Nanticoke River
Nanticoke River
- Boat Ramps
- 3
- Access Points
- 7
- Species
- 15
The Nanticoke River is a significant Chesapeake Bay tributary flowing through the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delaware. Known for its serene environment and abundant wildlife, the river stretches approximately 64 kilometers (40 miles) with varying widths from 140-300 meters upstream to approximately 3 kilometers at its mouth where it joins the Chesapeake Bay. The Nanticoke offers diverse fishing opportunities with its tranquil waters and lush surroundings making it a perfect destination for anglers of all skill levels. With a maximum depth of 70 feet and an average depth of 2.21 meters, the river supports a rich ecosystem with numerous fish species. The popular fishing season typically runs from April through September, with the best catches often occurring during the mild temperatures of early mornings and late afternoons.
Species & education
Learn what type of fish are at Nanticoke River and what's needed to catch them.
Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Nanticoke River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
Know where you can legally fish on Nanticoke River
See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.
Delaware licenses and regulations
Delaware Boating Regulations
When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.
Delaware Fishing License
All Delaware anglers age 16 or older are required by regulation to have a Delaware-issued Fisherman Information Network (FIN) number on an annual basis before fishing in Delaware waters. There is no fee for a FIN number. A FIN number is automatically issued with the purchase of a Delaware fishing license. In some cases, such as when you are exempt from licensing requirements, you may need to apply separately for a FIN number though Digital DNREC.
Delaware Fishing Regulations
This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.
Delaware Stream Access Laws
Commerce and recreational floating constitute navigability. Streambed access and right to portage on private land is uncertain, but the public may boat and fish on all navigable waters, regardless of streambed ownership.
Take Nanticoke River with you
The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.
Use the map without signal
Download the map around Nanticoke River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for Nanticoke River to find where and when fish are biting for you.
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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
See the best times to fish Nanticoke River and check the forecast before you go.
NANTICOKE RIVER NEAR BRIDGEVILLE, DE
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Nanticoke River fishing guides
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