A fishing license is now required to fish in both tidal and non-tidal waters in Delaware. Non-tidal waters include lakes, ponds, impoundments and streams where the tides do not occur. Most non-tidal waters are fresh except for brackish water impoundments.
Delaware’s fishing license may be obtained from DNREC’s Dover office or from over 100 license agents, mostly sporting goods and hardware stores, throughout the state. Licenses can also be purchased online. Each holder of a fishing license must display the license on an outer garment while fishing. Any resident of Delaware who is 16 or older, but less than 65, is required to have a license to fish in non-tidal waters. Exemptions from fishing license requirements are found in the Delaware Code.
The fee for an annual resident fishing license remains $8.50. The non-resident fee is $20 per year while the seven-day tourist license costs $12.50. Each of these license options entitles the holder to fish, crab or clam in any of Delaware’s waters. All funds derived from the issuance of fishing licenses are dedicated to a special account for the purpose of matching and securing federal money alloted to Delaware under the provisions of the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act. Together, these funds support restoration, conservation, management and enhancement of sportfish and the provisions for public use and benefit from these resources.
Charter boat and head boat license applications also are available by calling Fish & Wildlife’s Coordination section at 302-739-9918
