Fishing Fun: 5 Delaware State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Delaware might be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but it offers a wide variety of natural beauty, especially when it comes to its state parks. For anglers, Delaware is an excellent destination for fishing opportunities, whether it’s freshwater ponds and creeks or the expansive Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean coastlines.

From Wilmington and Felton to Rehoboth, Lewes and Laurel, here’s a look at some of the best state parks in the First State to take out the family fishing boat, cast a fishing line and enjoy a rewarding day on the water. 

1. Cape Henlopen State Park

Gather your fishing rods and reels and check out Cape Henlopen State Park. It’s a top spot for fishing enthusiasts who enjoy saltwater, pier and surf fishing (a permit is required for beach access). Located at the mouth of the Delaware Bay in Lewes, this park offers miles of coastline, including the popular fishing pier. The park has a bait and tackle shop.

Whether trailering your boat from a private boat lift rental or your driveway, you can expect to catch species such as flounder, bluefish, striped bass and kingfish. The park also allows night fishing, making it an excellent spot for those who want to experience the excitement of fishing under the stars. The Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse makes a lovely focal point.

• Water: Saltwater and freshwater 
• Key Species: Flounder, bluefish, kingfish, striped bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, surf, boat, kayak

2. Trap Pond State Park

Trap Pond State Park, in Laurel, is a freshwater angler’s dream. The park is home to Trap Pond, one of the largest freshwater ponds in the state. It’s well known for its serene environment and unique bald cypress trees, which is an excellent spot to find fish gathering around rocks. It’s a fantastic place for catching largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish.

Trap Pond is also perfect for kayak fishing, allowing you to explore the tranquil waters and find secluded fishing spots. Boat rentals are available in case you don’t want to trailer yours from home or a private boat dock for rent.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie
• Fishing Type: Shore, kayak, boat

3. Lums Pond State Park

Located in Bear, Lums Pond State Park features Lums Pond, which spans over 200 acres. The park is a favorite among local anglers for its variety of fish, including largemouth bass, pickerel, perch and catfish. With multiple fishing piers, a boat ramp, picnic areas and bank fishing spots, it’s accessible for both experienced anglers and families looking for a fun outing from private boat slip rentals.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Perch, catfish, largemouth bass, pickerel
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

4. Killens Pond State Park

Killens Pond State Park, located in Felton, is a terrific destination for freshwater fishing. The pond is stocked with a variety of species including bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass and catfish.

The park’s amenities, such as boat rentals and fishing piers, make it a convenient and family-friendly fishing location to check out from private boat lifts for rent. The nature center dock is a handy spot for young anglers to get the hang of things.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Bluegill, crappie, catfish, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

5. Delaware Seashore State Park

Delaware Seashore State Park is a must-visit for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. The park offers six miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront and access to Indian River Bay and Inlet and Delaware Bay.

Situated in Rehoboth Beach, the park’s scenic location and diverse fishing spots make it a top choice for anglers of all skill levels to explore from a marina or private boat dock rental. Common catches include striped bass, bluefish, flounder, tautog and sea trout.   

• Water: Saltwater
• Key Species: Flounder, bluefish, sea trout, tautog
• Fishing Type: Boat, surf, shore

Fishing Tips

• Have the proper permits, including a boating license if required.
• Always clean your boat and trailer to avoid transporting invasive species.
• As with anywhere, there are fishing regulations for size and catch limits (as well as fishing licenses in general), so be sure to check into that before heading out from your marina, dock or private boat lift rental.