Delaware · Fishing
Fishing in Wilmington, Delaware
Wilmington sits at the edge of the Brandywine Valley, and that geography gives it a surprisingly solid mix of fishing options for a mid-sized city.
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Wilmington sits at the edge of the Brandywine Valley, and that geography gives it a surprisingly solid mix of fishing options for a mid-sized city. The standout is Brandywine Creek near Rockland, where fly anglers work the river for brown trout and rainbow trout alongside smallmouth and largemouth bass in moderate current that rewards some technique but doesn't require expert-level skills. For a more relaxed outing, Hoopes Reservoir sits at 120 feet elevation on the city's northwest side and holds rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie — it's an easy wade or bank-fishing spot that works well for beginners and families. Bellevue Lake and Shadowbrook Pond round out the local options for those who want calm water close to home. None of these are remote wilderness destinations, but they're legitimate fisheries that locals return to regularly, and the Brandywine in particular offers the kind of moving-water trout fishing that's rare this close to a city center. Delaware fishing regulations apply throughout, so a valid Delaware fishing license is required before you wet a line at any of these spots.
Frequently asked questions
What fish can I realistically catch near Wilmington?
Brandywine Creek near Rockland holds brown trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass. Hoopes Reservoir offers rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. Bellevue Lake and Shadowbrook Pond are also fishable lake and pond options in the area.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Wilmington?
Yes. A valid Delaware fishing license is required at all of these locations. You can purchase one through the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife online or at local license agents. Check the DDFW site for current fees and any site-specific permit requirements, particularly for Hoopes Reservoir, which is a city water supply.
What gear should I bring for Brandywine Creek near Rockland?
The listing is tagged as fly fishing with moderate difficulty, so a 9-foot 5-weight rod is a practical all-around choice for the trout and bass mix. Waders are useful since you'll want to position yourself in the current, and the rocky substrate calls for felt or rubber-soled wading boots with good grip. If you're spin fishing, light to medium spinning gear with small spinners or soft plastics covers the bass well.
What's the best time of year to fish these spots?
Spring is the most productive window for trout at Brandywine Creek and Hoopes Reservoir, when water temperatures are cooler and fish are active. Bass fishing on the Brandywine picks up through late spring and summer. For Hoopes Reservoir's bluegill and crappie, late spring around spawning time tends to produce consistent action from the bank.
Are these spots accessible for beginners or kids?
Hoopes Reservoir is rated easy and is the most beginner-friendly option, with calm water and a mix of species that includes panfish like bluegill and crappie. Brandywine Creek near Rockland is rated moderate and involves reading moving water, so it suits anglers with at least some river experience. Bellevue Lake and Shadowbrook Pond are also low-pressure, calm-water options worth considering for newer anglers.
