Delaware River Fishing

Fishing the Delaware River in Western New Jersey

While New Jersey fishing destinations, such as Cape May and Ocean City, offer saltwater opportunities, freshwater fishing in New Jersey on the Delaware River equals plenty of excitement for inland anglers. Lambertville, Stockton, Frenchtown, and Milford are just a few Delaware River fishing towns in Western New Jersey that are ideal destinations for family-friendly fishing trips.

Where to Fish in New Jersey on the Delaware River

When deciding where to fish on the Delaware River, first consider the species you want catch. If you want to target anadromous Delaware River fish species (species which primarily live in the sea, but return to fresh water to spawn), such as striped bass and American shad, you will want to fish closer to Delaware Bay. If you travel upriver from Trenton, you can target smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, muskellunge, trout, walleye, and channel catfish.

Delaware River Fishing NJ: Spots and Species

While there are many New Jersey fishing spots you can explore along the Delaware River, and several different species you can pursue, a few specific suggestions can help get you started. You can also use the places to boat and fish map to find additional fishing spots along the Delaware River.

• Amico Island Park in Delran, NJ for catfish and largemouth bass
• Delaware Water Gap near Newton, NJ for smallmouth bass and striped bass
• Big Flat Brook River (tributary of the Delaware River) near Flatbrookville, NJ for brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout
• Lambertville, NJ for American shad and rainbow trout
• Columbia, NJ for smallmouth bass, walleye, catfish and American shad

Now that you have a few Delaware River fishing options, plan a New Jersey trip with your family to pursue a few new species. Before you go, be sure to purchase a fishing license and check the Delaware River fishing regulations for the state of New Jersey