Old Inlet & Indian River Inlet Fishing Report: Hot Bites!
Is the lure of the open water calling, promising the thrill of a tug on the line? The Indian River Inlet in Delaware offers a diverse and rewarding fishing experience, a haven for anglers of all skill levels, and the heart of Delaware's coastal fishing scene.
The reports are in, and the excitement is building. From Old Inlet Bait & Tackle, nestled at 25012 Coastal Highway in Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, comes the news that the first bluefish have arrived in the surf and the Indian River Inlet. These aren't just any bluefish; they're the hungry, aggressive kind, promising a fun and exhilarating catch. Even if you don't have access to a beach-ready vehicle, the inlet itself offers prime fishing opportunities. A stingsilver or Hopkins lure is all you need for a shot at some action. And remember, a keen eye for the birds often leads to the best spots.
To fully understand the appeal of Indian River Inlet, let's explore the area's fishing characteristics in a detailed table:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Indian River Inlet, Delaware, connecting Indian River Bay and Rehoboth Bay to the Atlantic Ocean. |
| Primary Fishing Areas | Surf, Inlet, Jetties, Bridges, and nearby Inland Bays. |
| Targeted Species | Striped Bass, Bluefish, Flounder, Sea Bass, Croaker, Tuna (Yellowfin, Bigeye, Bluefin), Mahi, Tilefish, Black Drum, Kingfish, Spot, Trout, Rockfish, Mackerel, Triggerfish, Tog, Snook, Jacks, Ladyfish, Redfish. |
| Best Times to Fish | Highly dependent on species. Check local fishing reports. Spring and Fall generally offer peak seasons for many species. Early morning and evening are often productive times. |
| Popular Bait & Tackle | Stingsilvers, Hopkins lures, Bucktails, Mullet chunks, Sand fleas, Live bait (various types depending on target species). |
| Nearby Services | Old Inlet Bait & Tackle (full-service shop), Fishing Charters, Boat Rentals, Marinas, Restaurants. |
| Access Points | Delaware Seashore State Park, Indian River Inlet Marina, Bubblegum Beach. |
| Historical Context | Jetties installed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1938. The Indian River Inlet Bridge opened in 2012. |
| Fishing Reports | Monitor local bait shops and online fishing reports. July 15th, 2023 and July 8th, 2024 reports provided recent catches. |
| Additional Tips | Be aware of tides. Check weather conditions. Be careful when fishing from jetties. Share reports responsibly. Utilize fishing apps. |
The Indian River Inlet isn't just a place to fish; it's a destination, a hub of activity for anyone who loves the water. The Indian River Inlet Fishing page is a go-to resource for everything related to angling, boating, and beach life on the Delaware coast.
The fishing and beach season is in full swing, and the reports are painting a vivid picture. The July 15th, 2023 report highlighted the strong winds but still reported good catches. Inshore, anglers reeled in flounder, sea bass, and croaker. Offshore, the docks welcomed mahi-mahi, tilefish, yellowfin tuna, big eye tuna, and even a few bluefin tuna. The inland bays were also teeming with flounder, and the old grounds were "on fire". Bluefish action was abundant around the inlet and nearby beaches.
The inshore action hasn't slowed either. Recent reports from July 8th, 2024, showed inshore fishing delivering catches of sea bass, triggerfish, croaker, and flounder. The offshore scene, however, presented more of a challenge. The consistent reports from Old Inlet Bait & Tackle, a cornerstone of the fishing community since 1962, provides invaluable insights and resources.
The reports from June 26th, 2023 echo the excitement, showcasing a successful fishing tournament for kids. The inshore waters yielded flounder, spot, trout, rockfish, sea bass, mackerel, triggerfish, croaker, bluefish, and tog. Offshore, yellowfin and big eye tuna found their way to the docks. Its a place where memories are made and the thrill of the catch is shared.
Understanding the ebb and flow of fishing at the Indian River Inlet requires more than just casting a line. Staying updated on the conditions is key. Local reports offer insights into water temperature, weather forecasts, tide information, and the best fishing spots. Anglers learn about targeted fish species, the most effective bait and tackle, recent catches, and essential safety tips. Flounder are often found near the rock jetties on either side of the inlet and at Bubblegum Beach, accessible through the Indian River Inlet Marina. While live bait is effective, bucktails are often the most practical approach.
The Indian River Lagoon, a short distance from the Orlando International Airport, stretches for 121 miles, offering diverse fishing opportunities. Trout, snook, jacks, ladyfish, and occasional redfish are all possibilities. Artificial lures work well in the mornings, and switching to live bait as the day progresses can increase your chances. The inlet itself is a dynamic environment, shaped by natural forces and human intervention. The jetties, constructed in 1938 by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, hold the inlet in place, allowing for safe passage between the Atlantic Ocean and the inland bays and lagoons.
For anglers new to the area, the first few trips can be learning experiences. Knowing a little can significantly improve your success. The Indian River Inlet's location, offering direct access to the Atlantic Ocean from both the Indian River Bay and Rehoboth Bay, provides an abundance of opportunities. It is the undisputed heavyweight champion for tidal species in Southern Delaware.
The local bait shop, Old Inlet Bait & Tackle, at 25012 Coastal Highway in Rehoboth Beach, is the heart of the fishing community. Established in 1962, it offers a vast inventory of 8500 items, along with fishing information and a full range of services for anglers. Remember that access is easy, but like any inlet rocks, you must be careful.
The year 2025 has started at a frenetic pace. The calendar is busy, and the fishing is phenomenal. The redfish numbers in Mosquito Lagoon are the best seen in the past decade. Black drum also frequent the flats in Mosquito Lagoon and the Indian River, providing a rich and diverse ecosystem. The consistent reports and updates are a lifeline for local anglers and visitors.
Recent reports from the waters show the variety of the catches and the experiences shared: one overnight trip, with 22 white releases, others with full hauls of mahi tilefish and blackbelly rosefish, with some anglers hitting their Mahi limits. These vibrant stories of success underscore the allure of the Indian River Inlet.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a newcomer eager to cast a line, the Indian River Inlet and the surrounding waters promise unforgettable experiences. Stop by Dockside, open Thursday through Sunday from 7:00 am until 10:00 pm and get a taste of the new breakfast.
For those seeking to learn about the best times and methods, apps and the various fishing sites provide help. Fishing in Rehoboth Beach (8 mi.) is a popular option. Fishing in Lewes (12 mi.) and fishing in Keydash (Isle of Wight Bay) (19 mi.) are available nearby.
