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Surf Fishing at Delaware State Parks

Links to more information about permits
More about fees and where to purchase permits

Surf Fishing Beaches are available at:
Cape Henlopen Cape Henlopen State Park
Delaware Seashore Delaware Seashore State Park
Fenwick Island

Fenwick Island State Park

Surf fishing rules and regulations

Delaware State Parks Surf Fishing Rules and Regulations

weather forecast

Weather Forecast
and current weather conditions at Delaware's beaches

 

Some of the best fishing in the Mid-Atlantic States takes place on Delaware State Park beaches. However, lugging all your gear across a dune crossing can be troublesome. Consequently, Delaware State Parks have made it easy for surf fishermen to bring their vehicle with them. The Surf Fishing Vehicle Permit allows vehicles onto designated beaches for the sole purpose of fishing.

Dune Crossings - The dunes found in all coastal parks represent an important yet fragile natural resource which functions as a protective barrier during severe coastal storms. While the dunes often surive the destructive power of storms, they do not withstand the harmful impact of pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The dunes are protected by law and access is strictly limited to designated crossings. Access on the beach is strictly limited to the seaward toe of the dune down to the water.

Surf fishing vehicle permits are issued for the calendar year. These permits allow four-wheeled vehicle access to designated areas for the purpose of surf fishing.

Purchasing a Surf Fishing Vehicle Permit

Who qualifies for a permit?

Any four-wheeled vehicle which has been licensed and registered to operate on public highways with a minimum clearance of not less than 7 inches between the lowest point of the vehicle and the ground.

Can I transfer my permit to another vehicle?

The permit is only valid for the vehicle to which it has been issued. If a vehicle is sold or in an accident, the permit may be transferred to another vehicle for an additional fee.

This page last updated
Notice: Effective in 2008, licenses are required to fish in all tidal and fresh waters in Delaware. Learn more about Delaware fishing licenses…

Surf Fishing

Permit regulations

  • Permit-holder must be actively engaged in surf fishing when the vehicle is out on the beach. Appropriate fishing gear must be present - bait, tackle, pole.
  • For the safety of the fishermen, vehicles must carry a low-pressure tire gauge, a tow rope/chain, a board, jack, and shovel.
  • Permit regulations are strictly enforced. Violations may result in a fine of $25 to $250 for a first offense and $50 to $500 for a second offense.
  • Swimming in unguarded areas is unsafe. Lifeguards are available at designated swimming beaches from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. For your safety, please swim at these locations.
  • Please be courteous to other beach-users.
    The Carry In - Carry Out Trash-Free Park program is in effect in all surf fishing areas. Help us keep your parks clean and beautiful by carrying out the trash you carry in. Dispose of nylon fishing line properly. Loose, discarded line entangles wildlife and beach cleaning equipment.
  • Dogs are allowed in most surf fishing vehicle areas but must be under control and kept on a leash not to exceed six feet in length. This policy is strictly enforced. Violations are subject to fines.
  • People, pets, and vehicles are not to enter designated bird nesting areas. Disturbance of these areas may prevent successful nesting or fledging of threatened shorebirds.
  • People, pets, and vehicles are to keep off of dunes. Foot or vehicular traffic quickly kills the fragile dune grasses which stabilize the dunes. Cross only at designated pedestrian or vehicular crossings.
  • Your valuable assistance is needed in protecting the beach system. If you see damage being done to the dune, please report the incident to the nearest park employee.
    Surf fishing areas are subject to closure in the event of severe weather conditions (high tides, coastal storms, etc.). In addition to giving access to designated beach areas, the permit also allows free entry to day areas in all Delaware State Parks during the fee season. This permit does not give you the right to access other state or private beaches not owned by Delaware State Parks.

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