Fishing in Delaware
Delaware is small but punches above its weight in saltwater. The Indian River Inlet, Delaware Bay, and Rehoboth and Indian River bays produce striped bass, summer flounder, weakfish, tautog, and big bluefish. The Delaware River and the C&D Canal give up stripers, white perch, and catfish. Freshwater opportunities are concentrated in millponds and state-park lakes, Trap, Lums, and Killens, stocked with trout each spring and holding largemouth and crappie year-round.
License Types & Fees
| License | Fee |
|---|---|
| Resident Annual (16–64) | $8.50 |
| Resident Trout Stamp | $4.20 |
| Non-Resident Annual (16+) | $20.00 |
| Non-Resident 7-Day | $12.50 |
| Non-Resident Trout Stamp (12+) | $6.20 |
Fees are subject to change. Confirm current pricing on the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website before purchasing.
Saltwater anglers must register with a free Delaware Fisherman Information Number (F.I.N.).
Log Your Delaware Catches
CatchVault is available on iOS. Identify species with AI, measure with LiDAR, and keep a private journal of every fish you land in Delaware.
Delaware Fishing License FAQ
How much does a Delaware fishing license cost?
A resident annual (16–64) fishing license in Delaware costs $8.50. Fees vary by residency, age, and license type, see the full breakdown above for short-term, non-resident, and senior options.
Where can I buy a Delaware fishing license?
Delaware fishing licenses are sold online by Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, and are also available from authorized retailers, bait shops, and sporting goods stores across the state.
Who issues fishing licenses in Delaware?
Fishing licenses in Delaware are issued by Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife.