Delaware is easing its surf fishing reservation rules for most drive-on beaches, effective July 12, 2025. The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) announced that seven of the twelve drive-on beaches will no longer require weekend and holiday reservations, a move aimed at balancing accessibility with managing popular spots.
Delaware Beaches Open Up for Anglers
Starting July 12, 2025, surf fishers will find it easier to access many of Delaware’s drive-on beaches. The DNREC has removed reservation requirements for seven out of twelve locations, responding to data showing these beaches rarely reached full capacity outside of major holidays. This change affects nearly 64% of the state’s surf fishing beach availability.
Key Takeaways
- Seven of Delaware’s twelve drive-on surf fishing beaches will no longer require weekend and holiday reservations.
- The change takes effect on Saturday, July 12, 2025.
- The decision was based on a two-year review of surf fishing data and visitor feedback.
Beaches No Longer Requiring Reservations
The following beaches will no longer require reservations for weekend and holiday surf fishing:
- Key Box, Conquest, and Faithful Steward beaches at Delaware Seashore State Park
- York, Middle, and South beaches at Fenwick Island State Park
- Beach Plum Island north of Lewes
Beaches Still Requiring Reservations
Reservations will continue to be required for five high-demand locations from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays, from Memorial Day through Labor Day:
- Gordons Pond at Cape Henlopen State Park
- Herring Point at Cape Henlopen State Park
- Navy Crossing at Cape Henlopen State Park
- Point Crossing at Cape Henlopen State Park
- 3 R’s at Delaware Seashore State Park
Rationale Behind the Change
DNREC Secretary Greg Patterson noted that while some anglers appreciate the predictability of reservations, many, especially locals, prefer the spontaneity of deciding to fish on a sunny day. Governor Matt Meyer supported the change, stating, "Delaware beaches are the precious jewel of our state’s tourism economy, and requiring beach reservations, where unnecessary, is an example of overregulation that can be streamlined to serve residents better."
The reservation system was initially introduced in May 2023 to manage overcrowding during peak times. However, data revealed that most open areas did not reach full capacity outside of major holidays, prompting officials to re-evaluate the system. DNREC will continue to monitor beach usage and may consider temporary reinstatement of reservations for high-demand holidays like the Fourth of July in the future.
Sources
- Delaware Drops Surf Fishing Reservations at Most Drive-On Beaches, WJBR.com.
- Delaware eases surf fishing reservation rules at most state beaches, Delaware LIVE News.
- DNREC Drops Surf Fishing Reservations for 7 of 12 Drive-on Beaches, State of Delaware News (.gov).
- DNREC drops surf-fishing reservations for most drive-on beaches, Bay to Bay News.
- Surf-fishing reservation requirement eliminated for most drive-on beaches | Sports, Coastal Point.
