Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced it has reached its cap of 17,000 Delaware surf-fishing permits issued for the calendar year. No additional surf tag permits will be issued until December.
In 2019, Delaware’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Council established a 17,000 cap on annual surf-fishing permit sales. The Division of Parks and Recreation implemented a first-come, first-served cap on the number of permits issued as the most equitable way to serve all beach users while also protecting against overcrowding of parks and beaches.
While surf fishing permit sales have ended for 2020, novice surf anglers are encouraged to view the “Surf Fishing at Delaware State Parks” video that explains surf-fishing rules and regulations in Delaware, what equipment is needed, how to drive on the beach and what to do if a vehicle gets stuck in the sand.
DNREC has been dealing with the issue of people getting surf fishing permits and using the beach access for partying. Fishing and distance restrictions between vehicles are enforced.
There are no current restrictions for non-vehicle, walk-on fishing for those with a valid Division of Fish and Wildlife fishing license. Walk-on surf anglers should only use pedestrian foot traffic access points to access surf-fishing beaches and should use caution near drive-on access points.
Surf-fishing permits also serve as a Delaware State Parks Annual Pass that provides access to all 17 state parks.
