Reports

Apr 28 2023

World Class Red Drum Fishing, Virginia Beach

April 28, 2023

AquaMan Charter Action!

If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you realize that Virginia’s coastal waters are about to become home to a “World Class Fishery”. One of the most amazing fish you can catch, red drum, also called channel bass, redfish, or simply drum. These fish are huge and powerful, weighing up to 90 pounds or more. They belong to the Croaker family, and make a drumming sound when they are hooked.

The peak season for catching them is in May and June, when they are plentiful and hungry. You can find them near the surface along the ocean front beginning in late April. They also like to hang out around the shoals near the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, the Inner Middle Grounds, and the Latimer Shoals, as well as the shoals off Fisherman’s Island.

You can use different kinds of baits and lures to catch them, such as bucktails, spoons, blue crab, peeler crabs, fresh menhaden, spot, or clam. A great way to fish for drum is to anchor your boat over the shoals and use chum to lure them in. When a school is spotted on the surface you can sight cast them with lures. As long as you don’t spook the school you can catch and release multiple fish.

Be ready for a challenge, as these fish are strong and stubborn. You will need a large net to bring them on board. Catching LARGE drum is a fun and satisfying adventure that you will never forget!

VBSF charter boats fill up early for this great fishery, so book your trip ASAP!

CHARTER LINK: Charter Fishing Virginia Beach 2023

Enjoying your catch!

If you’re looking for a simple and delicious way to cook red drum, try this recipe. All you need is some fresh red drum fillets, butter, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt and pepper. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish. Rinse the fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared dish. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and stir in the lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt and pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the fillets. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Enjoy your red drum with some rice or salad on the side.

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/04/28/world-class-fishing-developing-off-virginia-beach/

Apr 23 2023

Virginia Saltwater Fishing Report

April 23, 2023

Knot Wish’n Custom Charters

This week, red drum have been sighted and landed by boats fishing along the ocean front, and some of them have been caught by anglers fishing off the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. These fish are heading to the Bay, where they will look for shallow waters near Latimer Shoal. In May, you will have more opportunities to spot and sight cast to schools of these huge fish.

Tautog are also biting well right now. You can catch them around any structure that offers shelter, such as wrecks, reefs, rocks and the CBBT pylons. The current state record for tautog is 24 lbs 3 oz, set by Ken Neill in 2012. Don’t miss your chance to catch them before the season ends on May 15th.

Bluefish

Flounder, speckled trout. puppy drum and bluefish are beginning to appear in the inlets. Some nice specks have been caught this week in Rudee and Lynnhaven Inlets. Connie at Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle reports that the puppy drum bite is hot inside Lynnhaven Inlet. The best spot to catch flounder is still Wachapreague on the Eastern Shore, but you can also find some along the CBBT. As the water warms up, you will see more flounder in the Bay.

Chris and crew had a great day of flounder fishing near Wachapreague. They caught them in 25 feet of water on pink Gulp grubs, during the outgoing tide.

Sheepshead are also in the Bay now, and they will be more plentiful in May and June. They like to stay near structure, so use fiddler crabs or mole crabs as bait and fish close to the bottom or next to bridge pylons.

Black drum are still along the channel edge from Fisherman’s Island to Cape Charles. You can find them by looking for boats anchored near Kiptopeake, the Cabbage Patch and the Concrete Ships.

If you go offshore you can catch sea bass, but the season is closed until May 15. Tilefish and tuna are available. Captains have been marking a lot of black fin tuna in 895 to 010 area. One crew recently brought home five.

Outer Banks of North Carolina Report

Zach Small with Capt. Spencer Gaskins of South Wind Charters. Beautiful 42” citation red.

There’s plenty of options to choose from on the OBX now. Whether you prefer the surf, the sound, or the offshore waters, you can find a variety of fish to catch and enjoy.

In the surf zone, red and black drum are abundant from Duck to Hatteras. You can catch them in different sizes, from small to large. Some nice trout are also biting in the mornings on the northern beaches. And if you are after sea mullet, you can find a few decent ones starting to show up. At the Point, you can try your luck with some big sharks and a few big drum.

In the inshore waters near Hatteras, you can find some large sheepshead that will put up a fight. You can also encounter some schools of big red and black drum just off the beach. And if you are lucky, you might see and catch a nice cobia, they have been spotted recently.

On the sound side, the schools of drum are still roaming around the flats near the inlet. You can catch some puppy drum as well as some bigger ones. The trout bite has also been good lately, with some bigger fish being caught. In addition, you can find some nice bluefish and black drum in the sound.

The offshore bite has been a bit slow, but not too bad. You can still catch some yellowfin, blackfin, wahoo, and king mackerel. These fish are always fun to catch and delicious to eat.

So what are you waiting for? Book your charter today!

RUDEE INLET CHARTER BOATS

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/04/23/virginia-saltwater-fishing-report-5/

Apr 17 2023

Virginia Saltwater Fishing Report

April 17, 2023

taug fish

Virginia’s spring fishing season is picking up as the Bay water temperature hits the magic 60 degree mark!

Tautog fishing remains excellent. Look for them around underwater obstructions, wrecks, reefs and rocks. Many anglers like to pylon hop along the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. Blue crabs or fiddler crabs are the best bait, but some are caught using clam or whelk. The average size tog is 3 to 6 pounds, but in Virginia large ones can top 20 pounds.

Black Drum are showing up along the shallow channel ledge running from Fisherman’s Island to north of Cape Charles. Good spots are Kiptopeake, the Cabbage Patch, the Concrete Ships, as well as the highrise and 2nd & 3rd Islands of CBBT. Running tides, late afternoons and evenings and full moons are considered the best time to fish for them. Whole clam, peeler crab, whelk or a combination is the best bait. The average size Virginia black drum is 40 to 60 pounds, but they can easily top 100 pounds. Black drum are one of the largest fish in the bay and can put up a tremendous fight. They have a distinctive drumming sound that they make with their swim bladder. The optimum setup is a heavy-duty rod and reel, braided line and a large circle hook to land these giants.

red drum

Red drum averaging 25-50 lbs are showing up on the shoals at the mouth of the bay. Latimer Shoal and the shallow water near the northern section of the CBBT are good spots. Their numbers will continue increasing into May and action will peak in early June. Also known as channel bass or redfish, they are prized for their beauty and strength. They have a coppery-red color and a black spot near their tail. They can grow up to 60 inches long and weigh over 90 pounds. They are often found in schools and feed on crustaceans and fish. Trolling spoons like 3 1/2 Drones or similar, over and around the shallows or anchoring on top of the shoal and setting out lines are the best methods. When anchored use 7/0 or 8/0 long shank hooks with peeler crabs. Short shank hooks or circle hooks work well with cut baits like fresh spot and menhaden. Use a medium-heavy rod and reel, monofilament line and a variety of lures and baits to go after these fish.

flounder

Flounder numbers are on the rise in seaside inlets. Some nice catches are coming from Wachapreague and Chincoteague on the Eastern Shore. Flounder lie on their side on the bottom and camouflage themselves with their surroundings. They change colors to match their environment. They feed on small fish and shrimp that pass by their mouth. Drift fishing with live minnows, or fresh strip baits fished behind bucktails are a good choice. Try using live spot or small mullet for big fish in deep water around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel.

trout

A few speckled trout, gray trout and puppy drum have been reported in Rudee, Lynnhaven and Little Creek Inlets. Numbers should increase as the water warms up. Speckled trout are also known as spotted seatrout or specks and have dark spots on their back and fins. They can grow up to 25 inches long and weigh up to 10 pounds. They feed on shrimp, crabs and small fish in shallow water near grass beds and oyster bars. Puppy drum are juvenile red drum that have not yet reached maturity. They have similar markings as their adult counterparts but are smaller in size. They can grow up to 18 inches long and weigh up to 5 pounds. They feed on crabs, shrimp and small fish in shallow water near marshes and docks.

OBX, NC

Action on the Outer Banks is good. The red drum bite at the Point in Buxton has been phenomenal, with many anglers scoring big fish and earning citations at local tackle shops. You can also find plenty of puppy drum, jumbo bluefish, sharks, blow toad, sea mullet and some nice flounder in the surf and sound.

red drum

blue fish

But that’s not all. The offshore fishing out of Oregon Inlet and Hatteras has been equally amazing, with lots of yellowfin tuna. Mahi, wahoo and black fin tuna are available as well. Whether you troll or jig, you’re sure to have a blast and fill your cooler with some tasty fish.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience some of the best fishing on the East Coast. Book your trip today and get ready for some rod-bending fun!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/04/17/virginia-saltwater-fishing-report-4/

Apr 12 2023

Chesapeake Bay Water Nearing 60 Degrees!

April 12, 2023

Ken Neill, Red Drum

If you’re ready to do some fishing, you’ll be happy to hear the Bay water temperature at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is 59.5 F. Red drum usually show up by the time it hits 60, and big red drum reports are already coming in! Look for them around the CBBT islands or on the shoals at the mouth of the Bay, near the northern end of the CBBT. Their numbers will peak in May.

black drum

More exciting news is that black drum are being landed in the surf on Virginia’s eastern shore. Look for good catches to develop bayside near the Cabbage Patch, the Concrete Ships, near Buoy 13, the high rise of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, around 36A and off of Cape Charles. Best baits are clam and crab used separately or together. These big fish can weigh over 50 pounds and put up a great fight!

More good news, flounder are starting to show up inshore. The best early season action usually occurs over on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. A few short flatties have been caught inside Rudee and Lynnhaven Inlets. They feed on minnows or squid. A minnow/squid combo on a bottom rig is a proven way to catch them. Remember larger baits usually produce larger flounder.

Tautog and sheepshead are biting on hard structure in the lower bay. Look for them around the CBBT, Back River Reef, the Cell, Tower Reef, the Concrete Ships, Cape Henry Wreck, the Santore, the Winthrop, and the Triangle Wrecks. Best baits are crab, clam or a combination. These fish have strong teeth and jaws, so you need a sturdy hook and leader. Crab is the preferred bait for both species. Use a dropper rig or a jig head to present your bait close to the structure.

Knot Wish’n Custom Charters

Speckled trout and puppy drum are active in the tributaries of the bay, such as Lynnhaven Inlet and the Elizabeth River. These fish are ambush predators that like to hide in grass beds, oyster bars, docks, and other cover. You can catch them with live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or croaker, or with artificial lures such as jigs, soft plastics, or topwater plugs. The best time to fish for them is in the afternoon when the water is warmer. Captain Todd and crew with Knot Wish’n Custom Charters landed a few puppy drum in Rudee Inlet this week.

These are some of the best fishing opportunities in Virginia right now. Don’t miss your chance to catch some trophy fish and have a blast on the water!

Outer Banks, North Carolina (OBX)

Reds In The OBX Surf

Ready for a road trip, head south to the OBX of North Carolina! Big red drum, large sharks, and nice trout are available now. Whether you fish in the surf, the sound, or offshore, you will find plenty of action and variety.

In the surf, some nice trout and puppy drum are around Oregon Inlet. These fish are great for light tackle. You can use soft plastics, jigs, or live bait to entice them. Down south, from the Point to Ocracoke, the big drum showed up in decent numbers over the weekend. These are the fish of a lifetime, reaching up to 50 inches or more. You will need heavy tackle and fresh cut bait to hook them. However, be prepared to deal with a lot of sharks as well. Sea mullet, puffers, bluefish, and small croaker were also reported on Hatteras Island beaches. These are fun fish to catch for kids and beginners. You can use bottom rigs with shrimp, squid, or bloodworms to catch them.

Sound side, anglers are finding puppy drum and speckled trout as well as a few decent black drum. These fish are also great for light tackle and fly fishing. You can use topwater plugs, jerkbaits, or live shrimp to catch them. The sound is also a beautiful place to enjoy the scenery and wildlife of OBX.

Offshore, the yellowfin tuna have been biting very good the last few days with multiple boats catching early limits! These are powerful fish that will test your endurance and skill. You will need trolling rigs with ballyhoo, cedar plugs, or skirted lures to catch them. Along with the yellowfin, we have heard reports of blackfin tuna, wahoo, and even a white marlin that was caught. These are all trophy fish that will make your trip unforgettable.

So what are you waiting for? Book your charter today!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/04/12/chesapeake-bay-water-nearing-60-degrees/

Apr 10 2023

Dr. Ken Neill breaks another record

April 10, 2023

Virginia anglers know that wreck fishing for tautog can be pretty rewarding in the spring. One angler who is very familiar with the joys of tautog fishing is Virginia Game Fish Tagging Program volunteer tagger, Dr. Ken Neill. Since joining the program at its inception in 1995, Dr. Neill has tagged more than 3,700 fishes for the program. During this time, he’s contributed a tremendous amount of data and set a few program records. The most recent record being for the longest days at large (the length of time between when a fish is first tagged and released, and when it is last caught).

On March 23, 2013, Neill tagged a 12.5-inch tautog at the Morgan Wreck. This fish was initially recaptured by another VGFTP volunteer tagger, Mr. Wally Veal, at the Morgan Wreck on January 22, 2017, and measured 16 inches at the time. However, it was the most recent recapture that made the fish a record breaker. The tautog was last recaptured on March 26, 2023, by Mr. Andrew Homer at Triangle Wreck (part of the same complex as Morgan Wreck) and measured 22 inches long. This recapture marked a new record of 3,655 days at large (more than 10 years!) for a VGFTP-tagged fish.

Surprisingly, this was not the first time that a fish tagged by Neill has been a record holder. It was eleven years ago today when the VGFTP first shared a record-breaking tautog recapture by Dr. Ken Neill. Neill first tagged that 11.5-inch tautog on April 10, 2004 off Cape Henry, and that fish was at large for 2,826 days, only 94 days short of 8 years. Neill’s tautog set a new record at the time for days at large which was broken in 2019 when a cobia (originally tagged by Sheldon Arey at Latimer Shoal in 2009) was recaptured and released at the York Spit 3,623 days later.

VGFTP Principal Investigator Susanna Musick of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) says, “Thanks to Dr. Neill and Mr. Homer, we have another outstanding recapture record! These long-term recaptures help highlight site-fidelity and show how much these fish can grow. We can see the significance of this type of habitat for structure-oriented species like tautog. Also, multiple recaptures of the same fish show the importance of good catch and release handling and tag retention. We’re lucky to have devoted volunteer taggers like Dr. Neill in our program and are grateful to the anglers who report these tagged fishes.”

The VGFTP is a cooperative fisheries research program in partnership with recreational anglers, the Marine Advisory Program at VIMS and the Saltwater Tournament at the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). The program’s funding is from state saltwater license funds and VIMS. To learn more visit: www.vims.edu/vgftp/ or www.facebook.com/vagamefishtagging/ .

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/04/10/dr-ken-neill-breaks-another-record/

Apr 06 2023

Charter Fishing Virginia Beach 2023

April 6, 2023

spanish

If you are looking for an exciting and rewarding fishing adventure, look no further than Virginia Beach! Virginia Beach is a prime destination for anglers of all skill levels and interests, offering a variety of fishing opportunities in the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the nearby inlets and rivers. Whether you want to target trophy fish like tuna, marlin, cobia, king mackerel or drum, or just have some fun catching spanish mackerel, flounder, croaker, or bluefish, Virginia Beach has something for everyone!

Virginia Beach fishing is not only about catching fish, but also about enjoying the natural beauty and rich history of this coastal area. You can fish along the famous Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, one of the largest man-made fish attracting devices in the world, or explore the numerous wrecks and reefs that dot the ocean floor. You can also fish near the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse, where the first English settlers landed in 1607, or witness the stunning sunrise and sunset over the water.

One of the best ways to experience Virginia Beach fishing is to book a charter boat with a professional and experienced captain and crew. They will provide you with everything you need for a successful and memorable trip, including rods, reels, bait, tackle, licenses, and safety equipment. They will also guide you to the best fishing spots and help you land your dream catch. You can choose from half-day, full-day, or overnight trips, depending on your preference and budget.

There are many charter boats available in Virginia Beach, but the most reputable and reliable ones are sponsors here at VBSF.net. We provide weekly fishing reports, news, information, and articles about Virginia Beach Sport Fishing. You can find a list of our sponsor boats below, along with their contact

Information and links:

High Hopes Charters

– High Hopes Sportfishing:

Are you looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure in Virginia Beach? If so, you should check out High Hopes Charters, the longest continuously running charter business in the area. High Hopes offers a variety of fishing trips for all levels of experience and all kinds of fish. Whether you want to go offshore for marlin, tuna, wahoo and mahi mahi, or stay inshore for mackerel, bluefish, cobia and flounder, High Hopes has you covered.

Captain David Wright has over 30 years of experience in fishing the waters off Virginia and North Carolina, and he knows how to put you on the fish. He will also provide you with all the gear, bait and ice you need for a successful trip. All you have to bring is your food, drinks, sunscreen and enthusiasm.

The High Hopes can accommodate up to 15 people, so you can bring your friends and family along for a fun and memorable day on the water. You can choose from half-day, full-day or overnight trips depending on your schedule and budget. You can also call Captain Wright to customize your trip according to your preferences and needs. You can also book the High Hopes for special events like bachelor parties, family reunions, or burials at sea. The High Hopes is a 58-foot sport fishing boat with a spacious cabin, a full galley, and a friendly and professional crew.

If you want to experience the best fishing in Virginia Beach, don’t hesitate to book your trip with High Hopes Charters today. You will have high hopes and high catches with this amazing charter service.

AquaMan Charters

AquaMan Charters

– AquaMan Sportfishing:

If you love fishing and adventure, you should definitely check out AquaMan Fishing Charters in Virginia Beach! They offer a variety of fishing trips for all skill levels and preferences, from inshore fishing in the Chesapeake Bay to deep sea fishing in the Atlantic Ocean.

You can choose from two amazing boats, the Smack Down and the Game On, which are both fully equipped with modern amenities and fishing gear. Both can accommodate up to 20 people, so you can bring your friends and family.

You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife of Virginia Beach, such as dolphins, whales, and seabirds.

AquaMan Fishing Charters is run by Captain Nolan Agner, who has over 25 years of experience in fishing out of Virginia Beach. He and his crews are friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, and they will make sure you have a fun and memorable fishing experience. They will also help you catch some of the most exciting fish species in the area, such as tuna, mako shark, amberjack, cobia, king mackerel, redfish, black drum, spadefish, and more.

Whether you are looking for a corporate team building event, a bachelor party, a family fishing trip, or a birthday celebration, AquaMan Fishing Charters can accommodate your needs and budget. Book your fishing trip with AquaMan Fishing Charters, you will not regret it!

Knot Wish’n

– Knot Wish’n Custom Charters:

Are you looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure in Virginia Beach? If so, you should check out Knot Wish’n Guide Service, the best inshore guide in town! Captain Todd Beck and Knot Wish’n Guide Service offers a variety of fishing trips for anglers of all skill levels and preferences. Whether you want to catch striped bass, flounder, mackerel or cobia they have the right trip for you. You can choose from half-day, full-day, or evening trips, depending on your budget and schedule. You can also customize your trip to suit your needs and goals.

They will take you to the best fishing spots in the area and provide you with all the gear and bait you need. They will also help you with tips and techniques to land your dream catch. You can expect a fun and safe fishing experience with Knot Wish’n Guide Service.

If you are ready to book your fishing trip with Knot Wish’n Guide Service, visit their website or call them today. You will not regret it! Knot Wish’n Guide Service is the ultimate fishing destination in Virginia Beach. Don’t miss this opportunity to have a blast on the water and make some memories that will last a lifetime!

Paige II Charters

– Paige II Charters:

Are you looking for a fun and exciting fishing adventure in Virginia Beach? If so, you should check out Paige II Charters, one of the best fishing charters in the area. Paige II Charters is run by Captain Craig Paige, a seasoned angler who has been fishing the lower Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean for over 30 years. He knows all the best spots and techniques to catch a variety of fish, such as flounder, tautog, sheepshead, striped bass, drum, spadefish, and cobia. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, Captain Craig will teach you how to fish like a pro and have a great time on the water.

Paige II Charters offers half-day and three-quarter day trips for up to four people. You can choose to fish around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, the junction of the bay and the ocean, or the inshore wrecks and structures. You will be fishing on a 25’ Eastern Shore catamaran with a 9.5’ beam. The center console design allows for lots of fishing room and storage of tackle and coolers. The Paige II is powered with twin 200 hp 4 stroke Suzukis and is equipped with radar, gps, depth finder, and all USCG safety equipment. It is fast, stable, and a fishing machine! Paige II Charters will provide you with bait, tackle, and license.

Paige II Charters is located at Long Bay Pointe Marina in Virginia Beach.

Paige II Charters is more than just a fishing charter. It is an experience that you will never forget. You will learn new skills, see amazing sights, and catch some delicious fish. You will also make some new friends with Captain Craig and his crew. Don’t miss this opportunity to have a blast on the water with Paige II Charters. Book your trip today and get ready for some fishing fun!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/04/06/charter-fishing-virginia-beach-2023/

Apr 03 2023

Virginia Saltwater Fishing Report

April 3, 2023

If you love fishing, then you should definitely check out the early April action in Virginia Beach and on the OBX, NC. There are plenty of fish to catch, from flounder and tautog to drum and bluefish. Here are some tips and tricks to help you land some of these beauties.

Flounder and tautog get top billing in early April. Flounder are flatfish that like to hide on the bottom and ambush their prey. They can be caught drifting live or dead natural baits on the bottom or trolling small bucktails dressed with strip baits, usually near Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. Some of the best early flounder action comes from the Seaside inlets of the Eastern Shore. They are also available in both local inlets, Rudee and Lynnhaven. Flounder average between 1 and 3 pounds, but some monsters can be found. The Virginia State record is 17 pounds, 8 ounces; caught at Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel in 1971 by C.E. Cross. To catch a big fish try large live baits.

Tautogs are also known as blackfish or tog. They are hard-fighting fish that live on near shore underwater obstructions like wrecks and reefs. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel Islands are a great location to find them. They like blue, fiddler or marsh crabs. Clams, whelk and a new packaged crab flavored artificial bait made by Fishbites will work as well. Tog average 3 to 6 pounds, but they can grow much bigger. The State record is 24-pound 3-ounces, caught in 2012 by Ken Neill III of Seaford, VA. To catch a big tog, you need a stout rod, a heavy sinker, and a lot of skill.

The water temp is 51.4F. As it continues warming this month, black drum, bluefish, croaker, grey trout, red drum, speckled trout and rockfish reports will increase. These fish are all fun to catch and good to eat.

The Virginia Beach Fishing Pier has already recorded its first red drum of the season. Red drum are also known as redfish or channel bass. They are powerful fish that can grow up to 90 pounds. Captain Todd Beck, Knot Wish’n Charters has been picking some pups up in Rudee Inlet. Pups are juvenile red drum that are under 27 inches long. And Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle has been reporting pups in Lynnhaven for a couple weeks. To catch a red drum, you need a medium-heavy rod, a sturdy reel, and a fresh bait.

OBX. NC is another great fishing destination in early April. Nice puppy drum and over slot size fish are being caught on the beaches north of Oregon Inlet. Over slot fish are red drum that are over 27 inches long and must be released. Bluefish, sea mullet, blowtoads, puppy drum, a few big drum and lots of sharks have been reported down south from Avon to Ocracoke.

Speckled trout and a few puppy drum are around the Manteo causeway Little Bridge area. Speckled trout are also known as spotted seatrout or specks. They are beautiful fish that can reach up to 10 pounds. Plenty of nice trout are available from long shoal and west. Closer to the inlet puppy drum are beginning to show up.

Offshore, the boats are still releasing good numbers of Giant Bluefin with a few boats finding some smaller keeper size fish. Giant Bluefin are tuna that can weigh over 1000 pounds. They are highly prized for their meat and their fight. Blackfin tuna, king mackerel, and a few wahoo have also been reported further offshore.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your rod and reel and head to Virginia Beach or the OBX NC for some awesome fishing action in early April!

Book your charter today!!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/04/03/virginia-saltwater-fishing-report-3/

Mar 27 2023

Virginia Saltwater Fishing Report

March 27, 2023

taugs

Virginia anglers have lots to look forward to in the coming weeks. We didn’t have much of a winter, which should be good news for species like speckled trout. And it could signal an early arrival for other species.

Tautog are already at the CBBT and on nearly all near-shore structures. Mat Lee weighed a 10-pound 2-ounce one he caught at the CBBT.

red drum

Speckled trout and puppy drum have been biting in the rivers. With the recent warm weather, they should be available inside Lynnhaven and Rudee Inlets now. Captain Todd Beck, Knot Wish’n Guide Service has been picking up drum recently.

Stripers are being caught in the tidal rivers, but they must be released. Richard Parmelee registered a 48-inch striper with Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle that he caught inside Lynnhaven Inlet.

OBX NC

Captain Ned Ashby and crew releasing a giant bluefin

Large red drum have been at the Point in Hatteras NC for a couple weeks.

Anglers fishing the northern OBX are catching blow toads, trout, flounder, puppy drum and sea mullet.

Tuna action out of Oregon Inlet North Carolina has been fantastic all winter. Yellowfin, bluefin and blackfin. And of course, there are plenty of sharks available.

Here’s a look ahead!

Inshore fishing was fantastic last year and there’s a very good chance this year will be even better.

As April rolls in our tautog action will continue and flounder will become a possibility. Some flounder reports are already coming from Wachapreague, Virginia.

By mid-April the big black drum will be here, in fact one has already been landed this year. Bluefish and gray trout will also be a possibility. The flounder bite should continue improving and speckled trout will become more numerous.

By the end of May plenty of large red drum will have made their way into the lower bay.

In June everything starts to peak, inshore and off! Black drum, red drum, cobia, croaker, flounder, gray trout, round head, sheepshead, spadefish, spanish mackerel, speckled trout, small striped bass, mahi, yellow fin tuna and school size blue fin tuna.

Book your charter today!!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/03/27/virginia-saltwater-fishing-report-2/

Mar 21 2023

Virginia Beach Fishing Report

March 21, 2023

Couple of warm days and look for lots of these

The water temperature in the Bay and along the Virginia Beach oceanfront is 48.0 F. We need four or five warm days to really kick off the speckled trout, puppy drum seasons inside Lynnhaven and Rudee Inlets. A few warm days will lure bait into the shallows and the hungry predators will follow.

The recent cold snap has most likely delayed the big black drum bite a little. But a few warm days will take care of that as well. The bite will quickly pick up on Virginia’s Eastern Shore and in the lower Chesapeake Bay. Fresh clam is the bait of choice.

Tautog fishing is good on the ocean wrecks when you can find a weather window. This is the time of year when the larger togs can be had along the CBBT. Look for boats anchored over the rock near the islands. Yak fisherman will be fishing the bridge pylons.

Rockfish are available inside the rivers, but must be released.

OBX North Carolina

Luke Beard caught and released this Hammerhead Shark at Ramp 49 in Frisco

Surf water temperature still hasn’t reached the magic 60-degree mark. It’s 53.8 F, but the fish are biting.

Some nice trout and puppy drum have been caught this week from the Little Bridge to Long Shoal, and further towards the western side of the sound.

Surf fishing is picking up. There was a good puppy drum and large red drum bite at the point in Buxton Friday. Puppy Drum are scattered from Ocracoke to as far north as Ramp 4 at Oregon Inlet. Along with the drum anglers are catching puffers, bluefish, and plenty of sharks around Hatteras.

Bluefin with Captain Ned Ashby

Offshore has been tough weather wise, but a few made it out. Captain Ned Ashby took an international crew from Japan out and found plenty of Bluefin.

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/03/21/virginia-beach-fishing-report-43/

Mar 14 2023

Virginia Beach Fishing Report

March 14, 2023

red drum

The Bay water temperature dropped a little this week, down to 47.8 F. But spring is right around the corner and the trend should reverse. This is an exciting time of year for anglers. Warmer water will mean more angling opportunities.

Speckled Trout anglers are doing well in the shallows that feed into the Elizabeth and York Rivers. Soft plastic swim baits and Mir-o-lures are working.

The tautog bite continues to be good. Larger fish, up to 20 pounds have been found on the nearshore wrecks and reefs and smaller ones should be biting at the CBBT and on artificial Bay reefs. Fresh crab baits always work best but Fishbite E-Z Crab strips are popular as well.

red drum

Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle says that puppy drum are being caught inside Lynnhaven Inlet and Captain Todd Beck, Knot Wish’n charters has landed a few inside Rudee Inlet. As the weather warms look for the bite to pick up.

Black drum usually start showing at the end of March and peak in April. Look for them along the bayside of the Eastern Shore. At the Cabbage Patch, the Concrete Ships, Buoy 13, and near the high rise of the CBBT.

OBX North Carolina

Surf fishing is picking up. Puppy drum are being caught around Oregon Inlet. Down south near Buxton there have already been reports of large red drum at the point and on Ocracoke Island. Puppy drum, sharks, sea mullet and bluefish are starting to show up in the Hatteras Island surf as well.

Large speckled trout and puppy drum are still being caught on the western side of the Pamlico Sound. Some small trout are being caught at Little Bridge on the Manteo Causeway, as well as some rockfish around the Manns Harbor Bridges.

Blackfin tuna, kings and a few wahoo are being caught offshore and it’s not too late to go catch a giant Bluefin, there are still plenty of them around for catch and release.

Be sure and book a VBSF sponsor boat and then send us your pictures for our next report!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/03/14/virginia-beach-fishing-report-42/

Mar 06 2023

Virginia Beach Fishing Report

March 6, 2023

trout

Spring is almost here and the fishing will get better this month.

With the water temperature at Thimble Shoal reaching 52 F black drum should start to show up in their usual haunts along the bayside of the Eastern Shore. Good locations are the Cabbage Patch, near the Concrete Ships, Buoy 13, near the high rise of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, around 36A and off of Cape Charles. Look for boats anchored close together in these areas. Best baits are clam and crab, used separately or together on the same hook.

Connie at Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle said a number of puppy drum were caught back inside Lynnhaven inlet this week. Shallow water on an outgoing tide is prime. Try slowly bouncing soft plastics along the bottom.

Speckled trout are becoming more plentiful in the Elizabeth and York River tributaries. Dr Neill fish on the Peninsula side recently and picked up five, all around 19 inches He lost at least as many as he caught.

tautog

Our tautog bite continues. Look for them anywhere there’s structure. Popular areas include the CBBT, Back River Reef, the Cell, Tower Reef, the Concrete Ships, Cape Henry Wreck, the Santore, the Winthrop, and the Triangle Wrecks. The best bait is fresh crab but strips of clam, whelk, and Fishbites E-Z Crab will also work.

OBX, NC

red drum

Surf fishing is a couple of weeks ahead due to the unseasonably warm weather we have been experiencing. Nice Puppy Drum have been caught at ramp 4 at Oregon Inlet. Down south the water is 62.0 F in the surf and there has been reports of big drum at The Point and on Ocracoke Island. Puppy drum, sharks, a handful of sea mullet and bluefish are starting to show up to the south as well.

Big speckled trout and puppy drum are being caught on the western side of the Pamlico Sound. Some nice trout were caught at Little Bridge on the Manteo causway this week. Striper are still hanging near the Manns Harbor Bridges.

Giant bluefin are still around for catch and release. Blackfin, kings, and a few wahoo are in the mix.

Be sure and book a VBSF sponsor boat and then send us your pictures for our next report!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/03/06/virginia-beach-fishing-report-41/

Feb 25 2023

Virginia Beach Fishing Report

February 25, 2023

Steve Bradley

April 1^st VBSF begins its 24th season promoting Virginia saltwater fishing. My how time flies. Special thanks to all our sponsors and contributors for making it happen.

Lance Shores

The Virginia special black sea bass season has provided great fishing all month. Boats have been limiting out.

Taug Fish

Tautog are plentiful on nearshore ocean wrecks and reefs. Their feeding activity is based on water temperature. When the water is above 44 degrees, they should be available. Now that Bay water has hit 50 degrees look for the bite to pick up inside. The rock islands of the CBBT is an ideal location, but they can be found anywhere there’s structure. Popular areas include the CBBT, Back River Reef, the Cell, Tower Reef, the Concrete Ships, Cape Henry Wreck, the Santore, the Winthrop, the Triangle Wrecks, and any other wreck or structure you can find. The best baits are crabs … blue, fiddler or mole crabs. Strips of clam, whelk and FISHBITES E-Z CRAB will also work. Tog or blackfish are arguably one of the best tasting fish in our area.

Speckled Trout are becoming more plentiful, especially in the Elizabeth River and York River tributaries. There hasn’t been many caught in Lynnhaven or Rudee inlets as of yet, but if the warm weather stays, they should start showing.

Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle reported some puppy drum catches inside Lynnhaven Inlet.

Ocracoke Red Drum 45 inches, Leslie Mc Rimmon

OBX surf anglers are catching dogfish up and down the beach. At the point in Buxton they are starting to catch puppy drum, sea mullet, and blow toads. Anglers on Ocracoke are catching large reds in the surf.

Crews fishing offshore from the Outer Bank inlets are catching yellowfin, blackfin, school size bluefin tunas and an occasional wahoo!

Be sure and book a VBSF sponsor boat and then send us your pictures for our next report!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/02/25/virginia-beach-fishing-report-40/

Feb 13 2023

Mid-February Virginia Beach Fishing Report

February 13, 2023

Rudee Tours Sea Bass

February hasn’t been able to make up its mind, the usual bitter cold has given way to some unseasonably warm weather as well. The swings make a big difference in what’s biting. The average water temperature is now 45 degrees.

The Virginia February black sea bass season is proving limits to those running offshore to wreck fish. Bluefish and sharks are in the mix as well. The sea bass season will be open until the end of the month with a minimum size of 13 inches and a 15 fish limit per day. The Virginia capture citation is 5 pounds. And the state record is 10 pounds 4 oz, caught in 2000 by Allen P. Paschall.

Tautog fishing has also been great out of Virginia Beach when the weather cooperates. Anglers targeting them on the nearshore wrecks are catching quality fish. Blue crabs or Fishbites Blue Crab flavored strips are the favored baits. Tautog season in Virginia will be open until May 15th with a four fish per day limit at a minimum size of 16 inches. Virginia’s capture Citation size is 9 pounds and release citation size is 23 inches. The State record is 24 pounds, caught in 2012 by Dr Ken Neill.

red drum

Connie at Long Bay Pointe Bait and Tackle reports anglers are finding some puppy drum inside Lynnhaven Inlet.

Decent catch and release striper action is occurring in the rivers and inlets. Night fishing under dock, bridge and pier lights is your best bet.

Stan Simmerman, nice trout

The Elizabeth River on the Southside and York River tributaries on the Peninsula side are your best bet for mid-winter speckled trout. They’re mainly be in deeper waters but as the weather warms, they should move into shallower areas.

blue fin

Boats fishing out of Oregon Inlet and Hatteras Inlet North Carolina are getting into some nice bluefin tuna action. Charter boats fishing to the south have found lots of smaller bluefin, with a larger class of fish being caught to the North.

Be sure and book a VBSF sponsor boat and then send us your pictures for our next report!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/02/13/virginia-beach-fishing-3/

Feb 01 2023

Virginia Beach February Fishing Report

February 1, 2023

Big tautogs are being caught on the ocean wrecks. Dr. Ken Neill successfully fished the triangle wrecks with Johnny Boyd over the weekend. They kept a few big ones and tagged and released the rest. Four already had tags in them. The largest weighed 10 pounds. I’ve heard anglers are finding FISHBITES E-Z CRAB strips effective.

Our February black sea bass season returns for 2023, last year we didn’t have one. The Virginia Marine Resources Commission voted to open a special recreational season from February 1-28. Interested in participating? You can read more about the permitting and reporting requirements by downloading VMRC’s pdf file and you can acquire your free permit here.

Rockfish anglers are still finding some large stripers. This is all catch and release now.

The speckled trout action has slowed. It should get better if it warms up, but the weather forecast calls for colder temps’ in the near term. Water temps are around 47 degrees now.

Afishionado, Captain-Jack-Graham

Outer Banks North Carolina anglers are picking up some giant bluefin tuna offshore. The bite hasn’t gotten red hot yet, but some boats have managed to find some. Along with the bluefin, there have been reports of blackfin tuna, king mackerel and an occasional wahoo.

Inshore fishing has been good on the western side of the sound with plenty of nice trout and a few puppy drum being caught.

In the surf, fishing has been slow for those fishing the beaches north of Oregon Inlet, however to the south from Buxton to Ocracoke there has been a decent amount of puppy drum, scattered black drum, and large sharks.

Be sure and book a VBSF sponsor boat and then send us your pictures for our next report!

Permanent link to this article: https://vbsf.net/2023/02/01/virginia-beach-february-fishing-report/

Jan 25 2023

Fishing News – Black Sea Bass Season

January 25, 2023

The Virginia Marine Resources Commission has voted to open a special recreational black sea bass season from February 1-28, 2023. Interested in participating? You can read more about the permitting and reporting requirements by downloading VMRC’s pdf file and you can acquire your free permit here.

Be sure and book a VBSF sponsor boat and then send us your pictures for our next report!