If you’re planning to enjoy some recreational crabbing in Delaware’s waterways, it’s essential to understand the state’s fishing and crabbing regulations. In 2024, all anglers aged 16 and older are required to have a valid fishing license to fish, crab, or clam in both tidal and non-tidal waters throughout the state.
Fishing License Requirements in Delaware
To legally fish, crab, or clam in Delaware, you must obtain a general fishing license, which can be purchased from various locations, including DNREC headquarters in Dover, over 40 licensing agents throughout the state, or online through the Division of Fish and Wildlife’s website.
In addition to the general fishing license, all anglers (both residents and non-residents) aged 16 or older must obtain a free Delaware Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number each year before engaging in any fishing activities in the state’s tidal or non-tidal waters. This requirement applies even to those who are exempt from obtaining a general fishing license.
There are several ways to obtain a FIN number:
Visit the Digital DNREC website, create an account, and obtain a free FIN number
Use the “Quick FIN” link at the bottom of the Digital DNREC sign-in page (no account creation required)
Visit one of the 40 licensing agents throughout the state to obtain a free FIN number
It’s important to note that the FIN number is mandatory, and failure to provide a valid FIN number to an enforcement agent will be treated the same as not having a valid fishing license.
Fishing License Exemptions and Exceptions
While most anglers aged 16 and older are required to have a fishing license to crab in Delaware, there are a few exemptions and exceptions:
Residents aged 65 and older are exempt from fishing license requirements but must provide proof of age and residency
Children under the age of 16 are exempt from both the license and FIN requirements
Residents who own or live on a farm with 20 or more acres, along with their immediate family members residing on the farm, may fish on that farm without a license
Members of the armed forces who are patients in a military hospital may fish without a license with a written statement from their commanding officer
It’s important to note that even if you are exempt from the fishing license requirement, you may still need to obtain a FIN number before fishing in Delaware.
Crabbing Regulations in Delaware
In addition to the fishing license requirements, there are specific regulations for recreational crabbing in Delaware:
The minimum size for hard-shell blue crab is 5 inches, except for mature females (sooks) which may be retained at any size
Females bearing eggs (sponge crabs) may not be taken and should be returned to the water immediately
Recreational crabbers may not use, place, set, or tend more than two pots
All crab pots must be marked with all-white buoys displaying the owner’s full name and permanent mailing address
All crab pots must be tended at least once every 72 hours
All crab pots must be removed from the water between December 1 and February 28
The recreational daily limit is one bushel per person
It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these regulations and adhere to them to ensure sustainable crabbing practices and protect Delaware’s blue crab population.
Surf Fishing and Boating Licenses
In addition to the general fishing license, Delaware also offers specific licenses and permits for surf fishing and boating:
Residents and non-residents are exempt from fishing license requirements if they are the operator of a vehicle with a valid Delaware surf fishing vehicle permit when that vehicle is located on a designated Delaware State Park beach. Other occupants of the vehicle must have a fishing license if they are fishing.
Boat fishing licenses are available for both residents and non-residents, with different fees based on the length of the boat.
It’s important to note that Delaware does not have fishing license reciprocity with any other states, so anglers from out of state must purchase a Delaware fishing license to fish in Delaware waters.
In conclusion, understanding and complying with Delaware’s fishing and crabbing regulations is essential for anyone looking to enjoy these activities in the state’s waterways. By obtaining the necessary licenses, adhering to size and catch limits, and following proper crabbing practices, anglers can help ensure the sustainability of Delaware’s fish and crab populations for years to come.