Indian River Inlet Fishing Charters

The best out of 13 charter fishing deals in Indian River Inlet - enter dates to check availability

Top Indian River Inlet Destinations

Indian River Inlet: 13 fishing charters available
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(95 reviews)
Rehoboth Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $475
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(26 reviews)
Bethany Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $700
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(88 reviews)
Dagsboro
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $425
Lewes
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $275
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(198 reviews)
Dagsboro
trips from US $300
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Bethany Beach
trips from US $850
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
Bethany Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $999
Dewey Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $550
Bethany Beach
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $650
Millsboro
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $175

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Indian River Inlet

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Indian River Inlet are: Full list of top fishing charters in Indian River Inlet

The average price for a private 4 hour Indian River Inlet fishing trip is US $604, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,262 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in Indian River Inlet that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Indian River Inlet are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in Indian River Inlet are:

The top 3 types of fishing in Indian River Inlet are:

Many fishing charters in Indian River Inlet provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Indian River Inlet are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Indian River Inlet?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Indian River Inlet are:
  • Extended fishing trips โ€“ US $4,200
  • 2-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $329
  • 3-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $425
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $520
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $825
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $830
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $850
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,279
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,275
  • 12-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $2,328
  • 14-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $3,240
  • 20-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $3,675

Fishing in Indian River Inlet

If there’s one place that you should take your nay-saying friend or family member fishing, it’s the Indian River Inlet. After a couple of strikes from the famous North and South Jetties, they’ll develop the taste – take them on a proper charter fishing trip to seal the deal!

The Inlet began its life as an angling destination when the United States Army Corps of Engineers built the North and South Jetties in the late 1930s. The rock and steel jetties have tamed the Indian River Bay, allowing fishers to develop a proper fishing industry. Nowadays the North Shore Marina is the local hotspot where Indian River Inlet fishing charters cast off for exciting inshore, nearshore, and offshore adventures.

Known For

Inshore Fishing

There’s quite a lot to go after inside the inlet, ranging from smallies – perfect for kids – to Cow Stripers – perfect for all anglers. Fishing from the jetties (fishing the rockpiles, as the locals call it) is a popular activity among both resident and visiting anglers and you can catch a variety of fish. Bluefish is a popular target, especially during the Bluefish Blitz – you can land Gator Bluefish right from the jetties. This is the ideal way to get a taste of the area’s action – but the catch can’t compare to something hauled over the side of a boat. As the Bluefish action slows down Striped Bass picks up – the perfect opportunity to upgrade from pier fishing to fighting a Cow from the deck! Other species you can also target in the bay are Spotted Seatrout, Flounder, Black Seabass, and Tautog – though not all are there year-round.

Nearshore Fishing

Step (or well, swim) outside of the Inlet and you’ll be faced with a whole new world of fishing. Nearshore fishing outside of the Indian River Inlet is mostly centered around Tautog and Black Seabass. There are numerous artificial reefs and wrecks dotting the underwater landscape of the Inlet and they’re good places to hit these species. King and Spanish Mackerel move closer to the shore in late spring. Spot and Croaker offer anglers a mixup from the usual action during fall. Sharks, on the other hand, provide you with a constant challenge, be it just off the coast or several miles away. Hammerhead, Bull, Lemon, Nurse, Tiger, the list of Sharks goes on – there are more species you can target than you can shake a stick at! An experienced captain can help you make the right choice as you can keep only one Shark of any species per vessel.

Offshore Fishing

The blue waters off the coast of the Indian River Inlet start swarming with schools of predators and groups of enthusiastic anglers from May to the end of fall. You can start off the offshore season with Bluefish and Mako Shark action, they show up in pelagic waters at the end of spring. After you’ve warmed up, you can graduate to Tuna hook ups – the action stays interesting as you won’t use the same technique for Tuna throughout the summer. After you’ve found your fishing groove with Tuna you can hit the prestigious pelagic predators that are Marlin – they’ll give you a proper fight later in the summer.

Need to Know

Fishing the jetties is normally a low-preparation affair, you show up with some cash and rent out everything you need. One thing you should get are spiked shoes – landing a big fish might require some mild wet rock climbing, which is dangerous even when there aren’t any 6’ waves crashing on you. Luckily, most local shops carry spiked shoes.

Most beaches are protected from pollution by not having parking – unless you can get your hands on a special permit you’ll have to walk to your chosen beach if you’re a fan of surf fishing.

Budget

Indian River Inlet fishing charters offer a wide range of services to anglers, with an appropriately wide range of prices. Solo anglers looking to test the waters of the Inlet can go on a shared half day kayak trip inside the Indian River and Rehoboth Bays for around $200. If you’re not a fan of kayaking or want to take your family fishing inside the calm inshore waters, get ready to set aside $400-$900. Offshore trophy fishermen who want to land a Marlin or Tuna are looking at full day trip, going for about $1300 and above. You can rent rods from local tackle shops for a price of $10 per day plus a $50 deposit. However, charter captains will provide you with equipment and fish cleaning services free of charge. All prices are rough estimates and subject to change.

Getting There

The closest air connection is the Delaware Coastal Airport. It’s located about an hour away by car from the North Shore Marina, one of the major docks in the area. Millsboro is another major hotspot for charter captains to dock at and it’s located about 20 minutes by car from the airport.

Alternatively, Delaware Route 1 runs along the coastline and can get you right on top of the Inlet, whether you’re coming from the south or north. However you get there, once you’re in the Inlet all that’s left to do is get on the water!

Indian River Inlet
Excellent
4.9 / 5
Based on 28443 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Indian River Inlet Fishing Seasons

January

The mild weather of the Indian River Inlet means that the waters are fishable, despite the cold. Striped Bass is the main attraction in January.

February

Stripers make way for Perch near the end of the month. You can find Perch in backwaters of the Indian River and Rehoboth Bays. Anglers heading offshore can target Tautog, roughly 25 miles out.

March

Tautog start moving in closer to the shore, as do Mackerel and Seabass. Perch fishing remains good in the backwaters.

April

Seabass fishing picks up as the Tautog move into the Inlet itself. Striped Bass hit the deeper waters of the area. Bluefish show up close enough to the surf to be caught from the shore.

May

The Bluefish Blitz starts around this time of year as they make a run for the Inlet. Spotted Seatrout, Flounder, and Striped Bass fishing all improves. Mako Sharks start getting closer near the end of the month.

June

Inlet action revolves around Tautog and Seabass. The first Tuna start showing up near the middle of June while Kingfish and Croakers move much closer to the shore.

July

Tuna fishing is in full swing in July. Marlin can be reliably targeted near the end of the month. Striped Bass, Flounder, and Bluefish can all be hooked up in the bay waters.

August

Offshore fishing gets a new target as Wahoo start showing up. Black and Red Drum appear in the inlet and Mackerel can be reliably caught from the sandbars facing the Atlantic Ocean.

September

If you’re looking for a Doormat Flounder, this is the month to fish in! Striped Bass and Spotted Seatrout action is good in the Inlet. Longfin Tuna can be targeted offshore.

October

Spotted Seatrout, Croaker, and Flounder are retreating into nearshore waters, but you can still land them by fishing the bottom. If the weather remains fair, you can still go after Tuna in October.

November

As the weather cools down most fishing tends to happen around the shore. Striped Bass fishing from the surf is viable this month.

December

Anglers who can stand the cold winds are rewarded with big Bluefish and Cow Striped Bass in the Inlet.

Indian River Inlet Fishing Calendar

Loading Fish Calendar!
Please Wait...

What anglers said about fishing in Indian River Inlet

If you're not used to fishing in the ocean, bring dramamine to be on the safe side.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
If you're not used to fishing in the ocean, bring dramamine to be on the safe side.
Makai Charters
Makai Charters New Market, MD
Ask a lot of questions about how the fishing is set up on the boat so that you'll be prepared to either fish with your Pole or have the crew fish with the pole for you
Excellent
4.3 / 5
Ask a lot of questions about how the fishing is set up on the boat so that you'll be prepared to either fish with your Pole or have the crew fish with the pole for you
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters West Wyoming, PA
Morning was cooler and hot hotter during the day. I would recommend the 6 hours or full day. We were hitting bigger fish around 11am. Could have been the storm from the night before but fishing is good in these waters. Others coming in had good luck as well. 90 feet was a good depth.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Morning was cooler and hot hotter during the day. I would recommend the 6 hours or full day. We were hitting bigger fish around 11am. Could have been the storm from the night before but fishing is good in these waters. Others coming in had good luck as well. 90 feet was a good depth.
Makai Charters
Makai Charters Depew, NY
Easy to find the docks. Lots of parking. Shop right next to the docks available to clean your fish.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Easy to find the docks. Lots of parking. Shop right next to the docks available to clean your fish.
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters New Castle, IN
The fish were there but water was about 3-4. Foot whaves the fish where down deep it's called fishing some day you win some you don't
Excellent
5.0 / 5
The fish were there but water was about 3-4. Foot whaves the fish where down deep it's called fishing some day you win some you don't
Dorado Loco
Dorado Loco Hamburg, PA
Yes, the location is easy to get to. There is ample parking, a restaurant (not open in the winter), and other amenities.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Yes, the location is easy to get to. There is ample parking, a restaurant (not open in the winter), and other amenities.
Makai Charters
Makai Charters Essex, MD

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Indian River Inlet?

Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
My dad and I went out with Captain Lawrence and had a great time! He knew exactly where to go and took us to the perfect spot. He took care of everything and never stopped working. He gave great advice and I never had to touch the live bait or the fish. My dad and I both caught close to 20 fish each on this four hour trip. Would definitely do it again!! He also let me bring my dog.
Jen  H.
Jen H.
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Capt. Gary and his crew are experienced and knowledgeable. They are also a lot of fun! We began catching fish from the moment our bait hit the water. And we didnโ€™t stop until we were almost home. They did everything they could to ensure that we had a wonderful time. And the the boat is beautiful, with every comfort. Our thanks for a great experience!
Cheryl  M.
Cheryl M. Herndon, VA
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
We had a great trip with Captain Lawrence Coyle and his mate. His boat was clean and comfortable, fishing was good and we are looking forward to our next trip!
Cynthia  C.
Cynthia C. Hummelstown, PA
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
Had a great half day fishing with Captain Larry and first mate Vince. Both were very knowledgable, helpful and friendly. The well equipped boat was very comfortable. We came home with a sea bass and croaker dinner which was delicious. Looking forward to going out again with them.
Joseph  W.
Joseph W. Strafford, PA
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
We had a absolute perfect day on the water with Gary, Bruce and Steve. They were super helpful, knowledgeable and good with our kids. Caught plenty of fish and just had an all around great experience. Would definitely book it again!
Jessica  D.
Jessica D. Hershey, PA
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
My group of 4 did the half day trip and we had a great time! Although we didnโ€™t get on any fluke we brought some some keeper sea bass and couldnโ€™t have asked for a better day on the water. Conditions werenโ€™t the best after considering the storm but we were really happy with our trip and grateful we were able to get out there. Great boat, great Captain!
Mario  M.
Mario M. Nutley, New Jersey
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
I took my family fishing and the trip was wonderful. The kids and all adults had an awesome time. Both Paul and Gary were fantastic. We had a great day, caught a bunch of fish and would highly recommend. We will definitely book with them next time we go fishing.
Danielle  M.
Danielle M. Breinigsville, PA
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
My husband and son's had a great time. They loved it and want to go again. Thank you for your professional hospitality and great Birthday's for my boys
Catherine  F.
Catherine F. Wilmington, DE
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Steve and Bruce were terrific guides and had us in the fish all day. The fish fry we had was second to none!
Jason  W.
Jason W.
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
Booked the trip for my husband and 2 son-in-laws. They had a good time, they all said that they would go again. Their catch was a delicious addition to our seafood night.
Tina  M.
Tina M. Newport, PA
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Great fun. Crew was great working with the grandsons and they were catching all the keepers. Will definitely come back next year.
James  C.
James C. MONTGOMRY VLG, MD
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
Captain Larryโ€™s boat and gear is top notch. These guys know what they are doing. Know how to make it a great trip and know where to find the fish. We had an great day even in changing weather conditions. We left with enough meat to feed 15. These guys simply blew away expectations.
Michael  B.
Michael B. Baltimore, MD
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Had a great time on the Michael D. Captain and crew exceeded expectations to provide outstanding service. Kept bait on the line to keep the rods in the water. Would recommend this boat and crew for larger parties as most charters can only accommodate 6 anglers.
Thomas  H.
Thomas H. Spring Run, PA
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Captain Gary and Bruce gave us a wonderful family experience. Due to weather, Gary advised waiting a day, so instead of enduring thunderstorms, we had a very calm day to enjoy. We caught more than enough fish to enjoy a big grilled fish dinner that evening, and gave away fillets to a neighbor who also had family in town. It was a day for the memory banks! Gary and Bruce saw that we were all had a good day. I would definitely recommend the Michael D for a large group. And we will be back.
Don  S.
Don S. Long Island City, New York
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
A bunch of young teens and their dads had a great morning on this charter. Crew could not have been nicer and each kid caught lots of fish. Win, win!!
Meredith  M.
Meredith M. North Potomac, MD
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
Hopped on, went out, caught fish. What else do you need to know. George kept our hooks loaded with bait and took the fish off. The photo has what we kept, but we caught way more than that. Nonstop action. My wife caught the biggest and the best! Had a great day. Kids had fun as well. They were wiped out and slept for 9 hours afterwards. Worth it!
Curtis  M.
Curtis M. Enola, PA
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(27 reviews)
Captain Gary and crew were awesome. Perfect laid back trip. Couldnโ€™t have been easier. Just show up, and they took care of everything. True professionals.
Brett  C.
Brett C. Charles City, Iowa
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
Capt. Larry and Thomas did a great job with my young kids (8 and 6). We caught a ton of fish and had a terrific time. Thank you!
Stephen  O.
Stephen O. Bethesda, MD
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
Capt. Larry and his mate Thomas were fantastic, tried and succeeded most of the trip to put us on the fish. Always there to lend a hand or bit of advice.
Scott  L.
Scott L. Annapolis, Maryland
Makai Charters
Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(95 reviews)
Lots of fun, caught a lot of fish. Mate Thomas was helpful and knowledgeable as well as captain Larry. Thank you guys for a great time!
Cooper  W.
Cooper W. Glassboro, New Jersey

Top Targeted Species in Indian River Inlet