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Wreckfish


Wreckfish are a large, solid fish with a pointed head and a protruding lower jaw.

They are a grayish or blackish-brown in color.

Wreckfish 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
General Habitat and Food Preferences Wreckfish are deep-water fish and can be found on the ocean bottom at depths between 130 and 3,000 feet, where they inhabit caves and shipwrecks.

They feed on bottom-dwelling fishes, squids, crabs, and shrimps.
Did You Know? The Wreckfish got its name because it lives close to the sea floor and often lurks inside shipwrecks.
Common Lures and Baits Occasionally Wreckfish are caught accidentally by anglers fishing for tilefish.

They are caught on bottom rigs baited with cut pieces of fish or squid. Because of the great depth of water, five-pound weights are used on the bottom rigs.
Typical Sizes Caught Wreckfish commonly caught by anglers average 35 pounds.
Citation Minimum Length and Weight Wreckfish 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 Wreckfish are not currently eligible for an individual Delaware record.



    

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