Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

Leatherjacks are slivery-green on top with silvery sides and silvery to white underneath with yellow or golden highlights.

The fins and tail are yellowish.

Illustration by A.H Baldwin, courtesy of NOAA photo libraries

Season	Open Year-Round
Size Limit	No Size Limit
Daily Limit / Person	No Limit
Delaware Range	Atlantic Ocean
Abundance in Delaware Waters	Uncommon - this species is more common south of Delaware.
General Habitat and Food Preferences	Leatherjacks are a schooling species sometimes found with other schooling species feeding on small baitfish. They can be found along coastal waters at moderate depths. They feed on small fishes, squids, and shrimps.
Did You Know?	The spines on the dorsal and anal fins of Leatherjacks are very sharp and can administer very painful puncture wounds so be careful handling one.
Common Lures and Baits	Leatherjacks will readily take small jigs and shiny metal lures that resemble small fish when cast or trolled. They will also take live bait such as shrimp and small fish.
Typical Sizes Caught	In general, Leatherjacks caught by anglers measure less than 12 inches in length.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	Leatherjacks are not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award.
Delaware State Record	Leatherjacks are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.

Delaware's Government