Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

Red Drum are iridescent silvery-gray overall, with a coppery cast that is usually darker on the back and upper sides.

They have one large black spot near the tail. Having multiple spots is not uncommon but having no spots is extremely rare.

Illustration by Duane Raver, Jr.

Season	Open Year-Round in State of Delaware waters (coast to 3 miles offshore) CLOSED in Federal waters (3 to 200 miles offshore)
Size Limit	20 to 27 inches (total length) in State of Delaware waters (coast to 3 miles offshore) CLOSED in Federal waters (3 to 200 miles offshore)
Daily Limit / Person	5 in State of Delaware waters (coast to 3 miles offshore) CLOSED in Federal waters (3 to 200 miles offshore)
Delaware Range	Atlantic Ocean and Inland Bays
Abundance in Delaware Waters	Common
General Habitat and Food Preferences	Red Drum prefer both estuarine and nearshore Atlantic Ocean habitats. They can be found throughout the water column. Immature Red Drum prefer marshy areas of estuaries. They feed on crabs, shrimps, and small fishes.
Did You Know?	Red Drum are also known as "Channel Bass". The largest Red Drum are referred to as "Bull Reds".
Common Lures and Baits	Red Drum will take a variety of lures including plugs, spoons, and jigs. Shrimp, small crabs, finger mullet, and cut pieces of fish are excellent natural baits for catching Red Drum.
Typical Sizes Caught	Red Drum are most commonly caught at lengths of less than 25 inches by Delaware anglers.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	Live Release Award Adult: 45 inches minimum Youth (age 15 and under): 35 inches minimum Sport Fishing Tournament Award Not eligible
Delaware State Record	75 pounds James Vandetti 1976

Delaware's Government