Looks like some windy, wet weather for the next few days. Unless you’re targeting Red Drum in the surf south of Rudee, things will be less than optimal. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect through Monday afternoon, with a gale watch following Monday afternoon through late Monday night. Conditions are expected to be challenging through Wednesday.
As our season transitions, we have been witnessing some of the most impressive Flounder catches of the year. The bay and surrounding ocean structures are holding sizable fish. Notably, Lynnhaven Inlet and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (CBBT) vicinity have proven to be fruitful grounds for flounder fishing in recent days. Anglers are finding success with live Spot or Bull minnows, with a noted preference for live Spot by the larger Flounder.
For those targeting Flounder near the CBBT using live Spot, it’s not uncommon to pick up a Red Drum, which are currently beginning their migration out of the bay. Observant anglers may spot schools on the surface. As these fish migrate out of the bay, opportunities arise for surf anglers, particularly south of Rudee Inlet, from Camp Pendleton to the Little Island Pier and in the Sandbridge surf. This week marks the start of peak activity, windy, rough surf is perfect for feeding Reds. The surf zone also holds Bluefish, Spot and Sea Mullet.
Sheepshead are actively biting on crabs fished near pylons, providing consistent action for those targeting this species.
While Cobia remains a viable catch, anglers should note that the capture season concludes today, September 15.
Boats working along the oceanfront are still finding a few Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Ribbonfish, and the occasional large King Mackerel, often referred to as a “smoker.”
The Virginia Beach Fishing Pier is seeing catches typically including Spot, Drum, Croaker, and Roundhead.
The Speckled Trout action is on an upward trend, with shrimp and baitfish populations flourishing in the estuaries. Effective baits include Shrimp, peeler crabs, and various artificial lures.
Inside the bay, Spot and Croaker are biting well, with Squid, shrimp, and bloodworms proving to be successful on bottom rigs.
Puppy Drum fishing has been exceptional in the river, especially in shallow areas where anglers are casting lures.
Ocean head boats are setting their sights on a variety of species, including Black Sea Bass, Triggerfish, Spadefish, Amberjacks, and Flounder.
When conditions are favorable, blue water trollers are enjoying the late season billfish activity, and the Wahoo bite is anticipated to intensify in the coming weeks. For deep droppers, Tilefish remain a sought-after catch.
This overview of the local fishing scene reflects the dynamic and abundant opportunities available to anglers in Virginia. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a novice, fall conditions promise an exciting and rewarding experience on the water.
Happy fishing!
VBSF reports brought to you by Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle. Long Bay Pointe Marina and Coastal Fiberglass.