Do You Need a Fishing License to Fish in Delaware in 2024?

If you plan to fish in Delaware’s waters in 2024, it’s important to understand the state’s fishing license requirements. Whether you’re an avid angler or a casual fisherman, knowing when and where a license is needed can help you avoid penalties and ensure you’re fishing legally.

General Fishing License Requirements

In Delaware, a general fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age or older who wants to fish, crab, or clam in both tidal and non-tidal waters throughout the state. The license is valid from January 1 to December 31 of the year in which it was issued.

Fishing licenses can be purchased online through the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife’s website, at DNREC headquarters in Dover, or from one of the many authorized license agents located throughout the state.

Resident anglers ages 16 to 64 can purchase an annual fishing license for $8.50, while non-residents pay $20 for the same license. There are also options for 7-day tourist fishing licenses for non-residents at a cost of $12.50.

Exemptions and Exceptions

While most anglers 16 and older are required to have a fishing license, there are some exemptions and exceptions to the rule:

Surf Fishing Permit: 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 that vehicle are required to have a fishing license if they are fishing.
Seniors: Residents of Delaware age 65 and older are exempt from fishing license requirements but must have proof of age and residency.
Children: Children under the age of 16 are exempt from the license requirement.
Farmland Owners: Any resident who owns or lives on a farm in Delaware containing 20 or more acres, and the members of their immediate family residing on the farm, may fish on that farm without a license.
Military Patients: A member of the armed forces who is a patient in a military hospital and submits a written statement signed by the patient’s commanding officer certifying the nature of the patient’s disability is exempt from the license requirement.

It’s important to note that even if you are exempt from needing a fishing license, you may still need to obtain a free Delaware Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number before fishing in tidal or non-tidal waters.

Boat Fishing Licenses

In addition to the general fishing license, Delaware also offers boat fishing licenses for both residents and non-residents.

A boat fishing license allows the owner of a vessel 20 feet or less in length to fish from that boat without needing an individual fishing license. The cost of a boat fishing license is $40 for both residents and non-residents.

For boats longer than 20 feet, the fee is $50 for both residents and non-residents. When purchasing a boat fishing license, the owner will receive a complimentary general fishing license.

Trout Stamps and FIN Numbers

In addition to a fishing license, anglers who plan to fish for trout in Delaware must also purchase a trout stamp. The cost of a trout stamp varies depending on the angler’s age and residency status:

Residents ages 12 to 15: $2.10
Residents ages 16 to 64: $4.20
Non-residents ages 12 to 64: $6.20

All anglers 16 and older, including those who are exempt from needing a fishing license, must obtain a free Delaware Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number before fishing in tidal or non-tidal waters. The FIN number is automatically generated and issued with the purchase of an individual fishing license.

Non-residents who do not have an individual fishing license and those who are exempt from the license requirement must obtain a FIN number separately before fishing.

Fishing License Reciprocity

It’s important to note that Delaware does not have fishing license reciprocity agreements with any other states. This means that if you plan to fish in Delaware, you must have a Delaware fishing license, even if you have a valid license from another state.

Additionally, Delaware does not recognize Federal FIN numbers or FIN numbers from other states, so anglers must obtain a Delaware-issued FIN number before fishing in the state’s waters.

If you plan to fish in the New Jersey waters of Delaware Bay, you will need a New Jersey FIN number in addition to your Delaware fishing license.

In conclusion, understanding Delaware’s fishing license requirements is crucial for anyone who wants to fish legally in the state’s waters in 2024. By purchasing the appropriate licenses and stamps, and obtaining a FIN number if necessary, anglers can enjoy their favorite pastime while helping to protect and preserve Delaware’s fish populations for future generations.