Delaware · Fishing
Fishing in Frankford, Delaware
Frankford sits in the heart of Sussex County, and the fishing around it leans heavily toward still water. Little Assawoman Bay is the biggest draw in the area, a shallow coastal bay where anglers target species typical of Delaware's inland bays.
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Frankford sits in the heart of Sussex County, and the fishing around it leans heavily toward still water. Little Assawoman Bay is the biggest draw in the area, a shallow coastal bay where anglers target species typical of Delaware's inland bays. Beyond the bay, the options spread out across a collection of ponds and small impoundments: Muddy Neck Pond, Goose Pond, Burnt Swamp, Jay Patch, Tonys Pond, 35 Acre Pond, Sand Dollar Lake, Mulberry Pond, and Sawmill Pond all show up in the local fishing picture. Most of these are quiet, accessible spots that don't require a boat, though having a kayak or canoe opens up more of the shoreline on the larger ones. The fishing here is not trophy-focused in any formal designation sense, but it's consistent and low-pressure compared to the more crowded coastal destinations a few miles east. If you're coming from out of town, the variety of water types within a short drive of Frankford means you can realistically hit two or three spots in a single day without much windshield time.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Delaware fishing license to fish these waters?
Yes, anyone 16 or older needs a valid Delaware freshwater or combination fishing license to fish the ponds and impoundments around Frankford. Little Assawoman Bay falls under tidal regulations, so check whether you need a tidal/saltwater endorsement depending on where exactly you're fishing it. Licenses are available through the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife website or at local sporting goods retailers.
What species can I expect to catch at Little Assawoman Bay versus the local ponds?
Little Assawoman Bay is a brackish tidal water, so you're more likely to encounter species like white perch, striped bass, and blue catfish alongside some seasonal flounder near the inlets. The freshwater ponds around Frankford, including Goose Pond, Muddy Neck Pond, and Sawmill Pond, are better suited for largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. Matching your tackle to the water type will make a real difference in results.
What time of day is best for fishing the ponds near Frankford?
Early morning and the last two hours before sunset are consistently the most productive windows for bass and panfish in still water. During summer, midday heat pushes fish deeper and slows surface activity considerably, so arriving at first light is worth the early alarm. In cooler months, midday can actually fish well as water temperatures rise through the afternoon.
Do I need a boat, or can I fish from shore at most of these spots?
Most of the smaller ponds, including Goose Pond, Tonys Pond, and Mulberry Pond, are fishable from the bank without any watercraft. Little Assawoman Bay has more fishable shoreline access points but a kayak or small jon boat will let you reach areas that shore anglers can't. Check access conditions before you go, as some pond edges can be soft or overgrown depending on the season.
What's a reasonable gear setup for a first-time visitor to these waters?
A medium-light spinning rod in the 6 to 7 foot range handles most situations across the ponds and smaller impoundments. For the freshwater spots, soft plastic worms, small jigs, and live nightcrawlers cover the main species you'll encounter. If you're heading to Little Assawoman Bay, bring a slightly heavier setup and add some bucktail jigs or cut bait options for the white perch and catfish that move through there.
