Delaware's Top Fishing Spots

Here's A Look At Some Of The Best Spots To Cast A Line:

Freshwater Pond Perfection

• Lums Pond State Park: Home to Delaware's largest freshwater pond (nearly 200 acres), Lums Pond is a haven for anglers. It offers excellent fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie (black and white), catfish (channel and bullhead), yellow perch, and chain pickerel. The state also periodically stocks hybrid striped bass (wipers). Bass anglers often find success targeting submerged stumps east of the boat ramp, while crappie congregate near deadfalls in the eastern arm. It's a versatile freshwater destination with ample shoreline access and a boat launch.  
• Trap Pond State Park: Famous for its beautiful stands of bald cypress trees rising from the water, Trap Pond offers a unique and productive fishing experience. Recognized by Bassmaster Magazine as one of the top 100 bass lakes in the country, it's a prime target for largemouth bass anglers. Pickerel and bluegill are also common catches. Its relatively shallow waters and abundant vegetation make it ideal for trying topwater lures near lily pads, especially in the early morning or late evening.  
• Killens Pond State Park: Another gem for bass enthusiasts, Killens Pond, is frequently cited as one of Delaware's best lakes for largemouth bass, with catches in the three-to-six-pound range regularly reported. Buzzbaits (especially clacker types) and jigs are popular choices, particularly around the pond's central island and lily pads. The 66-acre pond also holds healthy catfish, carp, perch, crappie, bluegill, and pickerel populations. An accessible boardwalk provides excellent shore fishing opportunities and offers boat rentals.  

River and Bay Adventures

• Delaware River: This major waterway forms a significant portion of Delaware's border and offers a rich, diverse freshwater fishery. The river is renowned for its striped bass and American shad spring runs. Anglers can also target muskellunge, smallmouth bass, brown trout (in certain sections/tributaries), yellow perch, channel catfish, and walleye. Fishing regulations can be complex due to shared borders with Pennsylvania and New Jersey and differences between tidal and non-tidal sections, so consult the latest rules for the specific area you plan to fish.
• Indian River Bay: Flowing into the Atlantic Ocean, this shallow inland bay is a prime destination for saltwater anglers, particularly those seeking summer flounder (fluke). The preferred method is drifting the channels and flats, especially during moving tides. Live minnows and Gulp! Baits are the top choices for enticing these flatfish. While flounder is the main draw, anglers might hook into striped bass, bluefish, tautog, and sea bass, especially closer to the Indian River Inlet or nearby ocean structures.

Before You Go

Remember that a Delaware fishing license is generally required for anglers of a certain age. Always check the most current Delaware fishing regulations regarding seasons, size limits, and creel limits for the specific body of water and species you intend to target, as rules can change.

Whether you prefer the calm of a cypress-lined pond or the tidal currents of a coastal bay, Delaware offers rewarding fishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels.