Yearly Archives

2021

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Gordons Pond area of Cape Henlopen State Park to be closed Wednesday and Friday

Rich King Jun 1, 2021

Gordons Pond area of Cape Henlopen State Parkto be closed Wednesday and Friday The Gordons Pond parking area, pavilion, beach area and surf fishing vehicle crossing at the southern end of Cape Henlopen State Park will be closed on Wednesday, June 2 and on Friday, June 4 for a security event coordinated among local, state and federal…

The Drinking Beaches Are Clear

Rich King May 31, 2021

Don't Park in the wet spot Break out the generators and blenders, its day drinking at the drive on beaches! The summer has started. The weather has cleared but don't park in the wet spot. High tide is at 2PM ish. The picture above is low tide at 8:45 AM Expect the water to come up into the swales left behind. Park near or in the last…

Mystery Object Washed Up On Northside Beach

Rich King May 30, 2021

Every nor'easter makes for some interesting beach combing finds May 30, 2021 ... Lewis McCullough just sent us some pictures of this mystery object that washed up into the rocks at the Indian River inlet. My best guess is a desalination barge buoy. The ones right off the beach in front of Delaware Seashore state park. All of our…

Midnight High Tide Coastal Flooding

Rich King May 29, 2021

The beaches are already flooded. May 29, 2021 ... Beaches are already flooded and high tide is two hours out at midnight. It is expect to be almost three feet higher than normal That usually means worse than the minor tidal flooding we had on the last high tide. Route 1 will most likely flood above the bridge, below Dewey Beach and the…

Beach Conditions Keep An Eye On The Tide Today

Rich King May 29, 2021

Nor'easter conditions and high tide post full moon lunar tide effects May 29, 2021 ... Water is pushing up to the dunes already on most beaches, high tide is at 11:40 AM. Even at low tide the wind will push water and surge towards the coast and keep the water higher than usual. Then we add the post full moon lunar effects. And that…

Wicked Weekend Weather You Should Surf Fish

Rich King May 27, 2021

Memorial Day Weekend will be a treat for diehard surf anglers. We have crappy weather incoming. Granted it changes every fifteen minutes in Delaware, but we are definitely headed into a nautical weekend. A holiday crowded nautical weather weekend, and you should go surf fishing. Mainly because that easterly blow and cool temperatures…

Delaware Surf Fishing Report

Rich King May 26, 2021

Fishing is picking up and so is the weather. (May 26, 2021) ... We got robbed by the cloud cover to see the lunar eclipse. That's okay it is striped bass weather anyway. The fishing slowed down a little as the weather cooled down for some species. Now that we are warming back up it is turning back on. With a new arrival to boot. …

Off-Peak Surf Fishing Permits

Rich King May 26, 2021

DNREC to Issue Off-Peak Surf Fishing Permits Starting May 25 The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control will launch an off-peak surf fishing permit pilot program starting Tuesday, May 25. The pilot program is being introduced in response to unprecedented surf fishing permit sales and to provide an opportunity to…

Jaw Dropping Fishing At The Cape Henlopen Pier

Rich King May 26, 2021

What Do You Do When You catch Human Remains? (May 26, 2021) ... Yesterday Steve, and Tyler were fishing the Cape Henlopen Pier. Steve snagged something and pulled it up. "At first we thought it was a banana peel. Then we realized that is no banana peel. We tried to come up with anything else it could be other than what it was." …

Parks Paper Bag Pilot Program Is Crashing

Rich King May 23, 2021

Delaware State Parks removed plastic bags for these paper bags Just when I thought I had seen it all. I can't stand seeing plastic bags tied to the rails and fence at the piers and inlets. That is on the person doing that, however no one educates park visitors to not do this. There are signs that no one reads. One would think it is common…

Water Hit The Dunes This Morning At High Tide

Rich King May 23, 2021

Be careful of the incoming tide later today. (May 23, 2021) ... The tide came up nearly to the dune edges in some places early this morning. Be careful of the incoming tide today as well at 6 PM ish. Lunar tides from the coming full moon will be higher and lower. The waves are not too bad form he storm surge south of us and will calm…

The Tax Man Is In Town

Rich King May 21, 2021

A variety of fish to catch, and some are here to eat your catch (May 21, 2021) ... This half striped bass blitzed the beach last week. The sharks are in town and feeding on the striped bass as well as anything else around. David Moore "I wondered why the striped bass bite shut down." They were doing okay on stripers and hoping for…

The Off-Peak “Serf” Tags Are Coming

Rich King May 21, 2021

DNREC to Issue Off-Peak Surf Fishing Permits Starting May 25 The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control will launch an off-peak surf fishing permit pilot program starting Tuesday, May 25. The pilot program is being introduced in response to unprecedented surf fishing permit sales and to provide an opportunity to…

Power Paraglider Lands At Navy Crossing

Rich King May 19, 2021

Here is something you don't see everyday, power paragliders landing, buzzing the beach, and fishing pier. (May 2021) ... This past weekend a power paraglider or paramotor landed on Navy Crossing walk on beach, between the jetties. This is a type of ultralight aviation. A paraglide chute is above and the pilot below has large fan motor…

The Terrapin Fence Has Been Replaced

Rich King May 18, 2021

The "fence" along route 1 is for the Diamondback terrapins When the terrapin fence was first replaced this year, many people saw it for the first time. Social media went a little nuts waning to know why such a short dune fence was installed along route 1. Some of the answers were priceless. Usually the terrapin fence is covered with…

Delaware Surf Fishing Report

Rich King May 8, 2021

Surf Fishing in Delaware is Producing Some New Arrivals (May, 8, 2021) ... Been a few good days in the surf for many people actually surf fishing. Delaware is producing Burrfish now and weakfish, the state unicorns are in the surf. The smaller spike trout size. I've seens some bruisers form Jersey back bays in he 8 pound range.…

Delaware Surf Fishing Report

Rich King May 6, 2021

Delaware Fishing report for May 6th 2021 When did summer get here? My pseudo beach grass looks like the burnt yards of August, dry as a bone. Until those spring storms rocked us and the garden growth explodes. Hopefully a cool down is incoming soon. But the good news, that heat up cranked up some fishing. Just as we hoped. …

Maryland Fishing Report – May 5

Rich King May 6, 2021

MD DNR May 5, 2021 ... This week holds the promise of fishing for a variety of species. The trout put-and-take areas have been generously stocked and blue catfish and northern snakeheads are very active. Chesapeake Bay anglers are excited to be able to fish for the large post-spawn striped bass as they exit the spawning rivers and head out of…

Rocket Launch Exploring Energy Transport in Space

Rich King May 4, 2021

Rocket Launch Exploring Energy Transport in Space Launches May 7th From Wallops Island "The Black Brant XII, carrying the KiNET-X payload, is a four-stage sounding rocket that can reach altitudes more than 200 miles above Earth's surface. Because of this, weather permitting, the eastern U.S. states have a chance to see the rocket passing over…

Route 90 Bridge Shut Down Due To Accident; Vehicle Passengers In Bay

Rich King May 2, 2021

There are multiple vehicles involved and possibly passengers in the water. No idea how long this will be closed. This all happened recently. Not much information available. One vehicle is hanging off the bridge. Find another way home. Route 90 bridge accident. photo Island Water Sports Per The Dispatch in Ocean City ... "Vehicles are…

Christina River Watershed Cleanup Extended to May 15

Rich King Apr 30, 2021

To encourage northern Delaware volunteers to get outside and clean up, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control in partnership with the Christina Conservancy has extended the month-long Christina River Watershed Cleanup campaign an extra two weeks through Saturday, May 15. The date coincides with the Wilmington…

Delaware Angler’s Pocket Guide For Invasive Species And Similar Species

Rich King Apr 30, 2021

DNREC has a pocket guide they released for anglers to identify invasive species. There is confusion between some species at times, especially bowfin (native) and northern snakeheads (invasive). Know your species. Delaware Angler's pocket guide for invasive species and similar species The guides are only distributed through bait and…

Gale and Storm Warning

Rich King Apr 30, 2021

Very windy conditions today into Saturday Look on the bright side the Damn Fly Meter will be a negative two this weekend. The beach combing will be fun on Sunday too. Beaches will get carved up a bit too. You can surf cast a mile today and the ocean is blown out flat to a degree. Stay out of he woods too, great way to get hit by a flying…

Delaware Surf Fishing Report

Rich King Apr 28, 2021

More fish and better weather (April 28, 2021) ... The bite has gotten hotter and so is the weather. Feels like July for spring fishing. nothing like a quick heat wave to really am things up. The water temperatures have ben steadily rising with the occasional yoyo due to cold snaps. Now we will see temperature spikes with…

May The Fish Be With You Is Canceled

Rich King Apr 26, 2021

May The Fish Be With You Surf Fishing Tournament is canceled for 2021 Sorry everyone, but we have to cancel May The Fish Be With You. Not enough people signed up and this company has taken too many losses from a year of canceled events and covid. We simply can not afford to run a surf fishing tournament. Anyone who signed up online will…

Cooking & Recipes

Rudy’s Crab Omelet

Rich King Apr 23, 2021

A Fun Delicious Breakfast Rudy’s Crab Omelet ...Ingredients You will need. Two eggsa little milk4 crabs (steamed)Shredded parmesan cheeseGreen onionOld baySaltPepperLegs and clawsPrepare your crab meat and set two claws and six legs aside.Beat eggs with a little milk.Put a pat of butter in a small frying pan on low/med heat and add eggs.Once…

Forest Service to conduct controlled burn in Lewes

Rich King Apr 22, 2021

LEWES, Del. (April 22, 2021) — The Delaware Forest Service plans to conduct a 48-acre controlled burn in the City of Lewes on Friday, April 23, beginning around mid-morning. The burn area will be closed to the public. Signs will be posted on nearby roads before and during burning. Residents and visitors may see or smell smoke but should not be…

Learn To Fish The Inland Bay Marsh Banks

Rich King Apr 21, 2021

Fishing the marsh banks of the inland bays is like fishing a reef. I catch the most fish along marsh banks around the inland bays. Fresh baited crab pots are another favorite structure. Baitfish just pack them and feed on the fresh food. The big fish feed on the baitfish. The marsh banks are covered in mussels and oysters. That are a…

Delaware Surf Fishing Report

Rich King Apr 21, 2021

The surf fishing and fishing overall is getting better. (April 22, 2021) ... The past weekend a decent amount of people went surf fishing. The beaches weren't packed too bad either. Well except 3Rs on Sunday after that beast of a striped bass was landed, that was to be expected. Looked like a surf fishing tournament on the south end.…

Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment Public Comment Deadline – Friday, April 23

Rich King Apr 19, 2021

Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment Public Comment Deadline - Friday, April 23 The deadline to submit written comments on the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment is this Friday, April 23, 2021. The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission are developing this joint amendment to…

Coastal Towing To The Rescue

Rich King Apr 19, 2021

Some heroes drive life size Tonka toys I was all over the beaches this weekend seeing friends, chasing fish, and tides. Aired up and down a dozen times. Night fishing was fun, just walking and casting. Glad this didn't happen on the beach at 3 AM the other night. The transmission went up one night months ago on Faithful Steward, but we…

From Bags To Benches

Rich King Apr 15, 2021

DNREC to Have One Ton of Plastic Bags Made into Benches Dover (April 15, 20210 ... In honor of Earth Month, Gov. John Carney joined Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Shawn Garvin on April 15 to tour the facility where Delaware State Parks will have 15 benches made from excess plastic bags. The new pilot…

Delaware Surf Fishing Report

Rich King Apr 14, 2021

It is time to hit the suds for spring surf fishing in Delaware and Assateague It doesn't take long, but when spring fishing springs, it goes off. We wait and we wait and we wait. You hear a rumor of a big fish, then another. Then, you see a picture, could that be real? Is that really a Delaware Beach? Black drum run is on and just got…

The Delaware Surf Fishing Tag Voucher Pick Up Show

Rich King Apr 14, 2021

The vouchers for Delaware surf fishing tags were quickly handed out this morning, and the show up to that was fun, for some. The Delaware surf tag voucher It was early last night and the lines started in the parks that would allow vehicles to sit and wait. Brandywine State Park was turning cars away. People are messaging our pages…

People Lining Up For Surf Tag Vouchers Overnight

Rich King Apr 13, 2021

The Delaware State Park Surf Tag Vouchers Are Handed out Tomorrow. The question of the day has been what time should I get in line for this surf tag voucher. About a dozen people are already at some of the parks at the moment. So I would say right about now into the early morning. I honestly don't know about spending the night in my…

NOAA Launches First National Rip Current Forecast Model

Rich King Apr 12, 2021

Surf Anglers take advantage of this rip current forecast model. Below is the press release from NOAA about the National Rip Current Forecast Model. Great for helping lifeguards, boaters, swimmers, and beach towns for water safety. This will also be a great tool for surf anglers. We fish cuts, but prefer rip currents. The more gnarly…

Do Not Park In Or Drive Through Swales

Rich King Apr 11, 2021

Do not drive through the swales, especially the ones full of water. (April 2021) ... This is a jeep thing I will never understand. Just because you may have seen it on that Toyota commercial. Which happened to be shot in Delaware Seashore State park. You can't drive through the water on Delaware beaches. I mean you can to a degree, but…

Be Careful Surf Fishing In Fog

Rich King Apr 10, 2021

The worst sunburns happen when you least expect them Today it was foggy at the beach. It feels great, nice and cool. That is a lie. While it may feel great while surf fishing, you are being cooked by UV rays and you can't even feel it. Much like ants under a magnifying glass. By the time you do realize it, way too late. You're…

New Surf Structure And Northern Kingfish

Rich King Apr 10, 2021

The surf has new structure that will not last long After every heavy wave event the surf area gets carved up and that new structure lasts for a short time, but produces fish.. The surf was wide today, we found some nice cuts on Cape. Ones that we usually fish, but today they were really pronounced. Cut draining back into the ocean…

Striped Bass Incidental Catches Are Legal In Delaware

Rich King Apr 9, 2021

The new circle hook law for striped bass is confusing some anglers You're fishing for black drum, you have an offset circle hook with clam. These are not legal for targeting striped bass, however you're drum fishing. You catch a keeper striped bass. The question has been, can anglers keep the legal keeper striped bass even though the…

Pilot Program Delaware Surf Fishing Off-Peak Tags

Rich King Apr 9, 2021

Delaware State Parks has a new off-peak weekday surf tag. I like this idea and have said for years parks needs either a three day or week long surf tag. This weekday pass is cheaper and allows anglers to surf fish the weekdays when you can actually catch fish. Now we just need to limit he vehicles out here so the beaches don't keep getting…

Delaware Surf Fishing Tag Voucher Information

Rich King Apr 9, 2021

Delaware State Parks Announces Voucher Details Anyone glad this wasn't a robocall? On April 14th you can line up for your vouchers in a few Delaware state parks. There is some info you need to know to get these vouchers as well as where, below. May the odds be ever in your favor. Who wants to tailgate one of these? DE state parks…

Environmental News

MAFMC and ASMFC Postpone Final Action on Potential Changes to Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Allocations

Rich King Apr 8, 2021

MAFMC and ASMFC Postpone Final Action on Potential Changes to Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Allocations (April 8, 2021) ... During a joint webinar meeting on Tuesday, the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's (Commission) Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Board…

DNREC Launches New Logo

Rich King Apr 8, 2021

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control today unveiled a new logo. Dover (April 8, 2021) ...The new logo builds on the Department’s history of commitment to responsible use and protection of the natural environment. “The new look is inspired by our mission to protect human health and the environment, how…

My Bait Fridge Smells Amazing

Rich King Apr 8, 2021

Yesterday we went on a twelve hour chunk soak. (April 2021) ... If you haven't seen Bob The Garbage Man videos out of Jersey they are hilarious. Keep the kids out of the room too. Chris Skelton got up with me last week ... "Hey man want to do a 12 hour soak Bob he Garbage Man style?"Me .. "Oh heck yeah!"We decided to do a little…

Delaware Surf Fishing Report

Rich King Apr 8, 2021

Hoping For Striped Bass Weather This Weekend The Delaware surf has been calm waters the past few days, it is a nice change of pace. Over the weekend if this rain hits as predicted, that will all change. Yesterday and today, two days ago was supposed to be overcast and that changed. Just waint fifteen minutes and we get new weather.…

May The Fish Be With You Surf Fishing Tournament 2021

Rich King Apr 6, 2021

The second annual May The Fish Be With You Surf Fishing Tournament will be held on May 1st in Delaware Seashore State Park. May The Fish Be With You Surf Fishing Tournament 2021 is sponsored by Fishbites and DS Custom Tackle. Surf anglers can sign up on Stub Central starting April 8, 2021, or at Dans Tackle Box and Icehouse Bait and…

The Old Man In The Seal

Rich King Apr 5, 2021

There is a large seal on the beaches in Delaware Seashore State Park. It is an older seal, and looks to be on his last days. If you see it, leave it be. Not just because that is the federal law, but also ... old seal, just wants to rest. MERR is aware and has been monitoring. After numerous reports to our social media pages, I figured put…

Sunday Funday The Return Of The Whelks

Rich King Apr 5, 2021

Easter Sunday Funday was for surf fishing and giving back to the sea. If you found a whelk shell on Gordons Pond yesterday, we put them there. There is a unwritten "rule" in Delaware State parks to not remove shells from the beaches. Also known as low impact beach combing. Pick it up, look at it, put it back. This "suggestion" is…

Download NOAA Nautical Charts For your Area

Rich King Apr 5, 2021

NOAA has all their nautical charts online. NOAA's Office of Coast Survey has a nautical chart finder section on the website. These charts are for planning trips and not to be used for up to date guidance for depths. When we see the hydrographic survey boats these are one of the tasks, updating these nautical charts. Navigating…

Marine One Landing Pad Moving To Gordons Pond Beach

Rich King Apr 1, 2021

Due to the surf tag shortage Marine One will be landing on the beach at Gordons Pond. Just like so many other Delawareans, President Joe Biden missed out on the park's robocall for the last 1,000 surf tags. President Joe Biden ... "It was awful man, just chaos. I get this crazy robocall and I am like where are the credit cards? Who…

When Your Fishing Gear Is On The Ever Given stuck in the Suez Canal

Rich King Apr 1, 2021

My reaction to hearing my gear is stuck on a ship in Suez Canal? WE GOT THIS!!!

100 Lifetime Surf Tags To Be Released But There Is A Catch

Rich King Apr 1, 2021

Parks says Surf Anglers will have to work a little for these tags. (April. 1, 2021) Parks .. " We decided due to the overly dramatic reaction to the blowout sale of the last thousand tags. We would release a new lifetime surf tag. There will be a catch to get these tags though. Surf Anglers will have to compete for a tag. Take out…

Orca Pod Breaches Ocean City Inlet

Rich King Mar 31, 2021

The yearly east coast orca run has started, they are heading to the spawning grounds. Yesterday Mike Givens from the band Monkey Paw and fellow Wallops Rocket Chaser was at Ocean City inlet doing a little drone footage before playing that night. Getting shots of the town and inlet. "All of a sudden, out of the corner of my eye, this…

Delaware State Parks To Pave Rehoboth Lewes Highway

Rich King Mar 31, 2021

The beach run between Gordons pond to Herring Point is getting a facelift. Due to massive traffic this season on a stretch of beach in Cape Henlopen State Park known locally as the "Rehoboth Lewes Highway". It has been proposed it is best to just go ahead and pave it as another thruway. Parks Staff ... "We are trying to move people in…

Delaware Recreational Fishing Licenses Increased In 2020

Rich King Mar 31, 2021

In 2019 the State of Delaware issued or sold 81,075 recreational fishing licenses. Honestly I always thought this number was much higher, which it is but can't be counted. In 2020 due to covid restrictions, fishing really bumped up. One activity that many people could do and social distance well was fish. Be it individually or as a family…

The 1950’s Delaware Salt Water Fishing Guide & Map

Rich King Mar 31, 2021

I have a pristine copy of The Delaware Salt Water Guide Fishing booklet put out by The Rehoboth Sportsmen's Club in the 50's and 60's. "A Complete Guide To Fishing In The Delaware Coastal Area". It was a yearly publication that sold for a dollar. This guide truly is a complete book, loaded with information. Full of fish lists,…

Bending Offset Circle Hooks

Rich King Mar 30, 2021

Anglers can bend their offset circle hooks to be legal, but is it a good idea? With the new striped bass circle hook regulations. Many of us have a collection of circle hooks that are not legal now for targeting striped bass. So what do we do with all these offset circle hooks? Working for a tackle manufacturer, DS Custom Tackle has…

Offshore Wind Updates March 2021

Rich King Mar 29, 2021

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) released the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Vineyard Wind 1 Project, which is available here. The next stage in the federal permitting process will be the Record of Decision which will include BOEM’s determination regarding approval of the project, including mitigation and monitoring…

Delaware State Parks Release 1,000 More Surf Tags

Rich King Mar 29, 2021

One would think this is an April Fools joke but it is real. Someone needs to let the Starbucks fighters know.According to the governor's latest emergency order update. Delaware State Parks is to release, or is allowed to release one thousand more surf tags. May the odds be ever in your favor! Dover (March 29, 2021) ... In response to the…

Regulations Issued for 2021 Chesapeake Bay Striped Bass Fishing

Rich King Mar 29, 2021

Conservation Measures Include Two-Week Midseason Closure in July MD DNR (March 29, 2020) ... The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces new regulations for the Chesapeake Bay summer-fall striped bass season. The 2021 summer-fall season in most areas of the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries will be open May 16 through July…

When Will The Gator Bluefish Show

Rich King Mar 28, 2021

The gator bluefish run in the surf is slower each year. Every year, a few big gator bluefish are caught in the spring, while surf fishing in Delaware. It happens every year, you hear about it if you weren't there, and then the action would just stop, lasting for a couple days at best. Then the fish move offshore. In 2014 that action…

Weekend Fishing Picking Up

Rich King Mar 28, 2021

The resident striped bass are not the only schooling fish hitting in Delaware This weekend's warm up out brought out more anglers, and created chances for more catches. The short bass action has been fun around the inland bays. That water temperature jumped up over fifty seven degrees. It has held at low tide for the past four…

Sandy Surf Will Settle

Rich King Mar 26, 2021

Inland Bay water temperatures rise quick. The surf was rough today, the wind was worse. Exfoliation level twelve, I'm down three layers of skin. The surf is really stirred up with wind blown sand. You could cast a mile. It will calm down over night. Sunday's rain looks like a lot of fun. Warm, moist rain. Short striped bass are…

Get Your Hard Clams Now!

Rich King Mar 25, 2021

This is my favorite time of year to eat steamed clams. This is my favorite time of year for farm raised or wild collected clams, just a little sandy, no mud. The water is still easy to see into around the inland bays if you are collecting your own. Seasonal clamming is still open in Delaware. This seasonal "season" is from December…

Delaware Surf Fishing Report

Rich King Mar 25, 2021

Finally something to talk about besides white perch, skates, dogfish, and the coming spring runs. Striped bass action is finally picking up more in the upper Delaware Bay and river. Up north Richard King, commercial angler, and owner of Port Penn Bait and Tackle ... "We are starting to see more and more big striped bass in our nets. They…

CARES Act Funds Available for Fishery-Related Businesses

Rich King Mar 19, 2021

CARES Act Funds Available for Fishery-Related BusinessesApplication Period Will Be Open from March 22 Through May 5 Saltwater fishery-related businesses that suffered severe revenue declines in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic can apply to the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control for financial relief from March 22…

Beach Conditions Are Nautical

Rich King Mar 19, 2021

Only one way to describe the beaches today, nautical with a gale warning. Water pushed to the dunes at high tide over night. Next high tide is a 1:15 PM. Right now it is low tide and water is on top of the beaches. The wind advisory should lift about 1 PM. Possible small craft advisories into Saturday. Big wave day great for pictures,…

Reading The Beach To Surf Fish

Rich King Mar 17, 2021

Reading a Delaware beach to surf fish will help you find and catch more fish After a nor'easter or heavy wave storm surges. The beaches are all carved up and washed out, but that is actually a helpful tool for any surf angler. Especially in Delaware, it is tough to read a beach here. Some carved troughs soon to be swales are tens…

Montauk Rocks Surf Fishing feature film

Rich King Mar 17, 2021

This is the best documentary you will ever see on Montauk. Five years in the making, completed in 2012, this film really shows you the surf casting culture of Montauk, NY. A mecca for the most eccentric and hardcore striped bass anglers in the world. "The land of the giants." Montauk Rocks, Surf Fishing feature film was recently released…

2021 Chincoteague Pony Carnival and Penning Canceled

Rich King Mar 16, 2021

Announced today on the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company Facebook page (March 16, 2020 .. ) Dear friends,After much deliberation the fire company regrets to announce the cancellation of the 2021 carnival/pony penning activities. By now we would already be more than half way through the planning phases and preparing for upcoming events.Given…

Public Comment Tonight Draft Amendment 7 to the Atlantic Striped Bass Fishery Management Plan

Rich King Mar 16, 2021

Dover (March 16, 2020) ... DNREC will host a virtual Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) hearing to get public comment on the Public Information Document (PID) for Draft Amendment 7 to the Atlantic Striped Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) today, Tuesday, March 16 from 6 to 8 PM. You can find the Public Information Document and…

Mosquito Control Spraying of Woodland Pools to Begin

Rich King Mar 16, 2021

Spring Campaign Will Reduce Numbers of Year’s First Biting Mosquitoes Dover (March 16, 2020) ... The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control will begin annual spraying of spring woodland pools to control aquatic immature mosquitoes Tuesday, March 23, weather permitting. Statewide spraying will originate in southern…

DS Custom Tackle Spring Sale Code

Rich King Mar 15, 2021

It is that time of year, spring has sprung and it is time to load the tackle boxes, boats, and trucks. Get your gear cleaned up and replace the bad with much better. Do you make your own rigs? DS Custom Tackle has all the supplies you need to make your own gear; floats, teasers, swivels, hooks and more. "This year our sale will last until…

Banning Of Balloon Releases Moves To Delaware House Of Representatives

Rich King Mar 15, 2021

SB24 on balloon releases goes to House (March 15th, 2021) ... YOUR ACTION NEEDED ON SENATE BILL 24 The Delaware House of Representatives is now considering Senator Stephanie Hansen’s Senate Bill 24 which would clarify the law related to littering that intentional releases of balloons is not allowed just as in other forms of litter. SB24…

Attention Boaters New ECOS Law

Rich King Mar 15, 2021

Engine cut-off switch (ECOS) and associated ECOS link (ECOSL) as of April 1, 2021, as the U.S. Coast Guard implements a law passed by Congress. WASHINGTON (March 10, 2021) – Operators of recreational vessels less than 26 feet in length will be required to use an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) and associated ECOS link (ECOSL) as of April 1, 2021,…

DelmarvaWX Captures Video of Falcon 9 Flight

Rich King Mar 14, 2021

Hunter Outten from DelmarvaWX checked his Nest webcam. The Space X Falcon 9 plume footage is spectacular. Seen from Lewes, Delaware.

Space X Falcon 9 Plume Seen Along East Coast

Rich King Mar 14, 2021

(March 14 2021) ... If you decided to wake up early enough this morning to catch the SpaceX rocket that launched from Florida this morning. Everyone saw the plume on the east coast. That extra hour of sleep was just too attractive for some of us this morning. Nate Holder got these pictures this morning .. "I was in the Chesapeake bay…

Last One We Promise Have a Great Weekend

Rich King Mar 12, 2021

Going to be a little cooler tomorrow but still a great weekend. Have fun, if you didn't get your tag do some exploring. Now is a great time to see places you've never been with less people in the way. Try the Fishing Locations page for some ideasWalk on Surf Anglers start scouting out new places. Check out the town beaches, now is a great…

Delaware Drive On Beach Conditions March 12th

Rich King Mar 12, 2021

Lot of people are heading down and the beaches had some activity today. Vehicle activity and anglers, don't get excited unless you like dogfish and skate. Nothing wrong with catching them at all, but things haven't changed. The ocean is still about forty two degrees. Someone will probably catch a few short striped bass this weekend with that…

Osprey Arriving In Sussex County

Rich King Mar 12, 2021

People been seeing osprey arrive all over Sussex county this past week. Usually I get to see at least one as soon as they start showing up and then I am happy. Today I saw my first three and am loving it. That chirp. When you hear that sound and you are fishing. You know there is at least something around to catch. Osprey on the nest…

Upstate Stream Trout Season to Open Early

Rich King Mar 12, 2021

Anglers Encouraged to Practice Social Distancing; Trout Streams Closed to All Fishing from March 14 Until Opening Delaware’s 2021 upstate stream trout season will open early to minimize opening day crowds and accommodate responsible outdoor recreation during the current coronavirus (COVID-19) period. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources…

Delaware Surf Fishing “Uber” Of Sorts

Rich King Mar 11, 2021

We are getting a lot of requests about how to get on the beaches. Walk on surf fishing locations we just did an article on. Many are looking for rides. One thing someone suggested was a way for people to meet up and get a ride to surf fish. Not a bad idea. Knowing what I know about parks permits, rules etc. The only way to do this is as…

Delaware Walk On Surf Fishing Locations

Rich King Mar 11, 2021

You might have missed a surf fishing tag but you won't miss out on actual surf fishing. Pro Tip ... Look on the bright side, no one is going to ask you for a ride to the beach this year. These areas below are all walk on area for surf fishing. I recommend a five gallon bucket of gear and two rods and sand spikes. You can sit on the bucket.…

Navy Crossing Is Open

Rich King Mar 10, 2021

Navy crossing is open. Today there was a truck on the beach, the gate is open and you can see people are easily getting passed the great dune base. The beach is wide but flatter so watch yourself at high tide. Navy Crossing beach looking towards the great dune. You can see the sand road along the dune base is fine and level …

Lot of Bird Action Off Broadkill Today

Rich King Mar 10, 2021

Hundreds of Gannets Raining on Bait in the Delaware Bay There were hundreds of gannets raining on bait today off Broadkill Beach and Beach Plum Island State Park. Easily a mile if not more offshore. I had to break out the big binoculars just to see if they were gannets or gulls. I got some decent shots they were pretty far out. The…

Getting The Surf Fishing Vehicle Ready For The Season

Rich King Mar 9, 2021

Now it is time to clean the surf fishing rigs, gear, tackle, and add snacks. It will be seventy degrees on Friday, the water is forty , but yeah, I'm going to the beach too all week. But first, I gotz sum cleanin to do.The season is coming, there are dogfish and skate in the surf now. Don't care, I want to go catch other fish, but first…

Masseys Ditch Is already Shoaling Back In

Rich King Mar 8, 2021

The Indian River Bay side shoal is forming back up rather quickly Not a year after dredging Masseys ditch and part of Bakers Channel. The end of Masseys near bird island on the Indian River bay side is filling back in. It won't take too long before it is filled in just as bad as before the dredging. Boats were constantly getting…

Fight Breaks Out Over Surf Tags At Starbucks

Rich King Mar 5, 2021

I can't even make this up for a good April Fool's joke, because this was literally on the list of suggestions this year. So what had happened was ... This has been confirmed by witnesses, it is a hundred percent reliable, identities are anonymous and will remain as such. Today at Starbucks folks waiting in line for their…

Stripers Forever Calls for a Ten-Year Moratorium on Striped Bass Harvest

Rich King Mar 5, 2021

Conservation group encourages angling public to demand bold action by ASMFC to save striped bass from another collapse March 5, 2021 – Stripers Forever, the angling conservation organization, has responded to the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s (ASMFC) call for public input by demanding a ten-year moratorium on the harvest of…

DNREC Reminds Public That The Point at Cape Henlopen is Closed for 2021 Beach Nesting Season

Rich King Mar 5, 2021

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control reminds the public that The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park, including a stretch of ocean and bay beach, is now closed. Since 1993, The Point has closed annually each March for the benefit of threatened and endangered beachnesters and migratory shorebirds, including red knot,…

That Pink Cloud Is NOT a UFO

Rich King Mar 3, 2021

Not too long ago a DOD Rocket was launched at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility. We knew there was a launch toady, but being a Department of Defense launch, times are not announced. In case anyone is wondering what that weird pink cloud was earlier this evening on the horizon. Usually the vapors left behind are from sounding rockets. Wallops…

Delaware Surf-Fishing Permits are Sold Out After Reaching Annual Cap

Rich King Mar 3, 2021

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced today it has reached its cap of 17,000 Delaware Surf-Fishing Permits issued for the calendar year. With the Surf-Fishing Permit cap figure attained, no more surf tag permits will be issued until December. The cap was reached early this year after unprecedented…

Delaware Surf Fishing Tags are sold out

Rich King Mar 3, 2021

That didn't take long. Within a couple hours after announcing there were about a thousand surf fishing tags left, they sold out. The 17,000 tag cap has been reached. Not a bad way to bank in a hundred grand in an hour.

Delaware Surf Fishing Tags Will Run Out Soon

Rich King Mar 3, 2021

If you haven't gotten your surf fishing tag for Delaware State park beaches you better get on it. There are only 1,000 surf tags left for the public. I don't expect these tags to make it past the middle of February. Surf Fishing PermitsSurf Fishing Permits allow vehicles to access designated beaches for the sole purpose of fishing. Only…

States Schedule Public Hearings on Atlantic Striped Bass Draft Amendment 7 Public Information Document

Rich King Feb 24, 2021

The Atlantic coastal states of Maine through Virginia have scheduled their virtual hearings to gather public input on the Atlantic Striped Bass Draft Amendment 7 Public Information Document (PID). The details of those hearings follow: States Schedule Public Hearings on Atlantic Striped Bass DraftAmendment 7 Public Information Document As the…

DNREC to cohost with Maryland DNR a virtual joint Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission/Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council public hearing for the draft Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment

Rich King Feb 24, 2021

DNREC will cohost with Maryland DNR a virtual joint Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) and Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) hearing to get public comment on the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment on Wednesday, February 24 from 6 to 8 PM. You can find…

Stranded Whale At Assateague Island National Seashore Update

Rich King Feb 23, 2021

A Humpback Whale washed up onto Assateague Island National Seashore last Thursday. It is "Pivot" a Gulf of Maine humpback whale first spotted in 2008. (Feb 23, 2020) ... From the Superintendent at Assateague Island National Seashore -Update on the WhaleAfter several hours of work, we have been unable to move the whale-we estimate its…

Fishing Line Drop Loop Strength Tests

Rich King Feb 23, 2021

We have been testing a lot of fishing gear on our BFG 2500 (February 2021) ... In 2020, I acquired an old drafting table. Like really old school and weighs as much as a small car. Being bored to death during all the pandemic fun, I decided to repurpose it. Honestly I have come up with some weird stuff for projects the past year. This…

MAFMC and ASMFC to Hold Public Hearings for Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment

Rich King Feb 22, 2021

(February 22, 2021) ... The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) are seeking public comment on management options under consideration in the Bluefish Allocation and Rebuilding Amendment. This amendment contains alternatives to: Revise the fishery management plan (FMP)…

Delaware’s Pond Trout Season to Open Early

Rich King Feb 22, 2021

Anglers Encouraged to Practice Responsible Social Distancing;Newton Pond Closed for All Angling Through Feb. 27 Delaware’s 2021 downstate pond trout season will open early to minimize opening day crowds and accommodate responsible outdoor recreation during the current coronavirus (COVID-19) period. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources…

2021 Delaware Fishing Guide And Ruler Available

Rich King Feb 19, 2021

The 2021 Delaware Fishing Guide is out and the new rulers. They are green or as the Trailer Park boys would say, F&%$@*& Mint! Batteries not included either, they are bright. The ink stays on when it gets wet. We checked, even used Windex. Because like Costas "Gus" Portokalos says, Windex fixes everything, You can pick up the…

Sewer Break Discharges Water Into St. Jones River

Rich King Feb 17, 2021

Public Advised to Avoid Length of River from Dover to Bowers Until Wastewater Spill is Dispersed Immediate Release (February 17, 2021) ... The Kent County Levy Court Public Works is currently addressing a force main break, causing wastewater to flow into the St. Jones River. The public should avoid contact with the water in the St. Jones at…

NOAA Fisheries Reaches Out To Fishermen By Phone

Rich King Feb 16, 2021

NOAA Fisheries reaches out to fishermen by phone; conducting surveys for scientists to assess impacts on commercial/for-hire fishing operations and seafood dealers/processors related to COVID-19 KEY MESSAGE:NOAA Fisheries and our partner, the University of Florida, are teaming up on a phone survey to assess the impact of COVID-19 on…

A Field Guide to Coastal Fishes

Rich King Feb 12, 2021

A Field Guide to Coastal Fishes From Maine to Texas No longer does Banded Rudderfish need to be a standard answer. Actually no, it always has to be the standard answer on the interwebs for a fish ID. At least we can now put away the ballyhoo/halfbeak debate every year around the inland bays, they are halfbeaks.I have a ton of books and I…

Delaweather Bubble Strikes Again

Rich King Feb 12, 2021

I'm starting to think my woodstove is just too hot. We keep getting left out in the cold with no snow in the Delaweather bubble, whether we like it or not. Keep up with Hunter at DelmarvaWX for live updated weather conditions. Especially tomorrow when this bubble bursts from ice.

Presentations and audio files from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s 2021 Winter Meeting

Rich King Feb 12, 2021

Presentations and audio files from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s 2021 Winter Meeting Webinar are now available at http://www.asmfc.org/home/2021-winter-meeting-webinar; go to the relevant board/committee header and click on either Presentations or Audio. Audio files can also be found on the Commission’s…

Report: Climate Change among Threats to Recreational Fishing

Rich King Feb 12, 2021

As Participation Surges During Pandemic, Blue Ribbon Panel Sets Agenda for the Future of Marine Fisheries Management Bozeman, MT (Feb 11, 2020) – Today, the American Fly Fishing Trade Association and the AFFTA Fisheries Fund (jointly AFFTA) released a report, “Recommendations to Improve the Health and Sustainability of America’s Marine…

Governor Carney seeks nominees for two At-Large vacancies on the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council

Rich King Feb 11, 2021

Governor Carney is seeking nominees for two vacant At-Large seats on the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council (MAFMC) to submit to the federal National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) for consideration. One of the two seats is currently held by New York and the second is held by North Carolina. Although legally available to…

Check Out The Radio Garden App

Rich King Feb 11, 2021

Spin the globe and be your own DJ There isn't a radio on our smart phones which is just stupid. If you like music as much as I do, and have a diverse taste. Then check out the Radio Garden app on the phone or with a computer. You can listen to radio stations worldwide. Who needs a radio when you have Radio Garden. Spin the globe…

Winter Weather Advisory

Rich King Feb 10, 2021

Winter Weather Advisory URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Mount Holly NJ 347 AM EST Wed Feb 10 2021 DEZ002>004-MDZ012-015-019-020-102200- /O.NEW.KPHI.WW.Y.0006.210211T0000Z-210211T1700Z/ Kent-Inland Sussex-Delaware Beaches-Kent MD-Queen Annes-Talbot- Caroline- Including the cities of Dover, Georgetown, Rehoboth Beach,…

2021 Introductory Fisheries Science for Stakeholders (IFISSH) course

Rich King Feb 8, 2021

Registration is now open for the 2021 Introductory Fisheries Science for Stakeholders (IFISSH) course offered through Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE). The objective of this course is to educate stakeholders of New Jersey's commercial and recreational marine fisheries so that they will better understand and make progress on issues impacting…

Atlantic Striped Bass Board Approves Draft Amendment 7 PID for Public Comment

Rich King Feb 8, 2021

Atlantic Striped Bass Board Approves Draft Amendment 7 PID for Public Comment The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Atlantic Striped Bass Management Board approved for public comment the Public Information Document (PID) for Draft Amendment 7 to the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Atlantic Striped Bass. As the first…

ASMFC and MAFMC Approve Changes to State Allocations of Commercial Black Sea Bass Quota

Rich King Feb 5, 2021

ASMFC and MAFMC Approve Changes to State Allocations of Commercial Black Sea Bass Quota (Feb 4, 2020) ... The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Management Board (Board) and the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) jointly approved several changes to the management program for…

Winter Storm Watch

Rich King Feb 5, 2021

I want to go car hooding so send it! NWS ... ...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE SATURDAY NIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY AFTERNOON...* WHAT...HEAVY MIXED PRECIPITATION POSSIBLE. TOTAL SNOW AND SLEET ACCUMULATIONS OF OVER 5 INCHES POSSIBLE. * WHERE...PORTIONS OF CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY, NORTHEAST MARYLAND AND CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN DELAWARE.*…

Broadkill Beach Took A Beating

Rich King Feb 5, 2021

Every nor'easter carves up Broadkill Beach more and more The waves and wind pummeled Broadkill Beach. Delaware bay beaches are usually calm and have smaller beaches. Hardly any real dunes and usually just look like the edge of any relatively calm bay or big lake. Until the storms crank up the conditions. Broadkill Beach Erosion…

DNREC Cancels Annual Beach Grass Planting

Rich King Feb 2, 2021

2021 Annual Beach Grass Planting Canceled Due to Covid Dover (February 2, 2020) ... Dear Volunteers, Usually at this time of year I send an email with registration information for our annual Beach Grass Planting. However, due to the pandemic, we will not be holding the event in the spring. This year there will be a minimal amount of…

Angry Seas Minor Coastal Flooding

Rich King Feb 1, 2021

The nor'easter conditions today were typical and mild. No big deal, nothing to see here typical nor'easter conditions. Once high tide passed we were good to go. Route 1 got a tad wet on the shoulder. Deldot was standing by with the snow plows. Before you laugh, it's a great way to push water off the highway into the drainage ditches.…

Big Surf No More Snow

Rich King Feb 1, 2021

The snow along the coast and inland areas of Sussex County melted overnight. Now we are watching the ocean push to the dune lines. It is serious nor'easter conditions today. There is a huge build up of foam on he beaches too. High tide is at 11 AM, water is already to the dune lines. The inland bays will see some minor flooding around 3…

DNREC Sinks Ex-Army Fast-Supply Ship

Rich King Jan 23, 2021

DNREC sinks ex-Army fast-supply ship to expand Delaware's artificialreef system and create more fish habitat and angling opportunities Per DNREC ... (Jan 22, 2021) ... About the newest addition to Delaware’s reef system: The John S. Dempster Jr. joins three other decommissioned World War II-era fast-supply (FS) ships that DNREC has turned into…

Delaware’s Advisory Council on Tidal Finfisheries will meet virtually tonight.

Rich King Jan 20, 2021

If you want to make changes to our fishery laws or whatever. These are the people you bring it to and ask them to advise DNREC about your request. There is a rep for each county both recreational and commercial. I highly recommend people pay attention to these councils and get involved. (Jan 19, 2020) ... Delaware’s Advisory Council on Tidal…

MAFMC and ASMFC to Hold Public Hearings for Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass

Rich King Jan 20, 2021

MAFMC and ASMFC to Hold Public Hearings for Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Commercial/Recreational Allocation Amendment The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) are seeking public comment on the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass…

Navy Crossing Is Really Thin

Rich King Jan 16, 2021

Delaware Surf Anglers Avoid Driving Navy Crossing. The drive on access is still closed and for good reason. There isn't enough beach to drive on and even at low tide you can't get down the sand "cliff". Avoid driving to naval crossing from point comfort station even turning around could be an issue. There isn't enough sand to cross in…

Delaware State Park Surf Tag Sticker Issues And What You Need To Know

Rich King Jan 16, 2021

We recieved numerous complaints about the ink rubbing off surf tag stickers. As well as some having issues wiht the sticker itself not adhering well. These have all been online ordered tags and stickers. Not all of these stickers are having this issue. We reached out to parks after our group page and messenger, received a lot of…

Take A Long Walk Off A Short Pier In Rehoboth Beach

Rich King Jan 15, 2021

Rehoboth Beach's Canal Access Dock Tour Now you really can take a long walk off a short pier in Rehoboth Beach. The new canal access dock in Rehoboth is almost ready to open to the pubic. The switchback to get to the dock below is bit of a walk with benches along the way and information signs. It is a great idea, and needed for the the…

Wagamons Pond Boat Ramp Temporarily Closing for Reconstruction

Rich King Jan 14, 2021

The Wagamons Pond boat ramp and parking lot located in Milton will temporarily close beginning Jan. 21 for major reconstruction and expansion. The ramp is anticipated to reopen on May 30, 2021, weather permitting. The nearby public fishing pier and parking lot along the Broadkill River will remain open during construction. The project will…

Mid-Atlantic Council Seeks Stakeholder Input on Summer Flounder

Rich King Jan 12, 2021

(Jan 12, 2020) ... The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council is collecting public comments and suggestions regarding current and future management of the recreational summer flounder fishery. Input provided through the scoping comment form will help inform the development of a management strategy evaluation (MSE) which will evaluate different…

Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation Releases State Issue Briefs

Rich King Jan 12, 2021

2021 Issue Briefs provide sportsmen's community, policymakers with information needed to pursue comprehensive outdoor agenda in state capitols January 12, 2021, (WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Further cementing its status as a sportsmen's community leader in statehouses across the country, the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation (CSF) has released the…

State Park Offices to Reopen Tuesday with Limited Hours

Rich King Jan 11, 2021

Virtual Programs Offered While Nature Centers Remain Closed The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control will reopen its state park offices Tuesday, Jan. 12, with limited hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day. Park offices were closed from Dec. 24 through Jan. 11 to limit the spread of COVID-19. The Indian River…

Cecil County Angler Catches Record Flathead Catfish

Rich King Jan 6, 2021

MD DNR (Dec 6, 2020) ... A Cecil County resident has officially been recognized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources as the first-ever state record holder for the invasive flathead catfish. Joshua Dixon caught the 57-pound, 50-inch long flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) on Dec. 27, 2020 fishing near the Lapidum Boat Ramp on the…

Delaware 10-Digit Dialing

Rich King Jan 4, 2021

Delawareans are going to have to make some changes dialing numbers soon FCC .... 2021 is going to bring about many changes, but one of the changes that will affect all of us in our daily lives has barely begun to be made public. Beginning April 24, 2021, telephone users in Delaware with Delaware phone numbers (area code 302) will begin to dial…

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