Surf Fishing at Delaware State Parks
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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.
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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.
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
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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.
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For the safety of the fishermen, vehicles must carry
a low-pressure tire gauge, a tow rope/chain, a board, jack, and
shovel.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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