Fallfish
Fallfish are Delaware's largest native minnow species and historically were the dominant insect predator in the mainstem Delaware River system for millennia before introduced trout species.
Scientific Name: Semotilus corporalis
- Silver-sided fish that can reach lengths of nearly 20 inches, though most Delaware specimens range from 5-15 inches.
- During spawning, males develop distinctive spawning colors with purple cheeks, bronze shoulders, and white nuptial tubercles on their heads.
Fishing in Delaware
Delaware River
Lums Pond
Delaware Bay
Cohansey River
Leipsic River
Maurice River
Susquehanna River
Nantuxent Cove
Mispillion River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found throughout the Delaware River system in Delaware waters.
Key Locations
- Delaware River system, including tributary streams like the Clarksville Branch near Dover.
Specific Spots
- Cool, clear streams and rivers with gravel or rocky bottoms, pools and runs with swift currents and well-oxygenated water.
- As their name suggests, they're often found at the base of waterfalls.
Fallfish FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Fallfish in Delaware?
Small spinners, jigs, spinnerbaits, live baits like worms, insects, and small minnows.
What flies work for Fallfish in Delaware?
Size 20 Griffith's Gnats for minute surface film insects, Elkwing Caddis patterns in sizes 12-18 for caddisfly hatches, Parachute Adams in sizes 12-18 for mayfly emergences, Frenchie patterns in sizes 14-16 for caddis larvae, Prince Nymphs for stonefly imitations.
When is the best time to fish for Fallfish in Delaware?
Late spring through fall for active surface feeding. Avoid fishing during spawning period in late spring to early summer when water temperatures are between 54-68°F.
How do you catch Fallfish in Delaware?
Dr.y fly fishing during surface feeding activity, nymph fishing, same techniques effective for panfish.
What do Fallfish eat?
Opportunistic predators that transition from eating zooplankton as fry to consuming aquatic insects, fish e.g.gs, and smaller fish as adults. Feed primarily on chironomids, mayflies, caddisflies, and terrestrial insects. Actively compete with trout for the same insect food sources.
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