Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

The Sea Raven has a large head with numerous fleshy tabs and a large mouth with many sharp teeth.

Sea Ravens vary in color from reddish brown to dark brown, with numerous darker blotches on its back, and a pale yellow-brown belly.

The upper body has a sandpaper-like texture, and the first dorsal fin is ragged looking.

Illustration by H.L. Todd, Courtesy University of Washington 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 north of Delaware.
General Habitat and Food Preferences	The Sea Raven prefers structured bottoms and is often associated with wrecks and artificial reefs at depths of 200 to 300 feet; though they can sometimes be found in water as shallow as 50 feet. They feed on crabs, shrimps, lobsters, squids, fishes, sand dollars, sea urchins, and starfishes.
Did You Know?	The Sea Raven can fill its belly with water when frightened, in a way similar to a puffer fish.
Common Lures and Baits	Sea Ravens are usually caught accidentally by anglers fishing for other species. There is hardly any bait a Sea Raven won't bite. They can be caught with strips of squid, cut pieces of fish, clams, and pieces of crabs on bottom rigs.
Typical Sizes Caught	In general, Sea Ravens caught by anglers are shorter than 18 inches in length.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	Sea Ravens are not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award, but a large specimen may qualify for an “Unusual Species” award.
Delaware State Record	Sea Ravens are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.

Delaware's Government