This diverse 37-mile trail system offers stunning natural views, woodlands, streams, and plenty of room for pups to run and roam. The area is also renowned for its angling, featuring a stocked National Wild and Scenic River.
This park offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural history. From the Blue Rock cliff and its rock-climbing wall to the historic Blue Ball Barn and the Delaware Folk Art Collection it houses, there's something for everyone. Pups can also have fun at the accessible Can-do Playground and take a scenic walk along the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail, immerse yourself and your pup in all this Wilmington oasis has to offer.
This park offers plenty of room for your pup to explore, and the adjacent ocean treats them to a breath of fresh air. Head over to one of the eight beach access points for a refreshing swim, or simply relax on the sand. The park is also home to some of Delaware's most beloved wildlife.
Rugged landscapes and a bald cypress tree density make this park the perfect spot for a hike. Take the Pondside Loop Trail for spectacular views of the pond, or wander around the park's five ponds and see what you can find with your pup by your side.
This tranquil oasis gives your furry friend the chance to explore the beauty of Indian River Bay and the surrounding area. Keep your pup on a leash or just sit by the shore and relax. This is a great spot for a peaceful afternoon escape.
A scenic walk along the Delaware River is the ideal way to spend a day at this park. Dogs are also allowed to take a dip in the river and enjoy a cool, refreshing swim.
This 5,193 acre park is a great spot for beach lovers and your dog is allowed to join in on the fun. It's also home to some of the state's most beloved wildlife, so be sure to keep your pup on a leash at all times. There are also plenty of trails to explore, from the winding woodland trails to the scenic beach trails.
This park features an expansive loop trail as well as various watercraft rentals. The elevated boardwalk allows pedestrians and bikers to travel safely around the pond, while the park's state-of-the-art waterpark is a great spot for your pup to cool off after a long hike.
Pups can explore the DASEF facility and the nearby conservation area, and are even allowed to take a dip in the creek. There are also plenty of benches available for a pleasant, pup-friendly sit down.
This 1790 acre park is home to the largest freshwater pond in the state.The 66-acre pond, offers plenty of space for swimming and kayaking and is also home to various species of fish. There are plenty of trails to explore to get you and your pup’s energy going and get a good view of the pond's beauty.
]]>Founded in 1962, Old Inlet is a full-service bait and tackle shop located two miles north of the Indian River Inlet. For over 50 years Old Inlet has provided anglers an 8,500-item inventory, fishing information, and a full-service rod and reel repair shop. Recognizing that service after the sale is key ingredient to success, Old Inlet offers fishing reports, community events, and a charter directory right on their website.
Established in 1998, Ricks wishes all their customers, “calm seas and screamin’ reels.” With easy access to both the Rehoboth and Indian River Bays as well as the Atlantic Ocean, Rick’s caters to bay fishing, river fishing, and more. They love to help people grow their knowledge, enjoyment, and success in fishing, and they are committed to the practice of being sure clients receive the service they deserve, according to their website.
Captain Bones is a family owned fishing, hunting, and crabbing supply store and bait shop that has been in business since 1979. With a wide selection of sporting goods, they also have an awesome selection of duck and goose calls. Ask about their Bass Club Discount or peruse their great selection of freshwater and saltwater rods and reels, but if there is something you are looking for that they don’t have, they will find it and ship it.
A full fishing bait and tackle store, with crabbing supplies, live Maryland crab, apparel, travel coffee mugs, and more, the Master Baiter goes by the slogan, “It’s hard to beat our bait.” And speaking of bait, choose from fresh or frozen razor clams, fresh bunker, chicken necks, minnows, blood worms, night crawlers, salted eel, and shiners.
Fenwick Tackle is a full line tackle and bait shop offering crabbing supplies, fresh and frozen baits, beach supplies, and more. You know you’ve hit the right tackle shop when older folk stop to swap stories. Get night crawlers, minnows, shiners, razor clams, and more, plus a knowledgeable staff that will get you the right bait for the fish.
It doesn’t get much more remote than Lighthouse View Bait and Tackle Shop, a small family-run shop located inside of Cape Henlopen State Park on the fishing pier. Established in 2012, find huge bull minnows, clamming classes, a friendly and knowledgeable staff, and great advice on what is hitting the line by feel.
Opened in 2012, Jim’s offers fresh and frozen live bait for fresh and saltwater fishing, as well as tackle, rods and reels, rod repair, boat accessories, crab and clamming gear, and boat storage. The place is family owned and operated and one of the few freshwater fishing retailers on this side of the bay.
Opened in 2010, this little store with a big heart offers all your bait and tackle needs. Get info on what is currently biting and where to head along with tactics for fishing crab, freshwater fish, saltwater fish, and more. Find fair prices, high-quality gear, and the freshest bait at Dan’s Tackle Box.
Bill's Sport Shop has one of Delmarva's largest selections of offshore, inshore, and pier bait and tackle for all your fishing needs. And don’t forget about boat charters. First Light Charters fishes out of Lewes Harbor Marina and the Indian River. They offer fly fishing, light tackle, wreck fishing, eco/ sightseeing tours, and night fishing trips.
Get frozen and fresh bait, like bunker, bloods, clams and mullets. Plus, find tackle, gear and more at the Ice House. Oh and don’t forget about charter services as Captain Les Clemmer and the Martha Marie troll the bay and open waters.
]]>If you are looking for high-quality archery equipment, you have come to the right spot. Get high-end compound bows and crossbows, and other stuff that hunters can rely on. Feel confident hunting deer, bear, and more with premium bows and accessories from Black Bear. Plus, find equipment from brands like Bowtech, TenPoint, Parker, and more.
Bringing high-quality archery equipment to hunters of all ages, Hunters Haven has got all of your archery needs in one spot. With an archery technician on hand daily, this spot features gear from Obsession, Bear, Parker, Easton, Beman, and much more.
Kelly’s is a full-service archery pro shop. Not only do they sell top-notch equipment, like TenPoint crossbows and Mission Craze but they will service any bow or crossbow. The terms knowledge, attention to detail, and personal service are all synonymous with Kelly’s when you look at their reviews, so check out their professional staff and gear today.
Established in 1961, the Cabela’s store in the Christiana Mall boasts an expansive 110,000 square-feet of space. Find great outdoor products, a walk-through aquarium, an indoor archery test area and an in-store restaurant. Plus, order online and pick up in-store. Find equipment from Bear, Diamond, Scott, and more.
With a knowledgeable on-site bow technician, First State sells equipment like the PSE RDX 365 the Bowtech Prodigy, the Bowtech Carbon Rose, and the Stryker crossbow. With an in-house shooting range and friendly and well-informed staff, First State is a great choice for all of your bow hunting needs. Plus, don’t forget about their excellent repair service and their informational blog featuring videos and more.
Big Shot not only makes targets, but it has also introduced the first affordable hunt simulator, which allows one to shoot a personalized buck composite made from trail cam pictures. You’ll find other targets like zombies, digital deer, and lots of other games as well.
Deer Creek Archery has a 50-yard indoor range and is equipped with a full set of motion targets set at 20-50 yards. Rated as the top pro shop and range in Maryland by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, you can shop Mission and Mathews compound bows, find pro tips, and more. Plus, see tips, tricks, videos, and more on their website.
Find high-quality and dependable handcrafted longbows and recurves by Leon Stewart, custom bowyer, at Stewart’s Archery. Stewart’s Archery has over 25 years of experience behind their reputation. Their quality and integrity shows through with every custom-made bow, and they can build
Cypress Creek has been in business for over 10 years and is locally owned and operated. Plus, both owners are certified bow technicians and have years of experience in archery, weapons, and fishing. What’s more, they carry a full line of bows and accessories, guns and ammo, fishing gear, decoys, rain gear, calls and more. And after buying a product, they give the customer free shooting time and services at the pro shop.
Made in the USA with features like a quiet limb design, firearms grade trigger, and an anti-dry fire system that won't damage your bowstring, their products are smooth, accurate, and powerful. Plus, they educate and offer advance knowledge about archery, target shooting, traditional archery, recurve and longbows, crossbows, hunting in general, and archery hunting.
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If you’re into paddling and primitive camping, you’ll want to plan your next adventure here. The 92-mile waterway takes you along a middle-of-nowhere journey that’s nothing short of breathtaking. There are also tons of hiking trails to explore, along with old railroads and trains that make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
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The Genesee River and gorge create a beautiful backdrop for camping. In the fall, the bursts of bright orange, red, and yellow along the river gorge make the entire trip worthwhile. With river rafting and more than 66 miles of hiking trails, it’s no surprise this park has been voted the number one attraction in New York State.
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By far one of the most diverse parks in Connecticut, Rocky Neck is simply stunning year-round. The area is teeming with birds and other wildlife, which are best seen from the viewing platforms in the saltwater marsh. Beautiful beaches, saltwater fishing and swimming, camping, and hiking make this the perfect site for families.
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One of Vermont’s most visited parks, Little River is a destination for campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts. The site was once an early settlement that later become flooded, and you can still see the remnants of old saw mills, cemeteries, bridges, and other vestiges.
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Home of the historic Turkey Point Lighthouse, this state park remains a family favorite place to stay and play. Most notable are the miles of diverse hiking trails, including a challenging-yet-rewarding three-mile trek to the White Clay Cliffs that overlook the Chesapeake Bay.
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This year the annual Sea Witch Festival features not only the traditional parade but a fiddlers contest, and dog costume march, and tons of vendors and shops. Established in 1990, the festival is named after a clipper ship named the Sea Witch and festivities take place from at the end of October.
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Abbott’s Mill Nature Center is the ideal place to bask in the beautiful weather that fall brings. This center is fully equipped for a nature-packed fall day with woodlands to explore, a 200-year-old Historic Working Mill available to tour, gardens, hiking trails, and many more features. Admire the flora and fauna in the 376-acre Milford Millponds Nature Preserve where Abbot’s is located. Pack a thermos of hot apple cider and bring snacks so you can spend the whole day.
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They don’t call the First State one of the most haunted states in American for nothing, and the multiple scream houses you will find there only add to the horror of a good haunting. So this fall, find your way through fright mazes of play paintball with some zombies, as you will find no less than six acres of oceanfront property dedicated to frightening your pants off.
View this post on Instagramwas a great night thanks to you guys!!⤠#genoistherealmvp #abbieandmaggiearebabies
What is more Fall-like than a pumpkin patch, pick-your-own apples, a giant corn maze, and wagon rides? All of that plus local honey, fresh cider, local produce, on-site restrooms, and baked goods, of course. And, to enjoy all of these spoils of the Fall in the Delmarva region there is no better place to go than Fifer Orchards, tucked away in the back-country region of The First State.
Perhaps one of the best ways to see Delaware's Atlantic coastline, the Bayshore Byway follows the Delaware River into Delaware Bay. Plus, you will travel along the “largest preserved coastal marshland on the east coast” with almost 100 miles of travel time along the First State’s historic Route 9.
Camping in the cooler months can be a very rewarding experience. Is highly underrated. Spending the day exploring Killens Pond State Park, then coming back to your campsite to cook campfire cuisine, while sitting by the warm fire under the clear night sky is an experience for the books. This campground is situated on the 66-acre millpond. Bring your kayak get take out on the lake and view the beautiful golden leaves from a different perspective.
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Much like the Spirits Trail, The Delaware Outdoor Trail is a collection of places and event all within traveling distance of each other, only the idea behind this trail is that you walk it. Just download their Passport from the website, pick your spots, and go on your way to experience the sights and sounds of the Delaware outdoor. From walking to hiking, biking, and water sports, this trail is chock-o-block full of fun activities for the whole family.
The Kalmar Nyckel is an authentic seaworthy replica of a 17th-Century Dutch Pinnace, and it offers day-sailing, pirate excursions, and river cruises throughout the summer and to the end of October. Celebrate fall in authentic colonial style, as the crew dons pirate and sailor garb and raises the Jolly Roger, setting sail on the Delaware River and in the Bay.
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There is nothing better than combating the cold weather coming in than jogging up your heart rate with some of the best physical activity there is: hiking. There are more than 37 miles to trek through, most being easy-moderate hikes. Not only will you be getting steps in, but you’ll be able to educate yourself of the many historical features throughout the park, such as the immaculate Judge Morris Estate built in 1790.
]]>Likewise, bass fishing is starting to pick up again as the weather begins to cool. Huge schools of threadfin shad are starting to filter away from open-water ledges into bays and tributaries where feeding conditions and water temperatures are more optimum.
Bass follow the food, first setting up on ledges at the mouths of inlets and creeks to waylay shad, then migrating back toward shallower water to keep up with their quarry.
Fall Script for Southern Bass
Bass rule in Dixie and cooler weather brings out an army of anglers who go after them. Whether largemouth, smallmouth or spotted bass, they’re available in most waters and sometimes all three varieties are present in a fishery, ready to aggravate or gratify those who seek them.
Hot Spots To Fish: When it comes to the South’s best lakes for fall fishing, the big TVA impoundments fit the bill. Because this is bass tournament country, dozens of YouTube videos and Facebook sites of pro anglers offer useful advice on where and how to catch autumn largemouths. Likewise, guide services are plentiful; just Google “fishing guides” for the lake you’re visiting or type in the town nearest the lake you wish to fish on the interactive map on this page.
Tackle You’ll Need: A 7-foot medium/heavy rod such as the St. Croix Premier Cranking, a baitcasting reel like the Abu Garcia Revo Winch and 10- to 14-pound-test monofilament makes a good combination to fish downsized lures.
Quick tip: This is strictly a match-the-hatch deal. Use lures that are about the same size as wandering shad. If young-of-the-year threadfins are on the bass menu, try small swim baits fished on drop-shot rigs.
Best Lures/Baits: Shad-colored, shallow- and medium-diving square-billed or coffin-billed crankbaits are autumn standouts. Popular lures include the Strike King 6XD, Bandit 100 or 200, Duo Realis M65, Livetarget Magnum Shad BaitBall Squarebill, Megabass S-Crank, Lucky Craft Squarebill 2.5, Storm Arashi and Rapala Shad Rap.
Fish them around shoreline cover and on the flats between creek drop-offs and the bank. Other fallback baits include spinnerbaits like the Booyah Super Shad, Stanley Vibrashaft and Nichols Pulsator. Good buzzbait options can be found from Lunker Lure, Damiki, Santone and Dirty Jigs.
Find the best fishing spots near you:
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
Rendezvous With Redfish
Along the northern Gulf Coast from Carrabelle, FL, to Grand Isle, LA, the redfish season begins in late September and continues in stages through December. Some anglers fish in the surf with cut bait, while others station themselves on area piers or in boats on relatively shallow flats near channel cuts.
Hot Spots To Fish: For boating anglers, a couple of spots stick out. Pensacola Bay Pass is a must-fish for boaters. Anchor up on the broad flat between old Fort Pickens and the channel, set out lines as the tide changes to incoming, and hang on. Need more help? Redfish University Pensacola Fishing Charters (850-748-4368, redfishuniversity.com) specializes in the big drum.
At Grand Isle, LA, book a trip with Gotta Go Fishing Charters (225-921-3642, gottagofishingcharters.com). The marshes and inshore waters around Venice, LA, are primo redfish haunts as well. Captain Mike Frenette (504-782-0924, laredfish.com or ([email protected]) is a top guide here.
Tackle You’ll Need: “Rat” reds of 3 pounds and up, or real bruisers weighing in excess of 20 pounds require a range of tackle options. Bass fishing tackle – whether spinning or baitcasting – is perfect for handling smaller fish and for casting jigs or swimbaits that weigh less than an ounce. A Shimano Stradic spinning reel and 7-foot medium-action Shimano Compre rod with 14-pound-test monofilament.
For bigger fish, consider a Penn Battle II BTLII5000 with 20-pound-test monofilament or 40-pound-test braid, and a 30-pound-test fluorocarbon leader. A 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod (such as the Penn Battalion BATIN1220S70) should handle any bait rigs or lures and wear down a bull redfish in short order.
Quick Tip: Incoming tides in late evening or at night are primo times for reds as the fish free-spawn then in the mouths of coastal bays and estuaries. If you can’t fish any other time, make sure you fish the incoming tides.
Best Lures/Baits: Redfish aren’t particular about their dietary requirements and will eat anything from blue crabs to halved mullet. Swimming spoons such as the Johnson Sprite (johnsonfishing.com), swimbaits and jigs or even topwater poppers, such as the Heddon Saltwater Spook, will elicit strikes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish
Hot Spots To Fish: Deservedly, Montauk, NY at the eastern end of Long Island is considered a storied mecca for striped bass fishermen. If you’re not going surf fishing on the beach or fishing from a jetty, Gone Fishing Marina (631-668-3232, gonefishingmarina78.com) can set up a charter trip for you. If it’s booked up, try Star Island Yacht Club (631-668-5052, starislandyc.com) or Montauk Marine Basin (631-668-5900, marinebasin.com).
Find the best fishing spots near you:
- Connecticut
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C.
Down south, talk to the folks at Captain Hogg’s Charter Service (757-876-1590, captainhoggscharters.com) about fishing around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Overdrawn Charters (252-202-4623, overdrawncharters.com) in Manteo, N.C. can help as well.
Tackle You’ll Need: Stick with 30- to 50-pound braid or monofilament and a 60-pound-test shock leader of fluorocarbon, with saltwater-ready spinning tackle heavy enough to handle 10- to 14-foot rods. Penn, Quantum and Okuma specialize in fairly inexpensive surf-fishing rods, and reels to match. If you have a reel, but no rod yet, the new Black Inshore Rods from Lamiglas are up to the task. The five spinning and five casting models range from a 6-foot, 10-inch light finesse spinning rod to a 7 ½-foot casting rod rated for lures from 3 to 12 ounces in weight.
Quick tip: The most successful anglers are those who spot gulls or other wheeling seabirds feeding on baitfish driven to the top by stripers and who then cast into the melee without dispersing the bass. From a boat, the trick is to approach schools carefully and take advantage of wind or tide to drift to within casting range. The stripers will stay up as long as the baitfish are hemmed against the surface.
Best Lures/Baits: The 4 1/2-inch Acme Kastmater XL spoon, the 1 ½-ounce Odin Popper, and the 5-inch pencil popper from Tsunami are popular artificials up and down the Atlantic seaboard. Other popular options include the 6- or 7-inch Savage Gear Sandeel Swimbait, 9-inch Sassy Shad swimbait and the 6-inch Rapala X-Rap SubWalk.
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C.
- West Virginia
For anglers who’d rather soak baits from a boat or in the surf, live or cut bait, such as Atlantic menhaden (peanut bunker), herring, porgies, eels, bloodworms, anchovies and mullet, can flip the switch on chaotic striper blitzes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish
Islamorada, in the Florida Keys, is the self-proclaimed “Sportfishing Capital of the World”—and you know, it just may be. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Florida Bay on the other, Islamorada is exceptionally well positioned to offer a tremendous variety of fishing opportunities, including inshore, offshore, reef fishing, and flats fishing. So, whether you’re targeting tarpon, trolling for tuna, or stalking snook, you’ll find a fishery in close proximity to the island.
The Hadley House Resort, located right on Islamorada, is one of the best lodging values on the key. Hit Florida Bay for some “backcountry” fishing (inshore and flats) with Pirate for Hire Charters, or head offshore on one of Dirty Boat Charters’ trips.
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Venice, Louisiana, is another U.S. fishing Mecca with its own title—alternately known as the Redfish or Fishing “Capital of the World”—that derives from its unique location, which places it at the center of a variety of fisheries: Inshore, offshore, bottom fishing, and even freshwater bass fishing. You could catch a bull redfish and trophy largemouth in the morning and bring home yellowfin tuna steaks for dinner in the afternoon.
Stay at Nicole’s Fishing Bed and Breakfast, which partners with several local houseboats to provide accommodation for visiting anglers. To hunt trophy-size inshore species like bull redfish, tarpon or speckled trout, hook up with Reel Tite Fishing Guide Service. Voodoo Fishing Charters will put you on the offshore species, like yellowfin tuna and mahi mahi.
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The Kona Coast of the Island of Hawaii (the Big Island) is yet-another destination that draws sport anglers from all over the world. Kailua-Kona’s large charter fleet is testament to the large numbers of marlin, tuna, and mahi mahi that make their home in the warm Hawaiian waters. Shore anglers can get in one some of the Big Island’s massive ulua (giant trevally) action—if you can get a local to tell you where to go.
Camelot Kona Fishing Charters is a skilled and respected charter outfit that has been putting people on fish for more than four decades. The Royal Kona Resort, on the bay in Kailua-Kona, is just minutes from the marina and is a great place to stay and relax after a long day on the water.
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Largemouth anglers have it tough in the winter time, especially in the more-northern latitudes of the United States. Well, here’s some good news to soothe your winter bassin’ blues: One of the Lone Star State’s best largemouth fisheries is located deep in South Texas, along the Mexican border. On Falcon International Reservoir, more commonly called Falcon Lake, the day time air temperatures during the winter months average in the 70s and 80s. You won’t even need a jacket.
Falcon Lake is an impoundment of the Rio Grande, just southeast of Laredo. The 83,000-acre lake is a renowned largemouth bass and catfish fishery. Five and six-pound bucketmouths are not uncommon. If you’re looking for a different kind of challenge, Falcon Lake also supports a decent alligator gar population. The lake does straddle the border, so if you intend to fish in Mexican waters, you will need a Mexico fishing license. If you don’t bring your own, you can rent a boat from Falcon Lake Marina. Lakefront Lodge offers a variety of accommodations, from RV sites to motel rooms and rental cabins.
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St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is another sunny island destination you can reach without a passport. And the flight is definitely worth it! More than 20 IGFA world records have been set by angler’s fishing out of the Virgin Islands, including the women’s all-tackle record for blue marlin, which was set by a 1,073-pound monster billfish. The islands’ location on the edge of the Puerto Rico Trench and in close proximity to the Gulf Stream make the USVI the perfect launching point for hunting big pelagic species, ranging from massive marlin to trophy tuna.
Consider Point Pleasant Resort, not far from Red Hook, for lodging. Double Header Sportfishing will get you out to the fish.
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The beautiful Shawnee Mountain Ski Area boasts 125 acres of skiable terrain, 23 pristine trails, a high-speed, four-person lift, two terrain parks, and even a snow tubing park for the little ones who don’t quite know how to ski or snowboard yet. A family-oriented resort, Shawnee boasts excellent children’s programs, beginners’ packages, and terrain suitable for all skill levels.
Two hours east of downtown Wilmington is a destination that offers a skiing and snowboarding extravaganza. Round Top is a full-service resort and once the weather hits 32 degrees, those snow guns are blasting. At Round Top, you’ll find easy to extremely difficult trails, freestyle terrain areas, and a terrain park.
A little under three hours away is a resort with a top elevation of 1,800 feet, a 935 foot vertical drop, 23 trails, nine lifts, and two terrain parks. At Whitetail you’ll also find on-site ski patrol, restaurants, a pro shop, a snow school, and a kids mountain camp.
About 3.5 hours away in the state next door, is a cross-country skiing destination like no other. Savage River Lodge is surrounded by more than 700 acres of State Forest lands. From romantic weekends to family getaways, you can put on your skis and ski for day without seeing a single soul.
If you are a hardcore ski enthusiast, there is no amount of travelling you won’t do to find great packed powder. Well, at just over four hours driving time away, Massanutten is a fantastic choice for those seeking a full weekend getaway in the mountains of Virginia. With 1,110 feet of vertical trails, you’ll enjoy spending the day at Massanutten.
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The Fred Rust Ice Arena (University of Delaware Ice Arena) is a multi-purpose arena on the campus that houses two ice sheets the main ice arena. Featuring hockey programs, figure skating, and Learn-T-Skate, this University of Delaware arena is also home to the Delaware Blue Hens. Plus, this has been the home to many Olympians in training, like Tara Lipinski, Kimmie Meissner, Johnny Weir, Tiffany Scott.
The Centre Ice Rink is a 49,000-square-foot facility built in 2002 that hosts activities like hockey, figure skating, and public skating during the winter months. Located at the Delaware State Fairgrounds, this area also has bumper cars! Is there anything like zipping across the ice and bumping into your friends? It’s sure to be a good time.
A unique winter holiday attraction along the riverfront is a temporary, outdoor ice skating rink. This family-geared, outdoor ice skating rink offers fun for all ages and can accommodate around 350 skaters. What’s more, it’s open seven days a week with skate sharpening, rentals, a heated hut, and more.
This ice rink, with a pro shop and a cafe, offers both public lessons and league play for ice-skating and hockey. Find Learn-To-Skate programs, learn to play hockey programs, private skating or hockey instruction, stick and puck sessions, public skating, and cosmic skating with a DJ and disco lights. Plus, this is the home of the Delaware Ducks and the Pond Penguins, both non-profit youth hockey organizations, and Pond Cafe serves up toasty favorites all year round.
The Skating Club of Wilmington has been teaching the community to skate since 1965 when it started as a private club. Their programs feature “parent-and-tot classes,” figure skating, ice dance, pairs, synchro teams, and hockey. The club encourages skating as a family sport, where children, parents, and sometimes grandparents can enjoy together. They have even had some folks in their 70s and 80s out on the ice.
Just over 20 minutes from Wilmington, the IceWorks Skating Complex opened up in 1997 and now offers three NHL-size rinks and one Olympic sized rink in a single facility. You will also find an on-site restaurant, pub and grill, pro shop, and an arcade. Plus, as you might imagine, the facility supports over 180 hockey teams at a variety of levels, including college, youth, high school, and adult leagues.
Only 20 minutes away, the Blue Cross RiverRink, is Philadelphia’s largest outdoor ice skating rink. Open seven days a week, the park in which the arena sits includes an opulent and glowing space featuring outdoor seating areas set up by fire pits, wonderful warming cabins, a kid’s lodge with arcade games, and to top it off, a chalet-inspired dining lodge with food and drink from local restaurants.
Supporting hockey, lessons, public skating, ice rentals, parties, and more the Springfield Ice Skating Center is pretty much up for anything. Home to the Springfield Hockey League, the rink hosts youth and adult team and offers skating lessons to beginners and advanced skaters. You’ll also find rentals, heated changing rooms, and more.
If you are in southern Delaware, your best bet for ice skating would be to hop over the border and go to Carousel Ice Rink. This rink is actually inside of a hotel. It offers public skating to hotel guests and non-guests as well as live ice shows featuring the Next Ice Age skaters and a stunning light display. Plus, they cater birthdays and other special events!
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Offering expert ski boot and snowboard boot fittings, the Ski Bum carries tons of items for winter sports. Established in 1974, they have been carrying ski and snowboard equipment for almost 50 years. Get products from brands like the North Face, Burton, Spyder, and more. Shop in-store or online, and shipping is free on purchases of $50 or more.
The REI in Newark carries all kinds of outdoor gear including skis and snowboard, apparel, footwear, and more. Get skis from Atomic, Rossignol, Salomon, Blizzard, and more, plus find snowboard from Burton, Jones, and Arbor. And don’t miss bindings, poles, goggles, and other accessories from this retailer with a massive inventory.
Established in 1994, Switch is a full-service retail snow and skateboarding store. Offering the best professional equipment at fair prices, the shop is 100 percent rider-owned-and-operated. Plus, with a knowledgeable staff that is passionate about riding, you won’t get sold a bunch of stuff you don’t need.
Established in 1987, Buckmans is a family owned and operated ski and snowboard shop with multiple locations. Get skis from Rossignol, Nordica, and Volkl or snowboards from Burton, Rome, and GNU. Plus, find boots, bindings, heaters and dryers, goggle, helmets, and more. Order at one of their stores or shop online. And don’t forget to check out their website for ski trips and events.
Cabin Craft carries hard and soft gear for all of your winter sports activities, and the shop aims to make all customers “feel like family,” just as it did when it opened in 1971. Featuring snowboards from Arbor, Burton, K2, Marhar , and Rome, they also sell skis from Elan, Atomic, and more, and there is also an on-site repair shop.
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Camping at Seashore State Park is available year-round at select campsite locations along the Indian River Inlet. With RV hookups, bathroom facilities, camping areas, and more, these sites are within walking distance of the Atlantic Ocean and are not far from restaurants, boat rentals, bait shops, and even a life-saving station. Lots of water and sand mark this unique camping experience.
There are few places to ride your ATV in the First State due to strict environmental laws, but the privately-owned track for motorbikes and ATV’s at Snakecreek features a pee-wee motocross course as well as a full-sized racing one. It’s less than an hour away from the beach, and you will find big air jumps and loamy but well-maintained soil.
In Killens Pond State Park you’ll find the 75-acre Killens Pond. The pond is said to be home to “largemouth bass, catfish, carp, perch, crappie, bluegills, and pickerel”. While summer is the most popular time to come, winter rewards you with an ice fishing experience that will test your patience and bring out your pure love of fishing. If you don’t have the patience to ice fish, there are events going on throughout the colder months, such as hikes, birding, environmental conservation seminars, and more. Make sure you have proper permits as well as knowledge of fishing laws and regulations.
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It doesn’t get cold enough for ponds and lakes to freeze over in The First State. However, luckily, there is a fantastic 49,000-square-foot ice center in the middle of the Delaware State Fairgrounds less than an hour away from Seashore State Park. This large rink offers public skating, learn-to-skate lessons, and the famous “bumper cars on ice!”
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Two types of hunting are allowed at the Seashore State Park. Hunting for waterfowl usually opens round the end of October/beginning of November and runs through the end of January, while deer hunting runs for a bit longer throughout January, featuring archery, muzzleloader, and shotgun seasons. In order to hunt, you must follow state laws and obtain a legal hunting license in Delaware.
Located in the Seashore State Park, the Indian River Life-Saving Station was established in 1876 to rescue shipwrecked sailors along the Delaware coast. Having recently been restored to its former 1905 glory, the station now serves as a maritime museum, offering tours, exhibits, workshops, presentations, and more.
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Next, we head back to the races track, as nothing could be more fitting in this NASCAR state. The Midway Speedway Park is located just minutes from the Seashore State Park, and it features three parks in one. You get go-kart racing, mini golf, and a water park all in one convenient location. Plus, an off-season spin around the track means short lines and more time burning rubber on over 10 different styles of go-karts.
Finally, top off your day with a visit to Dogfish Head’s restaurant and pub. With locally sourced seafood, a raw bar, and cold brews from the brewery/distiller out back, Chesapeake & Maine is sure to hit that sweet spot in briny and savory, hoppy and sudsy. Plus, you will find hand-crafted cocktail and a pub menu that features fresh lobster rolls, crab cakes, oyster po’boys, and more.
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Ice fishing differs greatly from open-water fishing, and it is a demanding sport. It requires an understanding of and an ability to cope with winter weather, knowledge of the cold-weather habits of the fish, and the use of an unusual assortment of gear, most of it unique to ice fishing.
There are two basic ice-fishing methods: tip-up fishing and jigging. In general, tip-ups are usually used on larger fish—pike, pickerel, walleyes, trout, and such—that prefer bait and require the angler to play the waiting game. Jigging is usually preferred for smaller fish that tend to school up—bluegills, perch, crappies, and the like. But these are merely generalizations, not hard-and-fast rules. For example, jigging (sometimes called chugging) is often quite productive on big lake trout and salmon in the Great Lakes.
Also called tilts, these come in various styles, but they all perform two basic functions: they hold a baited line leading from a revolving-type reel spool, and they signal the bite of a fish. The most common type of tip-up consists of three strips of wood, each about 18 inches long. Two are cross pieces that form an X as they span the hole. The third piece is an upright; at its bottom end is attached a simple line-holding spool, while the upper end holds the signaling device. The signal is usually a piece of very flexible spring steel with a red (some anglers prefer black) flag on the end. After the hook is baited and lowered to the desired depth, the steel arm is “cocked”—bent over and down and hooked onto a “trigger.” When a fish strikes, an arm on the revolving spool releases the steel arm and it flies erect.
In this type of tip-up, the reel is positioned underwater. In other variations, the reel is positioned above the ice. Each type has its advantages. The above-the-ice reel can be more sensitively adjusted for light-biting fish, but the line tends to freeze on the reel once it gets wet. The underwater reel largely eliminates the problem of freezing, but the fisherman must remove the tip-up from the hole before he can grab the line.
Baits for tip-up fishing are usually live. In general, it pays to match the size of the bait to the size of the fish you’re after. Baits range from tiny maggots (often called mousies) and grubs for panfish, to worms and small minnows for walleyes, and up to 6-inch baitfish for pike.
As done by ice fishermen, jigging is simply a method of imparting an up-and-down movement to a lure or bait. Jigging can be—and is—done with any sort of line-holding rod or stick.
Some jigging rods—more appropriately called sticks—are simply pieces of wood 18 inches or so long, with U-shaped notches in each end. The line—10-pound-test monofilament is very popular—is wound lengthwise onto the stick around the U-shaped notches and is paid out as needed. There are other types of jigging sticks of varying designs, and many ice anglers use standard spinning or spincast rods or the butt half of a fly rod.
Rods made specially for ice jigging are simple affairs consisting of a fiberglass tip section that is 2 or 3 feet long seated in a short butt. The butt may have a simple revolving-spool reel or merely a pair of heavy-wire projections around which the line is wound. The tip section may have two to four guides, including the tip guide. The shortness of such a rod lets the user fish up close to the hole and have better control over the lure or bait at the end of his line.
There are many and varied jigging lures and baits, but flashiness is built into most of them. Others produce best when “sweetened” with bait. Two popular jigging lures are: an ungainly looking critter with a heavy body shaped and painted to resemble a baitfish, a hook at each end and a treble hook in the middle of its underside, and a line-tie ring in the middle of its upper surface; and a long, slim, three- or four-sided, silvery model with a treble hook at one end and a line-tie ring at the other.
Jigging methods vary with the fisherman and with the fish being sought. However, a productive way to fish many jigging lures, especially flashier types, is to twitch the lure slightly and then jerk it suddenly upward with a quick upward movement of the arm. The proper interval between jerks is learned with experience.
Popular jigging baits include a single perch eye (either impaled on a small hook or used to sweeten a tiny hair or rubber-bodied ice fly), worms, grubs, maggots, insect larvae, minnows, and cut bait (pieces of skin or flesh that are cut from the tail or body of such fish as smelt and perch).
Jiggers tend to move around more than tip-up fishermen, boring holes in different areas until they find a productive spot.
Like most other forms of fishing, ice angling requires some auxiliary equipment. Most ice anglers prefer to keep such gear to a minimum, for they have to haul it with them wherever they go on the ice.
If you’re going to fish through holes in the ice, you need something to make those holes. The ice auger is a popular tool for this job. Augers come in different designs. One has a long handle with a U-shaped bend at the top, and a rounded cutting blade at the bottom. The handle is turned much like that of a manual drill, and the blade cuts a round hole through the ice. Another type looks like a giant ice drill with sharp, widely spaced threads. It is used in the same way. Gasoline-powered ice drills are also available.
Then there’s the ice spud or chisel. This is a heavy metal handle with a large, chisel-type blade at the bottom. The spud’s weight helps the angler punch down through the ice, but the user must shape the hole once he has broken through.
An indispensable item of accessory gear is the ice skimmer, a ladle-type device that is used to keep the hole clear of ice chips and chunks and to skim ice. A heavy sinker will serve the same purpose.
Many ice anglers like to use an attached spring clip. It is attached to the fishing line and used to determine the water depth—an important factor because in winter most game fish are found on or near the bottom.
Winter is the time of year when ice fishermen venture out onto frozen waters. Most will have fun, but a few will get into trouble because they don’t know how to make sure that the ice is safe. The first rule is never take chances. There are two periods when accidents are likely to happen: early in the season when slush ice doesn’t freeze uniformly and late in the season when ice melts at an uneven rate. It takes prolonged periods of freezing to make ice safe. Here are some rules to remember:
• Be cautious of heavy snowfalls while ice is forming. Snow acts as an insulator. The result is a layer of slush and snow on top of treacherous ice.
• Clear, solid river ice is 15 percent weaker than clear lake ice.
• River ice is thinner midstream than near the banks.
• River mouths are dangerous because currents create pockets of unsafe ice.
• When walking with friends, stay 10 yards apart.
• Lakes that have a lot of springs will have weak spots of ice.
About the author:
Vin T. Sparano is the author of Complete Outdoors Encyclopedia as well as three other guides for Rizzoli.
He has been an outdoor editor and writer for more than fifty years. He is editor emeritus of Outdoor Life, and has written and edited more than fifteen books about the outdoors. In 2013, he was inducted into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame.
]]>Located just outside the village of Berlin, Jericho Mountain State Park is one of the newest additions to the New Hampshire State Park system. The park boasts dozens of miles of trails across beautiful terrain that includes forest, mountains, lakes, and streams. The trails within Jericho Mountain State Park also connect with other local trail networks, such as the Success City Trail, so that riders have near-unlimited room in which to ride and days-worth of exploring to do. Ride-in, ride-out camping is available in the park, near the visitor’s center at Jericho Lake. Every August, the park hosts the annual Jericho ATV Festival, which consists of food, music, and lots and lots of mud. Be sure to check state laws and park rules for licensure, age, and safety gear requirements.
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Tall Pines ATV Park is located in western New York, near the Pennsylvania border. With more than 70 miles of groomed and forested trails—as well as mud bogs and an obstacle course—Tall Pines has something to offer riders of all experience levels. Accommodations, in the form of rental cabins, are located on the Tall Pines premises. The Hann Homestead Inn, just minutes from Tall Pines, offers a lodging alternative.
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Located in western Maine, near the state’s borders with Canada and New Hampshire, “The Forks” is the area surrounding the confluence of the Kennebec and Dead Rivers. Several ATV clubs in the Upper Kennebec Valley joined forces and created an extensive network of trails—stretching all the way to the Canadian border—through this ruggedly beautiful region of the state. Maps of local trails are available from the Forks Chamber of Commerce or online. The trail network is expanded regularly, so be sure to get the most up-to-date maps before setting out. If you need accommodations in the area, Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort is connected to the trail system. Offering lodging, a pub, and ATV rentals, Northern Outdoors makes an excellent basecamp for exploring the hundreds of miles of trails in The Forks area.
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Some of the Northeast’s most impressive ATV trails can be found in the Allegheny National Forest of western Pennsylvania. The trail system contains more than 80 miles of riding room through a forested mountain landscape. Even the most advanced riders will be challenged by the rugged terrain on the 23-mile Penoke Trail loop. Novices can enjoy all that the forest has to offer on the 39-mile, out-and-back Timberline Trail or challenge themselves on the more rugged Marienville Trail loop. Camping is available at several places within the forest and near the ATV trails. Locate a campground and make a reservation at Recreation.gov or check the Forest Service website for dispersed camping opportunities. The Forest Lodge and Campground is located within the Allegheny National Forest and offers direct access to the ATV trail system.
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Beartown State Forest is a 12,000-acre expanse of hardwoods located in extreme southwestern Massachusetts. ATV riders can access dozens of miles of multi-use trails and unpaved roads across the area’s low-slung mountains and through the gorgeous wooded landscape. Several lakes, including pristine Benedict Pond are located within the forest’s boundaries. Camping is available inside the state forest, or there are several lodging options, like the Monument Mountain Motel in nearby Barrington.
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As the storm approaches, it is crucial to properly prepare and follow protocol set into place by your local officials.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has ordered a mandatory evacuation of several coastal counties, click here to see if your area is being evacuated. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has also ordered mandatory evacuations for coastal counties, click here to see if you reside in one of these counties.
Georgia Governor Nathan Deal has declared a State of Emergency for all 159 Georgia counties.
Governor Ralph Northam has issued a mandatory evacuation for Zone A in Coastal Virginia.
Governor Larry Hogan has declared a state of emergency for Maryland and Governor Jim Justice has declared a State of Preparedness for West Virginia.
Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a state of emergency for Washington, D.C.
Delaware has not delcared a state of emergency, but keep up with the latest on the DEMA website.
Utilize a gas tracker to find the nearest available fuel, as some stations are running low. Be sure to follow road signs and not your GPS when evacuating.
It is important to be prepared. Be sure to check FEMA’s key safety tips. They have an app that you can download for your phone, as well. There are also a variety of other sources such as the National Hurricane Center, Save the Children, Ready.gov and American Red Cross to aid you in finding shelter, food and water, emergency supply kits, and helping your children to cope with the impact of the storm. Stay updated with the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards to follow the trajectory of Hurricane Florence.
To find shelters near you text SHELTER and a zip code to 43362 (4FEMA). For example, SHELTER 12345. You can also find a list of shelters from the following resources: