot Tug Dean…

Kickstarter For Cabins In Cape Henlopen

Rich King Apr 27, 2016

This would be one way to stay in the park this Memorial Day weekend which is booked solid. This is an innovative way for a state park to help raise funds for a project. It is a great idea for a park system that has to rely on so much financial self support. Delaware is not the only state to try a Kickstarter to help fund a project, the Missouri…

55 Pound Striped Bass Caught In Delaware Bay

Rich King Apr 25, 2016

Many striped bass are now spawned out and heading back into the lower bay area. Several anglers have been catching large striped bass or rockfish. The fish are skinnier and you can tell they have spawned already. Yesterday a fifty five pound striped bass was caught in the Delaware Bay on the Jersey side with bunker chunks, reported…

Federal Fishery Management Measures Approved for Blueline Tilefish in the Mid-Atlantic

Rich King Apr 25, 2016

Federal Fishery Management Measures Approved for Blueline Tilefish in the Mid-Atlantic The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council has approved measures to establish management of blueline tilefish in Federal waters off the Mid-Atlantic and New England coasts. The Blueline Tilefish Amendment includes a suite of measures that will…

What Is That Boat In Front Of Rehoboth Beach?

Rich King Apr 25, 2016

(Apr 2016) ... I have been asked this question dozens of times this weekend. The ship off the coast of Rehoboth Beach is a survey ship. It is taking samples of the ocean floor for the permitting process for the Rehoboth Outfall. The entire project has not been approved yet federally, but this is part of the process to get the permits…

Tsunami Buoy 44402 Off Coast Triggers “Event Mode”

Rich King Apr 25, 2016

The tsunami buoy 44402 that triggered an "event mode" on Saturday is going viral on the internet. With speculations from meteors to a submarine hitting the buoy cable. My personal favorite is Godzilla. What really happened was a glitch during a routine maintenance. The National Data Buoy Center reported that buoy 44402 located 130…

The 17 Year Cicada Invasion

Rich King Apr 23, 2016

Cicadas emerge every year, and they are either the seventeen or thirteen year cicadas. Each brood emerges different years and locations. This year we are going to see brood V emerge. it will occur in the purple area on the map. The Brood will emerge in Ohio and West Virginia, with some in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. So…

Kings And Lings With Tuna on The Side

Rich King Apr 23, 2016

The southern kingfish are showing up more, mostly on the southern beaches. From 3rs to Fenwick Island has been the best catches. Bloodworms has been the bait of choice but squid or small pieces of clam should work as well. Still a little cold for fishbites to dissolve efficiently, but you can try them. I have seen some fat…

New State-Of-The-Art Boat Ramp At Holts Landing State Park

Rich King Apr 22, 2016

Ribbon cutting celebrates DNREC’s opening of new state-of-the-art boat ramp at Holts Landing State Park MILLVILLE (April 22, 2016) –This afternoon, DNREC Secretary David Small and Division of Parks & Recreation Director Ray Bivens were joined by State Senator Gerald Hocker, State Representative Ron Gray, staff from three DNREC…

Mid-Atlantic Coast Guard Looking For Life Raft Owner

Rich King Apr 21, 2016

The Mid-Atlantic coast guard published a post on Facebook today looking for the owner of this life raft. Since they found a life raft washed up on shore they are obligated to look for the owner in case anyone is missing at sea. If you or anyone you know is missing a life raft please contact the Coast Guard ... " Do you recognize this life…

The Full Pink Moon Not Green

Rich King Apr 20, 2016

Full Pink Moon 2014 shot at Conquest Beach April's full moon is known as the full pink moon and will occur on the 22nd at 1:24 AM. The internet has a hoax picture going around about a full green moon. The full pink moon is named for the wild ground phlox or pink moss (herb) that is one of the first spring flowers. Native…

Assateague Island Needs Your Help Now

Rich King Apr 19, 2016

The powers that be (National Park Service) are looking at long-term management plans for Assateuage Island. The NPS is working on long-term plans (50 years) for many of our parks and Assateague falls into that category. Rising sea levels with more and more major storms and the fact it is a barrier island is a big concern. Bill…

Banging The Drum Or Floating For Flatties

Rich King Apr 19, 2016

The beginning of the season is always my favorite. Everyone is freaking out where can I catch a fish, or about too many people in one area. Meanwhile more and more species are showing up and more areas turn hot for fishing. We are in that time period right now, you can now spread about the county and fish. Flounder are showing up…

Keeper Striped Bass Landed In The Surf

Rich King Apr 18, 2016

We have been slamming tiny short bass for days on top and bottom rigs with bloodworms. Puffers are in the mix too, good old chicken of the sea, aka the blow toad. It was fun weekend of fishing for many anglers. A keeper striped bass was landed in Delaware Seashore State Park in the Surf on bunker chunks. We were sent a report that…

Spotting The International Space Station

Rich King Apr 18, 2016

(April 18, 2016) ... Last night we watched the ISS fly across the horizon. The International Space Station looks like a very fast moving plane. The fly by can be a couple minutes to several minutes long The station is moving very fast, much faster than any plane can fly across the sky. It is also brighter than the stars, it can be seen in…

Puffer In The Surf And We Did A Lot Of Skating

Rich King Apr 14, 2016

More brown trout were stocked today at White Clay, Rittenhouse, and Brandywine. The trout fishing has been great up there. You can find some nice pockets of fish if you really move around and put in the time. Should be a good weekend to get out of the wind and on a stream. Also up north striped bass action is the status quo, you…

Bluefish All Over Delaware Beaches

Rich King Apr 12, 2016

PUBLISHED IN APRIL 2016 .... just wondering out loud when it will happen again Matt Adams with a 31 inch Bluefish from Delaware Seashore State Park caught on Monday afternoon. Bluefish are now moving up and down the beaches in Delaware. You have to be there when they come by, and they will at some point. No idea of the schools' sizes or…

Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Population Increases

Rich King Apr 12, 2016

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources today released the results of the 2016 Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey, which show another year of growth in the stock of the Chesapeake Bay crab population and bodes well for a better harvest this year. The survey indicates a bay-wide crab population of 553 million, a 35-percent increase over last…

Mary Lee Is Back In Town

Rich King Apr 11, 2016

Mary Lee pinged off the coast today not far from the Maryland coast line south of Ocean City. She has been traveling a lot recently. Mary Lee is a 16-foot, 3,500-pound-plus mature female great white. She was tagged in 2012 off the coast of Cape Cod and named Mary Lee after the OCEARCH expedition leader Chris Fischer’s mother. She…

Slammer Blues Hit The Surf And Tautog On The Move

Rich King Apr 11, 2016

Despite the insane weather this weekend people still got out and fished. Hopefully everyone enjoyed having 4 seasons in one Saturday afternoon. Sunday was a nice day and the wind finally laid down enough that it was tolerable. Besides it is the weekend that is not going to stop many from getting out there. We keep hearing about…

Bluefish Are In The Delaware Bay

Rich King Apr 8, 2016

Saad Soliman caught and released this beast ofa brown in White Clay Creek today The Bluefish are starting to show up in the Delaware Bay. At first it was some smaller ones, but the big twelve plus pounders also made an appearance. On Monday a couple of netters had bluefish at the docks when Smith's Bait and Tackle was picking up bait. Rumor…

Environmental News

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: March 28-April 3

Rich King Apr 8, 2016

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: March 28-April 3 Reminder for the week: Keeping striped bass from spawning grounds during spawning season unlawful DOVER (April 8, 2016) – To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware’s fish and wildlife resources and…

Delaware Surf Fishing State Park Tags 24, 99, and 444 Up For Auction

Rich King Apr 6, 2016

This Friday evening the 8th, is the first annual Sportsman & Outdoor Auction to benefit the Delaware Auctioneer Association, and if you are interested in Delaware Surf Fishing State Park numbered tags ... 24, 99, or 444, you are going to want to be at this auction. This has not been advertised heavily so few know about these…

What Does Beach Replenishment Really Cost

Rich King Apr 6, 2016

(April 2016) ... Over the years Delaware beaches were replenished one hundred and seven times , at a cost of $160,257,597, using 21,967,819 cubic yards of sand. You will probably be surprised where replenishment occurred. Not just the ocean beaches but Delaware Bay beaches in the past have been replenished. Our high number includes the fact…

Seahorses In The Surf

Rich King Apr 6, 2016

James Swatski was surf fishing over the weekend and landed a sea horse. No, not a traditional landing like a fish, the sea horse was wrapped around his line. Right now you are imagining someone wrangling a horse with a surf rod, not the case but some interesting imagery. James was checking a hit on his rod, there was crab on the…

Low Digit Delaware Surf Fishing Tag Online Auction

Rich King Apr 4, 2016

The online auction for low digit surf fishing tags is underway. The numbers up for auction are 6, 29, 148, 321, 468, and 478, choice of 51 through 98, choice of any available 200 number, and choice of any available 300 number. That sale will close on Tuesday, April 12th. There will be alive auction on Saturday, April 9th as part of…

Blown Out Weekend

Rich King Apr 4, 2016

It was a great weekend. The winds were not that much fun, especially Saturday night into Sunday and even today. We had fifty mile per hour winds that blew the water out of the Delaware and Inland Bays, and caused some serious damage in Oak Orchard. Some folks have never seen the water this low in all of their years on the water. …

First Annual Delaware Jet Ski Fishing Tournament

Rich King Apr 1, 2016

On June 18th we will be hosting the first annual Delaware Jet Ski Fishing Tournament at Holts Landing State Park. All monies raised will benefit the Children's Beach House. Ever since we started talking about jet ski fishing, Rob Jones, Rob Wolhar, and I wanted to do a jet ski fishing tournament. We wanted one that anyone could…

Properly Handling Striped Bass

Rich King Apr 1, 2016

This happens twice a year. People send us pictures of their catches and someone always loses their minds on how they are holding a twelve inch fish. They literally will chastise small children playing internet tough guy on pages. Instead of sending us a message they will methodically go to every post and lecture the person in the…

DNREC Sets Creel Limit On Baitfish

Rich King Apr 1, 2016

Poaching has been a serious issue for years. Now DNREC has decided to fight fire with fire. There will now be a creel limit on baitfish. "We need to protect the resources." Logically if anglers can only have so much bait then they can only catch so many fish. Anglers will be allowed four bait fish of any type or combination per…

NPS Seeks Public Comment For Long Term Management Of Assateague Island

Rich King Mar 30, 2016

Press release from the National Park Service .... Click here for a list of current plans and projects. The National Park Service (NPS) is pleased to present the Draft General Management Plan / Environmental Impact Statement (Draft GMP/EIS) for Assateague Island National Seashore for your review and comment. Assateague Island…

New Oceana Maps Show At-Risk Atlantic Marine Life Threatened by Unnecessary Seismic Airgun Blasting

Rich King Mar 30, 2016

New Oceana Maps Show At-Risk Atlantic Marine Life Threatened by Unnecessary Seismic Airgun Blasting Despite Recent Decision to Protect Atlantic from Offshore Drilling, Seismic Airgun Permits Still Being Pursued in Known Habitat Areas for Fish, Sea Turtles, Whales and Other Marine Life WASHINGTON – Today, Oceana released a new set of…

Volunteers sought for 25th annual Christina River Cleanup on April 9

Rich King Mar 30, 2016

Volunteers sought for 25th annual Christina River Cleanup on April 9 NEW CASTLE COUNTY (March 30, 2016) – DNREC Secretary David Small encourages volunteers to join the 25thannual Christina River Watershed Cleanup along the river and several of its tributaries on Saturday, April 9 from 8 a.m. until noon at 15 sites throughout northern…

Cape Henlopen State Park Is Improving Campgrounds

Rich King Mar 29, 2016

There was an open house the other day at Cape Henlopen State Park to allow for public comment about the improvements to the existing campground. The improvements discussed were ... Reduction of asphalt, Installation of landscaping, Creation of back-in, pull-through and pop-up RV sites, Installation of electric service, Vehicular…

New WGMD Fishing Report Airs Today

Rich King Mar 28, 2016

Delaware Surf Fishing is now doing the daily fishing report on 92.7 WGMD. The report will air after the 6, 10, and 4 O'clock news daily. We are putting up the latest information and some tips when necessary. We are also mentioning any upcoming meetings that are fishing related and other relative information. Tune in daily when…

Lurefest 2016

Rich King Mar 28, 2016

Lurefest 2016 is on April 9th in Bowers Beach at the Firehall. Starts at 10 am and lasts all day. Great time to meet local anglers and have some killer food. You just have to be a member of saltfish.net forum and pay the entrance fee. I should have a table there with some apparel and gallons of gnat spray. Drop by and say hello. There will…

Trout Stocking Started Today Season Opens Saturday

Rich King Mar 28, 2016

The trout season for Delaware streams opens up Saturday the 2nd of April. Trout are being stocked right now in all of the northern Delaware streams. Make sure you know all the rules so you are legal on Saturday. From the DNREC fishing Guide ... "The 2016 freshwater trout season in New Castle County opens at 7:30 a.m. on…

Blue Catfish Qualify For Delaware State Records

Rich King Mar 28, 2016

The other night Ryan Henry, Ethan Henry, and Cody Gallien were fishing Broad creek and Ethan landed a 25.2 pound catfish. They sent me a message asking if it was the new state record. I told them no since it was an invasive blue catfish. However after checking with DNREC this week, I found out that blue catfish do count for the…

Big Striped Bass In The Creeks

Rich King Mar 26, 2016

The big resident striped bass are moving into the spawning areas. Laurel is seeing a bunch of decent striped bass as well as shorts in Broad Creek and Nanticoke River. There are also a ton of big blue catfish being caught. Bunker chunks are the choice baits for the big bass and the blue catfish. The water today is a little choppy…

Lots Of Rats In The Surf

Rich King Mar 25, 2016

The short striped bass action (rats, schoolies, shorts, or dinks) in the surf has heated up the last few days. Bloodworms, squid, and small pieces of cut bait are producing short striped bass averaging about eighteen inches. There have been some smaller and some larger but no keepers. These are resident fish schooling up. We do…

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: March 14-20

Rich King Mar 25, 2016

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: March 14-20 Reminder for the week: Harvest of river herring, use of nets near spillways, retaining striped bass during spawning season unlawful in Delaware DOVER (March 24, 2016) – To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve…

Environmental News

DNREC’s 27th Annual Beach Grass Planting Covered Five Miles

Rich King Mar 24, 2016

DNREC’s 27th annual beach grass planting March 19 covered five miles in helping preserve and protect Delaware’s coastline DOVER (March 24, 2015) – Almost one thousand hardy volunteers who turned out in the face of cold and snow for DNREC’s 27th Annual Beach Grass Planting March 19 enabled the planting this year of more than five…

Environmental News

Horseshoe Crab Spawning Survey volunteer training

Rich King Mar 24, 2016

Horseshoe Crab Spawning Survey volunteer training offered Saturday, April 2 and Wednesday, April 6 DOVER (March 24, 2016) – DNREC’s Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR) is seeking volunteers to assist with the annual bay-wide horseshoe crab spawning survey in May and June on Ted Harvey Wildlife Area, Kitts Hummock and North…

Approval permit from DNREC proposed to facilitate shellfish aquaculture

Rich King Mar 23, 2016

Statewide Activity Approval permit from DNREC proposed to facilitate shellfish aquaculture in Delaware DOVER (March 23, 2016) – DNREC is proceeding with a Statewide Activity Approval permitting process that would enable the start-up of limited commercial shellfish aquaculture in Delaware’s Inland Bays by authorizing the permitting…

Big Striped Bass Around The Upper Bay and River

Rich King Mar 23, 2016

The big girls are moving around in the upper Delaware Bay and lower River areas. The Bullpen produced a nice striped bass today caught by Matt Tweed on Port Penn Bait and Tackle's Fresh Bunker, Richard King is filling his nets daily check out the store sometime his bunker doesn't sit there long. The big resident fish in the Delaware…

Once In Blue Moon Blue Claw Crab

Rich King Mar 22, 2016

Captain Terry Murray was tending his pots today when he ran across this full blue crab. "I have been pulling pots for as long as I can remember and I have never seen one of these. Soft crabs are blue in the light, but then turn brown when they harden. I was told this is a genetic failure, when I called the local university, and…

Delaware Fishing Community Pulls Together To Help Joe Morris

Rich King Mar 22, 2016

If you have not already heard, Joe Morris of Lewes Harbor Marina has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. A Go Fund Me was started yesterday and it has done very well thanks to all in the fishing community. Joe is one of the coolest, down to earth, non-pretentious, laid back, straight shooting, honest to goodness people I have ever had the…

New Decking Has Started On The Pier

Rich King Mar 21, 2016

The Cape Henlopen State Park fishing pier is getting a new deck and the other day the crews started putting new wood down. The pier looked different without any decking. The new decking makes the pier look much better, and there is no longer a strip of plywood down the middle. That strip is now three boards wide and the deck boards are cut…

March Full Moon Madness

Rich King Mar 21, 2016

The moon will be full on March 23rd at 8:01 AM. The march full moon is known as the Worm moon to many Native American tribes. It is the time of year the snow melts, the ground gets softer, and earthworms start to emerge from the ground. There are other names based on other signs of spring. The Crow Moon for the cawing of crows. …

Eagles in Dagsboro Update

Rich King Mar 21, 2016

Update about the eagles from Delaware Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police's Facebook page. "Please continue to assist the Delaware Natural Resources Police and other agencies in their efforts to find the cause of the eagles becoming sick and dying in southern Delaware. Here is their latest update. Please pass this along and help…

Public Comment Sought on Proposed Improvements to Cape Henlopen State Park’s Campground

Rich King Mar 21, 2016

Public Comment Sought on Proposed Improvements to Cape Henlopen State Park's Campground Comments May Be Made Online or By Mail The campground at Cape Henlopen State Park will close in September for renovations that are expected to include: Reduction of asphalt Installation of…

DNREC investigating weekend deaths of four bald eagles in Sussex County

Rich King Mar 21, 2016

DNREC Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police investigating weekend deaths of four bald eagles in Sussex County; public’s help sought on more sick eagles seen near Dagsboro DAGSBORO (March 20, 2016) – DNREC Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police are investigating the deaths of four bald eagles in Delaware over the…

DNREC Mosquito Control Section’s spraying season begins with larviciding wooded wetlands

Rich King Mar 18, 2016

DNREC Mosquito Control Section’s spraying season begins with larviciding wooded wetlands DOVER (March 17, 2016) – Weather-permitting, DNREC’s Mosquito Control Section will begin its annual spring woodland-pool spraying campaign downstate Saturday, March 19 and upstate Tuesday, March 22, treating wooded wetlands near select populated…

Bethany Beach Votes For Resolution Opposing Seismic Testing

Rich King Mar 18, 2016

This afternoon the Bethany Beach town council met and one of the items on the agenda was seismic testing. They had a resolution ready to vote on against seismic testing and I am happy to announce they passed the resolution unanimously. Despite the fact the white house just shut down drilling in the Atlantic Ocean for the next five…

Flounder Pounding Has Begun In Delaware

Rich King Mar 18, 2016

The blue crabs emerging from the mud was exciting news, but there is another yearly visitor we have all been waiting for. Not the seals, they have been here for a while now. This time of year the Henbit in the fields flower (little purple flowers) and that is a sign that the summer flounder should start showing up. The inland bays…

DNREC Secretary’s Order, following new FDA guidance, halts shellfish harvest in seasonal area on Rehoboth Bay

Rich King Mar 17, 2016

DNREC Secretary’s Order, following new FDA guidance, halts shellfish harvest in seasonal area on Rehoboth Bay DOVER (March 17, 2016) – DNREC Secretary David Small has issued a Secretary’s Order for closure of a conditionally-approved shellfish harvest area located in the northeastern corner of Rehoboth Bay, effective Wednesday,…

First Day Of Spring Say It Isn’t Snow!

Rich King Mar 17, 2016

The first day of spring is Sunday the 20th and we are seeing predictions of some snowfall up the Appalachian corridor towards the east coast. We have had plenty of snow storms in March in the past, but we were hoping for a reprieve this year with the early warm temperatures. Old man winter is going to take one last shot at us. Some…

President Declares Disaster for Delaware

Rich King Mar 17, 2016

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency announced that federal disaster aid has been made available to the State of Delaware to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area affected by the severe winter storm and flooding during the period of January 22-23, 2016. The…

Man Gets Jail Time for Stealing Gear During Ocean City Fishing Tournament

Rich King Mar 16, 2016

Man Gets Jail Time for Stealing Gear During Ocean City Fishing Tournament March 16, 2016 A Berlin man will spend one year in jail after pleading guilty Tuesday in Worcester County Circuit Court to stealing fishing gear from vessels participating the White Marlin Open, the Maryland Natural Resources Police said. Dennis J. Tronosky Sr., 38,…

NMFS Withdraws The Warning Of An American Eel Moratorium For Delaware

Rich King Mar 16, 2016

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced it is lifting the federal moratorium placed on Delaware for the American Eels that was to take effect on Friday March 18th. Last year the NMFS determined that Delaware was out of compliance due to not implementing proper regulations to rebuild depleted eel stocks and to prevent…

Upstate trout season to open April 2 in six New Castle County streams

Rich King Mar 16, 2016

Upstate trout season to open April 2 in six New Castle County streams DOVER (March 16, 2016) – Delaware’s spring 2016 upstate trout season will open at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, April 2, DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife announced today. Portions of six designated trout streams in northern New Castle County – White Clay Creek,…

Delaware State Parks to hold more auctions of low digit surf tags

Rich King Mar 16, 2016

Delaware State Parks to hold more auctions of low digit surf tags DOVER (March 16, 2016) – DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation will feature two auctions for low digit surf fishing tags in March and April. The first auction will be online, beginning Tuesday, March 29, and closing on Tuesday, April 12 at 7:00 p.m. Tag numbers will…

Blue Crabs Are Emerging

Rich King Mar 15, 2016

Everyone wants to know when are the crabs going to start moving around. The back bays and low water tidal areas are seeing crabs emerge from the mud. That would be the inland bays when I refer tot he back bays. Blue Claw crab season started on March first for pots, and year round you can use hand lines. Personally I like to wait…

Atlantic Ocean Declared Off Limits To Offshore Drilling by White House

Rich King Mar 15, 2016

Big thanks to everyone who fought for this to happen, there are too many organizations and businesses to list. We still are concerned about seismic testing, but the fact no one can drill should make that a moot point. That will be decided later I am sure. Big thanks to all the DE and MD residents, groups, and businesses that fought this at the…

Non Profit Organizations

Punkins will Fly in Sussex County Skies Once Again

Rich King Mar 12, 2016

Punkins will Fly in Sussex County Skies Once Again The World Championship Punkin Chunkin competition is destined to stay in Sussex County in 2016, held on November 4th, 5th & 6th. Frank Payton, WCPCA board president, confirmed that an arrangement with the Wheatley’s has been worked out for the event to return to where it was last…

Osprey Fly Into Lewes While Bunker Swim The Inland Bays

Rich King Mar 12, 2016

Yesterday a pair of osprey were caught on camera by Jeff Weaver near the Lewes Boat ramp. That is the first official picture of arriving osprey in Delaware I have seen. They are basically on time since we usually see them arrive around St. Patricks Day. Their arrival usually coincides with the shad showing up but so far we haven't…

Pounding Perch While Bass Hounding

Rich King Mar 11, 2016

We hit record temperatures for a couple of days and that really cranked up the fishing in many spots. Masseys Landing jumped up twelve degrees in six days and peaked to fifty-two yesterday at low tide. Creeks, estuaries, and some back bay areas hit close to fifty-four degrees at low tide. The short striped bass are already starting…

Potential Nuisance Odors Near Delaware City During Site Cleanup

Rich King Mar 11, 2016

Potential nuisance odors near Delaware City during continuing Standard Chlorine / Metachem site cleanup Starting Monday, March 14, the US Environmental Protection Agency in cooperation with DNREC will conduct remedial actions at the Standard Chlorine of Delaware / Metachem EPA Superfund Site north of Delaware City that could allow nuisance…

Bill Drafted To Allow Sunday Deer Hunting In Delaware

Rich King Mar 10, 2016

Sunday hunting in Delaware has been a huge debate over the years. Not just in our state but several states. It is one of the "blue laws" that many feel is antiquated. I attended the monthly Delaware Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus meeting the other day and this was the main subject. There were a lot of good points brought up about…

Burtons Pond Now Closed To Public

Rich King Mar 9, 2016

Unfortunately this is a great example of litterbugs ruining it for everyone else. Burton's Pond has been closed to the public by the landowners due to litter building up. This has been a problem for years and years, but they have finally had it with the issue. I received this message the other day from Rich Cordeaux "Good morning…

NOAA To Close Cobia Recreational Fishing Season On June 20, 2016

Rich King Mar 9, 2016

NOAA Fisheries Announces the Atlantic Migratory Group (Georgia to New York) Cobia Recreational Fishing Season will close on June 20, 2016 The recreational harvest of Atlantic migratory group cobia (from Georgia to New York) will close at 12:01 a.m. on June 20, 2016. Recreational harvest of cobia will reopen on January 1, 2017.…

Seals Showing Up At Masseys Landing

Rich King Mar 8, 2016

I saw a seal today at Masseys Landing, and Scott and Suzanne saw him on Sunday. Both sightings were at different times and tides so I don't think there is a pattern or particular time they are showing up. Last year you could have set your watch by them. I remember this guy sat next to me on this bench and looked at me and said ...…

Goliath Grouper Caught In Delaware

Rich King Mar 8, 2016

Last year a Goliath Grouper made it all the way to Delaware. We see all kinds of weird Gulf stream fish every summer. In recent years we have seen a lot more groupers, especially gag and snowy. Usually I get a picture sent in that asks what kind of bass is this because they look just like a bass. These fish (groupers) usually show…

Megalodon Teeth Found In Patuxent River

Rich King Mar 6, 2016

(March 2016) ... Megalodon, a predator that roamed and ruled the seas 70 million to 10 million years ago. It's name means big tooth or megatooth and it is an appropriate title. The only remains that are ever found are the fossilized teeth of this giant shark. Many of the facts, especially size, about this shark are still in…

Big Striped Bass In The Chesapeake

Rich King Mar 5, 2016

While everyone was fishing opening day for trout season today in Delaware. Which I heard was crowded but people were doing well hooking up. Alan Battista of Light Tackle Kayak Trolling the Chesapeake Bay was out doing a little striped bass fishing this morning. The fish he got into was far from little. "I have caught a lot of very…

Fishing Is Picking Up Herring Are Here

Rich King Mar 4, 2016

Well there is snow on the ground, but I doubt that will stop any die hard trout anglers from opening day in the ponds tomorrow. Should be a good time and crowded like crazy, I think I will wait until Monday. People are just tired of winter and can't wait to wet a line. Fishing has been great in tidal creeks for yellow and white…

Carolina Surf Casters Association Long Casting Competition

Rich King Mar 4, 2016

I recently spoke to Tommy Farmer President of the Carolina Surf Casters Association about the upcoming long casting tournament. I have seen a lot of videos on U tube about long casting and even took some lessons a few years ago. I am going to go checkout the long casting tournament in March. They are going to be casting eight ounces, which…

New Jersey Sets Delaware Bay Flounder Regulations

Rich King Mar 4, 2016

COLREG line in the Delaware Bay March 4 2016 ... New Jersey has set their summer flounder and black sea bass limits. Make sure you know these rules if you are going to fish Jersey waters or any land based fishing. There are different limits for areas, they did not set a uniform creel for the entire state. In the past…

Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier Goes Topless

Rich King Mar 4, 2016

Recently we showed you the Cape Henlopen State Park fishing pier with about four hundred feet of the deck removed. The other day I stopped by to see the progress and the crews have the entire deck removed. I am sure today's weather put a damper on work. The pier looks odd with all of the deck removed. Under the boards it looks a…

Maryland Offers Fishing License Discount for 16-Year-Olds

Rich King Mar 3, 2016

Now through the end of 2016, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources is offering a half-price incentive to 16-year-old anglers purchasing a fishing license for the first time. In Maryland, anglers under the age of 16 are not required to possess licenses. “Young anglers are the environmental stewards of tomorrow,” Fisheries Service…

The Cape Henlopen Lighthouse

Rich King Mar 3, 2016

The Cape Henlopen Lighthouse collapsed on April 13, 1926. It sat atop the great dune, due to the fact the dune moved three to five feet a year the collapse was inevitable. It was built in 1767 and first lit in 1769. The tower was 26 feet in diameter, 6 feet thick at the base, 69 feet, 3 inches tall, and 17 feet, 6 inches in…

It’s fee season in Delaware State Parks

Rich King Mar 3, 2016

It’s fee season in Delaware State Parks DOVER (March 3, 2016) – DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation reminds visitors to Delaware’s state parks that entrance fees are being collected through Nov.30, 2016. Revenue generated from park entrance fees is used to manage 16 state parks and more than 26,000 acres of state park lands.…

Dorchester County Waterman Charged with 146 Counts of Poaching Oysters

Rich King Mar 2, 2016

(Maryland DNR March 2, 2016) ... A Dorchester County waterman, twice convicted of poaching oysters, was charged Friday with 146 counts of harvesting undersized oysters by the Maryland Natural Resources Police. James Alexander Horseman, 26, of Madison, is scheduled for trial in Dorchester County District Court on April 4. If found guilty, he…

DNREC plans to reopen southern section of Gordons Pond Trail this week

Rich King Mar 2, 2016

With storm damage repairs almost complete, DNREC plans to reopen southern section of Gordons Pond Trail this week DOVER (March 1, 2016) – Repairs are nearly complete on a 2.5-mile section of the Gordons Pond Trail in Cape Henlopen State Park that had been closed last month due to damage associated with the Jan. 22-24 winter storm that struck…

Weather To Turn Nautical

Rich King Mar 2, 2016

The weather the next couple of days is going to get colder and a lot windier. Depending on which forecast you watch we may get snow or rain. I am more worried about the heavy winds. East and Northeast winds will pick up on Thursday into Friday gusting upwards of 25 knots near land, offshore will be heavier. We have a Gale warning…

Ocean City Fishing Pier Repairs Have Begun

Rich King Mar 1, 2016

I spoke with the Ocean City Engineer Terry McGean this morning and he said the repairs for the Ocean City Pier should be done by Memorial day weekend. "It is the typical answer for a project like this, it will be done between now and by Memorial Day weekend. The pier is owned by Ocean City, MD but is run by a concession we are not in…

All Species Fishing Tournament Starts Today

Rich King Mar 1, 2016

The second annual All Species fishing Tournament starts today, this weeks card is the ace of clubs. cards will be changed weekly on Sunday evenings. We will announce the new card on the tournament page and Facebook. Last year Frank Payton Sr. was first, Kevin Baldwin took second place and Rafael Vazquez took third place. It was…

ACOE Will Begin Emergency Dredging Of Ocean City Inlet Friday

Rich King Feb 29, 2016

Army Corps of Engineers to begin emergency dredging of Ocean City Inlet Friday, Assateague Island bypass work to begin later in March OCEAN CITY, Maryland –The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, has coordinated for emergency dredging of the Ocean City Inlet and Harbor Federal Navigation Channel to begin Friday. The dredging…

What is the history of sturgeon in the Delaware Bay and why are they endangered?

Rich King Feb 26, 2016

What is the history of sturgeon in the Delaware Bay and why are they endangered? Gregg W Rosner In the Delaware River before 1890, there were an estimated 180,000 adult females spawning, and now the total spawning adults in that river is believed to number fewer than 300. Atlantic sturgeon are large, slow-growing, late-maturing,…

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: Feb. 15-21

Rich King Feb 26, 2016

Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: Feb. 15-21 Reminder for the week: Wildlife, fishing, boating area visitors asked to respect natural resources DOVER (Feb. 26, 2016) – To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware’s fish and wildlife resources and ensure…

Bipartisan SHARE Act, Supports America’s Hunters and Anglers

Rich King Feb 26, 2016

House of Representatives Passes Bipartisan SHARE Act, Supports America's Hunters and Anglers February 26, 2016 (Washington, DC) - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 242 - 161 in favor of the Sportsmen's Heritage and Recreational Enhancement Act (H.R. 2406), known as the SHARE Act. Introduced by Congressional…

Spring Is Headed This Way

Rich King Feb 26, 2016

So the question on everyone's mind is when will spring be here? When will the fish show up? If you remember last year, at this time there was an ice pack on the Delaware Bay that was creating issues for the ferry traffic and pilot boats. Rehoboth beach had ice almost a mile offshore when the ice pack moved south out of the bay. …

Second Annual Fishing And Boating Swap & Expo At The American Legion

Rich King Feb 26, 2016

This is the second annual Fishing and boating swap & expo at the American Legion on route 24. Last years was a great time and we had a lot of people drop by. This is a great chance to clean out that shed and get rid of old or extra gear. The article below is Jordan Glatfelter's story I put up last year, I wanted to share it with you again.…

First HMS Permit Issued In Delaware For A Jet Ski

Rich King Feb 26, 2016

Some of you have heard about the Delaware Jet Ski Fishing guys and their Facebook page. Rob Jones and Rob Wolhar started this up last year. It was sometime last summer when I get a picture sent to me from Rob Jones. "Hey we are on our jet skis fishing DB buoy." The picture was of the ocean and a big ship going by,... I replied "…

The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park to close for 2016 beachnesting season

Rich King Feb 25, 2016

The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park to close for 2016 beachnesting season LEWES (Feb. 25, 2016) – The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park, including a stretch of ocean beach and dunes, and a half mile along the bay shoreline, will close beginning Tuesday, March 1, for the benefit of threatened and endangered beachnesters and migratory…

Tornado Touches Down in Waverly Virginia

Rich King Feb 24, 2016

A tornado touched down not too long ago in Waverly Virginia and there is severe storm damage in Appomattox county. Damage reports are still coming in. Please stay out of the area, people are complaining about storm tourists on social media sites. Not a good idea to be out in a tornado warning looking for storm damage. Right now…

Tornado watch for all of Delmarva Until 11 PM

Rich King Feb 24, 2016

The National Weather Service just issued a TORNADO WATCH for Sussex, Kent and New Castle Counties in Delaware until 11 PM tonight. Maryland and Virginia's watch was issued a couple of hours ago for. Coastal flooding could also be an issue with the high winds. Information from ready.gov Before Watch out for dark, rotating…

Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass Season Opens April 16

Rich King Feb 24, 2016

From Maryland DNR .... The spring season for the state fish, striped bass, kicks off on April 16 in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay. Spring recreational fishing opportunities for striped bass, locally known as rockfish, will run from April 16 through May 15, with a catch limit of one fish per person, per day, 35 inches or larger.…

Gale Watch Into Thursday

Rich King Feb 23, 2016

The NWS has gale a force wind and and small craft advisory for Wednesday afternoon. The storm that was possibly an issue a couple of days ago is now just a regular storm. Rain will be heavy at times tomorrow, and the winds will pick up. Heavy east winds tonight that will switch south into tomorrow. Waves could top out at four…

$10,000 Reward Offered For Information About 13 Dead Bald Eagles

Rich King Feb 23, 2016

Maryland DNR is looking for information about thirteen dead bald eagles found recently on a Caroline County farm. "Please help us solve a mystery. Thirteen dead bald eagles were found Saturday on a farm and in a woods in Federalsburg. It is the largest concentration of dead bald eagles in Maryland in three decades. The investigation…

February’s Full Moon

Rich King Feb 21, 2016

February's full moon is known among many Native American tribes as the Full Snow Moon and will occur on February 22nd at 1:20 PM. It was named this since the heaviest snow fall usually occurs this month. This year that has not been the case but other years we have seen a great deal of snow in February. Some tribes also referred to…

Andrew Klein Bests The Delaware State Largemouth Bass Record

Rich King Feb 20, 2016

The only thing second to breaking a state record catching a fish is hearing the story after it happened. I just spoke with Andrew Klein from New Castle, Delaware and you can still hear it in his voice. The man is excited, ecstatic, and all fired up over the catch of a lifetime. Today around one thirty this afternoon he hooked into…

Large Mouth Bass Breaks Delaware State Record

Rich King Feb 20, 2016

This afternoon Andrew Klein of New Castle, Delaware weighed in a large mouth bass at Bills Sport Shop at 11 pounds 1.6 ounces, according to Bill Baker Sr. "They kept the bass alive in my bait tanks until Troy Trimmer from Fish and Wildlife Enforcement could get there to certify the record." The fish measured twenty seven inches…

Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier Renovations Update

Rich King Feb 19, 2016

I dropped by Cape Henlopen State Park today after a slew of meetings. My life these days seems to be a never-ending string of meetings, but that is all part of setting up a bunch of events for this summer. The Cape Henlopen pier as you may know is getting new decking. First the old boards have to be removed and so far the crews…

Delaware’s 27th Annual Beach Grass Planting

Rich King Feb 19, 2016

Hello! We are planning the 27th Annual Beach Grass Planting. Our efforts this year will be focused on dunes that have been repaired from the damaged they endured during the January coastal storm. Each March since 1990, many dedicated volunteers have helped to build and protect Delaware’s sand dunes by planting Cape American beach grass on…

DNREC Seeks Volunteers For Delaware Citizen Osprey Monitoring Program

Rich King Feb 19, 2016

DNREC Division of Fish & Wildlife seeks volunteers for Delaware Citizen Osprey Monitoring Program Division of Fish & Wildlife to hold training workshops March 5 and 6 DOVER (Feb. 19, 2016) – Delaware’s Division of Fish & Wildlife is seeking volunteers to participate in this year’s Delaware Citizen Osprey Monitoring…

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