Chapter 6: Delaware Surf Fishing Licenses and Tags
Chapter 6: Delaware Surf Fishing Licenses and Tags
Driving onto the beach allows you to bring all the supplies and equipment you need for a successful fishing trip, but you need a permit to enter designated beach locations. A Delaware surf tag will give you the ability to travel to some of your favorite spots and enjoy the water at your convenience during the peak seasons and throughout the rest of the year.
Driving on the beach can impact wildlife and vegetation, so state parks will often limit the vehicles on the beach to designated surf fishing locations. Below you can find all the information you need to obtain a surf fishing license.
Do You Need a Fishing License in Delaware?
Everyone above the age of 16 needs a Delaware surf fishing license to surf fish in tidal or nontidal waters and drive a vehicle on Delaware beaches. You can get a vehicle permit for the calendar year to access locations like Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve, Delaware Seashore, Fenwick Island and Cape Henlopen. A Delaware surf fishing permit will be valid for two-axle vehicles that are registered and licensed for public highways.
You will only be able to operate a vehicle over dune crossings and state park beach areas if it has a Delaware surf fishing plate. You must display this permit on your vehicle to easily identify the vehicle that earned the permit. You can purchase these permits online or from the park entries. You'll need to have your valid vehicle registration, a contact phone number, a valid driver's license and an email address to obtain your permit.
How Much Are Fishing Permits in Delaware?
There are several factors that can affect how much you'll have to pay for your passes. For instance, nonresidents will typically pay more than residents for their permits. Review the prices for Delaware surf tags to determine how much you'll need to spend on permits:
A resident annual permit is $90.
A senior resident annual permit is $80.
A nonresident annual permit is $180.
A nonresident annual permit is $160.
Delaware special event permits for residents are $40.
Delaware special event permits for nonresidents cost $80.
An annual permit replacement is $10.
A resident two-year permit is $180.
A senior resident two-year permit is $160.
A nonresident two-year permit is $360.
Senior nonresident two-year permit: $320.
2-year replacement permit: $10.
Children younger than 16 do not need a permit so you can take your child on vacation without the extra cost. Additionally, there are several other exceptions. For example, you do not need a permit to fish in a fee-fishing facility. Always research the location you plan to visit to ensure you have all the necessary permits and tags for a successful trip.