FishKillFlea The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife (DNREC) manages the fishing license Delaware system. Wondering how much is a fishing license in Delaware? The First State offers incredible value — saltwater fishing is FREE for everyone (residents AND non-residents!), freshwater is just $8.50, and seniors 65+ fish completely free!
2026 Delaware Fishing License Cost — Resident
The Delaware fishing license cost (source: DE DNREC Official):
| License Type | Ages 16-64 | 12-15 | 65+ | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freshwater | $8.50 | $8.50 | FREE | Jan 1 – Dec 31 |
| Delaware Saltwater Fishing License | FREE | FREE | FREE | Annual registration |
| Trout Stamp | $4.20 | $2.50 | FREE | Annual |
| Surf Fishing License Plate Delaware | $90.00 | — | $80 (62+) | Annual |
Non-Resident Delaware Fishing License
The Delaware fishing license out of state costs:
| License Type | Price | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freshwater Annual | $20.00 | Jan 1 – Dec 31 | Ponds, rivers |
| 7-Day Freshwater | $12.50 | 7 days | Short trip option |
| Saltwater (NR) | FREE | Registration | DE Bay, Atlantic — all free! |
| Trout Stamp NR | $6.20 | Annual | For stocked trout waters |
| NR Surf Fishing Plate | $180.00 | Annual | Beach driving — Cape Henlopen, Seashore |
FIN Number Requirement
All anglers aged 16+ must have a free Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number — automatically generated when you buy a permit. Even exempt anglers (seniors 65+, saltwater-only) should apply for a FIN number separately through DNREC.
Compare Delaware With Neighboring States
| State | Resident Freshwater | Saltwater | NR Annual | Senior Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $20.50 | $15.00 | $30.50 | 65+ $5.00 |
| Pennsylvania | $22.97 | N/A (inland) | $52.97 | 65+ $11.97 |
| New Jersey | $22.50 | FREE (registration) | $34.00 | 70+ FREE |
Delaware's $8.50 freshwater is the cheapest in the Mid-Atlantic by far! Saltwater is FREE everywhere. New Jersey also offers free saltwater, but freshwater is nearly 3x the price. Maryland's saltwater costs $15 — DE Bay is free!
FAQ
Is saltwater fishing really free in Delaware?
Yes! The Delaware saltwater fishing license is a free registration — no cost for residents OR non-residents. This covers all of Delaware Bay, the Inland Bays, and Atlantic Ocean fishing. Just register for your FIN number. See DE fishing spots for best saltwater locations.
What is the surf fishing license plate Delaware?
The Delaware surf fishing license plate ($90 res / $180 NR per year; 62+ $80/$160) allows driving on designated state park beaches — Cape Henlopen and Delaware Seashore State Parks. It also functions as an annual park pass. Note: off-peak plates ($70 res) will be discontinued after 2027.
Are seniors exempt from Delaware fishing licenses?
Yes! Delaware fishing license for seniors aged 65+ are completely FREE for both freshwater and saltwater. The trout stamp is also free for 65+. Just apply through DNREC for your free license and FIN number.