Delaware is unique — saltwater fishing is ALWAYS free! Plus there are dedicated free freshwater fishing days.
2026 DE Free Fishing Day
| Date | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| June 6, 2026 (Saturday) | Free Freshwater Fishing Day | No freshwater license needed — all ponds & rivers |
On Free Fishing Day, all regulations (creel limits, size limits) still apply.
Year-Round Free Options
- Saltwater (ALL YEAR!): Delaware Bay, Inland Bays, Atlantic — FREE for everyone, always. Just register for a FIN number
- Under 16: No license needed — freshwater or saltwater
- Seniors 65+: ALL fishing is free (freshwater + trout stamp included)
- Disabled residents: Free fishing license
- Active military: Free license
Best Spots for Free Fishing Day
| Water Type | Top Spots | Target Species |
|---|---|---|
| Saltwater (FREE!) | Delaware Bay, Indian River Inlet, Cape Henlopen | Stripers, bluefish, flounder, tog |
| Freshwater ponds | Lums Pond, Killens Pond, Records Pond | Largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish |
| Rivers | Brandywine Creek, Christina River | Trout (stocked), smallmouth bass |
More spots: Delaware fishing spots guide. Freshman license is just $8.50: where to buy.