Formation Inshore 

5.0
(10 reviews)
 217 Anglers Road, Lewes, DE 19958, United States–

Formation Inshore 

Lewes, DE, United States
–
18 ft
3
5.0
(10 reviews)

Formation Inshore specializes in lite tackle inshore fishing in the Delaware Bay.

We target a variety of species such as Striped Bass, Bluefish, Flounder, Tautog, Sheepshead, Triggerfish, and Black Drum. We're known as primarily a bottom fishing charter but also sight cast depending on season/conditions. We will target whichever species gives us the best opportunity for success.

We run a Parker Center console that accommodates up to 3 passengers. It comes with everything you need for a productive day on the water.

All rods, reels, and tackle will are provided with the exception of fly fishing gear. Please be mindful that some species may have special rules or limited seasons. If you don't know what to expect, feel free to ask.

Some essentials to bring are bottled water, sunscreen, comfortable clothes and sunglasses. If you'd like to bring other drinks, just ask. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, with the exception of hard liquor as well as glass bottles.

We look forward to seeing you on the water!

Formation Inshore specializes in lite tackle inshore fishing in the Delaware Bay.

We target a variety of species such as Striped Bass, Bluefish, Flounder, Tautog, Sheepshead, Triggerfish, and Black Drum. We're known as primarily a bottom fishing charter but also sight cast depending on season/conditions. We will target whichever species gives us the best opportunity for success.

We run a Parker Center console that accommodates up to 3 passengers. It comes with everything you need for a productive day on the water.

All rods, reels, and tackle will are provided with the exception of fly fishing gear. Please be mindful that some species may have special rules or limited seasons. If you don't know what to expect, feel free to ask.

Some essentials to bring are bottled water, sunscreen, comfortable clothes and sunglasses. If you'd like to bring other drinks, just ask. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, with the exception of hard liquor as well as glass bottles.

We look forward to seeing you on the water!

Chris Smith
Captain
Chris Smith
9 years of experience

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Kids Fishing Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip multiple starting times (7:00 AM, 11:00 AM)
Bass (Striped)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Flounder
Atlantic Croaker
US $450
Entire boat: up to 3 people
Half Day Trip
In high demand Last booked: 5 days ago
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Bass (Striped)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Black Drum
Flounder
+3
US $500
Entire boat: 2 people
Full Day Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Bass (Striped)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Black Drum
Flounder
+3
US $874
Entire boat: 2 people

Customer reviews

Loading...

Rating

5.0
10 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (13)

Reviews (10)

  • James Eastwood
    James Eastwood
    us
    New York, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Felt like we were fishing with one of our good friends.

    Half Day Trip on July 16, 2026 • 2 adults

    We had an incredible trip with Captain Chris! From the moment we stepped onto the boat, it was clear we were in professional hands. The boat was spotless, the gear was top-notch, and the captain's knowledge of the local waters was unmatched. Captain Chris put us right on the fish with our very first cast, and we didn't stop catching all day! If you want a fun, safe, and successful fishing charter, book with Captain Chris—you won’t regret it! We will absolutely be back!

  • Scott Wallick
    Scott Wallick
    us
    Pennsylvania, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Exactly what we wanted!

    Half Day Trip on July 4, 2026 • 3 adults

    Captain Chris was great. We wanted the small boat experience. Chris knew wajt to do to out us in fish. He was attentive, knowledgeable, and personable. Always had a rod and bait ready for us. This was a lot different than tje bass fishing we were used to so Chris carefully explained what we needed to do differently. He’ll even play some great music for you!

  • Kyle Macintyre
    Kyle Macintyre
    us
    Maryland, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified
    New

    Chris knew where the striper are

    Half Day Trip on October 25, 2026 • 3 adults

    captain chris was an excellent hang and his knowledge of the water got us on striper all day!! first time we caught this fish and it was an amazing experience!!

  • Denise Strausbaugh
    Denise Strausbaugh
    us
    Pennsylvania, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Awesome fishing trip!

    Half Day Trip on September 7, 2026 • 2 adults

    Chris has great knowledge of local structure and tides. He has great tackle. We caught a couple different species. We even got to see doulphins right beside the boat! Chris is a great fishing guide. We had a blast!

  • Keith Espenshade
    Keith Espenshade
    us
    Pennsylvania, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Fun flounder fishing.

    Half Day Trip on August 11, 2026 • 1 adult

    Chris was a great captain. He gave me tips for kayak fishing later. We caught some flounder, saw lots of dauphins, and had a good time.

  • Billy Mcelwain
    Billy Mcelwain
    us
    Pennsylvania, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Awesome trip !

    Half Day Trip on October 9, 2026 • 2 adults

    If i could give this trip 6 stars i would , couldnt have asked for anything to have been better ! Chris definitely knows whats up and how to put you on the fish !

  • William Dixon
    William Dixon
    Repeat angler
    us
    Pennsylvania, US
    Member since 2026
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Great trip!

    Half Day Trip on July 25, 2026 • 3 adults

    Captain Chris made the best of a hard day of fishing. Easy to get along with, and accommodating to allof our needs. Would do the trip again in a heartbeat!

  • James Adelsheim
    James Adelsheim
    us
    Massachusetts, US
    Member since 2026
    4.7
    Verified

    Great experience and Captain

    Half Day Trip on June 30, 2026 • 2 adults

    I had a great experience fishing with Captain Chris. He put me on fish and we caught Tautog, big Sheep-head, and a striped Bass. Very attentive and client driven. Boat was smooth and held well when drifting. Thanks Capt Chris, look forward to future trips.

  • Michael Sabo
    Michael Sabo
    Repeat angler
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2020
    4 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    October fishing trip

    Half Day Trip on October 6, 2026 • 3 adults
  • Doug Tase
    Doug Tase
    us
    Pennsylvania, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Chris was great. Will definitely fish with him again.

    Half Day Trip on September 18, 2026 • 2 adults

FAQs about Formation Inshore

Formation Inshore offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $450 per group - Kids Fishing Trip (4 hours)
  • US $450 per group - Kids Fishing Trip - 11:00 AM (4 hours)
  • US $500 per group, additional US $100 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Trip (4 hours)
  • US $774 per group, additional US $100 per person after 1 guest - Full Day Trip (8 hours)
When you book a trip with Formation Inshore, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well
  • Multimedia system
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Ice box
Trips booked with Formation Inshore include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (Some live baits we use include; Spot, Minnows, Sand Fleas, Green Crabs, Fiddler Crabs, Bunker and Eels.)
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Yes, we handle cleaning, packaging, and ice for your fillets.)
  • Fishing license (All necesary credentials including a fishing license is included while you are fishing during a charter.)
Formation Inshore offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Wreck fishing
  • Flats fishing
Formation Inshore offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Jigging
  • Popping
  • Fly fishing
  • Drift fishing
Top targeted fish species with Formation Inshore include:
  • Bass (Striped)
  • Black Drum
  • Bluefish (Tailor)
  • Flounder
  • Sheepshead
  • Tautog
  • Triggerfish (Gray)

Your captain

Chris Smith
Chris Smith
Lewes, Delaware, United States
10 Customer reviews
Typical response within 2 hours
Member since April 2026
Capt. Chris Smith - Since I was a kid I've always been passionate about fishing. Now, I've dedicated most of my adult life to pursuing various saltwater species across my local bay, ocean, and coastal tributaries. There's nothing that excites me more than sharing my passion for the outdoors with others. My charters are focused on creating a memorable tailored experience whether you're a novice or an avid angler.
Chris Smith
Chris Smith
10
reviews
2026
member since
~2h
response
Capt. Chris Smith - Since I was a kid I've always been passionate about fishing. Now, I've dedicated most of my adult life to pursuing various saltwater species across my local bay, ocean, and coastal tributaries. There's nothing that excites me more than sharing my passion for the outdoors with others. My charters are focused on creating a memorable tailored experience whether you're a novice or an avid angler.

The fish you can target

Striped Bass
Striped Bass
Black Drum
Black Drum
Bluefish (Tailor)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Flounder
Flounder
Sheepshead
Sheepshead
Tautog
Tautog
Gray Triggerfish
Gray Triggerfish
Striped Bass
Striped Bass
Black Drum
Black Drum
Bluefish (Tailor)
Bluefish (Tailor)
Flounder
Flounder
Sheepshead
Sheepshead

Real catches by this captain

  • Angler holding a striped bass on a small boat in a calm coastal marsh, with a second fisher casting in the background.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Striped Bass
    Kyle M.
    Kyle M.
    captain chris was an excellent hang and his knowledge of the water got us on striper all day!! first time we caught this fish and it was an amazing experience!!
  • Family group posing aboard a boat with a freshly caught flounder, with a coastal lighthouse visible in the background.
    Fish 1
    Flounder
    Denise S.
    Denise S.
    Chris has great knowledge of local structure and tides. He has great tackle. We caught a couple different species. We even got to see doulphins right beside the boat! Chris is a great fishing guide. We had a blast!
  • A group of pelicans and seabirds perched on rocks near the water, with one bird in flight, showcasing a coastal environment.
    Keith E.
    Keith E.
    Chris was a great captain. He gave me tips for kayak fishing later. We caught some flounder, saw lots of dauphins, and had a good time.
  • Angler holding a large striped bass aboard a center-console fishing boat with a second crew member nearby.
    Fish 1
    Striped Bass
    James E.
    James E.
    We had an incredible trip with Captain Chris! From the moment we stepped onto the boat, it was clear we were in professional hands. The boat was spotless, the gear was top-notch, and the captain's knowledge of the local waters was unmatched. Captain Chris put us right on the fish with our very first cast, and we didn't stop catching all day! If you want a fun, safe, and successful fishing charter, book with Captain Chris—you won’t regret it! We will absolutely be back!
  • Angler proudly displaying two large Black Drum caught during a fishing trip at the dock.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Sheepshead
    Scott W.
    Scott W.
    Captain Chris was great. We wanted the small boat experience. Chris knew wajt to do to out us in fish. He was attentive, knowledgeable, and personable. Always had a rod and bait ready for us. This was a lot different than tje bass fishing we were used to so Chris carefully explained what we needed to do differently. He’ll even play some great music for you!

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
3 persons
Boat length
18 ft
Year built
2023
Boat manufacturer
Parker
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
1 x 115HP
Max cruising speed
33 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Wreck Fishing
Flats Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning
Jigging
Popping
Fly Fishing
Drift Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
Multimedia system
Wireless trolling motor
Ice box
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Some live baits we use include; Spot, Minnows, Sand Fleas, Green Crabs, Fiddler Crabs, Bunker and Eels.
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Yes, we handle cleaning, packaging, and ice for your fillets.
Fishing license
All necesary credentials including a fishing license is included while you are fishing during a charter.

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup included in price
Transfer from hotels or jetties in Lewes to departure site is available and included in trip rates.
Child friendly
We accept kids ages 5+. All kids 12 or younger are required to wear a life jacket throughout the durarion of the charter. We have youth sized life jackets available in house.
You keep catch
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Pay online in full
Pay online in full through FishingBooker and save on credit card fees at the dock.
No additional fees.
Book with 15% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 15% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 Visa
 Mastercard
 American Express
 PayPal
 Checks
When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 3% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Lewes right now

Bass (Striped)Bass (Striped)
Black DrumBlack Drum
Bluefish (Tailor)Bluefish (Tailor)
FlounderFlounder
TautogTautog

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Formation Inshore
Formation Inshore
5.0
(10)
18 ft
Group size 1 - 3
1 - 3
Fish 1
Fish 2
+5
4 hour trip • 3 persons
US $500