Browsing Category
Fishing Report
Weekly fishing reports for the surf and tidal waters of Delaware.
Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier Closed For Repairs
DNREC closes Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier for safety reasons
LEWES (Oct. 27, 2014) – DNREC Division of Parks & Recreation Director Ray Bivens has ordered the immediate closure of the aging Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier as a safety measure after a recent structural analysis report found that the pier required significant repairs if it is to…
Read More...
Windy weekend and sea witch is on town
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zSknmYD6Xk
The wind has been ridiculous the past few days, well, mostly for the past month. When it isn't pouring rain, the trees are raining leaves. The autumn colors look great, the nights are crisp, and the days when the sun is out are decent, especially if you can get out of the wind. Today…
Read More...
In Delaware The Buck Stops at the Inner Wall
Deer at the inner wall ... photo by Ed Borys
Deer at the inner wall ... photo by Ed Borys
Deer at the inner wall ... photo by Ed Borys
Oct 2014 ... Monday morning I woke up and there was frost on the vehicles. I was supposed to meet Scott Jost, John Masten, and Ed Borys to go tautog fishing at the inner wall on Scott's boat the…
Read More...
What to expect this weekend in the surf
Leaves are falling and trees are turning colors. The driveway is under a blanket of fresh leaves, and it is the perfect time to rake them up, but as usual I will blow that off and go fishing instead. Then after a good three or four rains and the leaves have all packed together, I will cuss them and myself for waiting that long. …
Read More...
DNREC Fish & Wildlife stocks trout for fall in White Clay Creek
DNREC Fish & Wildlife stocks trout for fall in White Clay Creek
WHITE CLAY CREEK (Oct. 16, 2014) – The Fisheries Section of the Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife announced today that White Clay Creek has received its annual fall stocking of trout. Fall stockings have occurred at White Clay Creek since 2007.
DNREC…
Read More...
Governor Markell signs new bill to enable DNREC to issue low-numbered surf fishing vehicle plates
DCREC Press Release ... Governor Markell signs new bill to enable DNREC to issue low-numbered surf fishing vehicle plates
INDIAN RIVER LIFE-SAVING STATION AND MUSEUM (Oct.16, 2014) – Governor Jack Markell, DNREC Secretary David Small, legislators and surf fishing groups and enthusiasts were on hand today as the Governor signed HB348, which…
Read More...
Blue Fin Tuna In The Surf in Delaware?
Yes, seriously there was a bluefin tuna found in the surf today, at Fenwick Island. I know guys that catch bluefin tuna in the surf in New Jersey mixed in with the migratory striped bass schools. Usually they are in close feeding on stripers and sand eels, this only occurs only in certain areas. Today a bluefin was seen near the…
Read More...
Delaware Bay Closure for Naval Exercises
The Coast Guard is establishing three temporary safety zones on the waters of the Delaware Bay and North Atlantic Ocean adjacent to Cape May, New Jersey. The safety zones will restrict vessel traffic on a portion of the Delaware Bay and North Atlantic Ocean while a Navy exercise is taking place. These temporary safety zones are necessary to…
Read More...
Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier has a new view
The pier has a new view, well actually the same view just less of an obstruction. The bushes were removed to the left of the entrance over a month or so ago and now you can see the Harbor of…
Read More...
A Weekend of Fishing in the Elements
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuHarTTOpN4
Fishing has been fun this weekend despite the weather and winds. Friday before it got too nasty out Scott, Ed and I went to the outer wall to do a little tog fishing. We were on Scott's boat and it was the first trip to the wall, we had three hundred and fifty feet of anchor line. Scott said we have…
Read More...
Fish & Wildlife Enforcement reminds citizens to review Delaware and federal regulations before posting fish or wildlife parts for sale
Fish & Wildlife Enforcement reminds citizens to review Delaware
and federal regulations before posting fish or wildlife parts for sale
DOVER (Oct. 9, 2014) – Over the past 10 days, DNREC Division of Fish & Wildlife Enforcement Natural Resources Police officers investigated two separate cases involving illegal possession and attempted…
Read More...
DNREC … Delaware State Record Sheepshead is Confirmed
State record 17.1-pound sheepshead caught from fishing boat out of Lewes
LEWES (Oct. 8, 2014) – DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife has confirmed a new state record in the Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament: a 17.1-pound sheepshead caught on Sept. 29. The fish was 28 inches long and had a girth of 24 inches.
Read More...
Modified mullet rigs catch more bluefish
I went fishing yesterday with a buddy of mine from college, Matt Rich, whom I have not seen in twenty years. He grew up on the Eastern shore and is now residing in Los Angelos. Of course he wanted to catch striped bass and some big bluefish, and I told him unfortunately they are not here like they were back in those days and it is…
Read More...
The Lunar Eclipse of Oct 8 2014
The second lunar eclipse of the year will light up the sky early Wednesday morning in North America, It will be the most visible from the Pacific coast. The Earth will be between the moon and the sun and a lunar eclipse will occur. At the peak of the eclipse the moon will have a red hue. It has been dubbed the blood moon due to the color it…
Read More...
DSF’s End Of Season Sale
So, in the spirit of early holiday shopping (Have you seen the Christmas trees at Lowes?). We have decided to bring up the holiday sales a month or more early because Black Friday and Cyber Monday are always crazy. The online store now has 20% off all orders over $20. Orders totaling over $100 will receive a free bottle of Gneux…
Read More...
DNREC showcases coastal and natural resources on Oct. 5 at Coast Day in Lewes
DNREC showcases coastal and natural resources on Oct. 5 at Coast Day in Lewes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92DLHjqCSOY&list=UUGSQ-LqETuCzXhhqN-lqiqg
LEWES (Oct. 3, 2014) – Delaware’s coastal and natural resources will be showcased from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5 at DNREC’s Coast Day education tent between the Smith and Cannon…
Read More...
Weekend fishing what to expect
Trees are slowly starting to show signs of changing colors. Temperatures are still dropping both in the air and water. There is a cold front coming through this weekend, which will plummet water temperatures even further. The water is still stirred up in the inland bays, Indian River Inlet, and the surf is still a bit stirred up…
Read More...
Fish the Fifty Finishes Delmarva
Last year we were contacted by Jon Bell and Richie Owens about fishing in Delaware. They wanted to know where they could find a guide to take them fishing for a unique journey. The boys are on a mission to catch a fish in every state. This idea came up one night while having a pint in a local pub (that is English for a beer at the…
Read More...
Pending … Dave Walker breaks Delaware State Record for sheepshead
Monday everyone went out and up the Delaware Bay for the opener of tautog season. Loaded with green crabs and sand fleas fishing the walls, haystack, and Delaware Bay structure many anglers tried their luck. Several people did well in some areas and anglers struck out in other areas. The haystacks, inner, and outer walls were not …
Read More...
Bluefish galore with a side of flounder after the storm
Well the storm passed and it was not as bad as previous ones. It did manage to carve the beaches up, and create some very pronounced cuts and sandbars. I made a video today of a rip current at Conquest beach it is a good example of how they work and form. I did a little fishing and found about ten pounds of sea glass, as well as a…
Read More...
Delaware’s first fall Nor’Easter
In case you haven't noticed it has been ridiculously windy today, more so than it has been all week. We can expect to see more wind throughout the night and a bit of rain. First Nor'easter for the fall season. It is a warm front that is about the only good news so the temperatures will warm up for a bit. Wait, what? That isn't…
Read More...
Fall out of summer fishing
Rough seas and heavy winds have made for some harder fishing in the surf, but we have been catching fish. Definitely reminds you of fall fishing, and the fish seem to be anticipating the temperature change. This is the time of year when summer fish and fall fish are in our waters at the same time. We have seen spiny box fish or burr fish in…
Read More...
Fishing the rough surf for blues
The past few days the surf has been a bit angry, bust mostly on the southern beaches. We fished 3Rs yesterday the froth in the surf looked like a double latte with cheese. The waves were heavy and came in fast. We still managed to catch bluefish despite the conditions. Casting was a chore with small metals so I upgraded to my surf…
Read More...
Delaware to extend recreational black sea bass season by three days through Sept. 21
Delaware to extend recreational black sea bass season
by three days through Sept. 21
DOVER (Sept. 18, 2014) – The early recreational black sea bass season will be extended for three days, remaining open Friday, Sept. 19 through Sunday, Sept. 21, DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife announced today. The Division is making the change…
Read More...
Augustine Beach Boat Ramp reopens, with dredging completed
Augustine Beach Boat Ramp reopens, with dredging completed
DOVER (Sept. 16, 2014) – With maintenance dredging of the boat ramp access channel at Augustine Beach near Port Penn completed, the boat ramp and adjacent intertidal beach located on the south side of the existing groin have reopened for public use, DNREC’s Division of Fish…
Read More...
Stormy fishing in the surf
The weather the past week has been rough for fishing. Heavy surf and angry seas have made for stirred up rough water. The temperatures have been steadily dropping to fall like conditions and the water has been dropping as well. Which makes everyone excited for fall fishing. The striped bass will make their annual fall run soon enough. …
Read More...
ASMFC striped bass symposium in Dover
The other night we attended the ASMFC symposium on Striped Bass in Dover. Out of twenty people in the room only three wanted/commented to have heavy reductions to help rebuild the stocks. The rest of the room wanted either the least reduction or none at all. The link for the draft is below and is self explanatory. We are pushing for the most…
Read More...
Beach Conditions from the storm
Fishing the surf the past few days has been decent. Bluefish, kingfish, croaker, spot, and flounder have been caught. Mullet has been the best bait for bluefish. The mullet have shown up but are small right now. The bluefish are averaging eighteen inches for the larger ones and eight inches for the smaller. Croaker are showing…
Read More...
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to hold Sept. 11 public hearing on interstate striped bass management plan
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to hold Sept. 11 public hearing on interstate striped bass management plan
DOVER (Sept. 8, 2014) – The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) will hold a public hearing on a draft addendum to the Atlantic Striped Bass Interstate Fisheries Management Plan at 6 p.m., Thursday,…
Read More...
Volunteers begin 2014 Hawk Watch at Ashland Nature Center, Cape Henlopen State Park
Volunteers begin 2014 Hawk Watch at Ashland Nature Center, Cape Henlopen State Park
DOVER (Sept. 5, 2014) – As the summer season slowly fades and an autumn chill returns to the air in Delaware, thousands of migrating raptors will travel south over Delaware on their way to warmer winter climates. Each fall, First State raptor enthusiasts…
Read More...
After the summer season fishing
Wow, where did everyone go, it was a like a ghost town on Tuesday at the beach. Hope everyone had a safe and fun summer, good luck with back to school for the kids and the parents. I am sure the parents are more excited than the kids. We will see many of you during the weekends for the next several weeks. For the most part I have run into…
Read More...
Governor Markell signs bill declassifying and updating fines for certain hunting, fishing and boating offenses
DNREC Press Release ...
Governor Markell signs bill declassifying and updating fines for certain hunting, fishing and boating offenses
DOVER (Sept. 2, 2014) – Today at Wilmington’s DuPont Environmental Education Center, as DNREC Secretary David S. Small and Delaware Chief Justice Leo Strine looked on, Delaware Governor Jack Markell signed…
Read More...
Happy Labor Day from DSF
Happy Labor Day ... It is the end of summer season. I would like to thank everyone for following the site and social media. It has been a fun summer and we have all had a blast. I have kept the reports minimal this month for the fact the fishing changes very little, and the servers are over loading again. Which I think is awesome, but drives…
Read More...
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to hold Sept. 11 public hearing on interstate striped bass management plan
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to hold
Sept. 11 public hearing on interstate striped bass management plan
DOVER (Aug. 28, 2014) – The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) will hold a public hearing on a draft addendum to the Atlantic Striped Bass Interstate Fisheries Management Plan at 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 11 in…
Read More...
Park Road to reopen near UD’s Lewes campus
Park Road to reopen near UD’s Lewes campus
LEWES (Aug. 28, 2014) – The Division of Parks and Recreation has announced that Park Road in Lewes will be opened Saturday morning, Aug. 30, for through traffic. The road just underwent a major resurfacing and realignment, and had a new shared-use pedestrian/bicycle path added. Some minor clean-up…
Read More...
Eight piping plover chicks fledged this season at Cape Henlopen
Eight piping plover chicks fledged this season
at Cape Henlopen, beachnesting bird monitors report
Oceanside beach at the Point to reopen for Labor Day weekend
LEWES (Aug. 27, 2014) – With beachnesting bird season winding down and migratory shorebirds passing through, beachnesting bird monitors reported that six pairs of piping…
Read More...
Augustine Beach Boat Ramp to open for Labor Day weekend
Augustine Beach Boat Ramp to open for Labor Day weekend
Periodic weekday closures to continue next week through Sept. 18
DOVER (Aug. 27, 2014) – The Augustine Beach Boat Ramp near Port Penn and adjacent intertidal beach located on the south side of the existing groin, which has been closed for maintenance dredging of the boat ramp access…
Read More...
Back in the surf!
Sorry this is so short I am writing this at a truck stop in NY. Coming home!!
We have had some nice weather and some not so nice weather, whether we like it or not. Fall is on its way and the fact the days are getting shorter noticeably now is a sure sign. Sunset is earlier and earlier now, and the temps are cooling off. All in all this…
Read More...
Fall in August
Did everyone enjoy the fall weather teaser in august? Reminds you of the fish to come and the colors of fall. Summer is still in full swing, it's hot and crowded. The fishing has been decent for the most part. Flounder are still the hot catch and can be found just about everywhere. Many of the charters have been loading up on flounder limits.…
Read More...
Maintenance dredging continues at Augustine Beach Boat Ramp
Ramp to reopen periodically during work through Sept. 18
DOVER (Aug. 15, 2014) – The Augustine Beach Boat Ramp near Port Penn and adjacent intertidal beach located on the south side of the existing groin will continue to reopen periodically during the work through Thursday, Sept.18, while maintenance dredging of the boat ramp access channel…
Read More...
Why do you fish?
Fishing this week has been decent in the surf. Random bluefish, kingfish, croaker, and spot mostly on fishbites bloodworm formula and squid. Small sharks have been plentiful, from little sand sharks to dogfish. Skates galore as usual, I just saw a picture of skate wing meat selling for eleven eighty eight a pound. Apparently Jersey…
Read More...
Tropical Storm Bertha hits the beach in Delaware
Even though tropical storm Bertha is well off our coast, today the storm surge at high tide flooded most of the beaches in Delaware and Maryland to the dune line in no time. Lifeguards had to close down the beach at Indian River Inlet south side. Water washed across the beach and filled in behind beach goers. Basically water washed…
Read More...
vacation from vacationland
Fishing slowed down over the weekend when the rains showed up, but that didn't stop many from getting out there. Flounder have been the hot catch this month and summer. They are popping up everywhere on either minnows or gulp. From the Inland Bays to the Delaware Bay to the ocean it is hard to not find flounder. Croaker are still everywhere…
Read More...
Augustine Beach Boat Ramp to close periodically for maintenance dredging from Aug. 4 – Sept. 18
DNREC press release ...
Augustine Beach Boat Ramp to close periodically for maintenance dredging from Aug. 4 - Sept. 18
DOVER (July 30, 2014) – The Augustine Beach Boat Ramp near Port Penn and adjacent intertidal beach located on the south side of the existing groin will be closed periodically starting Monday, Aug. 4 through…
Read More...
Angels in the surf and monks at the old grounds
The other day we were sent a picture of an angel shark that was caught in the surf and this is not the first one caught this year. Aahron Jost was working on a head boat fishing the old grounds and they hooked into an angel out there. These are also prohibited sharks and are to be released immediately. When reeling them in for the first time…
Read More...
Beach Clean up on Sunday
Tomorrow there is a beach clean up for Delaware Seashore State Park hosted by the Delaware Surf Report crew on Facebook. "Tomorrow's cleanup crew will meet at north inlet parking lot at Indian River between 8 and 8:30. See you there! I picked up the gloves and trash bags from the Indian River Marina today! I registered the event with the parks…
Read More...
Life Rings at Indian River Inlet saves lives
These life rings are along the rail at the Indian River Inlet, and this Sunday one was put to good use. Big shout out to Jacob Martin from Delmarva Boy Scout Troop 281 in Ocean View for having the life rings installed at the Indian River Inlet for his Eagle Scout service project. Steve DiGirolamo was at the northside checking…
Read More...
Keeping Delaware’s Beaches Clean
In the early spring we organized weekly beach clean ups and the turnout was great. Every Saturday or Sunday for two months we would get a variety of volunteers to help clean the beaches. All of the trash we removed was washed up on our beaches and not from the influx of tourists every year. We will resume these cleanups after the summer…
Read More...
Northside Parking Lot is Now Open at IRI
The northside parking lot at the Indian River Inlet is now open. The temporary parking lot next to the Indian River Coast Guard Station is closed. The work on the new RV campground is progressing nicely, and work will soon start on the temporary parking lot to turn that into RV camping as well. . The new parking lot, for those…
Read More...
Sand Tiger Shark washes up on a Delaware Beach
Earlier this morning a large sand tiger shark washed up on a beach in Delaware. It had a large hook in its mouth and a long leader. You can see in the picture that the line was snapped off probably during the retrieve. The shark was seen last night floundering in the surf and then washed up on the beach this morning. Unfortunately it is…
Read More...
Releasing the hounds in the surf
Just a heads up, but rumor on campus is Gordon's Pond will open up this Friday the eighteenth. That is just a rumor, and has not been made official yet however we have heard tell it is true. Looking forward to fishing the new Cape Henlopen airstrip again, more room on the beach is always a good thing. The point will not reopen until…
Read More...
Weather, tides, moon, and temperatures
Morning Gang this is your mid week weather. I usually do this every morning on Facebook, trying something different today ... sunrise photo by Leah Reynolds ... We got a bit wet yesterday but at least it has cooled off out there.
Currently it is 71 Degrees out
Surf temp .. 69.4
Waves: 4.3 ft.
Swell Period: 7 sec.
Wave direction ... SE…
Read More...
Delaware State Record Mahi Mahi Broken
On July 6 William Emmert caught a 56.9 pound mahi-mahi trolling the Baltimore canyon. This catch beats the previous record of 52 pounds, 15 ounces on Aug. 18, 2003, by Charles Ciociola. Since the mahi mahi was caught by a boat that ported out of Delaware it qualifies as a Delaware State record in the Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament . …
Read More...
The full moon on the 12th of July is not a super moon
The full moon on the 12th of July is not a super moon. However you can expect slightly higher tides and people to be more emotional. Which is the norm for Facebook and most social media these days. A super moon is when the moon is closest to the earth so it looks bigger in the sky. It is known as the Lunar perigee, which will be the August full…
Read More...
Slow in the surf but decent in the bays and ocean
Well so far it has been an uneventful week, well at least nothing has burst into flames no one had to land on a closed beach. The hurricane stirred up the water and carved the beaches up a bit. The water is clearing up nicely and the beaches are getting smoother, with the normal sharp slope to the surf. Jersey was hit with record low…
Read More...
2014 Inland Bays Clean up at Masseys Landing
Boats and Volunteers needed for Inland Bays Cleanup
The Delaware Center for the Inland Bays, DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section and the Division of Parks and Recreation are seeking volunteers and boats for the Tenth Annual Cleanup of the Inland Bays beginning at 9 a.m. and finishing up around 1 p.m., Saturday, July…
Read More...
Coastal Conservation Association DE chapter meeting July 7
There is a CCA DE chapter meeting tomorrow night (July 7) in Lewes, DE. Located at #2 Dartmouth Dr. Lewes DE ... Rolling Meadows housing development behind Wawa at 5 points at 7:00pm. If you would like to learn what the CCA DE is all about i suggest you come to a meeting and find out for yourself. We will be addressing the issues with…
Read More...
Summer fishing is heating up
We have had an interesting few days on the beaches here in Delaware. From a Jeep fire to a emergency plane landing on Gordons pond in the closed section for piping plovers. Thankfully no one was hurt during either incident. The fishing has been decent in the surf. Croaker, spot, kingfish, skates, rays, flounder, sharks, spotted hake, and…
Read More...
Spinner sharks, spades, and triggers what’s next?
Fishing has been decent depending on where you look. The surf has been quiet for the most part. Croaker, spot, kingfish, skates, cownose rays, butterfly rays, and lots of sharks. Okay so maybe not that quiet but definitely a little slower than normal. A few small bluefish have popped up here and there. Hard to say what are the best…
Read More...
Reel Friends and pompano in the surf
The Reel Friends Surf Fishing club held their 5th annual March of Dimes at the Beach fundraiser Father's day weekend. These folks are first responders, fire, EMT, and rescue. They put their lives on the line daily to help perfect strangers at their worst moments. They are a great group of people I have had the pleasure to fish, and hang out…
Read More...
Cobia in the surf, summer fishing abides
Well it has been an interesting week to say the least. Seems shark week came early to Delaware this year. I have heard some crazy rumors about the shark "incident", one being that some people in Pennsylvania heard it was faked, I can't imagine why. The other is that there is a bounty on the shark involved, I'm sure we don't need a Quint,…
Read More...
Cape Henlopen State Park swimming areas delay opening Tuesday after apparent shark bite
Cape Henlopen State Park swimming areas delay opening Tuesday after apparent shark bite
LEWES (June 9, 2014) - DNREC's Division of Parks & Recreation announced Monday evening that swimming areas at Cape Henlopen State Park are to delay opening Tuesday while biologists and lifeguards monitor the ocean beaches for unusual activity after…
Read More...
Quick Fishing Report for the Weekend
Yesterday I was at the Millsboro Middle School for their annual health fair talking to the kids about fishing safety. It was a lot of fun and I noticed that more kids are into fishing than they were last year. Always good to get out and teach them about fishing. I am looking forward to next year, big thanks to the Millsboro Middle School…
Read More...
Surf Fishing with Hunters Helping Soldiers
A few weeks ago Larry Thompson contacted me about helping him get people to go surf fishing with his group Hunters Helping Soldiers. They were going to take Dave "Doc" Green surf fishing for the first time in his life and they wanted to show him a good time. I told Larry we would help anyway we could and contact a few friends to put more…
Read More...
Fish for free in Delaware waters June 7 and 8
Anglers invited to fish for free in Delaware waters June 7 and 8
DOVER (June 2, 2014) – Been thinking of casting a line into a nearby stream or daydreaming about a sunny afternoon at the beach with your surf rod, but just haven’t gotten around to purchasing your 2014 Delaware fishing license yet? DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife has an…
Read More...
Thresher shark brought into Lewes
After a bit of a cooling off earlier in the week, the temperatures jumped back to normal, and we had a beautiful weekend. May was a fun month with some interesting weather and great fishing.
June so far has not been disappointing. The surf has been producing bluefish on cut bait and whole mullet. Puffers are hitting fishbites and bloodworms.…
Read More...
Bluefish and now redfish showing up
Memorial Day Weekend has come and gone, I hope everyone took the time to remember why we celebrate this holiday by honoring those that made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, and their families. The summer season is upon us and we had a nice reminder of that this weekend with hot temperatures and tons of traffic. The gnats and flies made…
Read More...
Delaware’s invasive finfish regulations and harvest opportunities
DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds anglers
of invasive finfish regulations and harvest opportunities
Regulations designate a number of species as invasive,
including snakeheads, and authorize bowfishing
DOVER (May 23, 2014) – DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds anglers and sporting enthusiasts that several species of…
Read More...
Spring and Summer fishing collide
Our thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by today's tornado in Kent County, they were hit by a viscous storm and tornado this afternoon. A lot of rain and hail dumped on us very fast in Sussex county and it was surreal to see some of the pictures people were posting of the storm. Between the bees up north that were dumped on a…
Read More...
Bluefish are getting bigger … see spot run!
Fishing is picking back up in many areas. Spot are showing up in the Roosevelt inlet and a few other locations including the surf. Not in huge numbers but they are out there being caught on fishbites bloodworms for the most part. They are definitely here early. Large striped bass are in the surf but it takes some work and time to catch one…
Read More...
Banging up the black drum all day
We have had some exciting fishing here the past few days. First and foremost there are sand fleas in the surf. Which is great news since they are a food source for many fish, and great bait if you do a little digging. You don't need an expensive sand flea rake, just use a minnow net and hold in in the wash when the water is retreating from a…
Read More...
Restrictions on harvesting river herring, shad and striped bass
Anglers reminded to observe restrictions
on harvesting river herring, shad and striped bass
DOVER (May 7, 2014) – As fishing season in Delaware waters unfolds, DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds anglers of harvest restrictions for river herring, shad and striped bass:
River herring fishery closed statewide
River herring, a…
Read More...
Delaware changes in summer flounder, black sea bass regulations
DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife announces
changes in summer flounder, black sea bass regulations
DOVER (May 2, 2014) – Recreational anglers catching summer flounder in Delaware waters will be able to keep smaller fish this season when regulation changes take effect on Saturday, May 11. The changes allow anglers to keep four fish per day…
Read More...
Wacky weather for fishing
Everyone having fun with the latest weather? The flooding up north is going to create some nasty water for the next few days. The beaches were carved up a bit the other day, but then smoothed back out we just have a steep slope in some areas to the surf. Good news is most of the grass and weeds have washed ashore which will make fishing a…
Read More...
Proposed Shellfish Aquaculture Regulations
Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife to hold May 21 public hearing
on proposed shellfish aquaculture regulations
DOVER (May 1, 2014) – DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold a public hearing on Delaware’s Inland Bays shellfish aquaculture regulations at 6 p.m., Wednesday, May 21 at DNREC’s Lewes Field Facility, 901 Pilottown…
Read More...
Big striped bass, weakfish, and flounder, oh yeah!!
Well the water is warming back up and so is the fishing. There have been some very nice flounder caught in the Lewes Canal this week on pink gulp. They are also showing up in the inland bays and Indian River Inlet. Great to see the fishing finally taking a turn for the better, this has been along drawn out end of winter. The…
Read More...
Diamond Back Terrapin nesting season
Diamond Back Terrapin nesting season starts in May. Keep an eye out for these little guys this year. The State of Delaware no longer has any funded projects to protect the Diamond Back terrapin due to lack of funding and no volunteers available to assist these creatures. Usually there are groups that will look out for them during the peak of…
Read More...
Fun in the sun for the surf fishing tournament
We held our first surf fishing tournament on Saturday and it was a great time. I arrived at conquest beach around 4:30 in the morning and there were a few folks already waiting to register. The weather was not as bad as forecast, we never saw any rain. I signed them in and sent them out to the beach. We had thirty two people sign up from…
Read More...
Battle on the Beach is Saturday
Saturday is the Battle on the Beach surf fishing tournament, and we are anticipating a great time. The tournament starts at 6 am and lasts until 3 pm. I will be checking people in at conquest beach in the parking lot before the start, you can sign up the day of the tournament. I will be there by 4:30 a.m. The weather is looking great for the…
Read More...
Bunker are in the Delaware Bay
Yes you read that correctly. The past two days I have been talking with several people and they are catching bunker in the Delaware Bay. The watermen I know are seeing bunker in their nets and even some nice sized striped bass here and there as well. It is possible behind these bunker schools we will start to see large migratory…
Read More...
Striped Bass Spawning Season Regulations Started
The days are getting longer and warmer. Daffodils are popping up everywhere, the trees are budding, and purple henbit in the fields. My old salt buddies get excited when this happens, they use that as a sign that the flounder are here. The water temperatures are slowly rising, the surf hit forty one degrees today for the first time since…
Read More...
Migratory Striped Bass have moved into the Chesapeake Bay
This Saturday a few people showed up to help clean the beaches in Delaware Seashore State Park. We met at Keybox beach access and cleaned to about conquest access. I told the parks we would stay above the beach grass planting event so we would not be in the way. We didn't have a huge turnout but the group managed to pick up about two hundred…
Read More...
March madness sale
All Delaware Surf Fishing gear is now on sale from now until April 15th ... there is a 25% off coupon in the shopping cart. We just wanted to help everyone during tax time and to say thank you for all of the support over the years. Thank You
Fish on!
Rich King
Read More...
Beach Clean ups and a fishing report
Last Saturday we had fifteen people meet for a beach clean up at Beach Plum Island. I want to thank everyone for coming out and helping, these weekly clean ups are doing well for our beaches, kudos to all of you. The 684 ladies did a great job, and are going to start keeping an eye on that area more this year. They treat that beach like…
Read More...
We want to fish …
I wrote this a few days ago, I have been ridiculously busy, I am sorry for that .... is what it is ... warmer water, fish are showing up more than many know .... since then there are striped bass showing up in the Delaware River more ... don't get excited they are residents, (the fish) but a few netter friends of mine are seeing more perch and…
Read More...
DNREC … Trout stocked for downstate Delaware’s 2014 season opener on March 1
Trout stocked for downstate Delaware’s 2014 season opener on March 1
DOVER (Feb. 28, 2014) – With patches of snow lingering on the ground and only hints of warmth from the sun, DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Fisheries staff met a large truck from Pennsylvania yesterday at the gates of Tidbury Creek Park just south of Dover. They lost no…
Read More...
DNREC … workshop Feb. 26 on Inland Bays shellfish aquaculture regulations
DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife to hold second public
DOVER (Feb. 25, 2014) – DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold a second public workshop on Delaware’s Inland Bays shellfish aquaculture regulations currently under development at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 26 at DNREC’s Lewes Field Facility, 901 Pilottown Road,…
Read More...
DNREC … The Point Will Close March 1st
The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park to close for 2014 beachnesting season
DNREC .... LEWES (Feb. 25, 2014) 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 Saturday, March 1, for the benefit of piping plovers, oystercatchers, least terns…
Read More...
Beach Clean Up And Fishing Report
Saturday we had twenty five people come out for the first of many DSF beach cleanups for this year. I want to thank everyone who showed, you all did a great job, and I am proud of you!! We cleared over five hundred pounds of trash from the point beach in Cape Henlopen state park. We cleaned the point first and then moved south towards the…
Read More...
DNREC seeks volunteers for osprey monitoring project
DNREC seeks volunteers for osprey monitoring project
Division of Fish and Wildlife to hold orientation March 1 and 2
DOVER (Feb. 21, 2014) – The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife is seeking volunteers to help monitor the state’s osprey population. These majestic raptors with their distinctive stick-built nests on tall poles or…
Read More...
Beach Cleanup Schedule
Not long ago I told you we were getting together on weekends for beach clean ups, and I had to await approval from the State Parks. Well now we are good to go and approved. Starting this Saturday the 22nd of February at 9 a.m. we will meet at the point in Cape Henlopen State park. That is the drive on entrance just below the weather station.…
Read More...
DNREC … volunteers needed for beach grass planting
More volunteers needed for beach grass planting
at Delaware Seashore State Park on March 22
Registration due by March 19
SUSSEX COUNTY (Feb. 17, 2014) – More volunteers are needed at Delaware Seashore State Park for Delaware’s annual beach grass planting event set for 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 22. The event, now in its 25th…
Read More...
Meetings, meetings, and crazy weather!
Well it has been a long week of rain, snow, snow, rain, and then we had a thunder snow/rain. Winds have been ridiculous and the last storm was a fun little Nor'easter. Now we are back to calm stirred up seas and it is a beach comber's delight out there in the sand box. I have been busy organizing and attending meetings of all kinds, I…
Read More...
Coastal Conservation Association organizational meeting
In the past couple of months I have speaking with Tony Friedrich, several other CCA members, and a few friends of mine. We decided it is time to start a CCA chapter in Delaware. Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend. We are just getting started and will be able to answer questions at this meeting next Monday night on the 17th. I hope to see…
Read More...
Great weekend after the thaw
Since the snow melted everyone has been able to get around a little easier. Roads were cleared in a decent amount of time, but the hazards of black ice at night remained. The bays froze over and the Lewes Canal which is something many have never seen or not in a long time. Friends telling me stories of ice skating on the bay when they…
Read More...
2014 Delaware Fishing Guide is now available
2014 Delaware Fishing Guide is now available statewide and online
DOVER (Jan. 31, 2014) – The Division of Fish and Wildlife’s new 2014 Delaware Fishing Guide has arrived with a colorful splash and is being distributed to fishing license dealers throughout the state, including sporting goods, bait & tackle…
Read More...
Ocean dunes in state parks are closed to sledding, snowboarding
Ocean dunes in state parks are closed to sledding, snowboarding
REHOBOTH BEACH (Jan. 28, 2014) – With several snow storms under our belts and more to come, DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation is asking the public to help protect the dunes in Delaware’s ocean parks by reminding residents and visitors that dunes should not be used for…
Read More...
DNREC … Project to improve navigation of Murderkill River at Bowers Beach
Gov. Markell, Sec. O’Mara announce project to improve navigation of Murderkill River at Bowers Beach
Project includes beneficial reuse of dredged sand to widen the beach at South Bowers
BOWERS BEACH, Del. (Jan. 27, 2014) – Today, Governor Jack Markell and DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara announced the project that will improve safety…
Read More...
DNREC workshop on shellfish aquaculture regulations
DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife to hold public workshop
January 30 on Inland Bays shellfish aquaculture regulations
DOVER (Jan. 23, 2014) – DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold a public workshop on Delaware’s Inland Bays shellfish aquaculture regulations currently under development at 6 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 30 at…
Read More...
Governor Markell Issues State of Emergency for Winter Storm
Governor Markell Issues State of Emergency for Winter Storm
Declaration Includes Level 1 Driving Warning; Driving Discouraged and Extra Caution Encouraged
Wilmington, DE – With a severe winter storm generating significant snowfall throughout Delaware, Governor Jack Markell has declared a State of Emergency that includes a statewide…
Read More...
Appeal Filed Against DNREC-Approved Remediation Plan for Allen Harim Facility
Friday January 17 the organizations Protecting our Indian River and Inland Bays Foundation filed an appeal with the Delaware Environmental Appeals Board against the Allen Harim Facility or the old Vlasic Pickle plant location. This has been an on going fight for a community to have the state regulate this area properly. Basically…
Read More...
Seals on Delaware Beaches and a fishing report
We are now seeing harbor and gray seals on our beaches in Delaware. One was seen today at Bayard street in Fenwick Island. Friends from the MERR institute asked us to put up this information. Please respect the space of these marine creatures and be careful around any others (seals) you may encounter on Delaware Beaches . MERR is monitoring…
Read More...
The Classified section is free to list
We have set the classified section up so it is free to list items for sale. You just have to be registered to the site in order to list anything. If you have forgotten your password there is a link to recover, or you can send us an email and within 24 hours we will have your new password sent to you. Using the link is much faster. Aside from…
Read More...
Vandalism at the James Farm!
Vandalism at the James Farm!
From the Center for the Inland Bays ... Late Saturday evening five kayaks on racks at the beach were incinerated and completely destroyed and three others were set-afloat but, fortunately, salvaged. The storage rack was also destroyed. These were property of the CIB and Ecobay Kayak, the eco-tourism…
Read More...
Surf Fishing Sunday Funday in January
Not long ago it snowed like crazy, we had over six inches on the ground in some areas. Winds were ridiculous and creating drifts across the roads. The crews would plow a highway and it would cover back up with snow in minutes. Back roads were packed with ice, it was crazy. Three days later it rained, the snow melted, and by Sunday it was 49…
Read More...
Delaware Fishing License reminder from DNREC
Delaware Fishing License reminder from DNREC
DOVER (Jan. 6, 2014) .... DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section reminds anglers that it’s time to purchase their 2014 Delaware fishing licenses, as their 2013 licenses expired on Dec. 31. A valid fishing license is required for fishing, crabbing and clamming in Delaware…
Read More...
Happy New Year
Happy New Year from all of us at DSF. 2013 was a great year, we had a lot of fun, met a ton of interesting people, and made many new friends. We went on a lot of adventures and are looking forward to new ones this coming year. Thank you for following DSF it has been a pleasure keeping everyone updated about Delaware's tidal waters. We will…
Read More...
Winter Solstice brings a heat wave weekend
Well everyone keeps asking what will happen in the surf this weekend, and where are the hot spots? Well, for the past week and last weekend not much was happening in the surf, and the best fishing was out front. The back bays have seen hot action for shorties on plugs, spoons, and swim shads. These are resident fish we are seeing in the back…
Read More...
DNREC … major enhancements at Delaware Seashore State Park
Work begins on major enhancements at Delaware Seashore State Park
REHOBOTH BEACH (Dec. 16, 2013) – Nearly $10 million worth of construction has begun on enhancements in Delaware Seashore State Park. The work, which includes major upgrades, replacements and enhancements, will be focused on the south and north sides of the Indian River…
Read More...
Fishing Report and storm update for Friday the 13th
The final predictions are out for tomorrow's storm, the lower part of Delaware (below the C&D canal) will see mostly rain. This storm may begin as possible snow and sleet in the morning but will definitely switch to rain for the late morning and afternoon. The Northern parts of Delaware will probably see snow and sleet. everywhere north of…
Read More...
DNREC … Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan
Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan now available to help Delawareans prepare and act
DOVER (Dec. 12, 2013) – After nearly three years of assessment, debate and public input, Delaware’s Sea Level Rise Advisory Committee has approved recommendations for adapting to sea level rise in the state through the release of its final report, “Preparing…
Read More...
Redfish in the surf with random keeper striped bass
Not much has changed this past week in the fishing community. The surf has been slow to random for keeper striped bass. One day it is good for a few anglers and the next day it is donuts by the box. Bunker has been the best bait, and the boats are doing well with stretch 25's at the Overfalls and Sea Colony area. Live eels have done well…
Read More...
The surf bite was slow and Monday meetings are starting back up
Well today was nothing like yesterday in the surf. The sun rose and it was a gorgeous day, but the fish bite definitely slowed down. We went to conquest beach and set up for a lot of plug throwing and spoon tossing. I cast off and on for almost four hours. Everyone near us was using bunker chunks and the reports coming in were about the…
Read More...
Striped Bass In The Surf And Snowy Owls In The Dunes
Yesterday a few keeper striped bass were caught in the surf. The birds have been working the water in the mornings and everyday they have gotten closer. Yesterday they came within casting distance. A few keepers were pulled in Delaware Seashore State Park. The boats had been doing well in the Delaware bay, but in the past few days the fish…
Read More...
Striped Bass are Heavy in the Delaware Bay
A few days ago the Delaware Bay blew up with striped bass. John French said they were biting like packs of rabid dogs. Good to see the fall run finally enter DE waters. They have been passing us for weeks, showing up in Maryland and far up the Chesapeake bay. The run is still happening up north and the fish seem to blow up one area for a few…
Read More...
Weekend Delaware Surf Fishing report
Friday we got off work early so I went out and about to do a little fishing. I hit up the Indian River Inlet on the north side near the back marina. Throwing spoons just for fun and to relax a little. I caught five bluefish in the eighteen inch range. It was fun and as soon as I went to get the phone to get some pictures it just kept ringing,…
Read More...
Fishing is picking up but slowly
Fishing from the surf has been bleak the past few days. There are some short striped bass here and there, small flounder, little bluefish and by little I mean size. Ling are in the surf here and there and we still have sand eels. There is plenty of food in the surf, just not much there feeding. I have seen a lot of birds half a mile…
Read More...
Windy weekend made for poor fishing
The past week was decent fishing, even in the surf. Some redfish on spoons and plugs, and several shorty striped bass from the beach. Still smaller blues in the surf and some decent sizes at Indian River Inlet. A few ling cod and spot were caught in the surf as well. Mullet chunks and bunker have done good for catching. The…
Read More...
The fall striped bass run is beginning for Delaware
It was a great weekend for fishing for some, and not so good for others, the trials and tribulations of trying to catch. There were lots of small blue fish at the point today. Friends spent the day there tearing into them. Mullet rigs and spoons were producing nicely. Redfish are showing up in the surf still. From Fenwick to Cape…
Read More...
Delaware beaches are filling back in
The beaches are finally filling back in, but it will still take some time to get back to where they were before the storm. Reading the beaches is a little harder since the cuts are constantly moving. Your best bet is to look for rip currents, or a wave that pyramids or looks taller in the center. Waves that wash on top of one another are…
Read More...
DNREC : Delaware issues updated fish consumption advisory
Delaware issues updated fish consumption advisory
Updated advisory for the tidal Delaware River reflects long-term environmental improvements
DOVER (Oct. 23, 2013) – The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and the Department of Health and Social Services’ Division of Public Health today updated the fish…
Read More...
Sand Eels are in the surf … everywhere
The new profile of the beaches has been amazing to observe the last few days. If you want to know how the bottom under the surf looks, go to a beach right now in Delaware at low tide. What you will see may just show you a few things you have always wondered. If you really want a treat stay there for the entire incoming tide. The beaches in…
Read More...
Hunter’s Moon fishing report
The seas have calmed down and the water is clearing up rather fast. The beaches are still flat in most areas but the sand bars and troughs will be reshaped. Every incoming wave adds a little help. And the waves never stop coming. I have been working days and fishing in the evening as long as we get off early enough. Waiting for the end of…
Read More...
Post Nor’easter update : beach conditions
The wind is dying down, the storm is gone and the sun came out today. Finally, we all really missed our normal nice days at the beach. The water is even getting a little clearer. It will take a few days for it to really clear up and hopefully the coming rains this weekend will not inhibit that either. We will have to wait and see.…
Read More...
Nor’Easter and Delaware Beaches
The background color of the website has been changed to pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, October. The fishing these past few days was great. Red drum and black drum have been caught at IRI. Big blues moved through there the other day, keeper striped bass in the mix. Spot chunks. strips and whole live ones did well. If you…
Read More...
Largest Long Fin True Albacore Caught in Delaware This Year
The winds have calmed down and it has been beautiful on the beach yesterday and today. We should have decent weather during this Indian summer. The other night I was fishing with Boots and he hit a small pompano. We still have the warm water fish in our waters. Bluefish are still small and ranging in sizes from six inches to fourteen. Mullet…
Read More...
fishing report and the week’s adventures
Well it has been an eventful week for this guy. First I just want to thank the folks at the Cape Gazette for the opportunity to write for their Beach Paper tis year. That was a lot of fun and it was relieving to work with professional people in the media industry. I look forward to the summer starting back up, and writing for…
Read More...
North jetty repair to begin Oct. 2 at Delaware Seashore State Park
North jetty repair to begin Oct. 2 at Delaware Seashore State Park
DNREC PRESS RELEASE ..... INDIAN RIVER INLET (Sept. 30, 2013) – On Wednesday, Oct. 2, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contractors will begin repair work on the north side of the Indian River Inlet jetty, which is located within Delaware Seashore State Park.…
Read More...
Delaware has keeper redfish in the surf
The temperatures are quickly dropping on land and at sea. The water temps have been steadily dropping this past week. Fall is definitely here and maybe this year we will actually have a season. We are now in the transition period for fishing when the warm water and colder water fish are out there at the same time. This happens every…
Read More...
New Online shark identification guide for Delaware anglers
new online shark identification guide for anglers
DOVER (Sept. 24, 2013) – A new online shark identification guide has been posted on the DNREC website, the Division of Fish and Wildlife announced today, in an effort to increase awareness of these ocean predators whose numbers are in decline. To check out the new guide, click Delaware…
Read More...
Traffic at Trap Pond State Park to be affected Sept. 23-27
Traffic at Trap Pond State Park to be affected Sept. 23-27 by dam valve repair
DOVER (Sept. 16, 2013) – The northbound lane of Trap Pond Road at Trap Pond State Park will have intermittent closures between September 23-27 and a bike path along the road also will be closed while a valve repair is made to an outlet gate at Trap Pond Dam.
The…
Read More...
Surf Fishing with Ron Kyle and the boys
Wednesday morning (9/11/13) I hit Indian River Inlet before sunrise. I was meeting Ron "Jiggy Fins" Kyle that day and I wanted to fish the rockpile and check out the sunrise. He wouldn't be here until later in the morning. The wind was nice out of the south but once down below the rocks the gnats were awful. The flies have not been too bad,…
Read More...
National Hunting and Fishing Day Sunday, Sept. 15
DNREC’s celebration of National Hunting and Fishing Day
Sunday, Sept. 15 to feature family-friendly outdoor fun
DOVER (Sept. 11, 2013) – From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Sunday, Sept. 15, visitors to the Aquatic Resource Education Center (AREC) near Smyrna will be able to sample a wide range of outdoor activities from paddling a canoe to…
Read More...
Pending Delaware State Record Swordfish
The summer season is over, but the fishing continues. Many are awaiting the striped bass run, and only concerned with that species when it comes to fishing. Most of us just like to fish and could care less what we catch. The best part of fishing is going through the motions, and being out there. Sitting on the beach, hanging at the…
Read More...
Labor Day Weekend festivities and fishing
We had an awesome Labor Day weekend. I hope everyone had a great summer, and even though the season is over, the fishing will continue. I want to send a HUGE thanks out to everyone who dropped by the DSF booth this weekend, my head is still spinning. I see the numbers on Facebook and in the servers for the website, but to actually meet…
Read More...
Pompano caught in the surf
The surf is seeing a new catch this week. Pompano showed up the other day caught on Fishbites. Flounder, kingfish, weakfish, spot, croaker, skates, and cownose rays are abundant. The surf has been hit or miss on fishing, the best tide has been the incoming (for the most part). Some nice blues were caught at the point yesterday on mullet rigs. …
Read More...
Shellfish Aquaculture is Approved for Delaware’s Inland Bays
Press release by Governor Jack Markell ..............
Rehoboth Beach, DE – Governor Markell signed House Bill 160 today to permit shellfish aquaculture in Delaware’s Inland Bays, allowing the state to reap the economic benefits of a multimillion dollar industry while improving water quality in the bays.
House Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf…
Read More...
Cape Henlopen: The point opens this Saturday
The point in Cape Henlopen State Park is scheduled to open on Saturday August 31st. Normally it does not open until September 1st, but this year that day falls on a Sunday. The parks staff are working diligently to get the point open, and have a few things they need to do before they can open it to the public. It could happen as early as…
Read More...
Summer comes to an end but the fishing continues
The summer season is almost over, and the fishing has not changed much. There are still plenty of flounder showing up at the Old Grounds. The Indian River Inlet has been decent for flounder, the incoming tide has been better than the outgoing. Massey's Landing has seen some nice ones pulled from the ditch. Gulp (chartreuse) on speck rigs,…
Read More...
Shark Fishing in Delaware From The Surf
It has been a slow week for fishing. The charter boats are doing okay in the Delaware bay, the surf is hot for an hour or two, and then shuts down mostly at the top of the outgoing tide, and the back bays have been full of croaker. In fact it seems the one fish no one has any problem catching this year are croaker, they are all over the…
Read More...
Surf Fishing the Other Side of the Atlantic Puddle .. Fish the Fifty
The fishing this week has been slow in some areas and hot in others. The surf has been slow in the afternoons, the bite stops after the incoming tide in most areas. Many people have been surf fishing, but not catching compared to the frequency we experienced last year. The water is no where near as warm as last year either, it has averaged…
Read More...
Fall temperatures on summer days at the beach
Rain, rain go away!! It has been a seriously wet summer, we barely dry out before it happens again. Fish could care less, they are already wet, but personally I would rather be dry. I don't mind the rain, the wind however is a whole different story. We are experiencing fall like temperatures, which is making many start thinking about the…
Read More...
Delaware Surf Fishing weekend report
The past few days there has been good and bad fishing. The other day I took Collins and his father surf fishing. We caught donuts. The folks next to us hammered spot for twenty minutes and then that shut down. For at least a hundred yards on each side of us no one caught a thing all day. Dave Eastburn and his family showed up in…
Read More...
2013 Delaware Coastal Cleanup
2013 Delaware Coastal Cleanup to be held Sept. 21
Volunteer registration open now!
Trash on our beaches and in our waterways isn’t just unsightly – it’s also potentially dangerous to marine life and in some cases harmful to water quality. But you can help make a difference in Delaware by joining volunteers of all ages at…
Read More...
Bluefish in the surf and flounder are on the move
The fishing has been hot the past week. There have been lots of croaker, kingfish, and spot all over the place in the surf. All of the beaches have seen catches in large numbers and decent sizes. Croaker have been thick in many areas of the back bays as well as kingfish. Spot are basically everywhere, and have been the choice bait…
Read More...
Good times fishing in Delaware
The past few days has been great fishing if you are in the right spot at the right time. I know, we all hate that, but it is the nature of fishing. From "you should have been here fifteen minutes ago", to "after you left it came on hot!" We all hate to hear that, but it happens all of the time. Thursday I met up with the Reel Friends Surf…
Read More...
Delaware surf fishing report
It was very wet here a few days ago, Friday we were hit with monsoon style rains, and the state flooded. Many people in Delaware had instant waterfront property. That didn't stop a few people from hitting the water, and doing a little fishing. It did make travel conditions rough for the weekend. Now we are having a heat wave, but it is nice…
Read More...
Delaware Surf Fishing report …
Well it has been one heck of a week and weekend, which for us never seems to end. Hope everyone has been well I have been very busy playing catch-up on all my orders and all is well now. I just want to thank everyone for their patience and apologize for the delays. The fishing has been excellent as long as you are catching :D .... Yeah,…
Read More...
Operation Dry Water June 28-30
Delaware to participate in Operation Dry Water June 28-30
to prevent alcohol-related boating accidents and save lives
DOVER (June 26, 2013) – DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section today announced that during the weekend of June 28 through 30, Delaware will again participate in Operation Dry Water, an annual nationwide…
Read More...
Piping plover chicks hatch at Gordons Pond
Piping plover chicks hatch at Gordons Pond
From DNREC .... LEWES (June 18, 2013) – On June 12, four piping plover chicks hatched from the sole nest this year at Gordons Pond in Cape Henlopen State Park. Both adults were seen with the chicks that afternoon.
Over at the Point, three pairs of plovers have set up foraging territories along…
Read More...
Delaware Surf Fishing report
The past weekend and week was a great time fishing and meeting new people. I spent Friday and Saturday at Bob's Marine for an in house boat show and then visited the March Of Dimes fundraiser with the Reel Friends Surf Fishing Club. The fundraiser did well for the MOD and it was great to see everyone! That night Scott, Aahron, Kim and I hit…
Read More...
Happy Father’s Day weekend from DSF
The storms have really stirred up the water out there, the temperature at Massey's Landing was 69-70 degrees yesterday. Croaker, kings, puffers, and spot in the surf (65 degrees) on sand fleas (live), bloodworms and fishbites or squid. Trout are heavy at Henlopen pier, Broadkill Beach, and Beach Plum Island use squid, bloodworms, or chicken.…
Read More...
DNREC’s ‘Take a Kid Fishing!’ program … June 15
DNREC’s ‘Take a Kid Fishing!’ program set for Father’s Day event on June 15
DOVER (June 10, 2013) – Do you know a child or young teen who might enjoy learning about fishing and trying their hand as an angler at landing a fish? The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife’s Take a Kid Fishing! program invites budding anglers age 6 through 15 and a…
Read More...
Flounder pounding is picking up
The past few days the fishing has been great regardless of the crazy weather. Flounder pounding is picking up and the size limit will change tomorrow to 17 inches four per person and no season. The Lewes Canal, Roosevelt Inlet, Cape Henlopen Pier, Massey's Landing, Delaware bay, out front, and back bays have been producing decent keepers. …
Read More...
DNREC … changes in summer flounder regulations
DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife announces changes in summer flounder regulations
DOVER (June 7, 2013) – Anglers catching summer flounder in Delaware waters will be able to keep smaller fish this season when regulation changes take effect on Tuesday, June 11. The changes allow anglers to keep four fish per day with a minimum size of 17…
Read More...
Kids fishing is what it is all about …
The fishing has been great in many places these past few days, the weekend had some rough winds. There have been a lot of people sending in pictures of their kids fishing, something we encourage. Getting them involved with the outdoors is much better than glued to a TV playing video games. If you can get kids interested in the outdoors they…
Read More...
Beached whale on Assateague Island
The other day Christopher Battersby was finishing up surf fishing at Assateague Island with his friends, as they were leaving the beach, they spotted a beached whale near mile marker 24. He jumped out of the truck and his friends AJ and Amanda started taking pictures They called the rangers and he immediately jumped in the surf to help the…
Read More...
Life is a beach, fish it!
The summer temperatures are finally upon us and so are the bugs. With the wind blowing across the dunes it has been a tad buggy on most beaches. The Delaware bay beaches more so than anywhere. That doesn't stop people from fishing. The surf has been producing kingfish, croakers, spot, ling/spotted hake, shad, flounder, striped bass,…
Read More...
Horseshoe crabs are still spawning in the Delaware bay
The surf is producing kingfish, croaker, flounder, puffers, skates, dogfish, sharks (toothy units), and rays. A few keeper striped bass are still popping up in the surf, and at the Indian River Inlet. Bunker chunks for the surf, swim shads and bucktails from the walls. Plugs and poppers work well in the surf if anyone wishes to cast all day. …
Read More...
Memorial day weekend surf fishing in Delaware
Thank you!! ... To all the men and women whom have and do make the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. I know many of you follow this site so please stay safe and come home soon. Everyone, please remember and respect why you have this day to sit in the sand and BBQ.
The winds have finally died down, the beginning of this weekend was…
Read More...
Drum fishing in the Delaware Bay with Captain Brian
Last month we had a speaker for a DSF Monday meeting, Captain Brian Wazlavek of the Delaware Family Fishing charter service. He spoke to the group about drum fishing in the Delaware Bay, and some of his techniques. Covering gear, currents, bait, and the fish themselves. It was an impressive presentation. He spent a good hour explaining the…
Read More...
Striped bass are still running in Delaware
My thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Oklahoma, the devastation is surreal. Storm intensities will just keep getting worse planet wide, that is a fact we have been warned about for years by climatologists. I went fishing this morning and hit tons of spike trout on Broadkill Beach. Croakers are thick out there as well as…
Read More...
The shark fin trade is now banned in Delaware
Governor Jack Markell signed House Bill 41 last week. Shark fins are not allowed to be sold, traded, or possessed with the borders of the state of Delaware. We do not a have a shark finning problem per se, but just by selling these fins on the market contributes to the ongoing global issues of shark finning. In other countries shark finning is…
Read More...
Fishing tournaments this weekend in Lewes
It is raining ... again. That has not stopped many from fishing, after all fish don't mind getting wet. The weekend has been a blast. There are still large keeper striped bass showing up in the surf, inland bays, Delaware Bay, and out front. You just have to put in the time, bunker chunks and clam have been the preferred baits. Puffer fish…
Read More...
Volunteers needed for Inland Bays Cleanup on June 8 and 22
Volunteers needed for Inland Bays Cleanup on June 8 and 22
MASSEY’S LANDING (May 10, 2013) – DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section, along with the Dewey Beach Lions Club, the Center for the Inland Bays and DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation, are seeking volunteers and working boats for the Ninth Annual Cleanup of…
Read More...
The 2013 Great Delaware Kayak Tour
I was added to a group page on Facebook in March, The 2013 Great Delaware Kayak Tour. Jeff Wildonger has invited you to his group page was the notification. I was intrigued, knowing Jeff's affinity for the Delaware River and Bay. In past conversations he refers to the area as his church. I contacted him and asked if there was anything DSF could…
Read More...
Northwest portion of Love Creek closed to shellfish harvesting
From DNREC ......
Northwest portion of Love Creek, a tributary of Rehoboth Bay, closed to shellfish harvesting
REHOBOTH BEACH (May 16, 2013) – Effective immediately, the northwest portion of Love Creek, a tributary of Rehoboth Bay, is closed to all commercial and recreational shellfish harvesting. DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara signed the…
Read More...
Surf Fishing with Ron Kyle on my birthday
A week ago Ron Kyle put up a request looking for fellow anglers that could help him with a day trip to Delaware to fish the surf. When I saw his post I shared it to the DSF Facebook page to help him with his request. He needed a copilot to help him get back home after a day of fishing. I decided to take it a step further, I knew…
Read More...
Happy Mother’s Day from Delaware Surf Fishing
Happy Mother's Day!! It has been a great weekend. The tournament was fun, just some rough weather here and there. I was getting my butt kicked by my allergies and sunburn combined. We have been fishing different beaches all week to see where we should fish for the tournament. That is one reason I have yet to get any reports up, we were a…
Read More...
Big striped Bass are still in the surf in Delaware
The weekend was a lot of fun. Every morning I have to use the windshield wipers to clear away the pollen. My allergies have been taking a toll on my sinuses and sanity. I know many of you know what I am talking about. Now that I am living in the woods near the ocean, it is like the best of both worlds, aside from the pollen. …
Read More...
Delaware surf fishing the surf in Delaware
Happy May Day!! ... The site is back online! (Obviously) Sorry about that, there shouldn't be any more problems with servers crashing and bandwidth limits. Thanks to the boys at Fine Line in Lewes, DE. DSF is now hosted locally in Delaware! The email contacts and online store will be operating correctly in a day or two. All of my…
Read More...
Oyster restoration/farming for the inland bays information and facts
There is a lot of misinformation in the fishing community about the shellfish aquaculture program to introduce oyster "farming" in our bays. I have been contacted by people on different sides of the fence ... if you will. I asked Captain Bill Baker, whom is a member of many of the committees concerned with our fisheries for some factual…
Read More...
Windy in the surf today in Delaware
Well that was a wash today, literally, with sand! This morning the winds were twenty plus sustained with gusts that had to be close to 35 on the beach. Iwent to Beach Plum Island for a little clean up, and when I walked out on the beach ... not a good day to be in the sand. It was crazy in the bay, and I was pelted with anything…
Read More...
Black drum, striped bass, bluefish, and spiny dogfish are in the surf
So, how many of you got stuck on Beach Plum Island? That is a bay beach, and they are harder to drive on. The beach there has always been difficult to drive. The storms, winds, and high tides have made the sand very mushy like sugar, would be a good description. We have been going out there for the past four weeks and the sand has been…
Read More...
Frink Center for Wildlife is asking anglers for fish donations …
From the Tri-State Bird Rescue and Research, Inc ... In the last week, we have received several injured osprey, and these skilled birds of prey eat fish almost exclusively. With fishing season ramping up, we would greatly appreciate donations of whole fish (18” or smaller, fresh or frozen). Osprey favorites include spot, perch, trout, scup,…
Read More...
Tiger Muskie pending Delaware State record by Thomas Sutton
From Eastern Marine in Newark, DE ...... NEW STATE RECORD!!! Tiger Muskie, caught in the Brandywine by Thomas Sutton of Dover. Weight= 19 lbs 13 oz., Length = 42-1/4”, Girth = 19-1/2”. Congratulations Thomas on your State Record and Thanks for bringing it To Eastern Marine (Unofficial for now, but DNREC was here to take fish and verify)…
Read More...
Bluefish, striped, bass, and flounder in Delaware’s surf
Yesterday morning I was setting up to help a buddy of mine install replacement windows. Then the phone stats blowing up. I was sent a picture of Ray Hibbbs holding the 41 inch striped bass he caught in the surf at Beach Plum Island. The next series of pictures and texts were driving me nuts. DSF in the surf ... "More fish, and do we post…
Read More...
Striped bass, kingfish, and spiny dogfish in the surf
Well we had an awesome weekend in Delaware fishing. The blue crabs have started moving around, showing up in crab pots, and clamming is still excellent. The striped bass are starting to move around and show up in the surf. These are our resident bass that are schooling, and getting ready to head up north as migratory striped bass. Not all…
Read More...
Keeping undersized fish is poaching and illegal
The other day I met a part time Game warden at Massey's Landing. He was telling some folks new to the area about fishing and our waters. After they left, we spoke for a while about the problems of poaching and the sources. Most of the time poaching is done locally. People from out of town that get caught with undersized fish, mostly are not…
Read More...
Flounder have arrived striped bass are soon to run
It has been an eventful few days. I met CJ of Striper King Gear on Beach Plum Island the other night for some surf fishing and chillaxing in the sand. He was grilling chicken and taters and they were excellent. I was torturing everyone on the DSF Facebook page with food and grill pictures. The weather was gorgeous for a few days, and felt…
Read More...
Seals at Massey’s Landing and flounder in the bays
Yesterday Brian Dunkelberger was fishing up north below the C&D canal with friends, and they hit 2 keeper striped bass on bunker chunks. Some of the boys up north saw a few weighed in at Port Penn as well. Brian and crew lost a third fish, but are very happy they managed some nice dinner for the table. Jeff Sands and his crew…
Read More...
redfish in the surf … trout and striped bass in the vicinity
Today I wandered around the bays and checked out the beaches and inlets. There are fish here of all species it would seem, and some may be a tad early. The netters according to Rick's Bait & Tackle have been catching weakfish and striped bass, as by catch. Large fish in keeper sizes, and in decent numbers. The striped bass…
Read More...
DSF fishing report and conditions
Not much going on in our tidal waters in Sussex county. Hunter Lied (I kid you not, the best name for an angler) was at Broadkill beach yesterday hitting skates. He had a good time getting a tug on the line, and chillin on the beach. Instead of surfing a couch, and playing video games. Most kids these days are not into fishing and the…
Read More...
DNREC … Harvesting river herring is prohibited
Anglers reminded that harvesting river herring is prohibited
DOVER (April 4, 2013) – DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife reminds recreational anglers and commercial watermen that harvest or possession of river herring, a popular baitfish, is illegal in Delaware. Anglers must have a valid receipt from a state or jurisdiction where…
Read More...
White Perch, Channel Cats, and Skates … no blue crabs yet
There are fish up north and it is too cold in the south? Funny as that may sound it is true, the northern waters of the Delaware River are starting to see more action. Down here in the south or Lower Slower, we are seeing fewer fish (mostly perch and skates) and still averaging 44 degrees for water temperatures. The other Day Jeff Sands,…
Read More...
DSF Monday Meeting presentation and the weekend update
We apologize for being offline for 2 days, the servers crashed when an enormous amount of you folks hit the site all at one time. We have it all worked out now, and hope it does not happen again. Honestly, I love it when the servers crash from too much traffic. It drives Chris Walker (admin 1) crazy insane. We tried to anticipate the traffic…
Read More...
ASMFC to hold Public Hearings on Draft Black Drum FMP
States to Hold Hearings on Draft Black Drum FMP
Arlington, VA – New Jersey, Delaware and North Carolina have scheduled their hearings to gather public comment on the Draft Interstate Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Black Drum Draft. The dates, times, and locations of those meetings follow.
New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife…
Read More...
Catfish and Striped bass in the Delaware River
Mikey Williamson and Conner fished yesterday (Saturday). "Nothing new up here this weekend. With a pack of blood worms we tried out augustine. Caught the high tide into the outgoing. Couple people on the beach as we were leaving said they had a few cat fish. We didn't get anything but a bump here and there. I actually think we were feeding…
Read More...
Beach grass planting volunteer information from DNREC
Planting is from 9 AM – Noon on Saturday March 23, 2013
If you wish to participate at:
Lewes Beach - meet at The Children’s Beach House (1800 Bay Avenue, Lewes, DE 19958)
Delaware Seashore State Park - meet at Indian River Inlet Life Saving Station (25039 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971)
South Bethany - meet at S. 3rd…
Read More...
DSF Monday Meetings and beach conditions
Monday night we had our weekly gathering of anglers at Old Bay Steakhouse. Alan was tying flies, we were telling lies, and a few new faces dropped by to check out the group. We basically hung out and discussed all kinds of things. One of the subjects that keeps coming up is the proposed National Park and Delaware Bayshore Initiative. I have…
Read More...
DNREC: Restoring and maintaining meadow habitat for wildlife
Division of Fish and Wildlife uses versatile new equipment
to restore and maintain meadow habitat for wildlife
DOVER (March 18, 2013) – Meadow habitat is home to many native species in Delaware, from cottontail rabbits and bobwhite quail, to insects and smaller mammals, to nesting wild turkeys. To provide habitat for these and other species,…
Read More...
Shamrock the rescued seal is doing great.
Shamrock the seal entangled in a mesh net and debris. Veterinarian Dr. Dee Holm removed the debris..... photo by Brian G. Peters
On Saturday a stranded seal washed ashore south of the Charles W Cullen Bridge. Some people walking the beach reported it to the MERR institute, and the stranding team went into action. These are the folks you need…
Read More...
Delaware Surf Fishing Augustine Beach and Woodland Pier
This report is dedicated to the men and women of our armed forces. Thank you all for what you do, and the sacrifices you make.
Monday CJ Jarrell of Striper King Gear also DSF Pro Staff, Kristen Kemper our Chica In the Surf also DSF Pro Staff, Ashley LeCates, Dave LeCates, Bill Miller, and myself headed north to Augustine Beach. Several…
Read More...
DNREC is looking for wood frog breeding sites in your area
Delaware Fish and Wildlife is looking for wood frog breeding sites as part of a multi-state project aimed at better understanding ranavirus, a disease that is impacting amphibians and reptiles worldwide. The wood frogs were quite busy breeding this past week. Their call is similar to the sound of quacking ducks. Some southern leopard frogs…
Read More...
ASMFC Releases Summer Flounder Draft Addendum
ASMFC Releases Summer Flounder Draft Addendum XXIV for Public Comment
Arlington, VA – The Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass Management Board has released Draft Addendum XXIV to the Summer Flounder Fishery Management Plan for public comment. The Draft Addendum proposes to stabilize 2013 recreational fishing rules for…
Read More...
DNREC needs volunteers to plant beach grass
More volunteers needed on March 23 for beach grass planting
at South Bethany and Delaware Seashore State Park
Register by March 20
SUSSEX COUNTY (March 12, 2013) – More volunteers are needed at South Bethany and Delaware Seashore State Park for Delaware’s annual beach grass planting event set for 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday,…
Read More...
Osprey and fiddler crabs are in the marshes of Delaware
It has been a great weekend. I spent most of the day Saturday working on license plate orders. There were people all over the place, beach combing was very successful for many people. Suzanne Martin ... " Some glass, shells, needle nose pliers, and a piece of pottery...." Few other folks reported the sea glass finds were great on all of…
Read More...
DSF Monday Meetings and this crazy week … tautog
Well it has been an interesting few days to say the least. Monday we had EJ Chalabala, from the Delaware Center for the Inland bays give a presentation on Shellfish Aquaculture to our fishing group at Old Bay Steakhouse. Every Monday DSF has a gathering at Old Bay Steakhouse for anglers to meet, hang out, and talk fishing. We learned a great…
Read More...
Delaware Surf Fishing a week of adventures
Saturday 2/16 Alan and I went to see the Saltwater Fly Anglers of Delaware at the Saturday fly tie sessions. We have been very busy at DSF, so I had to back off on updated articles. There are also a lot of things going on with the fishing regulations this year so we felt it more important to post that information for everyone. Most of the…
Read More...
Delaware Surf Fishing License Plates now available
Everyone asks when are you going to do a DSF license plate. We made one yesterday, and it is now available in our online shop. They are numbered, and requests for specific numbers will be available so long as it has not been purchased already. Several folks are ordering badge numbers, troop numbers, race car numbers, union numbers, and all…
Read More...