Cobia are currently very active within the Chesapeake Bay as they enter their spawning phase. Anglers employing sight-casting techniques are finding success with bucktails, eels, and live baitfish like croaker. Those utilizing anchoring and chumming strategies are also achieving favorable results, typically with eels, croaker, and occasionally crab. While chumming effectively attracts cobia, it’s worth noting that it may also draw in sharks and skates.
Red Drum are actively feeding throughout the bay. Large red drum frequently travel in sizable schools and are often found near structured environments such as wrecks and reefs. They can also be observed moving along the surface in significant numbers. Anglers should keep a rod rigged with a bucktail, swim bait, or a large topwater plug readily available for these opportunities. Remember, regulations require the release of Red Drum over 26 inches and under 18 inches.
Keeper-sized Puppy Drum can be located in shallow areas of rivers and inlets, particularly near hard structures like docks and piers, as well as grass beds. Effective lures for puppy drum include topwater baits, 4-inch swim baits, and popping corks with scented baits. These methods and locations are also effective for targeting Speckled Trout, which often prey on baitfish inhabiting grassy areas. Productive fishing spots include Lynnhaven Inlet, Elizabeth River, Mobjack Bay, the Piankatank River, and the Rappahannock River, among other bay tributaries.
Sheepshead angling has seen a surge in popularity, with strong bite reported. These fish are commonly found around hard cover, including rocks, concrete rubble, wrecks, and pilings. Crabs, clams, and sand fleas are preferred baits and are also effective for Black Drum, which share similar habitats. An 18-pound 2-ounce Sheepshead was registered over the 4th of July weekend.
Spanish Mackerel fishing is productive both within the bay and along the oceanfront, with many anglers opting to troll Drone spoons and Clark spoons. It’s advisable to use in-line weights or diving planers to achieve the desired depth, trolling at approximately 6 knots. If Bluefish are prevalent, a slight increase in speed may prove beneficial.
Flounder catches remain inconsistent, though bridge tunnels and ocean structures have yielded the best results. Captain Craig Paige II, Paige II Charters has managed to send his charters home happy.
While the season typically brings larger Spadefish into the bay, recent years have shown a decline in their abundance. The Chesapeake Light Tower remains a preferred location for Spadefish.
Pier anglers are reporting catches of Spanish, Croaker, Bluefish, Sea Mullet, Redfish, and occasional Flounder.
Virginia Offshore Bluewater Season: Peak Summer Action
High Hopes Charters with Captain David Wright took Jimmy Ailstock and the gang out recently for an enjoyable calm cool day of fishing and the tunas did not disappoint!
July and August are the peak months for Virginia’s offshore Bluewater season, offering prime opportunities for a variety of highly sought-after species. White and Blue Marlin are present during these months. White Marlin generally prefers water temperatures between 72-78°F, while Blue Marlin favor slightly warmer waters, typically 75-82°F. Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) are abundant in the summer and thrive in warmer water, ideally 75-85°F, often found near weed lines and floating debris. Yellowfin Tuna are a common target, often found in waters ranging from 68-78°F. Bigeye Tuna can also be encountered, generally preferring similar or slightly cooler water temperatures.
For all your fishing needs, including live eels, crab, and shrimp, VBSF Sponsor Long Bay Pointe Bait & Tackle is fully stocked and ready to assist you in hooking up.
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