Delaware Fish Facts for The Recreational Angler

Southern Stingrays have flat, diamond-shaped bodies with a long tail armed with a venomous, barbed spine.

They are gray to dark brown in color, with pale bellies.

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	Southern Stingrays prefer shallow coastal or estuarine habitats with sand/silt bottoms. They feed on fishes, shrimps, and crabs.
Did You Know?	The Southern Stingray is a non-aggressive animal, posing little threat to humans. However, when stepped on or caught by an angler it will use its spine in defense so be careful. Any wound inflicted by the spine and associated venom would be painful but rarely lethal. It is suggested if you are wounded by the spine to seek medical attention.
Common Lures and Baits	Often despised by fisherman, Southern Stingrays are usually caught accidentally by anglers fishing for other species. It will readily take baits such as squid strips, cut pieces of fish, or pieces of peeler crabs.
Typical Sizes Caught	Southern Stingrays have an average wingspan of 48 inches.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight	Southern Stingrays are not currently eligible for a Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament or Live Release award.
Delaware State Record	Southern Stingrays are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.

Delaware's Government