2019 Delaware Fishing Guide

• CHECK OUT THE F&W WEBSITE: WWW.FW.DELAWARE.GOV •

2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE

FISHING PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS See page 32

NEW for 2019 • New Cobia Record Follow us on • Five Elite Anglers named Facebook! • Possible start time change for trout stream opener

DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL DIVISION OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

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32415 Long Neck Road We are the exclusive Millsboro32415 Long , DE Neck 19966 Road WeAuthorized are the exclusive Tracker 302.945.1200Millsboro , DE 19966 Authorized Tracker 302.945.1200 Boats dealer on WWW.SHORTSMARINE.COM lowerBoats Delmarva. dealer on WWW.SHORTSMARINE.COM lower Delmarva. CONTENTS FISH & WILDLIFE DIRECTORY...... 2 ARTIFICIAL REEF PROGRAM...... 19 2019 LICENSE FEES...... 4 ETHICAL CATCH AND RELEASE What’s New for 2019...... 4 OF SHARKS...... 20 Before You Fish...... 4 BLUE CRAB, CLAMS, CONCHS & OYSTERS..... 22 FISHING LICENSE INFORMATION...... 5 Blue Crabs...... 22 Fishing License Requirements and FIN Number...... 5 Clamming...... 22 Fishing License Exemptions and Exceptions...... 6 Conchs...... 22 Fishing License Dollars...... 6 Oysters...... 22 GENERAL NON-TIDAL SHARKS...... 23 FISHING REGULATIONS...... 7 Closure of Department Ponds During Draw-Downs...... 7 SPORT FISHING TOURNAMENT...... 24 Speed and Wake of Motorboats on Division Ponds...... 7 SPORT FISHING TOURNAMENT UPDATES....26 FRESHWATER TROUT FISHING...... 8 YOUTH FISHING...... 26 License and Stamp Requirements for Trout Fishing...... 8 33rd Annual Youth Fishing Tournament...... 27 Freshwater Trout Fishing...... 8 2019 “Take a Kid Fishing!” Program...... 27 Special Fly Fishing Only Section (Restricted Trout Stream)...... 8 STATE RECORD HOLDERS...... 28 Possession Limits of Trout...... 8 Designated Trout Streams...... 10 WEIGH STATIONS AND/OR BOAT RAMP Tentative Trout Stocking Schedule...... 10 CERTIFICATE SALES...... 29 BOATING SAFETY...... 11 FISH CONSUMPTION ADVISORIES...... 30 2019 QUICK REFERENCE...... 12 FISHING PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS...... 32 Delaware’s Recreational Season, Size and Creel Limits SURF FISHING...... 14 NON-TIDAL FISHING ACCESS AREAS...... 14 TIDAL FISHING ACCESS AREAS...... 15 Maps for this publication were created by the Department of Technology BE AWARE & Information. Fish illustrations were drawn by Duane Raver. The cover Invasive Species...... 16 photo is from photo contest winner Israel Mora. A special thanks to the Shellfish Aquaculture — Inland Bays...... 16 Delaware anglers, our friends at NOAA-NMFS, the ASMFC, and DNREC staff who donated pictures throughout this guide. FISHING & CLAMMING MAPS...... 17 GENERAL TIDAL FISHING REGULATIONS....18 “F.I.N.” NUMBER “F.I.N.” NUMBER Striped Bass Spawning Season...... 18 Circle-Hooks...... 18 American Shad and Hickory Shad...... 18 River Herring...... 18 NAME NAME Summer Flounder...... 19 Electric Lights...... 19 Courtesy Docks...... 19 FROM THE DIRECTOR OF THE DIVISION OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

Fishing on Delaware’s picturesque Anglers should recognize that the quality of fishing is made pos- waters is an enjoyable way to relax sible with the help of these rules and regulations, whether to allow a away from daily distractions. For fish to grow to spawning size to produce the next generation of fish other anglers, fishing is a chal- or to manage the number of fish to keep the population stable and lenge, trying new methods, pursu- accessible to all. We thank anglers for their conservation ethic that ing different or the largest fish, or helps provide quality fishing for today and the future. competing against other anglers. The Division of Fish & Wildlife is committed to providing quality No matter why or how you fish, fishing opportunities by managing sustainable fish populations, as We anglers need to be aware of the Bring You Delaware’s Great Outdoors through Science and Service. rules and regulations that apply to As an avid Delaware angler for many years, I hope to see you on the fish they are pursuing. the water. “Tight lines” this fishing season… Some anglers claim that there are too many rules and regulations that restrict fishing seasons and the size and how many fish they can keep. It can be frustrating to have to release a fish that is only a half inch below the legal size limit, or to release a trophy fish that is caught during a closed season. David E. Saveikis

2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE 1 FISH & WILDLIFE DIRECTORY

STATE OF DELAWARE John C. Carney Jr. Governor DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL Shawn M. Garvin Secretary Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL DIVISION OF FISH AND WILDLIFE David E. Saveikis Director

ADVISORY ADVISORY ADVISORY ADVISORY COUNCIL ON COUNCIL ON COUNCIL ON COUNCIL ON About This Guide WILDLIFE & TIDAL FIN RECREATIONAL SHELL FISHERIES FRESHWATER FISHERIES FISHING Leonard Voss, Jr., FISH Dr. Dewayne Fox, FUNDING Chair This high-quality guide is offered to you Edward A. Montague, Chair Bernard L. Pankowski, Steven Copp by the Delaware Department of Natural Chair Brian Hoffecker Chair Patrick M. Gaffney Resources and Environmental Control Garrett L. Grier, Jr., Marvin M. Kahl, Jr. David A. Russell, Richard S. Hand, Jr. through its unique partnership with J.F. Vice Chair James G. Little Vice Chair Virgilio Pacelli Griffin Publishing, LLC. Raymond F. Burris Bernard L. Pankowski Ralph William Baker Paul Satterfield John Neal Dukes Joseph A. Smith Eric B. Burnley, Sr. Vacant The revenue generated through ad sales Joe C. Johnson Richard Carlisle P. Wes Townsend significantly lowers production costs and Craig A. Karsnitz Loren C. Evans Steven M. Kendus Hon. Ronald Gray generates savings. These savings translate Dale R. Scuse Hon. Gerald Hocker into additional funds for other important F. Thomas Unruh Ronald L. Horton agency programs. If you have any feedback or are inter- State and Federal law prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion and/or disability. Complaints or inquiries should be directed to: Personnel Office, Department of Natural ested in advertising, please contact us at Resources and Environmental Control, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901. 413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com

This summary is for the convenience of the sportsman and is not intended to cover all fishing laws and Graphic Design: regulations. For specific provisions, reference should be made to Title 7, Delaware Code and Delaware Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey, Administrative Code. When federal and state laws conflict, the law which is more restrictive governs. Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski

FOR THE ACTUAL WORDING OF THE FISHERIES STATUTES AND REGULATIONS, AS WELL AS A WIDE VARIETY OF OTHER INFORMATION, VISIT THE DIVISION’S WEBSITE AT www.fw.delaware.gov

DIRECTORY

DIVISION OF FISH AND WILDLIFE - GENERAL INFORMATION WWW.FW.DELAWARE.GOV Freshwater Trout Program...... (302) 739-9914 F.I.N. number...... (800) 432-9228 Non-tidal Fishing.....(302) 735-2960 / (302) 735-8650 F.I.N. Helpline...... (866) 447-4626 Tidal Fishing...... (302) 739-9914 / (302) 735-2960 Fisheries Section, Dover...... (302) 739-9914 Fish Consumption Advisories...... (302) 739-9914 Fisheries Field Offices Division Public Health...... (302) 744-4546 Little Creek...... (302) 735-2960 Artificial Reef Program...... (302) 735-2960 Woodland Beach...... (302) 735-8650 Fishing / Boating Access Areas...... (302) 739-9914 Aquatic Resources Clamming...... (302) 735-2960 Education Center...... (302) 735-8652 Shellfish Health & Safety, Recreational Fishing Licenses...... (302) 739-9918 Closures...... (302) 739-9939 Crabbing...... (302) 735-2960 FISH AND WILDLIFE ENFORCEMENT SECTION New Castle County...... (302) 836-4682 Kent County...... (302) 739-6139 This guide is also Sussex County...... (302) 855-1901 24-hour hotline (KENTCOM) available online at for reporting violations, problems and fish kills...... (800) 523-3336 Boating Safety...... (302) 739-9915 Ramp Certificates...... (302) 739-9916 Boat Registration...... (302) 739-9916

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2019 BEFORE YOU FISH BEFORE YOU GO FISHING, LICENSE FEES CRABBING, OR CLAMMING IN DELAWARE YOU MUST: LICENSE CATEGORY RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT • Purchase a 2019 Delaware fishing license General Fishing License $8.50 $20.00 and keep it with you while fishing (page 5).

7-day Tourist Fishing NA $12.50 • Get a free 2019 FIN number (automatically generated with the purchase of an individual *Boat License 20 ft or less license) and keep it with you while fishing $40.00 $40.00 (optional) (page 5).

*Boat License more than 20 ft • If fishing for freshwater trout get a 2019 trout $50.00 $50.00 (optional) stamp and affix it to your license (page 8). WHILE FISHING, CRABBING, Head Boat License $300.00 $600.00 OR CLAMMING IN DELAWARE, YOU MUST: Charter Boat License $150.00 $300.00 • Abide by size and possession limits. Guide/Fishing $100.00 $300.00 • Be aware of area and seasonal closures. * Boat License - The optional boat license for a recreational fisherman covers the holder of the license, and all occupants in the boat, as do the charter boat and head boat licenses. A resident who purchases a Delaware boat-fishing license also will be given a single Delaware fishing license for their own use on those occasions that PLEASE BE AWARE THAT: he or she may not be on the boat. A Delaware FIN is required of all anglers age 16 years or older on the vessel. Non-resident - Any non-resident who is 16 years of age or older except persons covered by one of the exemp- • Delaware does not have fishing license reci- tions is required to have a license to fish, clam, or crab in the waters of the State of Delaware. Non-residents may procity with other states. You must have a purchase a 7-consecutive day tourist fishing license. Delaware fishing license to fish, crab or clam in Delaware.

• Delaware does not recognize Federal FIN WHAT’S NEW FOR 2019 numbers or FIN numbers from other states. You must have a free Delaware FIN (page 5). • In 2017 we added a new “Elite Angler • In accordance with the interstate fishery Award”. Five individuals met the qualifica- management plan, new regulations for Cobia • You must have a New Jersey FIN num- tions and are named on page 26. For more are expected in 2019. The electronic ver- ber if you fish in New Jersey waters of information on how to qualify, see page 24. sion of Delaware’s fishing guide, available at Delaware Bay. Give it shot in 2019! www.fw.delaware.gov, is updated to reflect such regulatory changes as they occur. • A new state record Cobia was established in 2018. See page 28 for details. • Anglers and boaters should be aware that shellfish aquaculture leasing has started in • An amendment to change the start time of Delaware’s Inland Bays. For more informa- fishing on the opening day of trout season on tion on lease marking, see page 16. 2019 FREE designated trout streams is being considered and may be in place for the 2019 season. The FISHING DAYS! online version of the fishing guide, available at www.fw.delaware.gov, will be updated to In celebration of National Fishing and reflect such a change if it occurs. See pages Boating Week, June 1-9, 2019, the Division 8–10 for more information on freshwater trout fishing. has designated June 1 and 2 as free fishing days when anyone may fish in Delaware’s waters without a fishing license. FISH FACTS

Hey, having trouble identifying your catch? Want to know a good bait to use to catch a certain species? Need to find PUBLIC PONDS out what the current state record is for a species? Check out our “Fish Facts” A guide to public ponds, available online, page with loads of helpful information is updated annually with the latest fish- on over 180 species of fish and shellfish eries data. Each pond’s information you can catch in Delaware waters. Just includes: fish populations, vegetation type fishspecies.dnrec.delaware.gov conditions, special regulations and in any browser and click on a category. facilities, and a contour map of the pond. Many folks keep it bookmarked on their This information is available at: smartphone for quick access. Enjoy! http://de.gov/pondbook.

4 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE FISHING LICENSE INFORMATION

FISHING LICENSE REQUIREMENTS AND FIN NUMBER A general fishing license is required for fishing, valid fishing license. The number that you are count for the purpose of matching and secur- crabbing, or clamming in tidal and non-tidal issued will be valid through December 31 for ing federal money allotted to Delaware under waters throughout the State of Delaware (see the calendar year in which it was issued. A FIN the provisions of the Federal Aid in Sportfish Fishing License Exemptions page 6). A fishing number is not needed if you only crab or clam. Restoration Act and cannot be diverted to other license may be obtained at DNREC headquar- The National Marine Fisheries Service purposes. Together, these funds support pro- ters (89 Kings Highway, Dover), from over 85 (NMFS) will use the data obtained from the jects having as their purpose the restoration, licensing agents located throughout the state, FIN program to identify anglers for survey conservation, management and enhancement or online by accessing www.fw.delaware.gov purposes. The program allows for better esti- of sportfish, and the provision for public use and following the licensing link. A fishing mates of recreational landings, an important and benefits from these resources (page 6). license is good through December 31 for the component of fisheries management. calendar year in which it was issued. All funds derived from the issuance of In addition to the general fishing license, all fishing licenses are dedicated to a special ac- anglers (resident and non-resident) age 16 or older must obtain a free Delaware Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number each year before fishing in tidal or non-tidal waters of CATCH AND RELEASE Delaware. This includes those anglers exempt from obtaining a general fishing license. See Many anglers practice catch and release these exemptions on page 6. A FIN number is fishing. This behavior, popularized by automatically generated and issued with the purchase of an INDIVIDUAL fishing license. bass anglers, promotes the release of fish Non-residents who do not have an individual by anglers so the fish can be caught again. fishing license AND those exempt from the A long-term bass tagging study in Dela- license requirement must obtain a FIN number ware has demonstrated many tagged before fishing. fish are caught, released, and caught A FIN number can be obtained by auto- again — a few as many as four times. GET THERE: With a powerful 24.8 HP* Kubota diesel engine, mated telephoneDO MORE: Kubota’s1-800-432-9228 Standard L Series is (tollavailable free), in 2WD or 4WD and delivers both performance and the RTV-X1100 is redefined, rugged and ready to help you accomplish or for livequality. operator/customer Engine, transmission and all integral service components areat manufactured The by Kubota. Division Features strongly a comfortable, encourages catch your chores in comfort from a spacious, all-weather cab. 1-866-447-4626ergonomic seat(toll and intuitivefree) operatoror by controls. visiting the and release fishing to maximize angling website at www.delaware-fin.com. The FIN success — unless a fish population is Onthewater.com number is mandatory and failure to provide known to be overcrowded. a valid FIN number to an enforcement agent will be treated the same as a failure to have a

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FISHING LICENSE EXEMPTIONS AND EXCEPTIONS Exempt anglers are required to get a FIN num- »» A member of the armed forces who is a »» Any person who fishes in a fee-fishing ber (page 5), unless otherwise noted below. patient in a military hospital and submits facility, registered as such with the De- a written statement signed by the patient’s partment of Agriculture. The following are exemptions or exceptions to commanding officer certifying the nature the license provisions: of the disability and place of station. »» Any resident who has served honorably for 90 or more consecutive days on active • Surf Fishing Permit - Residents and non- »» Persons who are patients in any Veterans duty in the Armed Forces of the United residents are exempt from fishing license Administration facility in this State, or in States, including service as a member of requirements if they are the operator of a any public hospital or sanitarium for the the Delaware National Guard, in military vehicle with a valid Delaware surf fishing treatment of tuberculosis, or a patient in a actions in Southwest Asia associated with vehicle permit when that vehicle is located rehabilitation hospital under the State De- Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation on a designated Delaware State Park beach. partment of Health, provided such person Enduring Freedom may, for the first 12 Other occupants of that vehicle are required carries identification which verifies his or months following the date the resident to have a fishing license if they are fishing. her status as such a patient, shall not be was honorably discharged or removed required to purchase a fishing license. from active status, be issued a license to • Seniors - Residents of the State of Delaware Forms shall be supplied to such persons fish in this State without charge. age 65 years and older are exempt from fish- when they apply for their licenses to be ing license requirements, but must have used for the identification purposes. »» Any member of the US armed forces, proof of age and residency. including any reserve component, serv- »» Residents living in this State for at least ing on full time active duty in Delaware • Children - Children under the age of 16 1 year immediately prior to the date of while not deployed or on temporary duty, are exempt from the license and FIN re- application for a license who have been and any member of Delaware’s National quirement. honorably discharged from the armed Guard, shall be eligible for a resident fish- forces of the United States and certified by ing license. Qualifying persons should • Other Exemptions - Anyone qualifying for the Veterans Administration as having at contact the Division at (302) 739-9918. the following exemptions should contact the least a 60% service-connected disability. Division at (302) 739-9918. »» Any Delaware resident that is a patient in »» Any resident who owns or lives on a farm a rehabilitation hospital under the Depart- in this state containing 20 or more acres ment of Health and Social Services. Any and the members of his or her immediate Delaware resident who is legally blind. family who reside on the farm may fish on that farm without a license.

The One Stop Source DUPLICATE LICENSES For Area Anglers & Boaters since 1992 Duplicate licenses may be printed two times free of charge by visiting www.fw.delaware.gov. Select Licenses, Permits and Registrations and the Lost Your Recreational License? For more information contact the Recreational Licensing Office at (302) 739-9918.

FISHING LICENSE DOLLARS WHERE DO YOUR FISHING LICENSE DOLLARS GO? Your license and trout stamp purchases allow the Division to secure additional federal Sport Fish Restoration funds used for fisheries research, maintenance and construction of fishing areas, and aquatic education. Please note that anglers exempted from purchasing a fishing license may voluntarily purchase a license and/or trout stamp to support these activities. The Division is grateful to anglers that contribute to our mission in this way. For more information, please visit us at www.fw.delaware.gov/fisheries.

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These are some of the regulations and state It is illegal to sell, trade, or barter any finfish statutes that all anglers should be familiar taken from the non-tidal waters of this State, SPEED AND WAKE OF with. Most have been edited to make them unless authorized to do so in a permit issued easier to read and understand. This is not a by the Director. MOTORBOATS ON complete list and it is up to the angler to be It is illegal to take shad, except by hook and familiar with all of the laws and regulations line, and no more than two (2) lures attached. DIVISION PONDS currently existing or newly adopted. For a Each lure may have no more than one (1) single complete listing, refer to the Department of pointed hook. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate Natural Resources and Environmental Control, It is illegal to knowingly snag fish in non- a motorized vessel, except at a slow-no-wake Division of Fish and Wildlife website or request tidal waters with any hook (single, double or speed, on any pond or lake administered by a copy from the Director’s office. treble) or otherwise catch or attempt to snag the Division. Unless otherwise authorized, it shall be ille- or catch any game fish by hooking the fish in gal for any person to fish for any freshwater fish any part of the body other than in the mouth. in the non-tidal waters of this State with any It shall be unlawful for any person to fish fishing equipment or by any method, unless it within ten (10) feet of an entrance or exit of a CLEAN WATER is provided for in the following subdivisions: fish ladder or to remove fish from any fish -lad A hook and line may be used, with each line der between March 15 and May 30. How’s My Waterway to have no more than 3 hooks or 3 separate How’s My Waterway (www.epa.gov/ lures with hooks. mywaterway) helps users quickly find Unless a person is fishing through the ice, the CLOSURE OF information on the condition of their local number of hooks and lines that any one person is permitted to use to fish for any freshwater DEPARTMENT waters using a smart phone, tablet, or fish in the non-tidal waters of the State shall desktop computer. This tool provides be no more than 2. PONDS DURING results within seconds using EPA’s water A person may use a dip net to aid in land- quality assessment data. Check out the ing any freshwater finfish taken or caught by DRAW-DOWNS condition of your local waterbody today! hook and line in the non-tidal or fresh waters of the State. It shall be unlawful for any person to fish in any Carp and snakehead fish may be taken and/ pond or lake administered by the Department or fished for by using a bow and arrow and/ when the water level is lowered for any purpose or spear, unless said equipment or method is provided it is duly posted with signs by the otherwise restricted by any Department regula- Department that state it is closed to fishing. tion or local ordinance. At this time, no carp or snakehead fish may be taken from State Park ponds or Becks Pond using bow and arrow. Photo shows an algae bloom.

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LICENSE AND STAMP REQUIREMENTS NOTICE FOR TROUT FISHING Important– YOUNG FISHING ANGLER TROUT Opening Day Start Time RESIDENT / AGE FIN LICENSE TROUT STAMP At the time of printing, a proposed regu- STAMP latory action was underway to change the start time of fishing on the open- Under 12 No No No No ing day of trout season on New Castle 12 thru 15 No Yes No No County trout streams from 7:30 a.m. 16 thru 64 Yes No Yes Yes to 7 a.m. This action was approved as final. The opening day start time on trout 65 and over No No No Yes ponds and streams is 7 a.m. FEE $8.50 $2.10 $4.20 NONE

YOUNG FISHING ANGLER TROUT NON-RESIDENT / AGE FIN LICENSE TROUT STAMP STAMP Under 12 No No No No 12 thru 15 No No Yes No 16 and over Yes No Yes Yes FEE $20.00 $6.20 NONE

It is unlawful for any person to transport, purchase, possess, or sell walking catfish(Clarius batrachus) or the white amur or grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) or live northern snakehead fish(Channa argus) or blotched snakehead fish (Channa maculata) without the written permission of the Director.

FRESHWATER TROUT FISHING SPECIAL FLY FISHING Delaware’s freshwater trout program is a self- It is unlawful to fish for trout in designated trout ONLY SECTION supporting put-and-take fishery in selected streams or designated trout ponds between New Castle County streams and Kent and one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour (RESTRICTED Sussex County ponds. Revenue generated from before sunrise. the sales of trout stamps is used to purchase TROUT STREAM) rainbow, brook and/or brown trout for stock- Trout Stamps - A trout stamp is required to ing. Summer water temperatures limit trout fish in a designated trout stream from the White Clay Creek from a point 25 yards above survival and reproduction in Delaware waters, first Saturday in April through June 30 and Thompson Bridge at Chambers Rock Road so stocked fish are meant to be taken, but may from the first Saturday in October through to the Pennsylvania state line is designated be released at the angler’s discretion. November 30 unless exempted by law. A trout as a fly-fishing only trout stream (restricted stamp is also required to fish Tidbury Pond trout water). Season / Hours - The 2019 freshwater trout in Kent County and Newton Pond in Sus- It is unlawful to use any metallic, plastic or season at Tidbury (Kent County) and Newton sex County from the first Saturday in March rubber spinners, spoons, lures, plugs or natural (Sussex County) Ponds opens at 7:00 a.m. on through April 1. Stamps are available online bait or to use more than two (2) flies on a line Saturday March 2, 2019. in electronic form, or a printed stamp may be at any one time. The 2019 freshwater trout season in New obtained at DNREC Headquarters (89 Kings It is unlawful to possess more than four (4) Castle County opens at 7:00 a.m. on Saturday Hwy, Dover). All stamps must be signed across trout within 50 feet of a fly fishing only section April 6 , 2019. the face to legally trout fish. Purchasers of elec- (restricted trout water). Anglers may catch and No fishing is allowed in designated trout tronically issued stamps may obtain an original release trout on these waters as long as the four streams or designated trout ponds (Tidbury printed stamp by calling 302-739-9918. A stamp (4) trout possession limit is not exceeded. All & Newton Ponds) two weeks (14 days) prior will be mailed to you after December 31, 2019. trout released must be returned to the water as to the scheduled opening of the trout season. quickly as possible with the least possible injury. POSSESSION COLLECTING STAMPS LIMITS OF TROUT If you are interested in collecting trout or duck It shall be unlawful for any person to possess stamps, please contact the Division 302-739-9918 more than six (6) trout in any one day; except, or visit our website at www.fw.delaware.gov/ VOID it shall be unlawful to possess more than four Fisheries/Pages/TroutStamp.aspx (4) trout in or within 50 feet of any fly-fishing only waters (restricted trout streams).

8 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE

FRESHWATER TROUT FISHING

# STREAM DESCRIPTION Christina MD state line through 1 Creek Rittenhouse Park PA line to the down- stream side of Paper Mill Road. Fly fishing only (restricted White Clay trout stream) section 2 Creek from a point 25 yards above Thompson Bridge at Chambers Rock Road to the Pennsylvania state line. Route 72 to bridge at 3 Pike Creek Pike Creek Road Brackenville Road to 4 Mill Creek Route 7 Red Clay PA line to Yorklyn 5 Creek Road Route 92 through 6 Wilson Run Brandywine Creek State Park Pennsylvania line to 7 Beaver Run Brandywine River Most access to these streams is through and on private property or state park land. Each angler should respect the privilege of using private property.

2019 TENTATIVE TROUT STOCKING SCHEDULE PRIOR TO MID WATER MARCH 14 APRIL 8 APRIL 11 APRIL 15 APRIL 18 APRIL 25 MAY 2 SEASON* OCTOBER STREAMS (SEASON OPENS 7:00 A.M., APRIL 6) — SEE “NOTICE” ON PAGE 8 Beaver Run T T T Christina ** Creek T T T T T Mill Creek T T Pike Creek T T Red Clay Creek T T T White Clay ** ** Creek T T T T T T T T Wilson Run T T T T ** T *** PONDS (SEASON OPENS 7 A.M., MARCH 2) Tidbury Pond T T Newton Pond T T

* Prior to season: stocking includes trophy-sized rainbow trout (14 inches or greater) at all locations. ** April 18 and May 2: Brown trout 11 inches or greater will be stocked at locations listed. *** April 25: Stocking of 12–13 inch and trophy-sized rainbows to prepare for the annual anglers with special needs & senior citizens fishing derby on April 27, 2019 in Wilson Run at Brandywine State Park. For details on the fishing derby, please call the park office at 302-577-3534.

It shall be unlawful for any person to stock any species of fish into the non-tidal public waters of this State without the written permission of the Director. This regulation does not prohibit the stocking of private impoundments.

10 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE BOATING SAFETY

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES (PFDS) A PFD must be worn by a child 12 years old or DELAWARE SMALL BOAT under while aboard a vessel which is underway. All PWC riders and anyone being towed must wear a PFD. Current regulations require all EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS vessels to carry a wearable PFD for each person CLASS 1 CLASS A onboard. A throw able PFD is also required on EQUIPMENT (16 FEET TO LESS THAN (LESS THAN 16 FEET) vessels, excluding those less than 16'. The Office 26 FEET) of Boating Safety & Education suggests all vessels carry a throw able with a line attached for 1. Annual registration fee $20.00 $40.00 casting, and that you wear your life jacket as it 2. Decals & boat number Display properly on bow Display properly on bow is meant to be worn, and at all times. 3. Personal flotation Device One approved wearable PFD for One approved wearable PFD (PFD)*Must be serviceable each person on board plus one ALCOHOL for each person on board Just as drinking and driving don’t mix, drink- (see below) throwable PFD. ing and boating are a dangerous combination. One hand, mouth or power One hand, mouth or power oper- Sun, glare from the water, constant boat mo- 4. Whistle operated, and audible at least ated, and audible at least one half tion and boat vibration all contribute to boater one half (1/2) mile (1/2) mile fatigue. Add alcohol consumption and those One type B-1, if carrying pas- problems are compounded. Additionally, al- One type B-1, if carrying passen- sengers for hire, cohol affects balance and muscle coordination, gers for hire, or if boat construc- 5. Fire Extinguisher Portable or if boat construction causes tunnel vision and slows reaction time. tion will permit entrapment of will permit entrapment of flam- It also affects reasoning and increases the ten- flammable vapors. mable vapors. dency to take risks. Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law 6. Ventilation At least two ventilator ducts fitted with cowls or equivalent, and could result in fines up to $1,000 for first if boat construction will permit entrapment of flammable vapors. offense and/or up to 60 days in jail. A blood 7. Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay and Delaware River South of Artificial Island—U.S. Coast Guard alcohol content of 0.08 or greater constitutes regulations require all vessels to carry day and night distress signaling devices. being under the influence. Outboard motorboats less than 16' in length are exempt from daytime requirements.

REGISTRATION, NUMBERING * Test for serviceability of PFD—All PFD’s must be readily accessible, in serviceable condition, legibly marked with AND MARKING OF approval number of the U.S. Coast Guard and be of appropriate size. PFD’s must have flotation material without rot or UNDOCUMENTED VESSELS being waterlogged, untorn or damaged coverings and straps in good condition. Vessels equipped with any type of motor must be registered in Delaware if principally used (a period of more than 60 days) in this State. The TAKE A BOATING Delaware Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources registration card or valid temporary registra- EDUCATION COURSE Police are responsible for enforcing all of the tion card must be on board when the boat is in Those persons born on or after January 1, safe boating laws in Delaware. To report viola- use. For further information on boating regis- 1978 must take an approved boating educa- tions and accidents call their 24 hour dispatch tration call The Office of Boat Registration at: tion course before operating a motorized vessel, line at: (302) 739-4580. (302) 739-9916 OR visit https://de.gov/boatreg to include personal watercraft (PWC). Contact the Office of Boating Safety & Education for SAFE BOATING SPEED more information on taking a classroom course The speed of all vessels on Delaware waters must at: (302) 739-9915 OR find their online course Make Hunting & Fishing be slow enough to prevent any wake of appreci- options by visiting http://de.gov/boatsafety able height when the vessels are within 100 feet Dreams Come True! of: “Slow-No-Wake” speed areas, docks, launch- Hunt of a Lifetime is a ing ramps, marked swimming areas, swimmers, nonproﬁ t organization anchored, moored, or drifting vessels. that grants hunting and ﬁ shing dreams to children, age 21 and under, who have been diagnosed with life threatening illnesses.

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FISHING GEAR BAIT • TACKLE SUNGLASSES (302) 645-0600 110 New Road, Lewes DE lewesicehousebaittackle.com 11 QUICK REFERENCE 2019 SEASONS, SIZE AND CREEL LIMITS

NON-TIDAL WATERS

SPECIES OPEN SEASON MINIMUM SIZE DAILY LIMIT

12 inches; except 15 inches in Largemouth bass All year 6; except 2 from Becks Pond Becks Pond

None between & including 12 - 17 Smallmouth bass All year 6 (no more than 1 > 17 inches) inches

Striped bass hybrid (Only occur in All year 15 inches 2 Lums Pond)

Panfish (white perch, 50 (no more than 25 of one yellow perch, crappie, All year None species) bluegill & pumpkinseed) Streams open 1st Sat. Trout (special rules apply, in April None 6 (4 in fly-fishing only waters) pages 8 - 10) Ponds open 1st Sat. in March

TIDAL WATERS (Changes expected for species listed in RED)

SPECIES OPEN SEASON MINIMUM SIZE DAILY LIMIT

American eel All year 9 inches 25

Closed Nanticoke R. & American & its tribs.; Open all year None 10 in any combination hickory shad elsewhere

Atlantic croaker All year 8 inches None

Atlantic sturgeon Endangered - no harvest permitted (see also page 25)

Black drum All year 16 inches 3

12.5 inches Black sea bass May 15 - Dec. 31 15 (excluding caudal filament)

Bluefish All year None 10

Catfish (any species) All year None None

Cobia TBD

Red drum All year 20 - 27 inches may be retained 5

River herring Closed - no harvest permitted (alewife & blueback)

Scup All year 8 inches 50

Spanish mackerel All year 14 inches 15

Spotted seatrout All year 12 inches None

28 - 37 inches or 44 inches or All year, except catch & 2, except catch & release only greater; except, 20 - 25 inches Striped bass release only on spawning on spawning grounds April only - Jul 1 - Aug 31 in DE Bay, grounds Apr 1 - May 31 1 - May 31 River and their tributaries

Summer flounder All year 16.5 inches 4

Jan. 1 - May 15 4 Tautog 16 inches July 1 - Dec. 31 4

Tilefish All year None 7 in any combination (Blueline & Golden)

Weakfish All year 13 inches 1

White perch All year 8 inches None

Winter flounder Feb. 11 - Apr. 10 12 inches 2

12 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE QUICK REFERENCE 2019 SEASONS, SIZE AND CREEL LIMITS

SPECIES OPEN SEASON MINIMUM SIZE DAILY LIMIT Peeler - 3 inches Pots: Mar. 1 - Nov. 30; Blue crab See page 23 for more details Soft-shell - 3.5 inches 1 bushel other gears year around Hard-shell - 5 inches 100/resident Hard clams All year 1.5 inches 50/non-resident Lobster All year 3 3/8 - 5 1/4 inches (slot) 2; V-notched prohibited

Conch Knobbed whelk All year 5 inches / 3 inch whorl 5 bushels See page 22 for details Channeled whelk All year 6 inches / 3.125 inch whorl 5 bushels

SHARKS, TILEFISH AND HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS) - SPECIAL PERMIT REQUIRED FOR FEDERAL WATERS

SPECIES OPEN SEASON MINIMUM SIZE DAILY LIMIT Smoothhound and All year None None spiny dogfish Blacktip shark, bull shark, lemon shark, Jan. 1 -May 14 nurse shark, silky 54 inches FORK LENGTH July 16 - Dec. 31 shark, spinner shark, tiger shark Boat anglers- only 1 shark of Great hammerhead, any species per vessel, except scalloped Jan. 1 -May 14 1 additional bonnethead and 1 78 inches FORK LENGTH hammerhead, smooth July 16 - Dec. 31 additional Atlantic sharpnose hammerhead per angler onboard vessel. Shore anglers - only 1 shark of Blue shark, oceanic 54 inches FORK LENGTH, except any species per angler, except white-tip shark, por- All year shortfin mako which is 83 inches 1 additional bonnethead beagle, shortfin FORK LENGTH and one additional Atlantic mako, thresher shark sharpnose per shore angler. Atlantic sharpnose shark, blacknose All year None shark, bonnethead, finetooth shark

PROHIBITED SPECIES Sandbar shark, sand tiger, Atlantic angel shark, basking shark, bigeye sand tiger, bigeye sixgill shark, bigeye thresher, bignose shark, Caribbean reef shark, The sandbar & sand tiger are toothed sharks commonly taken in the nearshore waters of the Caribbean sharpnose state and are prohibited species. Like all prohibited species, they must be immediately released shark, dusky shark, to ensure the maximum probability of survival. Galapagos shark, longfin mako, nar- rowtooth shark, night shark, sevengill shark, sixgill shark, smalltail shark, whale shark, white shark

SPECIAL RESTRICTIONS FOR SHARK It is unlawful to fillet a shark prior to landing. A shark may be eviscerated prior to landing, but head, tail and fins must remain attached to the carcass. It is unlawful to release a shark in a manner that will not ensure the sharks maximum probability of survival (i.e. no gaffs, no clubbing, careful hook removal, etc.). It is unlawful to possess the fins from any shark prior to landing unless they are naturally attached to the body of the shark.

TUNAS AND HMS - SPECIAL PERMIT REQUIRED

*Special permit required - All private vessel owners/operators recreationally fishing for and/ or retaining regulated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (Atlantic tunas, sharks, swordfish and Atlantic tunas, billfish) for personal use in the Atlantic Ocean must obtain an Atlantic Highly Migratory Species swordfish and billfish (HMS) Angling Permit. Further limits and restrictions apply. Consult hmspermits.noaa.gov or call toll free (888) 872-8862 for specific information and permits.

2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE 13 SURF FISHING NON-TIDAL FISHING ACCESS AREAS The Division of Parks and Recreation SHORE surf fishing beaches are located in Cape AREA* LOCATION ACRES BOAT RAMP Henlopen State Park, Delaware Seashore FISHING State Park and Fenwick Island State Park, 1 Becks Pond (No gas motors) 25 Yes Yes and on Beach Plum Island. Special restrictions and regulations apply to these areas. 2 Garrisons Lake 86 Yes Yes For more information contact the Division 3 Masseys Mill Pond 30 Unimproved Yes of Parks and Recreation, (302) 739-9220. In order to drive a vehicle on a desig- 4 Moores Lake 27 Yes Yes nated State Park beach, a SURF FISH- 5 Derby Pond 23 Yes Yes ING VEHICLE PERMIT is required. Only four-wheel drive vehicles with a minimum 6 Logan Lane Pond 2 No Only ground clearance of seven inches that 7 Mud Mill Pond 60 Yes Yes are licensed to operate on public road- ways are eligible for Surf Fishing Vehicle 8 McGinnis Pond 31 Yes Yes Permits. Permit holders must be actively 9 Andrews Lake 18 Yes Limited engaged in surf fishing while on the beach. Permits are available at State Park offices, 10 Coursey Pond 58 Yes Yes various license agents, and at the DNREC 11 McColley Pond 49 No Limited main office in Dover. Purchasers of Surf Fishing Vehicle 12 Tubmill Pond 5 Yes Limited Permits will receive additional rules and 13 Silver Lake (Milford) 29 No Yes safety requirements. The revenue col- lected from these permits supports the 14 Haven Lake 82 Yes Limited management of seashore State Parks 15 Griffith Lake 32 Yes Yes and beaches. None of the proceeds 16 Blairs Pond 29 Yes Yes from these permits go towards fisheries management programs or fishing access 17 Abbotts Pond 17 Yes Yes projects conducted by the Division of Fish 18 Newton Pond (No gas motors) 10 Car top only Yes and Wildlife. 19 Waples Pond 51 Unimproved Limited 20 Wagamons Pond 41 Yes Yes 21 Hearns Pond 53 Yes Yes 22 Concord Pond 77 Yes Limited 23 Craigs Pond 12 Yes Yes 24 Millsboro Pond 101 Yes Limited 25 Ingrams Pond 24 Yes Yes 26 Portsville Pond 15 Yes Limited 27 Records Pond 92 Yes Pier

Zach Pillarelli 28 Chipman Pond 52 Yes Yes Ben Smith landed the state record striped bass while surf fishing at Delaware Seashore State 29 Horsey Pond 46 Yes Yes Park in 2012! 30 Tussock Pond 9 Yes Limited 39 Fleetwood Pond 43 No Limited PARKS AND RECREATION ACCESS AREAS** 31 Lums Pond 189 Yes Yes 32 Killens Pond 75 Unimproved Yes 36 Trap Pond 88 Yes Yes 37 Trussum Pond 73 Car top only No 38 Raccoon Pond 14 Car top only Limited 39 Smithmill Pond 1.1 No Yes

* Area number refers to the numbered red or brown boxes on the Fishing Areas map (see map on page 17). Access areas are closed from sunset until sunrise unless fishing. ** A seasonal or daily fee may be required at access areas administered by the Division of Parks and Recreation.

14 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE TIDAL FISHING ACCESS AREAS

BOAT AREA* LOCATION / WATER BODY FISHING PIERS PARKING RAMPS LINGO MARINE INC 7th Street Park / Christina, Brandywine 1 Closed 1 24 ESTABLISHED 1961 and DE Rivers 2 Newport Boat Ramp / Christina River 2 1 54 3 Churchmans Road / Christina River 1 none 17 4 Fort DuPont State Park / DE River 3 none 135 along 5 Canal Wildlife Area / C&D Canal none 3 road/lots 6 Augustine Beach / DE River 2 1 65 7 Odessa / Appoquinimink River 1 none 2 8 Collins Beach / DE Bay 3 1 120 9 Woodland Beach / DE Bay 1 1 50 10 Woodland Bch. / Duck Creek / DE Bay 2 none 18 11 Port Mahon / DE Bay 3 1 50 12 Water Street (Dover) / St. Jones River car top none as available

13 Lebanon Landing / St. Jones River 1 1 7 14 Scotton Landing / St. Jones River 1 1 10 Dale and Gerry Lingo started 15 Bowers Beach / DE Bay 5 none 200 Lingo Marine in 1961. Today it is 16 Cedar Creek / DE Bay 8 none 150 still operated by family. We have 17 Front St., Milford / Mispillion River 1 1 10 certiﬁ ed mechanics, and a full 18 Milton / Broadkill River 1 1 / 1 9 / 8 line of parts and accessories. We 19 Lewes / DE Bay 6 none 128 are large enough to serve you, but Masseys Landing / Indian River & 20 4 1 100 small enough to appreciate the Rehoboth Bay opportunity! 21 Rosedale Bch. / Indian River 2 1 30 22 Seaford / Nanticoke River 4 1 93 Phillips Landing/Broad Creek/ 23 3 none 50 Nanticoke River Edward R. Koch / Broad Creek 24 none none 10 (shoreline fishing only) Laurel below Records Pond / Broad 25 1 2 17 Creek Assawoman Wildlife Area / 26 2 2 20 Little Assawoman Bay PARKS & RECREATION AREAS** 33 Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier none 1 75 34 Indian River Marina 2 No 40 • ALUMINUM FISHING BOATS Indian River Inlet none along inlet 200 • PONTOON BOATS 35 Holts Landing/ Indian River Bay 1 Yes 25 • OUTBOARD ENGINES * Area number refers to the numbered yellow or brown boxes on the Fishing Area map (see map on page 17). Access areas are closed from sunset to sunrise unless fishing. • BOAT TRAILERS Note - All motor boats launched from tidal access areas administered by the Division of Fish and Wildlife must • PARTS AND ACCESSORIES be registered in Delaware or have a valid ramp certificate. Ramp certificates cost $35 and are available from the Division of Fish and Wildlife or authorized agents (see page 29). ** A daily or seasonal fee may be required at areas administered by the Division of Parks and Recreation. Monday-Friday 8am-5pm RECREATIONAL GILL NETS Saturdays Summer - 8:30am-2pm Gear and seasonal restrictions apply to recreational gill nets and anyone obtaining a Winter - 9am-1pm permit will be informed of these restrictions. In addition, during 2018, all recreational gill nets must be removed from the Delaware Bay and Ocean on the following dates: May 1-6; May 10-12; May 17-19; May 24-26; May 31-June 2; June 7-9; June 14-16; June 21–30 in order to reduce weakfish mortality rates as required by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries LINGO MARINE INC Commission’s Weakfish Management Plan. Each closure period begins at 12:01 a.m. on 121 Delaware Avenue the first day and ends at midnight on the last day. No striped bass caught in recreational Millsboro, DE 19966 gill nets may be retained at any time. 302-934-9877 [email protected] Www.lingomarine.com 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE 15 BE AWARE

Please help us track invasive fish by reporting your catch at https://arcg.is/1iyb9T or use your phone to scan the QR code!

Flathead Catfish Northern Snakehead (Mature) Flathead catfish are most easily recognized by their broad, flat head, Northern snakehead are identified by a long dorsal (back) fin and anal fin, brown mottled coloration and lower jaw which sticks out further than a rounded tail, and a large mouth reaching beyond the eye with many, the upper. sharp teeth. They are often confused with native bowfin. Visit http:// fishspecies.dnrec.delaware.gov for more identification information. PA Fish & Boat Commission

J. Jacobini

Blue Catfish Northern Snakehead (Juvenile) The invasive blue catfish (on top), and a channel catfish (lower) can be differentiated by spreading out the anal fin and looking for a straight or lobed appearance.

SHELLFISH AQUACULTURE Jim Negus, tnfish.org — INLAND BAYS

Anglers and boaters should be aware that shellfish aquaculture leases are being established in Delaware’s Inland Bays. Leased areas may contain submerged or floating aquaculture gear with various markings to alert boaters to their presence. Although anglers may fish in these areas, it is unlawful to anchor on a leased area or tie a vessel to any lease markers or gear. It is also unlawful to harvest any cultured or wild bivalve shellfish from the lease sites or associated navigation corridors. Shellfish aquaculture leases are presently limited to the areas indicated all visible aquatic plants from watercraft and trail- on page 17; however, other areas may be leased in the future. CLEAN ers as well as waders and boots. For a more precise interactive map of the leased areas, or more information on the program, please refer to http://bit.ly/2hbF2x3. equipment (boat bilge, ballast tanks, bait contain- DRAIN ers, motor) before leaving any water access area.

of unwanted live bait (minnows, worms) DISPOSE in the trash.

In most cases, new fish species that are REPORT: introduced into our waters don’t survive or present a problem. But some may flourish and potentially cause ecological or economic harm. When there is harm, these species are called invasive. Currently, we have several species in our waters that we are tracking as potentially invasive and the department could use your help to document new sites. If you catch something you feel is unusual, please call 302-739-9914. If you catch a Northern snakehead, blue Shellfish aquaculture leases in the Indian River and Rehoboth Bays must be marked with 6-inch PVC pipe and shellfish aquaculture leases in Little catfish or flathead catfish please do not return it to the water, but kill it Assawoman Bay must be marked with 9 x 16 inch orange bullet floats. and contact us. Document the catch by freezing it or taking a good photo.

16 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE BE AWARE FISHING & CLAMMING MAPS

FISHING MAP

CLAMMING MAP

Scan this QR code using your smart phone or tablet to get an expandable high resolution map of Delaware’s shellfish closures or type bit.ly/ZuiLyY into your browser!

2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE 17 GENERAL TIDAL FISHING REGULATIONS

These are some of the regulations that all an- bass during the spawning season from the The Division recommends that circle-hooks glers should be familiar with. For a complete Nanticoke River or its tributaries, the Delaware always be used when fishing natural baits be- listing refer to the Division’s website or request River and its tributaries to the north of a line cause of their proven ability to reduce hook and a copy from the Director’s Office. See page 5 extending due east beginning at and includ- release mortality for striped bass and other fish for license requirements. ing the south jetty at the mouth of the C & D species. The circle-hook’s design usually results Canal, or the C & D Canal or its tributaries. in fish being hooked in the mouth, simplify- Catch and release only during this season; no ing hook removal and reducing injury to the STRIPED BASS harvest is allowed. released fish. SPAWNING SEASON CIRCLE-HOOKS AMERICAN SHAD The spawning season for striped bass in Dela- ware is considered to begin at 12:01 a.m. on Anglers fishing with natural bait on the striped AND HICKORY SHAD April 1 and continue through midnight on bass spawning grounds from April 1 through May 31 of each calendar year. It is unlawful May 31 must use a non-offset circle hook where It shall be unlawful for any person to have in for any person to take and retain any striped the gap of the hook is greater than 3/8 inches. possession more than an aggregate of ten (10) American shad and hickory shad. Addition- ally, it shall be unlawful for any person to take and reduce to possession any American shad or hickory shad from the Nanticoke River or its tributaries. RIVER HERRING Both commercial and recreational river herring (blueback herring and alewife) fisheries are closed to harvest. No person shall fish with any type of net, within 300 feet of any constructed dam or spill- way on a tidal water river, stream, canal, ditch, or tributary located in this state.

Mike Cline

Fisherman’s Wharf By The Drawbridge, Lewes, DE Fishing, Charter Boats, Restaurants Join us for our 81st year of family ﬁ shing!

Ahoy!! Welcome to Fisherman’s Wharf, by the drawbridge in Lewes, Delaware. It’s a family a air here where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, with 3 generations of Parsons to serve you! ere’s plenty to do here at Fisherman’s Wharf for the whole family. Our eet includes head boats, deep sea charter boats, cruising and sightseeing vessels.

DOLPHIN and DOLPHIN/WHALE WATCHING HEAD BOAT FISHING CRUISES Full Day Trip - Departs 7 a.m. Departing at 9:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Half Day Trips - Departs 8 a.m. & 1:00 p.m. CHARTER TRIPS AVAILABLE EVENING CRUISES FOR 1 - 149 PEOPLE Call for details! Call for availability PRIVATE CRUISES Weddings, Showers, Reunions, Parties or Business for up to 150 people. 2 Hour Cruise, minimum of 30, 50 or 100 people. Create Your Own Fun Trip!! GPS; 107 Angler’s Road, Lewes, DE 19958 302-645-8862 • www.ﬁ shlewes.com 18 See video in action at cleanwayfuelfill.com SUMMER FLOUNDER KEEP FUEL IN THE TANK It is unlawful for any person to have in possession any part of a summer flounder that measures less than the current minimum size limit between said part’s two most distant points unless said person also AND OUT OF OUR WATERS has in possession the head, backbone, and tail intact from which said part was removed. ELECTRIC LIGHTS Electric lights may now be used in tidal waters for recreational fishing. Electric lights are often used in bowfishing, which is an effective method for taking invasive fish such as the northern snakehead. COURTESY DOCKS Crabbing, fishing or swimming from floating courtesy docks at any Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife boat ramp is prohibited, unless otherwise posted.

ARTIFICIAL REEF PROGRAM

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Even the smallest fuel spill can cause great harm to the environment. Clean Way tm Fuel Fill, with its ingenious patented design, is the new solution for totally clean, totally spill-free boat refueling. No more fuel-soaked rags or lingering fumes. Fuel stays in the tank and out of our waters! Order your Clean Way today. Delaware has eleven permitted artificial reef sites in Delaware Bay and along the Atlantic Coast. Development of these sites Available in 12" and smaller • baffle design catches overflow began in 1995 and will continue. The Delaware Reef Program is 10" (great for tenders!) and drains back into tank one part of a comprehensive fisheries management effort and is Cap sets for tidy storage • adapters and fittings included designed to enhance fisheries habitat, benefit structure-oriented sold separately. • heavy-duty material fish, and provide fishing opportunities for anglers. • 3-year warranty The site charts in the free reef guide show where reef materials have been deployed since 1995. The reef program uses DGPS (Dif- ferential Global Positioning System) to accurately place materials on site. Locations (latitude - longitude) noted for each site indicate the position of deployments of reef material from an anchored barge. In the case of large, concentrated reef deployments, a latitude or longitude range, may be given such as: N 39 15.377’- 402’. This indicates material occurs between 39 degrees, 15.377 to 15.402 minutes north latitude. Due to variability between DGPS receivers, slight variations in readings may occur. It is suggested you use your GPS and a good fathometer to locate reef structure, To order visit cleanwayfuelfill.com then note the coordinates on your own GPS. You can view the reef 95 95 guide on-line or contact the Fisheries Little Creek field office for $39 - $44 a copy (302) 735-2960. Use coupon code DFR19 and save 10% 19 ETHICAL CATCH AND RELEASE OF SHARKS

Anglers are prohibited from landing and keeping protected sharks, including sand tiger and sandbar sharks. Due to their low reproductive rate and overfishing, possession of either species is prohibited. Prohibited sharks and all Highly Migratory Species that are not retained must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival, by cutting the line near the hook or by using a de-hooking device, in either case, without removing the fish from the water. ETHICAL SHARK FISHING PRACTICES • Use carbon or mild steel hooks (not stainless • Use measuring devices that allow sharks to • Avoid using a gaff, especially near sensitive steel) with minimal protective coating. This remain in the water. A leader clip attached areas such as the brain, belly, dorsal fin, and way, if the shark is lost before it is landed, to a marked or measured line with a trailing tail area where there are major blood vessels the hook will rust out within a few weeks. float works well. A marked or measured stick close to the shark’s skin surface. or boat pole can also be useful. • Use single barbless circle hooks. If your • Never lift a shark by its tail without pro- hooks are not barbless, flatten the barb with • A number of hook removal devices are com- viding additional support. Take care not to a file or with pliers. The hook will disengage mercially available that can improve hook squeeze the gills as these delicate structures more easily if you file down the barb. removal efficiency and safety. can be easily damaged.

• Use “blocker-rigs” to keep the shark from • Use heavy sized tackle and minimize fight- being throat or gut hooked. ing time.

• Avoid removing sharks from water. • Strike quickly to ensure the hook attaches Barbless Circle Hook in the corner of the shark’s mouth and the • DO NOT remove protected sharks from the shark does not swallow your bait. If the shark water. Landing, attempting to land, possess- is gut hooked, do not attempt to pull/tear/ ing or removing any prohibited shark species remove the hook. Cut the line as close to the from the water is illegal in Delaware. hook as possible.

HOOK REMOVERS FIGHT TIME HANDLING FOR A Use a long hook remover for throat hooked The longer the fight time, the longer it will HEALTHY RELEASE sharks. If the shark has swallowed the hook, take for your shark to recover. Sharks suffer do not attempt to pull it out — this will cause lactic acid and carbon dioxide build-up in their Do not drag larger sharks over rocks, sand, or serious damage and compromise the survival blood and muscles, similar to how your mus- the side of a boat. Sharks do not have a rigid of the shark. Cut the line as close to the hook as cles stiffen after a work-out. Such exhaustion skeleton to prevent their organs from being possible if you are unable to remove the hook. weakens the animal and compromises its sur- crushed by their own body weight while out vival chances significantly. Use heavy tackle of the water. Work with the sharks in the water. Long Hook Removers to minimize fight time. Never pull a shark by the tail or pick it up by the gill slits. Do not lift hammerhead sharks by the sides of their heads, as the area contains BOLT CUTTERS many sensitive organs, vital to successful hunting. Larger sharks will require two people to Don’t leave home without them! If the hook restrain and carry the animal. If possible, use is embedded in the cartilage of the jaw and it a cradle to stabilize the shark in the water and BLOCKER RIG is not an easy removal, use bolt cutters to cut to facilitate safe hook removal. the hook. Use wire cutter for small hooks and The “blocker-rig”, is nothing more than a wire leaders. length of plastic pipe mounted perpendicular to the leader at a specific distance from the hook. The pipe prevents or “blocks” the fish Blocker Rig Hooked Sand Tiger Shark from swallowing the bait. The distance between the eye of the hook and the plastic pipe should be 4 inches, as that measurement is important to keep the hook from being swallowed by most of the sharks anglers will encounter. The length of the pipe should be 9 inches, unless anglers are expecting sand tigers and then it You could get a discount when you combine your auto and boat policies. should be 14 inches.

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BLUE CRABS A fishing license is required to crab in all waters their under side. Once this stage of development of the State of Delaware. is achieved, females stop growing. Therefore, The blue crab is common in all the tidal waters female blue crabs with a U-shaped apron may be of Delaware. It is a popular recreational resource retained at any size. Females bearing eggs, com- and tops the list of the State’s economically im- monly known as sponge crabs, may not be taken portant marine fish and shellfish. and should be returned to the water immediately. Blue crabs grow very quickly and reach matu- Recreational crabbers may not use, place, set rity in 12 to 18 months. Most do not live beyond or tend more than two pots. The person claiming two years under current exploitation levels. to own the pots must be the one to set and tend In order to grow, a blue crab must shed its shell them. These pots must be marked with all white and form a new shell. This process is repeated up buoys with the owner’s full name and permanent to 18 times to attain maximum length. It is legal mailing address inscribed either on the buoy or to take crabs at three stages, but to get the most on a waterproof tag attached to the buoy. All yield in weight out of a crab, they should reach crab pots must be tended at least once every 72 a minimum length before being harvested. This hours. All crab pots must be removed from the is measured from point to point of the top shell. water between December 1 and February 28. Rec- The minimum size for hard-shell blue crab is reational crabbers may use a trot line (no length 5 inches, except mature females. Mature females limit) and any number of hand lines or traps. The (sooks) are identified by the rounded apron on recreational daily limit is one bushel per person.

(Orange eggs under the apron) Jimmy She-crab Sook Sponge Crab Mature Male Immature Female Mature Female Female with Eggs

A turtle by-catch reduction device is required to be attached in each funnel entrance of a recreational crab pot to reduce the possibility of diamondback terrapins entering and drowning. A by-catch reduction device is a rigid rectangular frame of plastic or metal that measures 1.75 inches x 4.75 inches and is available at local tackle shops, or can be hand-made from heavy (>11 gauge) wire or other suitable material. National Aquarium in Baltimore Aquarium in National CLAMMING CONCHS METHODS OF TAKE AND LIMITS It is unlawful to harvest hard clams from Conch (channeled and knobbed whelk) may A fishing license is required to harvest clams one-half hour after sunset through one-half only be taken using conch pots with at least in waters of the State of Delaware. See page 5 hour before sunrise. one escape vent measuring at least 5 inches x for details. It is unlawful for any resident to harvest more 10 inches in the top or parlor section. The rec- It is unlawful for any person to attempt to take, than one hundred (100) clams per day unless oth- reational harvest of conch by any other method catch, kill or reduce to possession any hard clams erwise permitted to do so by license or permit. is prohibited. Recreational conch potters may with a device other than a hand-held rake with It is unlawful for any non-resident to harvest not use, place, set or tend more than two conch a head no wider than fourteen (14) inches meas- more than fifty (50) hard clams per day unless pots. The person claiming to own the pots must ured perpendicular to the tines and a straight otherwise permitted to do so by license or permit. be the one to set and tend them. These pots must handle not in excess of seven (7) feet in length. No shellfish harvesting (excluding crabs) is be marked with all white buoys with the owner’s allowed in the Prohibited Areas marked on full name and permanent mailing address in- the map on page 17 or any tidal river, stream, scribed either on the buoy or on a waterproof Minimum Hard Clam Size or impoundment of the state. This includes all tag attached to the buoy. All conch pots must be non-tidal and impounded water as well. Shell- tended at least once every 72 hours. Knobbed The minimum size for a hard clam is fish harvesting is allowed from December 1 conch must measure at least 5 inches along the 1 1/2 inches from point A to point B. through April 15 in the Seasonally Approved axis or have a minimum diameter at the whorl Areas. This is your protection against contract- of 3.0 inches. Channeled whelk must measure at ing shellfish-borne diseases. This is also the least 6 inches along the axis or have a minimum law. All boundaries may be marked with signs diameter at the whorl of 3.125 (3 1⁄8) inches. B and or buoys saying “No Shellfish Harvesting” A or “Prohibited Shellfish Area.” Questions re- garding these closures should be directed to the MEASURING CONCH Watershed Assessment Section Shellfish and 1 1/2 INCHES Recreational Waters Programs 302-739-9939. Clamming is prohibited in eel grass beds marked with white PVC pipes and signs.

OYSTERS WHORL DIAMETER RECREATIONAL HARVEST PROHIBITED It is unlawful to recreationally harvest oysters in Delaware. This prohibition protects vul- LENGTH nerable oyster populations and protects you against contracting a shellfish-borne disease.

22 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE SHARKS

Sharks are managed by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, and the regulations are complex. For more detailed information contact the NMFS or visit www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/hms/. State regulations are subject to any changes in federal regulations. Please consult www.fw.delaware.gov for the latest changes in state regulations. See page 13 for more information on shark seasons, sizes, and daily limits. COMMON DELAWARE SHARKS The sand tiger, sandbar, smooth dogfish (or smoothhound) and spiny dogfish are the most commonly caught shark species in Delaware. Sandbar and sand tiger sharks are of special significance to the Delaware Estuary and its anglers. Delaware Bay is an important “pupping area” and nursery for sand tiger sharks, and Sandbar - prohibited species - to 7 feet in length; they are commonly hooked. Due to their low Smooth dogfish (Smoothhound) - no recrea- body bluish to brownish gray fading to white reproductive rate and overfishing, both spe- tional limit - to 5 feet in length; body gray to underside; front dorsal fin sits high and aligns cies are protected and none may be retained. brown with yellowish to white underside; teeth with rear attachment point of pectoral fin (see Sandbar sharks, all prohibited sharks and all are pavement like and noncutting; very com- red reference line); dorsal fins different size and highly migratory species that are not retained mon in warmer months (Apr. - Oct.). shape; upper teeth triangular and serrated; must be released in a manner to ensure their lower teeth narrow and finely serrated. maximum probability of survival, by cutting the line near the hook or by using a de-hooking device, in any case, without removing the fish from the water.

For more information on other common Dela- Spiny dogfish - no recreational limit - to 5 feet Sand Tiger - prohibited species - to 10.5 feet ware sharks and handling, please visit in length; easily identified by thorny spine in length; body gray-brown to tan with dark www.fw.delaware.gov. located on leading edge of dorsal fins; teeth splotches; front dorsal fin well behind pectoral small and not prominent; common in the fin (see red reference line); dorsal fins nearly cooler weather months (Oct. - Apr.). equal in size; prominent long curved teeth.

SPORTING CLAY RANGE

12613 Hunter’s Cove Rd Greenwood, DE

Sporting Clays | Five Stand | Wobble Trap Concealed Carry Classes (302) 349-4334 [email protected] owensstation.com TaylorMarineCenter.com Milford, DE Ocean City, MD 22699 Argos Corner Rd. 11850 Ocean Gateway Toll Free 877.621.8967 Toll Free 877.621.8972

23 SPORT FISHING TOURNAMENT

TOURNAMENT RULES 8. A fish will not be recognized as a state 15. Only one saltwater award and one fresh- record unless qualified personnel from water award will be issued to any one 1. The Sport Fishing Tournament is open to the Division of Fish and Wildlife approve individual during the tournament year; the public. There is no entry fee. Charter the catch. In case no Division personnel although, anglers may apply for and receive boat captains are eligible. Weighmasters are available at the time of the weigh-in, multiple citations within a year. are eligible to enter, provided their fish the angler must save the entire fish for are weighed in at a weighing station other examination and approval at the earliest 16. Special citations will be issued upon ap- than their own. convenient time for the Division. proval of the Tournament Director in the case of unusual catches or extenuating 2. All fish except those caught beyond the 9. In the case of a tie for the largest fish of the circumstances. If the weigh station feels three-mile limit in the Atlantic Ocean en- year or a new state record, both fish will the catch is rare or unusual, an entry form tered in the Tournament must be caught be recognized. should be submitted for approval. All deci- within the boundaries of the State of Dela- sions by the Director on unusual species ware. Any fish caught outside the three- 10. To replace a record for a fish weighing less will be final. mile territorial sea must be landed in a than 25 pounds, the replacement must weigh vessel leaving from a Delaware port and at least 2 ounces more than the existing re- 17. Citations will be awarded for released white returning to a Delaware port. cord. To replace a record for a fish weighing or blue marlin. Fill out the standard entry 25 pounds or more, the replacement must form except for length, weight, and girth and 3. All fish entered in the tournament must weigh at least one-half of 1 percent more than include a signature and telephone number of be weighed at an official Delaware Sport the existing record. Example: at 100 pounds a witness to the catch other than the angler Fishing Tournament Weigh Station. the additional weight required would be 8 and captain. Any marlin kept for taxidermy ounces. Any catch that exceeds the existing also will be eligible for Tournament entry 4. All fish entered in the tournament must record by less than the amount required to provided a taxidermist receipt is enclosed be caught in a sporting manner with hook defeat the record will be considered a tie. with the entry form. Marlin retained for any and line. No other person may touch the purpose other than mounting will not be rod or line until the fish is brought within 11. The Tournament Director reserves the right eligible for entry in the Tournament. the grasp of the mate. to disqualify any entry. 18. Anglers that receive adult division Tourna- 5. All scales used to weigh in fish must be 12. All entry forms must be filled out com- ment citations for five different species, no certified yearly by the Delaware Division pletely and in a legible manner by the more than two of which can be Live Release of Weights and Measures (Department of weighmaster. The signed forms should Awards, within one calendar year will be Agriculture 302-698-4500). be mailed in by the angler. recognized as “Delaware Elite Anglers”. Both saltwater and freshwater Tournament 6. All fish entered in the tournament must 13. The tournament runs from January 1 - species, or any combination thereof, are meet the minimum weight requirement as December 31. No entry forms for the pre- eligible. Once an angler achieves “Elite” set up for this year’s tournament. vious tournament year will be accepted status, he/she will receive a plaque com- after 4:30 p.m. January 31. memorating their accomplishment. Anglers 7. No smallmouth bass will be recognized that achieve “Elite” status may continue to from Kent or Sussex Counties unless Divi- 14. Citations will be issued for dead Snakehead participate in the Sport Fish Tournament, sion of Fish and Wildlife qualified person- provided anglers have them measured for but will not be eligible for additional Elite nel examine and approve the catch. both length and weight at an official weigh Angler plaques in subsequent years. station. 19. The Tournament Director reserves the right to disqualify any weigh station if the Tour- LIVE RELEASE AWARDS nament rules are not observed. 20. Hybrid striped bass will only be recognized In order to promote conservation ethics among Delaware anglers, for entry when caught in non-tidal water. the Division of Fish and Wildlife is providing recognition awards to anglers who catch and release live eligible species that exceed 21. Youth Division applies to anglers age 15 and minimum qualifying lengths. Applications for Live Release Awards under that meet the associated minimum are available on-line or may be picked up at any Sport Fishing Tour- size or length eligibility requirements. All Delaware Sport fishing rules apply except nament Weigh Station. To qualify, an angler must follow the same for rule 18, as catches awarded under the general tournament rules of the Sport Fishing Tournament, but: reduced minimum size requirements of the • The eligible species must meet the mini- • Recipients of live release awards will youth division are not eligible Elite Angler consideration. mum qualifying length as measured from be eligible for one freshwater live release the tip of the jaw to the tip of the tail (straight award and one saltwater live release 22. The State of Delaware assumes no respon- line measurement with mouth closed) and award per year, but may receive multiple sibility in the certification of a catch for con- this measurement must be verified by a citations in either category. sideration by the International Game Fish witness who signs the entry form. Association or any record keeping body • Applications for live release awards must other than the Delaware Sportfishing Tour- • The fish must be released immediately be submitted to the Division of Fish and nament. If the angler wishes to qualify his/ after measuring. Wildlife within 30 days of the catch. her catch for consideration in some other tournament, it is the responsibility of the • Fish retained for any reason other than • The entry form for live releases must angler to insure that his catch and weigh-in obtaining a valid length measurement include both the angler’s signature and meets the appropriate criteria. The Delaware are not eligible. the signature of a witness to the actual Sportfishing Tournament makes no distinc- measurement and live release of the fish. tion based on line classes or sex of the angler • Billfish released alive are eligible for either or fly versus conventional fishing gear. the Live Release Award or the Sport Fish- • No fish entered for a Live Release Award ing Tournament Award, whichever one the will be eligible for consideration as a State 23. Call (302) 735-2960 for tournament information. angler chooses. record fish.

24 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE SPORT FISHING TOURNAMENT MEASURING YOUR CATCH MINIMUM WEIGHTS AND LENGTHS* Place the fish on a measuring board or stick with the tip of the jaw or snout (the FRESHWATER FISHES mouth closed) at the end of the instru- ADULT YOUTH (AGE 15 AND UNDER) ment. Hold the head down with one hand to keep the fish in place, pinch the upper SPECIES WEIGHT* LENGTH* WEIGHT* LENGTH* (LBS.) (INCHES) (LBS.) (INCHES) and lower lobes of the tail together while swiping the tail back and forth across 2 Bass (Hyb.), Striped 5 22 3.5 19 the board. Note the measurement of the Bass, Largemouth 5 20 3.5 17 longest part of the tail*; that is the “total Bass, Smallmouth 21 17 21 17 length.” Keep in mind that fish which Bass, Striped 34 44 20 37 barely make the minimum length may Bluegill 1 10 0.75 (12 ozs.) 8 shrink after being on ice for an hour or Carp 15 29 11 27 more. Sometimes it is possible to get an Catfish 6 25 4.5 23 accurate measurement while the fish is Crappie 1 12 0.75 (12 ozs.) 10 still in the landing net. Muskie 10 30 7.5 26 *When measuring black sea bass do Perch, White 1 12 0.75 (12 ozs.) 10 not include the long caudal fin filament Perch, Yellow 1 12 0.75 (12 ozs.) 10 in your measurement of total length. Pickerel, Chain 4 24 3 20 Shad, American 5 23 3.5 18 Snakehead Any None Any None Sunfish, Redear 1 10 0.75 (12 ozs.) 8 Trout 2 16 1.5 15 SALTWATER FISHES Albacore, False 12 26 9 24 Albacore, True 30 32 22.5 29 Bass, Striped 34 44 20 37 Bass, Black Sea 3 17 2 15 Maryland DNR Bluefish 12 29 10 27 Cobia 45 48 33.5 42 Croaker, Atlantic 3 19 2 16 Dolphinfish 15 41 11 38 BE ON THE Drum, Black 50 45 37.5 39 LOOKOUT Drum, Red None 45 None 35 Flounder 7 25 5 23 Have You Seen a Kingfish 1 13 0.75 (12 ozs.) 11 Sturgeon Lately? Mackerel, Atlantic 2 17 1.5 15 If you find a dead sturgeon please Mackerel, King 10 26 7.5 22 report it immediately at apps.dnrec. Mackerel, Spanish 5 22 3 .5 20 state.de.us/Sturgeon or by calling: Marlin, Blue Any Any³ Any Any 3 302-735-8650. Marlin, White Any Any³ Any Any³ Don’t forget to include an exact loca- Scup (porgy) 2 14 1.5 12 tion and contact information in your message. Shark (excl. Mako) 1004 663,4 75 56³ Shark, Mako 250 83³ 250 83³ Sheepshead 8 22 6 20 Swordfish Any Any³ Any Any³ Tautog 7 25 5.5 20 Tilefish, Blueline 10 28 7.5 25 Tilefish, Golden 35 40 26.5 35 Triggerfish, Gray 5 20 3.5 18 Tuna, Bluefin 100 60³ 75 48³ Tuna, Yellowfin or Bigeye 70 48³ 52.5 45³ Wahoo 20 50 15 41 Weakfish (Sea trout) 3 20 2 18 * Lengths apply only to live release citations; weights apply only to fish officially weighed at a weigh station 1 - Must be 17 inches or longer 2 - Must be taken from non-tidal waters 3 - Federal regulations require that these species, if not retained, must be released in a manner that will ensure NOAA/NMFS Permit 20314 maximum probability of survival, without removing the fish from the water 4 - Prohibited shark species (see p. 13) are not eligible for entry.

2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE 25 SPORT FISHING TOURNAMENT UPDATES

YOUTH DIVISION The Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament has implemented a youth division for young anglers age 15 and under. The youth division features lowered minimum qualifying sizes for each species. With the decreased minimum size requirements in the youth division, young anglers have a greater chance to be rewarded for that trophy catch. All 15 freshwater species and all 30 saltwater species recognized in the tournament’s adult division will be eligible for youth division recognition and awards. The youth division applies to the Live Re- lease Award program for conservation minded young anglers that choose to return their trophy catch unharmed, immediately after landing and measuring their catch. Youth division qualifying lengths and weights are provided on page 25. Other than the reduced qualifying lengths and weights the same tournament rules will apply to the youth division. Youth division entries are not eligible for the elite angler program. Drake Kimble with his 11 pound 12.8 ounce catfish. Drake Kimble proudly displays his 2019 Sport Fishing Citation. ELITE ANGLER AWARD In 2017 the Division of Fish & Wildlife created a new “Elite Angler Award”. Anglers that received Tournament citations for five different species within one calendar year, no more than two of which can be Live Release Awards, are recognized as “Delaware Elite Anglers”. Five individuals achieved Elite Angler status in 2018 (at the time of printing): Jim Hitchens of Georgetown, Matthew James of New Cas- tle, Brian Salisbury of Bridgeville, Christian Pruneda of Camden and Gary Johnston Jr. of Milford. Congratulations on your outstanding achievement! 2019 award pins.

ACCESS POINT ANGLER INTERCEPT SURVEY (APAIS)

The most critical responsibility of Delaware • Give Delaware anglers a bigger stake in or released alive or dead. We also ask Division of Fish and Wildlife’s (DDFW) Fish- the recreational data and the data collec- to measure and weigh fish retained by eries Section is sustainably managing our tion program. the anglers fisheries to keep fishing in Delaware great. The intercept surveys are conducted by Good management depends on good data, What to expect when DDFW fisheries personnel at fishing access so the Fisheries Section is always looking interviewed points along the coast of Delaware. for ways to improve its data collection. To The intercept survey is conducted by DDFW By participating in this survey, you’re help- that end, the Fisheries Section, working with fisheries personnel at fishing access points ing keep recreational fisheries sustainable. the Atlantic Coastal Cooperative Statistics along the Delaware coast. Saltwater anglers Program (ACCSP), will conduct the Access returning from a fishing trip may be asked • You’re our “eyes and ears” on the water Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS). This to participate in the dockside survey. The — what we learn from you is critical to survey is a critical component of the Marine interview, which only takes a few minutes to understanding the health of our fisheries. Recreational Information Program (MRIP), complete, consists of two major sections: • You’re on the front line of conserva- used to estimate the number of fish caught 1. A background portion that addresses tion. You can have a real impact on our and harvested by recreational anglers. MRIP fishing mode (private boat, shore, or waterways and how they’re managed. counts and reports marine recreational catch charter boat), gear type, number of and effort, using in-person, telephone, and • Your input helps ensure that regulations anglers, hours spent fishing, general area mail surveys. The Fisheries Section believes are working and that our fish populations fished, whether anglers were targeting that a Delaware APAIS conducted by DDFW can support recreational fishing for future specific fish species, and the anglers’ will result in improved data quality and greater generations to enjoy. county and state of residence; and stakeholder confidence in that data. We anticipate that our involvement in conduct- 2. The latter portion which focuses on the ing the APAIS will: anglers’ catch. We ask questions per- taining to the species and number of • Improve data quality and efficiency of fish released as well as those fish kept. data collection; For released fish, we collect informa- • Maximize angler participation; and tion on whether they were used for bait,

26 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE YOUTH FISHING

RD improve environmental literacy in Delaware, 33 ANNUAL 2019 TAKE A KID create opportunities for children to participate in enriching outdoor experiences, com- YOUTH FISHING FISHING! PROGRAM bat childhood obesity and promote healthy lifestyles. Delaware’s multi-agency initiative, TOURNAMENT Delaware is a great state for youth fishing and which partners state and federal agencies with the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife community organizations, is in conjunction As part of its activities for National Fishing and offers free Take A Kid Fishing! events at the with the national No Child Left Inside program. Boating Week, June 1–9, the Delaware Division Aquatic Resources Education Center and other of Fish and Wildlife will hold its 33rd annual ponds throughout Delaware. The Take a Kid Youth Fishing Tournament from 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Fishing! program is geared to kids age 6 to 15 DELAWARE’S SMALL Saturday June 1, 2019. The event will take place and their families. All equipment is provided at Ingrams Pond in Millsboro, Akridge Scout for participants to learn basic fishing skills and POND PROGRAM Reservation in Camden, and at the Lums Pond have a chance to try their hand at catching a State Park dog training area. fish. So why not join us this summer for a great The Division has nine small ponds scat- This fishing event is for youths ages 4 to 15. day at the water’s edge? tered throughout the State which offer An adult must accompany youths under age 12 and contestants should bring their own fishing EVENTS FOR 2019 shore angling targeted at youth. The equipment. The tournament is free to the public ponds range from ½ to 8 acres and and prizes will be awarded in three age groups: • May 18 at the Aquatic Resources Education contain good populations of largemouth 4–7; 8–11; and 12–15. Center in Smyrna 9AM–12PM bass and bluegill. Catch and release The tournament was established to introduce is the order of the day so barbless youth to the sport of fishing and to teach the catch • June 1 at the Aquatic Resources Education hooks are required at most. Additional and release approach to conservation. There is Center in Smyrna 9AM–12PM no pre-registration nor entrance fee required and information about the pond locations the tournament is held rain or shine. • June 8 at Lums Pond State Park in Bear, DE and available facilities can be found at: In addition to the youth fishing tournament 10AM–1PM http://bit.ly/SmPond-DE. celebrating National Fishing and Boating Week, the Division has designated June 1 and 2, 2019 • June 15 at the Aquatic Resources Education as free fishing days when anyone may fish in Center in Smyrna 9AM–12PM Delaware’s waters without a fishing license. • July 13 at Redden State Forest in Georgetown 10AM-1PM

• July 20 at Lums Pond State Park in Bear, DE 10AM–1PM

For updates to this schedule and other events go to the Division of Fish & Wildlife website (www.de.gov/takf). Find us on Facebook at Delaware Fish & Wildlife.

REGISTRATION Take a Kid Fishing! events include activity stations, fishing and prizes. The program is free of charge but pre-registration is required. You can register by sending an email to mary. [email protected]. This program is part of Delaware’s Chil- dren in Nature Initiative, a statewide effort to

AQUATIC RESOURCES EDUCATION CENTER

You can learn about native Delaware sportfish and fishing opportunities in the First State by visiting Delaware’s new Aquatic Resources Edu- cation (ARE) Center on the Route 9 Bayshore Byway in Smyrna. The center offers two stocked catch and release fishing ponds and a unique vantage point for exploring the tidal salt marsh bordering Delaware Bay. There is a boardwalk over the marsh, plus trails and interpretive signs with information about ARE features including the popular Take A Kid Fishing! Program.

2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE 27 STATE RECORD HOLDERS

FRESHWATER SALTWATER

SPECIES WEIGHT ANGLER YEAR SPECIES WEIGHT ANGLER YEAR

Bass (Hyb.), Striped 13 lbs. 13 ozs. Earl Blevins 1990 Albacore, False 20 lbs. 8 ozs. Tim Parill 2016 Bass, Largemouth 11 lbs. 1.6 ozs. Andrew Klein 2016 Albacore, True 80 lbs. David Francella 1987 Bass, Smallmouth 4 lbs. 15.5 ozs. Jerry Proffitt 1989 Bass, Striped 52 lbs. Benjamin Smith 2012 Bluegill 2 lbs. 10 ozs. Arnold Harmon 1998 Black Sea Bass 7 lbs. 6 ozs. Steve Samluk 1988 Clifford Snyder 2001 Bluefish 24 lbs. 13 ozs. Luis Mispireta 2015 Carp 45 lbs. Ronald Burnett 1976 Cobia 79 lbs. 6 ozs. John Burbage 2018 Catfish 36 lbs. 3 ozs. Jordan Chelton 2017 Cod 44 lbs. John Osborne 1975 Crappie 4 lbs. 9 ozs. Marvin Billips 1976 Croaker, Atlantic 5 lbs. 3 ozs. Catherine Simpson 1980 Musky 19 lbs. 13 ozs. Thomas Sutton 2013 Dolphinfish 56 lbs. 9 ozs. William D. Emmert 2014 Perch, White 2 lbs. 9 ozs. Wayne Hastings 1997 Drum, Black 115 lbs. Kenneth Smith 1978 Perch, Yellow 2 lbs. 11ozs. Marvin Kessinger 1976 Drum, Red 75 lbs. James Vandetti 1976 Pickerel, Chain 7 lbs. 3 ozs. Earl Messick 1972 Flounder 17 lbs. 15 ozs. William Kendall 1974 Shad, American 6 lbs. 12 ozs. Bayard Conaway 1972 Kingfish 4 lbs. Billy Hastings 1973 Snakehead 12 lbs. 12 ozs. Bobby Smith 2017 Mackerel, Atlantic 3 lbs. 5 ozs. Ricky Yakimowicz 1985 Sunfish, Redear 3 lbs. 1 ozs. Marty Messick 1998 Mackerel, King 48 lbs. 9 ozs. Gordon Harris 1992 Trout 11 lbs. 10 ozs. Edwin Wallace 1997 Mackerel, Spanish 6 lbs. 4 ozs. Eric Ludwig 2000 Walleye 6 lbs. 14 ozs. Nesbit Copenhaver 1995 Marlin, Blue 820 lbs. Bruce King 1986 Marlin, White 120 lbs. William Garner Jr. 1972 Scup (porgy) 5 lbs. 5 ozs. Herman Schmidt 1979 Shark (excl. Mako) 825 lbs. Brent Thomas 1981 Shark, Mako 975 lbs. Thomas Barnes 2000 Grind Away ANY Sheepshead 17 lbs. 2 ozs. Dave Walker 2014 Size Stump FAST! Swordfish 358 lbs. Kurt Lorenz 2013 Tautog 21 lbs. 4 ozs. Glenn Cave 2005 Tilefish, Blueline 22 lbs. 3 ozs. Andrew Orr 2015 Tilefish, Golden 46 lbs. 8ozs. Tom Schanno 2017 Triggerfish, Gray 6 lbs. 5 ozs. Buddy J. Masten 2012 Tuna 873 lbs. Dan Dillon 2005 Wahoo 106 lbs. Will Stahlgren 2007 Weakfish (Sea trout) 19 lbs. 2 ozs. William Thomas 1989 The DR® STUMP GRINDER uses carbide-tipped cutting teeth (taking 360 “bites” per second) to reduce any stump to a pile of woodchips. Grinds stumps below ground level so they are gone forever! • Faster, safer and easier than digging, burning, or using chemicals. • New, more powerful and lower- priced models. • Now towable with your riding mower or ATV. PLUS!NEW Self-Propelled Model Available! FREE SHIPPING 6 MONTH TRIAL

Go Online or Call for FREE DVD & Catalog! DRstumpgrinder.com TOLL FREE 888-212-2383 28 John Burbage stands with his new 79 lb. 6oz. state record Cobia! WEIGH STATIONS AND/OR BOAT RAMP CERTIFICATE SALES

All motor boats launched from Division of Fish and Wildlife-administered tidal access areas (page 15) must be registered in Delaware or have a valid ramp certificate ($35) from DNREC or its authorized agents. AUTHORIZED OUTLET/ CITY PHONE (302) WEIGH STATION BOAT RAMP CERTIFICATE WEIGH STATION NEW CASTLE COUNTY Master Baiters Bait & Tackle New Castle 834-2248 Yes No Delaware Bass Stalkers Newark 737-2691 Yes No Eastern Marine Newark 737-6603 Yes Yes Capt. Bones Bait, Tackle & Odessa 378-4200 Yes No Seafood Port Penn Bait & Tackle Port Penn 834-7807 Yes No Rudy Marine Wilmington 999-8735 No Yes KENT COUNTY Division of Fish & Wildlife Dover 739-9916 No Yes Sonny’s Bait & Tackle Frederica 422-2040 Yes No Smith’s Bait Shop Leipsic 744-9140 Yes No Carlisle’s Marine Smyrna 389-0100 Yes Yes SUSSEX COUNTY Hook'em & Cook'em Outfitters Bethany 539-6243 Yes Yes Vines Creek Marina Dagsboro 732-6043 Yes No Fenwick Tackle Fenwick Island 539-7766 Yes No Island Watersports Fenwick Island 537-2628 No Yes Jim's Bait & Tackle Frankford 436-5050 Yes No Sam's Fishing Tackle Greenwood 424-0197 Yes No Pontoon Express Harbeson 945-0654 No Yes Williamsville Country Store Houston 422-4455 Yes No Hook'em & Cook'em Indian River 226-8220 Yes Yes A & R Bait and Tackle Lewes 645-6111 Yes No Beach Marine Lewes 645-7060 No Yes Bill’s Sport Shop Lewes 645-7654 Yes No Fisherman’s Wharf Lewes 645-8862 Yes No Henlopen Bait & Tackle Lewes 645-8106 Yes No Ice House Bait & Tackle Lewes 645-0600 Yes No Lewes Harbour Marina Lewes 645-6227 Yes Yes Lighthouse View Bait & Tackle Lewes 645-2722 Yes No Steamboat Landing Lewes 645-6500 Yes No Rick's Bait & Tackle Long Neck 945-9245 Yes No Taylor Marine Milford 422-9177 No Yes Lingo Marine Millsboro 934-9877 No Yes Short’s Marine Millsboro 945-1200 No Yes WMF Powersports Millsboro 945-9150 No Yes Cedar Creek Marina Milford 422-2040 No Yes Dan’s Tackle Box Milton 684-3093 Yes No Bob’s Marine Service Ocean View 539-3711 No Yes Old Inlet Bait & Tackle Rehoboth 227-7974 Yes No Taylored Tackle Shop Seaford 629-9017 Yes No Walker’s Marine Seaford 629-8666 No Yes Cedar Creek Marine Center Seaford 629-3581 No Yes Midlantic Marine Selbyville 436-9763 No Yes Northbay Marina Selbyville 436-4211 No Yes Rt 113 Boat Sales Selbyville 436-1737 No Yes

2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE 29 FISH CONSUMPTION ADVISORIES

Fishing is an important activity in Delaware’s When you eat the fish, you also ingest these fish are slowly improving over time in many inland and coastal waters. Among the benefits chemicals. In cases where the health risk is cases. This is the result of steady progress in provided by fishing are quality recreational elevated to recreational anglers and their fami- cleaning up the sources of the contamination opportunities, direct and indirect input to the lies, the Department of Natural Resources and along with natural processes. DNREC and DPH local economy, food for recreational anglers, Environmental Control (DNREC), in coopera- will continue to monitor contaminant levels in and food for the commercial marketplace. Fish tion with the Department of Health and Social fish over time and issue new or revised fish are a good source of readily digestible protein. Services’ Division of Public Health (DPH), is- consumption advisories as appropriate. They are low in fat and sodium, and the unique sue fish consumption advisories to inform the For more information concerning health types of fats found in fish are believed to pro- public of the situation. The most recent fish advisories for Delaware waters, go on-line or vide cardiovascular benefits. consumption advisories for Delaware waters contact the Division of Public Health at (302) Despite the general benefits of fishing and are shown on the accompanying table. These 744-4546. For more information on balancing fish consumption, there are also health risks advisories are intended to protect public health health risks and health benefits of consuming associated with consuming some locally caught and hence are conservative. seafood, visit http://seafoodhealthfacts.org. fish. Certain toxic chemicals such as polychlo- Although the list of waters and fish spe- rinated biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury persist cies under advisory is extensive, monitoring in the environment and accumulate in fish. shows that contaminant concentrations in the

CUTTING THE FAT

Toxic chemicals tend to concentrate in the fatty tissue found in the: 1) dorsal area. 2) lateral line. 3) belly flaps. When cleaning fish, always skin it and trim away fatty areas shown by the dotted line.

Reprinted with permission of Soundings Publication Inc.

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2019 18x8 AirRanger

WORLD’S FINEST AND SAFEST AIRBOATS www.americanairboats.com 00.24.390 a409.3.000 0 . tcer rive Orange T 30 FISH CONSUMPTION ADVISORIES

CONTAMINANT MEALS/YR WATERBODY SPECIES GEOGRAPHICAL EXTENT OF CONCERN (8-OUNCE SERVING) All Species not All Waters not listed below All All Areas not listed 52 listed below Delaware River All Finfish A, B, E DE/PA Line to the C&D Canal 1* Weakfish - all sizes, Chesapeake & Delaware Canal to Bluefish - 14 inches A 12 the Mouth of the Delaware Bay or less Bluefish - greater Chesapeake & Delaware Canal to Lower Delaware River A, C 1* than 14 inches the Mouth of the Delaware Bay and Delaware Bay Striped Bass, White Perch, American Chesapeake & Delaware Canal to A 2* Eel, White Catfish, the Mouth of the Delaware Bay Channel Catfish Coastal Delaware from Mouth of Striped Bass A the Delaware Bay Southward to 2* DE/MD Line Delaware Atlantic Coastal Delaware from Mouth of Bluefish - greater Coastal Waters including A, C the Delaware Bay Southward to 1* than 14 inches Delaware Inland Bays DE/MD Line Coastal Delaware from Mouth of Bluefish - 14 inches A the Delaware Bay Southward to 12 or less DE/MD Line Governor Printz Blvd. to Delaware A, E, G 1 Shellpot Creek All Finfish River A, E, G, H Upstream of Governor Printz Blvd. 2 Tidal Brandywine River All Finfish A, B, E River Mouth to Baynard Blvd 2 Non-tidal Brandywine River All Finfish A, B, E Baynard Blvd. to DE/PA Line 6 I-95 at Peterson Wildlife Refuge A upstream to Smalleys Dam 12 Tidal Christina River All Finfish (includes Nonesuch Creek) Mouth upstream to I-95 at Peter- A, B, E, F, G 1 son Wildlife Refuge Non-tidal Christina River All Finfish E Smalley’s Dam to DE/MD Line 12 Tidal White Clay Creek All Finfish A, E, F, G River Mouth to Route 4 1 Non-tidal White Clay Creek All Finfish A, E Route 4 to DE/PA Line 12 Red Clay Creek All Finfish** A, B, E, F Creek Mouth to DE/PA Line 3 Little Mill Creek All Finfish A, E, G, H Creek Mouth to Kirkwood Highway 1 Creek Mouth to Route 13, Army Creek and Pond All Finfish A, B 4 including Army Pond A, B Route 1 to the Delaware River 2 Red Lion Creek All Finfish A, E Upstream of Route 1 12 Chesapeake & Delaware Canal All Finfish A, B E Entire Canal in Delaware 1 Appoquinimink River All Finfish A, B, E Tidal Portions 2 Drawyers Creek All Finfish A, B, E Tidal Portions 4 Silver Lake Middletown All Finfish E Entire Lake 12 Saint Jones River and All Finfish A, B, E Tidal River and Entire Pond 4 Silver Lake Dover Fork Branch All Finfish C McKee Road to College Road 24 Moores Lake All Finfish A Entire Pond 12 Wyoming Mill Pond All Finfish F Entire Pond 24 Waples Pond All Finfish C Entire Pond 12 Prime Hook Creek All Finfish C Entire Creek 12 Slaughter Creek All Finfish A, B Entire Creek 6 Christina Creek Stocked Trout A, E Rittenhouse Park to DE/MD Line 6 Designated Trout Streams & See latest Delaware Fishing Guide Stocked Trout A 12 Ponds other than Christina Creek for Designated Trout Streams * Women of childbearing age and children should not consume any amount of these fish. ** Except stocked trout - up to 12 8 oz. servings/yr. For more information on the specific contaminant(s) of concern for each waterbody listed, consult the Division’s website www.fw.delaware.gov( ) or contact DNREC at (302) 739-9902, or the Division of Public Health at (302) 744-4546. Contaminants of concern: A) PCBs, B) Dioxins and furans, C) Mercury, D) Chlorinated pesticides, E) Dieldrin, F) DDT, DDD and DDE , G) Chlordane, H) Heptachlor epoxide 31 The Division of Fish & Wildlife held its eighth annual Fishing Photo Contest in 2018 with the theme “’REEL’ Good Time.” Submitted photographs must be taken in Delaware by Delaware residents and depict lawful fishing activities. Division of Fish & Wildlife Director David Saveikis, fisheries staff Rebecca Hoover and photographer and division staff member Kerri Yandrich served as judges and FISHING PHOTO reviewed 59 eligible entries. First place was awarded to Israel Mora of Wilmington for a photograph of his son Bryan with his catch on the Brandywine River. Second place was awarded to Guinn Paxton for his photograph showing his wife and granddaughter on the Nanticoke River. Three honorable mentions were awarded CONTEST to Dana Bourdon, Rebecca Snow and Kira Foos. WINNERS 1st Place Awarded to Israel Mora of Wilmington for his photograph of his son Bryan with this amazing Muskellunge he caught and released on the Brandywine River!

2nd Place Guinn Paxton for his photograph showing his wife and granddaughter on the Nanticoke River with their fine catch of a “The Fish of 10,000 Casts” White Perch. “My First Catch”

HONORABLE

MENTIONS: Mase Man Reeling in the Big One My First Catch The Kindness of a Stranger Dana Bourdon Photo by Kira Foos Photo by Rebecca Snow

For information about future contests, visit Congratulations to all the winners! www.fw.delaware.gov.

32 2019 DELAWARE FISHING GUIDE FISHING REGULATIONS GUIDE - VA TRIM: ...... 8˝ X 10-1/2˝ (AND VARIOUS OTHER STATES) BLEED: ...... 8-1/4˝ X 10-3/4˝

SAFETY: ...... 7˝ X 10˝ TRIM TRIM SAFETY TRIM BLEED BLEED SAFETY

BLEED BLEED TRIM TRIM

SAFETY SAFETY

There’s a reason they say, Curse like a sailor. That’s why we offer basic plans starting at $100 a year with options that won’t depreciate your watercraft and accessories*.

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & afﬁ liates. Annual premium for a basic liability policy not available all states. Prices vary based on how you buy. *Available with comprehensive and collision coverage. and collision with comprehensive *Available buy. you on how based vary Prices all states. available not policy liability a basic for Annual premium liates. & afﬁ Co. Ins. Casualty Progressive 1.800.PROGRESSIVE | PROGRESSIVE.COM

SAFETY SAFETY

TRIM TRIM BLEED BLEED TRIM TRIM TRIM BLEED BLEED SAFETY SAFETY

Client: Progressive Job No: 18D30258.KL Created by: Dalon Wolford Applications: InDesign CC, Adobe Photoshop CC, Adobe Illustrator CC Job Description: Full Page, 4 Color Ad Document Name: Keep Left ad / Fishing Regulations Guide - VA and various other states Final Trim Size: 7-7/8˝ X 10-1/2˝ Final Bleed: 8-1/8˝ X 10-13/16˝ Safety: 7˝ X 10˝ Date Created: 10/26/18 CARLISLE’S MARINE Customer Satisfaction since 1949

CRABBING SUPPLIES • TACKLE HUNTING SUPPLIES • AMMO As always we take pride in our work and the products we sell!

CARLISLE’S MARINE, INC. 49 ARTISAN DRIVE • SMYRNA, DE www.CarlislesMarine.com MON-FRI 7A-5P • SAT 7A-NOON 302-389-0100

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