Early Bird Fishing

If you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed morning on the water with the chance to catch some fish, the Early Bird Fishing tour in Delaware might just be your ideal choice. This half-day trip offers an accessible, well-equipped experience led by knowledgeable crew members aboard the modern Miss Chris. What really sets this tour apart is its focus on inclusivity—offering fishing instruction for novices while also appealing to seasoned anglers wanting a quick, guided outing.

One thing we particularly appreciate is the attention to detail and safety, with the boat being United States Coast Guard inspected. That’s a reassurance for anyone new to fishing or boating, especially when venturing up to 10 miles offshore in either the Delaware Bay or the Atlantic Ocean. A potential consideration is the weather—since the trip runs rain or shine, you’ll want to dress appropriately and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, educational, and family-friendly outdoor activity. It’s ideal for those wanting a low-cost, value-packed introduction to saltwater fishing without the need for prior experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, this tour aims to make the experience memorable and straightforward.

Key Points

• Inclusive and beginner-friendly: Fishing instruction is included, making it accessible for novices.
• All gear provided: Rods, reels, bait, and tackle are included, minimizing hassle.
• Scenic and safe: The boat is Coast Guard inspected, with amenities like restrooms, an upper deck, and climate control.
• Flexible booking options: Reserve now, pay later, and enjoy full refunds if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
• Offshore experience: Fish in Delaware Bay or up to 10 miles offshore in the Atlantic Ocean.
• Comfortable onboard amenities: Snacks, sodas, and beers available for purchase, with a clean, air-conditioned environment.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Booking and Pricing

At $60 per person, this fishing trip offers great value—especially considering that all necessary equipment, bait, and fishing licenses are included. The flexible reservation system means you can secure your spot risk-free, paying only closer to the date. This convenience makes it appealing for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.

The Boat: Miss Chris

The Miss Chris is a well-maintained vessel measuring 90 feet, equipped with modern amenities that enhance comfort and safety. The boat boasts climate-controlled cabins, restrooms, an upper deck for better views, and a snack bar. These features are not just luxuries—they help ensure a comfortable experience during the 4-hour trip, no matter the weather.

Departures and Meeting Logistics

Participants are instructed to park at the yellow parking bumpers and check in at the Red Gift Shop for their Blue Boarding Pass. It’s worth arriving a little early to avoid any last-minute stress and to get familiar with the surroundings. The activity concludes back at the same meeting point, allowing for a straightforward, hassle-free experience.

What the Tour Includes

The crew aboard the Miss Chris—led by Captain Mike—are experienced and friendly, with a reputation for making fishing accessible and enjoyable. As one review mentions, “Our mates aboard the ship will instruct you how to use the fishing equipment and provide everything you need to fish!” Expect to receive fishing rods, bait, tackle, and instructions.

What to Expect During the Trip

On this morning trip, you’ll start with a brief safety and instruction session—perfect if you’re new to fishing. Then, the boat will stop at some of the favorite spots, either in Delaware Bay or the Atlantic Ocean. The boat stops to fish, so you won’t be constantly on the move. This setup allows for a more relaxed pace, giving everyone ample opportunity to cast lines and try their luck.

The cool breezes and low sun angles are often cited as ideal fishing conditions, with some claiming it produces more bites—though, of course, that’s part of the fun and part fish stories. The crew might even share some fishing tips or stories, adding to the friendly, communal vibe.

The Equipment and Bait

All necessary fishing gear is provided, which is a huge plus for travelers who don’t want the hassle of renting or bringing their own gear. However, there is a note of caution—if equipment is lost overboard, there could be a charge of about $150. So, it pays to handle your gear carefully.

Weather and Seasickness Considerations

Since the tour runs rain or shine, packing appropriate clothing is essential. Dress in layers and bring sunscreen—the sun can be strong, even on cloudy days. Some reviews suggest considering seasickness medication, as being offshore can sometimes be unsettling for sensitive stomachs.

Food and Drinks

While snacks, sodas, and beers can be purchased onboard, they’re not included in the ticket price. This allows for some flexibility—bring your preferences or enjoy the available options.

Duration and Group Size

The 4-hour duration is perfect for a quick escape without feeling rushed. The tour keeps group sizes manageable, ensuring everyone gets a chance to fish and enjoy the scenery. The English-speaking crew ensures clear communication, making it easy for everyone to follow instructions.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $60, you gain access to a well-equipped, guided fishing experience with all gear included. Knowing that the boat is Coast Guard inspected adds peace of mind, especially for beginners. The inclusive nature of the trip, with instruction and permits covered, means fewer hidden costs or hassles. The onboard amenities make longer trips more comfortable, and the flexible booking ensures you can plan with minimal stress.

While the trip is straightforward, it doesn’t skimp on the authentic fishing vibe. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone looking for a quick offshore fishing adventure, the Early Bird Fishing tour offers a friendly, reliable, and practical way to enjoy the waters off Delaware.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This trip is ideal for beginners wanting a guided, low-pressure introduction to saltwater fishing. It’s also great for groups or families seeking a fun, half-day outdoor activity. If you’re after affordable, straightforward fishing, with the comfort of modern amenities and safety, this tour checks all the boxes.

Travelers who enjoy sea breezes, scenic views, and the camaraderie of a shared adventure will find this trip particularly satisfying. However, those who are highly sensitive to motion sickness or prefer more luxurious, all-inclusive experiences might want to weigh those factors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes. The crew provides fishing instruction, making it accessible for those new to fishing or boating.

How long is the trip? The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, offering a relaxed pace with time to fish and enjoy the surroundings.

What is included in the price? All fishing gear, bait, tackle, instruction, and the federal fishing license for all aboard are included in the $60 fee.

Do I need my own fishing equipment? No, all necessary equipment is provided, but be careful with your gear to avoid losing it overboard, which could incur a fee.

Are there any amenities onboard? Yes, the boat features restrooms, an air-conditioned and heated cabin, an upper deck, and a snack bar with snacks, sodas, and beers available for purchase.

What should I wear? Dress for the weather—a layered approach with rain gear and sunscreen is advisable. The trip runs in all weather conditions, so check the forecast before heading out.

Can I cancel or reschedule? Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; reservation is flexible, allowing you to book now and pay later.

Is there parking available? Yes, but only where the crew directs. It’s best to park at the yellow bumpers and check in at the Red Gift Shop.

Final Thoughts

The Early Bird Fishing tour offers a practical, fun, and accessible way to experience saltwater fishing in Delaware. It combines safety, comfort, and inclusivity—making it suitable for beginners, families, and anyone eager to enjoy a morning on the water. The combination of modern amenities onboard, guidance from experienced crew, and all gear provided makes it a compelling choice for a low-stress fishing escapade.

This trip is especially well-suited for travelers who want to try fishing without investment in equipment or prior experience. The price point reflects good value, considering the safety measures and amenities. Whether you want to learn the basics, enjoy the scenic views, or just get out on the water for a few hours, this tour delivers a straightforward, enjoyable experience.

In summary, if you’re after an affordable, beginner-friendly, and scenic morning on the water, the Early Bird Fishing trip off Delaware is a solid choice. It combines the charm of local fishing traditions with practical comforts—making it a memorable and worthwhile outing for many types of travelers.