Gov. John Carney’s latest emergency order puts limits on recreation options for out-of-state visitors and First State residents when it comes to surf fishing.
State parks and wildlife areas remain open in Delaware but now with additional restrictions for out-of-staters.
DNREC Secretary Shawn Garvin says while residents should continue to social distance themselves when outdoors, anyone who entersDelaware from another state must self-quarantine for 14 days before taking part in any kind of outdoor recreation.
“That includes state parks. That includes going fishing. That includes going hunting," Garvin said.
Garvin adds surf fishing is limited for everyone. Only two people from the same household may accompany a vehicle onto the beach and both must be actively fishing at all times. And vehicles must also keep 20 yards away from each other.
He says the hope is to keep surf fishing available for everyone.
“We had gotten some requests and we reviewed that there were some folks who were looking for surf fishing as another means for gathering food, as well as another very limited opportunity for some recreation,” said Garvin.
Garvin also notes that those planning to use the state’s outdoor resources need to remember many amenities at state parks, wildlife areas and boat ramps, such as bathrooms and portable toilets, are now closed.
Although services are limited, outdoor recreation is still available in compliance with site rules, to include:
- birding
- cycling
- disc golf
- dog walking
- fishing in bays, ponds, rivers and streams
- drive-on surf fishing with restrictions
- hiking
- hunting
- jogging or running
The amenities not available, open and/or permitted include, but are not limited to:
- basketball courts
- camping
- gatherings of 10 or more people
- guided tours, events and programs
- playgrounds
- pavilions
- public park buildings: state park offices, nature centers
- restrooms
- rock climbing
- surfing and skimboarding
- walk-on surf fishing
- sea kayaking from the beach
- sunbathing on the beach
- Go Ape Course at Lums Pond
- The Brandywine Zoo
