Virginia Beach is not just a pretty spot for fishing enthusiasts; it is a significant piece of the $308.4 million fishing industry, regulating more than 1,450 businesses and providing employment to over 4,300 people in Virginia. All of this makes it evident why fishermen come here throughout the year and feel the atmosphere of one of the best coastlines on the East Coast of the United States of America.
Virginia Beach is a dream destination for professional fishermen as well as amateurs. You’ll find it all – the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay, the deep blue Atlantic – what more could one ask for?
With that said, there’s one important thing you must know! In order to fish in Virginia Beach, you need to get your hands on a Virginia fishing license. It is, in fact, your ticket to legally navigate these waters and safeguard this thriving sector for posterity. Also, timing is everything in the fishery business; plan your trip to coincide with the right fishing season so that you don’t come home with an empty cooler but one that is full of tagged fish!
Why Seasonal Fishing Matters?
Virginia Beach’s fishing seasons are as dynamic as its ocean tides. Fish are unpredictable. They migrate, spawn, and respond to temperature changes. Therefore, you should have a bit of insight into the fish you are planning to catch.
By arranging your travel schedule to coordinate with these temporal fish patterns, you will come home with a story (and perhaps a filled dinner plate) to tell. Remember that most of the good fishing areas are secured, and you will need to get a Virginia fishing license (which can be obtained from nearby shops or online).
Tip: It is not difficult to obtain a fishing license in Virginia, but it is almost impossible to fish legally without it.
Seasonal Breakdown by Species
1. Winter Wonders: Striped Bass and Tautog
When the chill sets in, so do the striped bass, or “rockfish,” as locals call them. Winter is prime time for targeting these trophy-sized beauties along the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters. They’re known for their strong fights and delicious flavor.
- Best Spots: Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (CBBT), Rudee Inlet.
- Tips: Use live eels or large soft plastics to entice striped bass, especially during early morning or evening hours.
Tautog, often underrated but equally exciting, is also a winter favorite. Found near wrecks, reefs, and other structures, tautog are notorious bait stealers.
- Best Bait: Green crabs or fiddler crabs.
- Pro Tip: Use a short leader to feel even the slightest tug.
Before hitting these winter waters, double-check your fishing license VA regulations and seasonal limits. Staying compliant ensures a worry-free outing.
2. Spring Awakens: Cobia, Red Drum, and Croaker
Spring brings fresh air to Virginia Beach waters. It’s great weather to go out in, especially since the cobia, red drum, and croaker get closer to the shore in warmer waters.
Cobia:
Because of their size and their tendency to battle, cobias are popular with fishermen all around the world. It appears in late spring, though it can be observed close to a buoy or sometimes just below the water.
- Best Spots: Along the Chesapeake Bay and near inlets.
- Tips: Live eels, menhaden, or artificial jigs should be used when fishing for cobias. They are best spotted early in the morning or late evening as they like to warm themselves in the sun. So, cast in front of their path, and you’ll eventually get the upper hand.
Red Drum
Red drum or “reds” are preferred in spring. Their bronze scales twinkle in shallow waters, and they are famous for their quick runs.
- Best Bait: Shrimp, cut mullet, or live baitfish.
- Ideal Spots: Sandbars and flats near Rudee Inlet.
Croaker
Small but powerful croakers can easily be found in spring, giving anglers a fun-filled fishing adventure. Since they roam in large numbers and do not fight back, a novice fisherman can easily catch them.
- Best Bait: Bloodworms or squid strips.
- Pro Tip: Croaker fishing is usually perfect in the early morning hours around piers and shores.
3. Summer Frenzy: Flounder, Spanish Mackerel, and King Mackerel
It is during summer when Virginia Beach fishing hits its highest point. Due to clear skies and warm sea temperatures in the middle of the day, the prospects are virtually limitless.
Flounder
Summer is the best time for flounder fishing; these amazing fish are dark brown, almost invisible from above, and live on the sandy bottom. They are such a joy to cook and even more satisfying to reel in.
- Best Spots: Back Bay and nearshore wrecks.
- Best Bait: Minnows or squid drifting slowly along the bottom.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish mackerel dominate the warm summer waters with their stunning speed and grace. These fish are found close to the surface and make for quite a thrilling catch and release fishing adventure.
- Best Lures: Gotcha plugs, silver spoons, or small trolling rigs.
- Hotspot: Around Cape Henry and nearshore waters.
King Mackerel
If you’re seeking a bigger game, King Mackerel delivers. Known for their blistering runs, they’re a challenge worth pursuing.
- Best Technique: Troll with live bait fish or lures at varying depths.
- Top Spots: Artificial reefs and offshore areas.
4. Fall Favorites: Bluefish, Speckled Trout, and Black Sea Bass
Fall in Virginia Beach is a feast for anglers. As waters cool, fish begin their migrations, creating opportunities for some of the best fishing all year.
Bluefish
Bluefish are aggressive feeders, making them a thrilling catch during fall. Their sharp teeth and feisty nature mean you’ll need to bring your A-game.
- Best Lures: Metal spoons or surface poppers.
- Where to Cast: Surf zones and offshore waters.
Speckled Trout
Speckled trout, with their beautiful markings and delicate taste, are a must-catch in fall. They’re often found in shallow, grassy areas.
- Top Baits: Soft plastics, topwater lures, or live shrimp.
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon.
Black Sea Bass
Black sea bass is the cherry on top of fall fishing. Found near wrecks and reefs, these fish are a treat for those willing to venture offshore.
- Gear Tip: Use a sturdy rod and reel combo with enough backbone to pull them up from depths.
- Best Bait: Squid or cut bait.
As fall fishing heats up, the last thing you want is to run afoul of regulations. Keep your Virginia fishing license and local fishing guidelines up-to-date.
Wrapping It Up: Fishing Smart in Virginia Beach
Fishing in Virginia Beach is more than just a pastime – it’s a connection to the natural rhythms of the sea. Whether you’re chasing winter striped bass or reeling in summer flounder, the key to a successful trip lies in understanding the seasonal ebb and flow of fish species.
And let’s not forget the rules of the game: A Virginia fishing license isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a small investment in the preservation of these waters for generations of anglers to come. Make it a habit to check for updates on your fishing license VA, renew as necessary, and abide by size and bag limits.
So, grab your gear, chart your calendar, and plan your next adventure around the seasonal bounty of Virginia Beach.
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