Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

The Oyster Toadfish is an unusually shaped, large-headed fish. It has a very large mouth surrounded by "whiskers", large bulging eyes, round belly and a lack of scales.

They are olive-brown with dark blotches or bars and a pale belly.

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	Abundant
General Habitat and Food Preferences	Oyster Toadfish generally live along oyster reefs and muddy bottoms. Common prey includes marine worms, shrimps, amphipods (small shrimp like creatures), crabs, squids, and small fishes.
Did You Know?	The Oyster Toadfish got its name from its scaleless brown skin covered by thick mucus and sometimes warts (resembling a toad). The Oyster Toadfish got the nickname "Oyster Cracker" because of its strong teeth and jaws which were thought to be capable of crushing the hard shells of oysters. They snap viciously when caught so be careful.
Common Lures and Baits	Often despised by fisherman, Oyster Toadfish are usually caught accidentally by Delaware anglers fishing for other species. They can be caught with pieces of squid, clams, bloodworms, or pieces of peeler crab on bottom rigs.
Typical Sizes Caught	Oyster Toadfish caught by Delaware anglers can reach lengths of greater than 12 inches.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	Oyster Toadfish are not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award.
Delaware State Record	Oyster Toadfish are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.

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