Virginia Saltwater Fishing Report

Offshore Wrecks: Strong sea bass bite continues on wrecks in 60-100 ft; tautog providing excellent bycatch on green crabs and clams.

Pelagics: Large bluefin tuna still being hooked near shore—recreational fishery is catch-and-release only after rapid closure of the commercial season due to quota attainment.

Chesapeake Bay & Tributaries: Striped bass (rockfish) catches increasing daily along channel edges, drop-offs and around the CBBT; live eels remain the top producer in low-50°F water.

Back Waters: Speckled trout remain in creeks, though action has eased slightly—topwaters and soft plastics still effective. A few sheepshead are still active around pilings on fiddler crabs. Puppy drum (red drum 16-24 in) delivering bites, especially when trout slow down; Gulp and cut baits are producing.

Weather Outlook for Dec 8-15

Today: Strong NE 15-30 kt (gusts to 40 kt), bay 2-6 ft, ocean 4-13 ft—Small Craft Advisories and gale warnings in effect. Tuesday: Light SW 5-10 kt, seas 1-3 ft. Wed-Thu: SW winds build 10-30 kt, 1-5 ft. Friday: Calms to NW/W 5-20 kt, 1-3 ft. Scattered light rain possible mid-week.

Stay safe, monitor marine forecasts, and always verify current regulations before heading out. Tight lines!