Delaware State Record Striped Bass

photo credit: DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife

A new Delaware state record has been set for striped bass (rockfish). Ben Smith of Bryn Mar, Pa., was fishing in the surf at Delaware Seashore State Park on December 8th when he reeled in the record-setting striped bass. The 52 pound fish measured 51 inches long with a 30 inch girth.

The new state record fish was caught with a circle hook and braided line. Smith’s catch was measured and weighed using a certified scale at Old Inlet Bait & Tackle in Rehoboth Beach and then verified by Sr. Cpl. Douglas Messeck of DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section. The previous state record of 51 pounds, 8 ounces had stood since 1978.

The Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament is an annual program sponsored by the Division of Fish and Wildlife to promote recreational fishing opportunities in the state and recognize anglers for outstanding catches. For more information about the Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament, rules and a list of state record holders, anglers can obtain the 2012 Delaware Fishing Guide, call the Fisheries Section at 302-739-9914, or the DNREC website.

source: DNREC