What are the biggest fish in the Delaware Bay?

The biggest fish recorded in Delaware's waters, which include the Delaware Bay and its coastal areas, are the Mako Shark, weighing an impressive 975 pounds, and other shark species.

While the Delaware Bay itself is a significant estuary, the largest fish records for Delaware are generally attributed to catches made in the state's coastal and offshore waters, including those accessible from or adjacent to the Bay. These records showcase the immense size of some species found in the region.

Delaware's Top Saltwater Fishing Records

According to state records, the following species represent some of the largest fish caught in Delaware's saltwater environments:

• Mako Shark: Holding the top spot, a Mako Shark was recorded at a staggering 975 pounds in 2000. These powerful predators are known for their speed and size and are found in offshore waters accessible from Delaware's coast.
• Other Shark Species: Beyond the Mako, other large shark species have also set significant state records, with one general "Shark (excl. Mako)" category reaching 825 pounds in 1981, highlighting the diverse range of large sharks present in these waters.
• White Marlin: A notable offshore game fish, the White Marlin holds a record of 120 pounds from 1972, a testament to the big game fishing opportunities available off Delaware's coast.

Here's a quick look at some of the largest saltwater fishing records in Delaware:

Note: While Scup (Porgy) is listed in the records, it is a considerably smaller species compared to the sharks and marlin mentioned above.

These records underscore the rich biodiversity and potential for encountering large marine life in Delaware's aquatic domain. Anglers seeking to pursue these massive fish often venture into the deeper waters of the Atlantic Ocean off the Delaware coast, though various shark species can also be found closer to the mouth of the Delaware Bay.