DNREC cuts surf-fishing reservations for most beaches

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has announced changes to the surf-fishing reservation system, eliminating the need for reservations at several drive-on beaches on weekends and holidays.

Beginning Saturday, July 12, drive-on surf-fishing beach reservations will no longer be required for Key Box, Conquest and Faithful Steward beaches at Delaware Seashore State Park; York, Middle and South beaches at Fenwick Island State Park; and Beach Plum Island north of Lewes.

The removal of these locations from the reservation system was decided because they generally do not reach capacity on busy summer weekends.

“These are your beaches, Delaware,” said Gov. Matt Meyer in a press release. “We are eliminating the need for reservations most of the time, preserving them only for fairness during the busiest days and hours. Delaware beaches are the precious jewel of our state’s tourism economy, and requiring beach reservations, where unnecessary, is an example of overregulation that can be streamlined to serve residents better.”

For the rest of the summer, DNREC will evaluate impacts to the beaches while measuring occupancy levels and any queuing or crowding issues, said Matt Ritter, director of the Division of Parks and Recreation.

Due to the high demand and capacity issues, daily reservations will continue to be required for Gordons Pond, Herring Point, Navy Crossing and Point Crossing in Cape Henlopen State Park, and 3 R’s at Delaware Seashore State Park. Reservations are required from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. 

“Drive-on surf-fishing reached record levels in recent years, and our parks have tried different ways to balance what can be overwhelming demand with the recreational experience so many enjoy,” Ritter said. “Reservations have become prevalent at state and national parks across the country, and as we evolve our reservation program in Delaware State Parks, we remain committed to providing a good experience for anglers and all our visitors. After careful consideration, we felt making the change to drop reservation requirements for several surf-fishing beaches was the right decision.”

Ritter said the changes are the result of evaluating the program over the past two years, including capacity, total reservations, beach conditions and feedback from anglers. Since the reservation system was introduced in 2023, none of the beaches where reservations are temporarily being suspended had reached full capacity, with the exception of the 2025 Fourth of July holiday. DNREC will consider whether a one-time reinstatement of reservations will be needed for the Fourth of July in 2026.

Delaware Natural Resources Police Park Rangers Unit will continue to patrol the beaches with vehicle checks to ensure visitors have valid fishing permits, equipment and reservations, if applicable.