Thinking to Start going for Smallmouth in the Delaware from NJ over the Summer

Casey337

New member
Hi all. I’m thinking about trying to target Smallmouth in the Delaware over the summer when it gets too hot for trout. I had a few questions or would love to hear any advice about getting started or suggestions.

Context:
- I picked up fly fishing ~1.5 years ago and would likely be going solo
- Currently have a 9’ 5wt but would consider buying a better suited rod
- I would be wading
- Recently moved down near the Princeton area, but would be willing to drive 1-1.5 hours (obviously prefer closer though)
- Up until now I’ve only gone up to the typical trout rivers or local lakes

Questions:
1. Not looking for specifics (unless you’d be ok sharing), but general area, where would be good given my situation?
2. Is it really even feasible or worthwhile with no boat?
3. Would it be possible to at least try it out with 9’5wt, or is a heavier rod necessary?
4. I’d also consider doing a guided trip to get an introduction to it, if it’s feasible; any recommendations on guides or outfitters to look into?
5. Suggestions for resources to learn more
6. Any other general advice (time of year/day, flies, etc.)

Thanks!
 
I don't think there is any area upstream from Lambertville where you can't find smallmouth. You can fish the river with either a PA or NJ license. You can enter from either shore with that license. Look at a map that shows entry points on both sides. Find the smaller ones and you will have less people fishing. I occasionally fish it in the summer although not last year. I usually use a an 8.5 5wt which I use for pretty much everything, but I think a 6wt would be better. I would start around Stockton and work my way upstream from there. I like to find places where there is enough shallow riffle an rapid water to keep away from boats, which will usually run the deepest channels. I would also figure out where the tubing services run people between and stay away on the weekends. I like to get on Riegelsville Rd from Milford, the kind of one lane road that is along the river, and get one of the little pull outs and walk down to the river. There are a couple just before the road heads away from the river a few miles upstream of Milford and I have fished there some and always had it to myself with no boat traffic on that side of the river. There is a lot of access on the PA side so don't just stick to the Jersey side.
 
The Delaware has fishable populations from bordentown (tidal) all the way to ny. Although it seems like below lambertville it can be hit or miss. Had some great October fishing near yardley up until Halloween this year. Closers and cactus minnows worked for me.
FWIW, fish and game rates the south branch raritan as the best smallie river in the state. But I don’t do well there usually. If you have a canoe or kayak access is much easier. But you don’t need a watercraft on the raritan. Lot smaller of a river.
 
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