DNREC Fish and Wildlife reminds public that state-owned fishing areas are closed from sunset to sunrise to all but anglers 

DOVER (Nov. 10, 2011) – The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife would like to remind anglers and other visitors to state-owned fishing and wildlife areas that these areas are closed to public use during nighttime hours from sunset to sunrise – including parking lots and boat ramps.

“The only exception to this regulation is for those who are actively engaged in fishing,” said Chief James Graybeal of the Division’s Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section. “In the interests of public safety and our conservation mission, no one else is permitted to be in these areas after hours.”

The Division oversees conservation and resource protection of thousands of acres of state-owned wild lands throughout the state, including nearly 40 fishing ponds, more than 50 public boat ramps and several fishing piers. To inform visitors, many fishing areas have regulations posted regarding hours and activities. For example, new signage was recently posted at Woodland Beach fishing pier parking lot notifying visitors that the area is closed at night to all activities except fishing.

State wildlife areas – many of which are open to hunting in season during the day – are also closed to public use from sunset to sunrise. During daylight hours when hunting season is closed, these lands are open to the public for a variety of low-impact activities, including hiking, wildlife and bird watching, photography, fishing, hunting and boating. Visitors should check hunting season dates before entering these areas, especially in fall and winter. Shotgun deer season opens Friday, Nov. 11 through Saturday, Nov. 19.

For more information on state fishing access areas and wildlife areas, including locations, facilities, hunting and fishing opportunities and more, please visit the Division of Fish and Wildlife website at www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw.

 Vol. 41, No. 434