Top 11 Fish Species and Fishing Spots in Delaware Water Gap

Delaware Water Gap is the best place for natural beauty and outdoor fun! Delaware Water Gap offers some of the prettiest views in the East Coast. It is nestled between New Jersey and Pennsylvania where the Delaware River cuts through, making it an ideal spot for fishing. The Appalachian Mountains rising over the Delaware River, is an open invitation from nature to come explore! Fishing in Delaware Water Gap is very popular, it is home to around 61 different species of fish.

In this blog I’ll be telling you all about the top 11 fish species and all the good fishing spots in Delaware Water Gap. 

More About Delaware Water Gap 

The Delaware Water Gap is where the Delaware River cuts through the Appalachian Range, resulting in some truly beautiful scenery! The Water Gap is a boon for anyone who loves nature and recreational activities like canoeing, kayaking. Delaware Water Gap is like a paradise for hikers, the Appalachian trails are one of the most popular and challenging hiking trails! 

Top 11 Fish Species in Delaware Water Gap 

The Delaware River is home to many species of fish, making it a prime fishing area. These are some of the most common and popular fish species. Here are the top 11 fish species in Delaware Water Gap.

1. Brook Trout

Brook trout is a target for anyone looking to fish for trout. The Delaware Water Gap is native to species of brook trout. Fly fishing is an efficient method of catching brook trout. The best spot to enjoy Delaware trout fishing is the Bushkill access within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

2. Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass is a freshwater fish. It is also the hardest fighting species of bass. The Delaware Water Gap is full of species of smallmouth bass.

3. Walleye

Walleye is also a freshwater fish, it belongs to the perch family and is a super common game fish. Walleye can be easily found in the Trenton-Morrisville Toll Bridge Area in the Delaware river.

4. Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout is a very popular game fish, it is a favorite among fly-fishers. The rainbow trout can prove to be a tough catch as it normally puts up a powerful struggle when caught. The Delaware Water Gap is home to both native and wild species of the rainbow trout.

5. Largemouth Bass

The largemouth bass is a freshwater gamefish popular among anglers (fisherman who use hook and line) The Largemouth Bass is a heavy fish, weighing up to 12lb. The Delaware Water Gap has wild species of the Largemouth Bass.

6. Channel Catfish

Channel Catfish is one of the most fished species in the U.S. Delaware Water Gap has non-native wild channel cats in its waters. These fish are pretty easy to catch as they are easily drawn to bait.  The best spots for catching the Channel Catfish in the Delaware River are the Milford Beach and Boat Access, Dingman’s Boat Access and Bushkill Boat Access.

7. American Shad

America’s shad is popular because it was the fish that fed America’s founding fathers. These are a favorite of anglers and put up quite a good fight when caught.

8. Brown Trout

Brown Trout are hard fighting and a very popular game fish. The Delaware Water Gap is stocked with non-native wild trout.

9. Striped Bass

Striped bass are one of the gems of the Delaware Water Gap, they are a migrating fish and often find their way into the Delaware Water Gap. The best time to fish for striped bass is during the summer.

10. Musky

The Musky or Muskellunge is a predatory fish and is the largest fish among the pike family. It is a trophy fish as it is hard to catch and an apex predator. Make sure to pack your largest lures if you are looking to entrap a musky, as they can weigh up to 39 lbs!

11. Carp

The carp is actually an alien species to the Delaware Water Gap, the common carp also puts up a decently  good battle. Commonly used baits for catching carp includes corn, pieces of bread or dough balls. 

Top Fishing Spots in Delaware Water Gap

The Delaware Water Gap Here are the top fishing spots in Delaware Water Gap from where you can catch the best hauls! 

1. Bushkill Access 

This access point is located near the southern terminus of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. It is known for its serene and calm waters. The access has two launches, to launch boats to fish from. It is one of the best Delaware fishing spots. 

2. Delaware Water Gap Recreational Area 

The recreational area is a great place in the Delaware water gap for fishing. The park is home to several streams and lakes in addition to the Delaware River. It is also a spectacular spot to enjoy Delaware shore fishing.

3. Shawnee Inn and Golf Resorts

The Shawnee Inn offers fishing trips with a certified and personal fishing guide! The Shawnee fishing trips are perfect for a couples or family outdoor adventure. The Shawnee inn is situated on the banks of the Delaware River and is built on the foothills of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Their fishing trips include launching boats into the Delaware River, where you can experience authentic Delaware headboat fishing! 

Where to Stay in Delaware Water Gap? 

Plan a fishing trip with your loved ones and enjoy a short staycation in the beautiful Delaware Water Gap, and enjoy the delightful attractions it has to offer. 

Delaware Water Gap is a great destination for a weekend getaway, especially from Philadelphia and New York, since it is just 2 hours away! 

Let HolidayKeepers help you find the best stays not just in Delaware Water Gap but anywhere in Pennsylvania! 

Wrap Up

The Delaware Water Gap is a dream come true for fishermen! With a huge variety of fishes, a scenic 40-mile long river, what more could you ask for? 

Fishing trips cannot get anymore fun in the Delaware Water Gap! Enjoy some good quality time with your friends and family fishing in the gorgeous waters of the Delaware River!

So, what are you waiting for? Come down to Delaware Water Gap and have fun on the waters, and start your booking process now! Contact HolidayKeepers for a seamless and hassle free process! 

FAQs

Q: Are there Delaware Fishing Clubs in the Delaware Water Gap?

A: Yes, the Delaware River Club is the most popular fishing club in Delaware Water Gap. 

Q: Where are the best fishing areas in Delaware Water Gap?

A: The most easily accessible and prime fishing spots can be found in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Q: When is the best time to fish in Delaware Water Gap?

A: Spring up until fall is the best time for fishing in Delaware Water Gap.