Nurse Shark

DE Nurse Shark Fishing Guide

DESaltwater
FishingDelaware2026

Nurse Shark s are easy to identify because of the barbels ("whiskers") near its nostrils. Nurse Shark s generally range from light yellowish tan to dark brown in color.

Habitat & Range

Nurse Shark s are usually found around deeper waters during the daytime and move into shallower waters after dark. A nocturnal predator, the Nurse Shark feeds primarily on fishes, skates, stingrays, octopi, squids, clams, shrimps, crabs, and lobsters.

Where to Fishing

Atlantic Ocean

Fishing Season

Jan. 1 - May 14July 16 - Dec. 31

Catch Limit: Boat anglers - only 1 shark of any species per vessel, except 1 additional bonnethead and 1 additional Atlantic sharpnose per angler onboard vessel. Shore anglers - only 1 shark of any species per angler, except 1 additional bonnethead and one additional Atlantic sharpnose per shore angler.Possession of oceanic white-tip sharks is prohibited.
Size Limit: 54 inches FORK LENGTH

Frequently Asked Questions

Fishing Tips

For Nurse Shark s , any natural bait (live or dead baitfish, cut baits, shrimp...etc.) will do for this not-so-picky eater.

References

State Category Directory Subcategory Content Source
Delaware Fishing Regulations Season Dates Jan. 1 - May 14July 16 - Dec. 31 Link