• Type: Trout (upper section), Bass, Shad (lower section)
• Season: April 1- November 31 in most stretches, year round in others.

The mainstem of the delaware begins where the east and west branches of the delaware meet in Hancock, NY. There the Junction pool rightly holds its places as one of the more famous on the east coast. The upper 27 miles of the mainstem is big water and offers excellent trout fishing, especially dry fly fishing. Though best known for its leaping rainbows, brown trout (including many good sized fish) are often found as well. One of the biggest challenges anglers may face in this stretch isn't the fish, but the access to the water, as much of both sides are privately held. As one heads downstream, the mainstem turns into a quality smallmouth bass fishery and many light tackle anglers flock to the river during the annual shad run.