Fishing on the Upper Delaware River

The Upper Delaware is a popular location for fishing.

NPS

The pristine and undammed waters of the Upper Delaware River provide excellent habitat for a diverse variety of fish species, including but not limited to trout, bass, walleye, and shad. As a result, the Upper Delaware River is a well-known and popular destination for fishing, attracting anglers from all over the country. Public river accesses offer places anglers can fish or launch boats, and fishing guide services are available for anglers wishing for local expertise.

Fishing Regulations 

A valid New York or Pennsylvania license is required for all anglers, 16 years and older, on the Upper Delaware River. New Jersey fishing licenses are not valid. Anglers must follow all laws and regulations. Please review the summary of laws that accompanies your license for information on size, creel limit, and open season. 

For more information, please see our fishing page.

River Safety 

• Wearing a life jacket is the #1 thing you can do to stay safe on the river. Make sure your life jacket fits snugly and is the correct size for you. Familiarize yourself with the life jacket rules of the river. 

• During all seasons, there is always a risk of hypothermia. Even during summer, water temperatures can remain cold. Always come prepared, check the weather forecast, wear appropriate clothing, and bring an extra set of dry clothes. 

• River conditions can change very quickly. Stay informed by calling the river hotline line at 845-252-7100 for daily information about river height, condition, and temperatures. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from May 1 to October 31. 

• Glass is prohibited on the river. Closed toed shoes are recommended to protect your feet. 

• The river is surrounded by private property. Please respect landowners and do not stop or get off on private property. 

Details

Activity

Fishing

A valid New York or Pennsylvania license is required for all anglers, 16 years and older, on the Upper Delaware River. New Jersey fishing licenses are not valid. 

Life jackets are required to be within reach for everyone when on a boat, tube, or any other vessel or watercraft. One life jacket is required per person. 

Life jackets are required to be worn for children 12 years old and younger at all times and for everyone when the river height is 6 feet or above, as measured at the Callicoon and Barryville gauges.

We strongly recommend keeping your life jacket on if you are simply wading in the water to fish and not on or in a boat.

Pets Allowed

Yes

You are welcome to enjoy the river with your pet. Dogs make great boat buddies, but there are some things to take into consideration before you get on the water. 

• Know your dog and their abilities, temperament, and stamina. A hot summer day on the river can be draining on people and pets. Know your limits. 

• A life jacket can save your pet if you capsize. Even though dogs can swim, river currents can be very swift and a life jacket will ensure peace of mind that your pet makes it back to shore. Do not tie your pet to your boat. 

• Respect wildlife and other visitors. Remember that when you get out onto a river access, your dog needs to be leashed in order to protect your pet, other visitors, and wildlife. 

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: There are no trash receptacles at river accesses. Help keep the park clean by picking up after your pooch and taking back with you any pet waste. 

• Ticks and snakes are both present in the park. Reduce the risk to your pet by keeping them out of tall grass and vegetation. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Upper Delaware River

Please see our public river accesses page for more information on locations where you can fish and put in/take out boats. River accesses are available on both the Pennsylvania and New York sides of the river.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Although the Upper Delaware River is open year-round to recreate. However, please take caution if fishing and recreating during colder months. At water temperatures of 70°F and below, there is an increased risk of cold water shock, which affects one’s ability to respond and recover after capsizing or falling into the water.  

Summer water temperatures range from 50°F - 90s (°F), with spring and fall being cooler. Winter water temperatures can fall below freezing by December. Please check the river temperatures before setting off on your trip and ensure you have the appropriate equipment to have a safe trip.

Time of Day

Day

Fishing and recreating in daylight is recommended in order to avoid any river hazards. 

Accessibility Information

Please see our public river accesses page for information on individual river accesses’ accessibility. Not all river accesses have boat ramps, and those that do are not always paved and are not ADA accessible accessible. Please see our accessibility page for information on which accesses have seasonal portable restrooms, and which have accessible restrooms. Some river accesses may require individuals to walk a distance over uneven terrain from the parking area to reach the water.