DOVER, DE — July 26, 2023 — Addressing concerns raised by Delaware anglers and hunters, Delaware State Sportsmen’s Association (DSSA) is seeking information about and possible alternatives to the draining of the popular pond located near Delaware City. The pond, referred to as “the dikes” by locals, is part of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property on the northern side of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal and is accessible via Cox Nex Road. The Corps of Engineers plans to drain the dikes in the fall and use the area for disposal of dredge materials from the Delaware River and C&D Canal.
As one of the only publicly accessible freshwater bodies of water in eastern New Castle County, the dikes has been a popular fishing and hunting spot for at least five decades. In addition to anglers fishing for bass, pickerel, and other fish, hunters have enjoyed waterfowl, deer, and small game hunting on the property. Closing or restricting access to the pond and surrounding property—coupled with recent prohibitions of hunting activities in the easternmost sections of C&D Canal Conservation Area and the Grass Dale area—are making it more difficult for northern Delaware outdoors enthusiasts to find suitable places to fish and hunt.
Visitors to the dikes were first made aware of the pond’s impending draining in June via a handwritten cardboard sign stating: “Attention: area will be in the process of being dewatered/drained withing the next few weeks. Please be cautioned – USACE.” DSSA leaders believe members of the fishing and hunting public—as well as Delaware City residents and other visitors to the area—are entitled to additional information and opportunities to provide input and feedback.
“We are still learning about the plans for draining the pond and using it for dredge spoils, and we’re asking for the Army Corps of Engineers and DNREC to hold public meetings and release additional details,” stated DSSA President Jeff Hague. “We’ve already contacted elected officials in and around Delaware City, and as advocates for sportsmen and sportswomen throughout Delaware, we’re hoping our common concern for the fishing and hunting public will provide clarity and possibly offer alternatives.”