Delaware Fishing Charters

The average price for a private 4 hour Delaware fishing trip is US $554, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,326 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Which fishing charters in Delaware are good for families?

Fishing charters in Delaware that received great reviews from families are:

What are the top fish species I can catch in Delaware?

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Delaware are:

What are the top fishing techniques in Delaware?

The top 3 fishing techniques in Delaware are:

What are the top types of fishing in Delaware?

The top 3 types of fishing in Delaware are:

Do Delaware fishing charters provide rods, reels and tackle?

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

Who are the best rated captains in Delaware?

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

Who are the top awarded captains in Delaware?

Who are the top awarded captains in Delaware?

What fishing trips are offered by fishing charters in Delaware?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Delaware are:

2-hour fishing trips – US $344
3-hour fishing trips – US $382
4-hour fishing trips – US $639
5-hour fishing trips – US $707
6-hour fishing trips – US $807
7-hour fishing trips – US $850
8-hour fishing trips – US $1,114
10-hour fishing trips – US $1,400
12-hour fishing trips – US $2,013

Fishing in Delaware

Even though the Diamond State is the second smallest in the US, it offers angling opportunities in abundance. For freshwater anglers, there are different rivers and lakes to discover. But if you hop on one of the many Delaware fishing charters instead, you'll have both the namesake bay and the Atlantic Ocean to explore.

If you're into freshwater fishing, you'll find plenty of lakes and rivers to fish in. Depending on where you go, you could target Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Pickerel, Perch, Catfish, and a range of other species. The Nanticoke and Christina Rivers, Millsboro, and Trap Pond are just some locations worth visiting.

On the other hand, you'll get even more variety in saltwater. Inshore enthusiasts can try their luck in the Delaware, Rehoboth, or Indian River Bays. Here, you'll often hook into the likes of Striped Bass, Flounder, Weakfish, and Croaker, to name a few.

As you venture deeper into the Atlantic, there'll be more and bigger fish to hunt. On the reefs and wrecks, you'll catch tasty Black Seabass and Tautog. Head offshore to spots such as Massey's Canyon or the Hotdog, and you'll get to fish for Yellowfin and Bluefin Tuna. In the summer, you'll also see Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and even Marlin go after your bait in the deep seas.

Most charter captains in Delaware launch from Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, or near the Indian River Inlet. Half day trips will usually give you enough time to explore the inshore grounds. For offshore trips, you'll need 8 or more hours on the water.

Rules & Regulations

In Delaware, anglers aged 16 and older have to have fishing licenses to cast a line legally. However, if you're fishing aboard a charter, the captain will cover you with their permit. Most of the fish you'll encounter also have size and bag regulations. It's wise to get familiar with them before your trip.

Delaware

4.9 / 5

Based on 28556 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Delaware Fishing Seasons

January

Anglers who don’t mind the chill can go ice fishing for Yellow Perch, Walleye, and Pickerel in the northern lakes. Striped Bass can be found inside the Indian River inlet, provided the weather is mild.

February

Perch starts popping up in the Indian River Bay and Rehoboth Bay. If you want to wet your lines in the blue waters, you can find Tautog hanging around offshore wrecks, approximately 25 miles out.

March

If you want a real challenge, you should try “ghost hunting.” Don’t worry, no spooky specters will end up on your line – this is what the local anglers call fishing for Bluefin Tuna during this time of year.

April

Tautog enter the Indian River Inlet and can be caught in both bays. Bluefish start showing up within range of your cast from the surf. The Seabass action is improving as well.

May

Ponds across the state are red-hot with Bass, Pickerel, and Crappie. Bluefish start blitzing around Mother’s Day, and the waters off Cape Henlopen State Park have had excellent action in recent years.

June

The Tautog and Seabass action gets better in the bays, while Kingfish and Croaker start showing up near the sandbars on the ocean side. Tuna start migrating back into Delaware’s waters near the end of the month.

July

Offshore fishing starts to get really good during July – Marlin tend to get closer to the shore mid-month and Tuna increase in numbers. Summer Flounder can be caught in Delaware Bay, too.

August

With Wahoo in offshore waters and King and Spanish Mackerel nearshore, August is a bluewater month. Night Striper and Spotted Seatrout fishing is tip-top in the Indian River Inlet as well.

September

Big Summer Flounder start moving offshore, while Tuna can be found in deeper waters. Fishing for Striped Bass and Tautog is also great in both the Rehoboth and Indian River Bays.

October

Nearshore bottom fishing is great in October: Spotted Seatrout, Croaker, and Flounder can be hooked up and reeled in. The Tuna action is still good, weather permitting, offshore.

November

If you’re looking to cast some lines from the surf despite the chill, you’re in luck! Anglers pining for Striper action can head into the Indian River Inlet for numerous hook ups.

December

Large Bluefish can be caught in the Indian River Bay, while anglers trying for a “slot” Striped Bass should hit the waters of the Indian River and Rehoboth Bay, if you can stand the cold weather.

Delaware Fishing Calendar

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What anglers said about fishing in Delaware

We fished in the Bay and it was like glass on the water which was great for our family and kids

4.7 / 5

We fished in the Bay and it was like glass on the water which was great for our family and kids

Master Sportfishing Great Falls, VA

If you're not used to fishing in the ocean, bring dramamine to be on the safe side.

5.0 / 5

If you're not used to fishing in the ocean, bring dramamine to be on the safe side.

Makai Charters New Market, MD

Fishing in the canal is pretty good this time of year. Be patient and have fun. Make sure to have blood worms, squid and power bait.

4.7 / 5

Fishing in the canal is pretty good this time of year. Be patient and have fun. Make sure to have blood worms, squid and power bait.

Captain Jack Fishing Charters Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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

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 West Wyoming, PA

Try switching between bait and jig for bottom fishing, some days one type of lure works significantly better than the other.

5.0 / 5

Try switching between bait and jig for bottom fishing, some days one type of lure works significantly better than the other.

Shooter Dog Fishing Charters Philadelphia, 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.

5.0 / 5

Makai Charters Depew, NY

ABSOLUTELY. CAPT DAVE KNOWS WHERE THE FISH ARE LOCATED. GREAT TIME WAS HAD BY ALL

5.0 / 5

ABSOLUTELY. CAPT DAVE KNOWS WHERE THE FISH ARE LOCATED. GREAT TIME WAS HAD BY ALL

Truetolife Outdoors Georgetown, DE

Easy to find the docks. Lots of parking. Shop right next to the docks available to clean your fish.

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 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

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 Hamburg, PA

Cpt Skip was great, water was still a little cold so fish were not as active. Late April-May should be great

5.0 / 5

Cpt Skip was great, water was still a little cold so fish were not as active. Late April-May should be great

Lost Sailor Guide Service

Yes, the location is easy to get to. There is ample parking, a restaurant (not open in the winter), and other amenities.

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 Essex, MD

Nice weather, good fish activity. Good for children to get out on the water and enjoy the sport.

5.0 / 5

Nice weather, good fish activity. Good for children to get out on the water and enjoy the sport.

Truetolife Outdoors Lewes, Delaware

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Delaware?

MandaLu
Fishing charter in Lewes

5.0 / 5

(6 reviews)

The guys were hustling to make sure I had a great day. We got a large sand tiger at the end and it really made the entire trip.

Frank S.

Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach

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.

Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach

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 didn’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. Herndon, VA

Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach

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. Hummelstown, PA

MandaLu
Fishing charter in Lewes

4.7 / 5

(6 reviews)

Great crew to fish with. Captain Bobby and his mate Corey did a great job. Incredibly friendly and helpful. Caught a bunch of fish and they went above and beyond to ensure a great trip.

Carl C. Stratford, New Jersey

Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach

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. Strafford, PA

Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach

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. Hershey, PA

Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach

5.0 / 5

(95 reviews)

My group of 4 did the half day trip and we had a great time! Although we didn’t get on any fluke we brought some some keeper sea bass and couldn’t have asked for a better day on the water. Conditions weren’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. Nutley, New Jersey

MandaLu
Fishing charter in Lewes

5.0 / 5

(6 reviews)

We had such a great day with captain Bob. Considering this was our first sea fishing attempt, Captain Bob was very patient and informative and made for a fun trip!

Mary D. Haverford, PA

Truetolife Outdoors
Fishing charter in Lewes

5.0 / 5

(133 reviews)

I wasn’t personally on the trip but I heard all about it when they men returned home. The had a great experience and said “Capt. Dave was very knowledgeable about the waters and fish! They came back with fish and told the stories of the couple that got away!

Ashley M. Dushore, Pennsylvania

Truetolife Outdoors
Fishing charter in Lewes

5.0 / 5

(133 reviews)

My kids and husband had an incredible trip!! Captain Dave was awesome and it was an overall amazing day of fishing fun for all!!

Ayle K. Potomac, MD

Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach

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. Breinigsville, PA

Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach

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. Wilmington, DE

Truetolife Outdoors
Fishing charter in Lewes

5.0 / 5

(133 reviews)

We hesitated to go fishing with a 3-year-old, but Captain Dave made everything easy and enjoyable!!!!

Lev P. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach

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.

MandaLu
Fishing charter in Lewes

5.0 / 5

(6 reviews)

Captain Bobby and Phil were the best. Super nice and very professional. We had a great time and caught a lot of sharks.

Monique M. Dayton, MD

Michael D Sport Fishing Charters
Fishing charter in Bethany Beach

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. MONTGOMRY VLG, MD

Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach

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. Newport, PA

Makai Charters
Fishing charter in Rehoboth Beach

5.0 / 5

(95 reviews)

Captain Larry’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. Baltimore, MD

MandaLu
Fishing charter in Lewes

5.0 / 5

(6 reviews)

Shark fishing was great fun for the kids-- they loved it-- couldn't stop talking about it-- the crew was great- very attentive and knowledgeable-- highly recommend this