Delaware.gov logo

DNREC Menu


Ladyfish


Ladyfish are fine scaled and slender.

They are silvery blue on top with silver sides.

Ladyfish Illustration by Duane Raver, Jr.
Season Open Year Round
Size Limit No Size Limit
Daily Limit / Person No Limit
Delaware Range Atlantic Ocean
Abundance in Delaware Waters Rare - this species is more common south of Delaware.
General Habitat and Food Preferences Ladyfish most often are found along beaches but can stray into brackish waters or offshore.

They feed predominantly on small fishes but will also eat shrimps, and crabs.
Did You Know? When Ladyfish first hatch they do not forage, but instead absorb nutrients directly from the water like a sponge.
Common Lures and Baits Ladyfish are usually caught accidentally by anglers fishing for other species.

They can be caught with numerous artificial lures as well as cut pieces of fish, shrimp, or squid strips on bottom rigs.
Typical Sizes Caught In general, Ladyfish are caught by anglers in the range of 1 to 2 pounds.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight Ladyfish are not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award.
Delaware State Record Ladyfish are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.



    

+