The Delaware River has seen many changing times over the last generations, due to pollution, manufacturing, and other man-made intrusions. But, fortunately, the Delaware River is now the cleanest it’s been in many years. We know this because each spring, we can look at the herrings, shad, and the beautiful stripe bass as they make their yearly runs to spawn: they travel up the river, and then they return to their home in the ocean. One hundred years ago, this wasn’t possible due to the pollution problems; these fish couldn’t live in the toxicity that once plagued the river.
But now, a person who really enjoys fishing can actually fish the Delaware twelve months of the year, if you are interested and can brave the elements. There are so many species in the river to be targeted, it’s almost unbelievable. From a novice young fisherman to a seasoned old Marine like myself, you can find a good day fishing along the Delaware. Spring is our annual herring, shad, and striper run that usually lasts from March until the middle of May. Then, during the dog days of summer, there are large channel catfish that will enlighten any angler with their power and prowess. And they are always hungry! As the days of summer dwindle, there is fantastic small-mouth bass fishing that is equal to none. When the cooler weather comes in the fall, the walleye gets hungry, and then, you have the Giant Muskie and the Great Northern Pike, which roam the waters of the river, as they store up for the long winter ahead. The Muskie, known as the “Fish of a Thousand Casts,” will bite if provoked with the proper lore. In fact, you can hear them attacking schools of bait fish by slapping the water! You can be sure that if you fish long enough, you will catch one. Then, when the winter arrives, I start fishing in February for the elusive walleye because of the partnership between New Jersey and Pennsylvania, which boasts one of the greatest stocking programs on the East Coast. During the entire year, there are countless panfish – schools of yellow and green perch – that are easily caught and always make a tasty meal!
I have been fishing the Delaware River since 1965, when I was introduced to fishing by my uncle. Since those early years, every outing has been an enlightening experience, teaching me patience, giving me a love of nature, and allowing me to teach others and give back to this great sport that I love. I urge you to try to fish this hidden gem with friends and family…and while you’re at it, bring a pair of binoculars to watch the great bald eagles who are nesting along the river; watch them soar! You may also find some Native American artifacts which turn up frequently on the banks of this great river. The Delaware River is indeed a special place for fishermen…and for everyone!
Adam Canto
