Virginia Saltwater Fishing Report

Striped bass remain abundant in the lower Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, with action reported around structures like the Monitor-Merrimac Bridge-Tunnel, Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel, and Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Fish are holding near pilings, channel edges, and rock lines. Increasing numbers are moving into open bay waters as colder conditions set in. Migratory ocean-run stripers are merging with resident fish near Cape Charles, offering excellent opportunities for trophy-sized catches.

Success often comes at night during strong tidal flows with heavy current. Depths vary—shallower (3–10 feet) on some evenings in protected areas, deeper (15–30 feet) around bridge channels on others. Live eels fished on a light Carolina rig (no more than ½ oz egg sinker for natural drift) continue to be the top bait for these winter rockfish.

Colder temperatures have slowed speckled trout activity across Virginia’s coastal waters, making these fish less aggressive. Patience and slow, deliberate presentations are essential for success. Suspending lures like Mirrolures or slowly sinking soft plastics and jigs outperform faster retrieves in these conditions. Action is concentrated in the rivers, James, Elizabeth and Lynnhaven, where trout hold in deeper channels, around structure, and in warmer pockets. While numbers may be down due to fewer anglers braving the chill, dedicated efforts in these rivers are still producing quality fish.

Tautog provide a reliable option for bottom fishermen this time of year, with good bites around the CBBT islands, artificial reefs, wrecks, and other hard structure. As water cools further, their feeding activity ramps up. Fresh crab remains the preferred bait when available, though supplies are becoming limited late in the season. Frozen clam serves as an effective alternative, delivering consistent results. Heavy tackle is recommended to pull fish away from rocks and pilings quickly.

Offshore, black sea bass are plentiful around wrecks and reefs for those heading to deeper waters, with standard bottom rigs producing steady action (note: the season closes December 31).

Virginia anglers with a valid HMS permit can enjoy exciting catch-and-release action for Atlantic bluefin tuna nearshore and offshore. Retention of any size remains prohibited through December 31, 2025, following the angling category quota attainment earlier this year—but the powerful fights are still available with careful handling.

Earn a Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament release citation! …. Hook a bluefin measuring at least 60 inches (straight fork length). You have to submit a witnessed affidavit or clear side-view photo with a measuring device to an official weigh station. It’s an excellent way to recognize big releases while supporting conservation efforts.

Winter fishing in Virginia’s coastal waters demands preparation for cold and wind, but rewards patient anglers with quality opportunities across multiple species. Always check current VMRC and NOAA regulations before heading out. Tight lines!