Virginia Saltwater Fishing Report

Chris Harris and crew getting it done!

Spring, Exciting Times for Drum Enthusiasts!

Black Drum fishing has been superb, and now large Red Drum are actively feeding in the bay. Anglers are successfully catching Black Drum from the surf of the Eastern Shore and Sandbridge, as well as in the Bay off Cape Charles. With the full moon approaching April 12th, expect Drum catches to increase around that time.

Prime Locations for Red Drum

The shoals on the Eastern Shore side of the Bay are typically the best spots for landing a big Red Drum, though they can show up in numerous locations. The areas around the Islands of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (CBBT) are also proving to be a hot spot. Many anglers are trolling spoons, while fresh cut baits such as blue crab or other bait fish fished on the bottom are equally effective.

Consistent Puppy Drum Catches

Inside all the local inlets, Puppy Drum catches remain steady. Knot Wish’n Charters reports that the water temperature inside Rudee Inlet has risen to 60 degrees and yielding plenty of Redfish. As well catches are coming from inside Lynnhaven and Little Creek Inlets and the Elizabeth River. Anglers are encountering some Rockfish mixed with the Reds; however, they must be released. Successful catches are coming with small swimbaits or fresh shrimp.

Increasing Tautog and Sheepshead Catches

There has been a noticeable increase in Tautog catches, and Sheepshead should be appearing in coolers any day now. Marsh crabs and cut Blue Crabs are the preferred baits for these species. Both fish are feeding on structures like the CBBT.

Anticipated Increase in Trout Catches

With the warming temperatures and the full moon approaching, Trout catches inside the inlets and shallow areas are expected to rise. Anglers can look forward to a fruitful fishing experience in the coming days.

Flounder

Flounders are showing up in the inlets and coastal bays on the Eastern Shore. Some anglers have already limited out using squid and minnows for bait. As the season progresses, the Flounder population is expected to increase, providing more opportunities for successful fishing trips.

Exciting News: Bluefin Tuna at Nags Head

Catch of the Week

This week, the waters off Nags Head witnessed an exhilarating spectacle as schools of Bluefin Tuna swam through waters just 20 feet deep. Anglers eagerly tried their luck, casting lines off the pier in hopes of landing one of these majestic fish. While several were hooked off the end of the pier, none were successfully landed.

Stefan Turko

The highlight, however, came from Stefan Turko of Kitty Hawk. In a skillful display, Stefan managed to land an impressive Bluefin Tuna from his kayak off the end of Jennette’s Pier. His remarkable feat has become the talk of the town, inspiring local fishermen and enthusiasts alike.