Everything To Know About Virginia Beach Inshore Fishing

Virginia Beach is a great destination for inshore fishing with a variety of species to target throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there’s something for everyone in Virginia Beach’s inshore waters. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular species to catch, where to catch them, and how to catch them.

Inshore Fishing VA Beach for Redfish

Redfish, also known as red drum, are a popular inshore species to catch in Virginia Beach. They can be found in the lower Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, particularly in the fall and winter. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and hard-fighting nature, making them a favorite among anglers.

To catch redfish, anglers typically use live or cut bait such as crab, shrimp, or menhaden. They can also be caught on artificial lures such as topwater plugs, soft plastics, and jigs. When fishing for redfish, it’s important to look for structure such as oyster beds, rock piles, and docks, as these areas provide good cover for the fish.

Some popular locations to catch redfish in Virginia Beach include Lynnhaven Inlet, Rudee Inlet, and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel.

Catching Rockfish in Virginia Beach

Striped bass, also known as rockfish, are a highly prized inshore species in Virginia Beach. They can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries year-round, with peak season from November to April.

To catch striped bass, anglers typically use live or cut bait such as menhaden, eels, or peeler crabs. They can also be caught on artificial lures such as topwater plugs, swimbaits, and jigs. When fishing for striped bass, it’s important to look for structure such as drop-offs, ledges, and channels, as these areas provide good cover for the fish.

Some popular locations to catch striped bass in Virginia Beach include the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, the York River, and the James River.

Bluefish Fishing Virginia Beach

Bluefish are a popular inshore species to catch in Virginia Beach. They can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries from May to November, with peak season from June to September. Bluefish are known for their aggressive feeding behavior and hard-fighting nature, making them a favorite among anglers.

To catch bluefish, anglers typically use live or cut bait such as menhaden or mullet. They can also be caught on artificial lures such as spoons, plugs, and jigs. When fishing for bluefish, it’s important to look for schools of baitfish, as these areas are likely to attract feeding bluefish.

Some popular locations to catch bluefish in Virginia Beach include the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and the CBBT islands.

Finding the Flounder in VA Beach

Flounder are a popular inshore species to catch in Virginia Beach. They can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries from May to November, with peak season from June to September. Flounder are known for their flat shape and ability to blend in with their surroundings, making them a challenging catch for anglers.

To catch flounder, anglers typically use live or artificial bait such as minnows, squid, or soft plastics. When fishing for flounder, it’s important to look for areas with good structure such as drop-offs, ledges, and channels. Flounder are often found near the bottom, so fishing with a bottom rig is recommended.

Some popular locations to catch flounder in Virginia Beach include the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, the Lynnhaven Inlet, and the Rudee Inlet.

Speckled Trout Fishing Inshore in Virginia Beach

Speckled trout, also known as spotted sea trout, are a popular inshore species to catch in Virginia Beach. They can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries from May to November, with peak season from September to November. Speckled trout are known for their excellent flavor and acrobatic jumps, making them a favorite among anglers.

To catch speckled trout, anglers typically use live or artificial bait such as shrimp, mullet, or soft plastics. When fishing for speckled trout, it’s important to look for areas with good structure such as grass flats, oyster bars, and drop-offs. They are often found in shallow waters, so fishing with a popping cork or topwater lure can be effective.

Some popular locations to catch speckled trout in Virginia Beach include the Lynnhaven Inlet and the Rudee Inlet.

Catching Tautog

Tautog, also known as blackfish, are a popular inshore species to catch in Virginia Beach. They can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries year-round, with peak season from November to April. Tautog are known for their hard fight and excellent flavor, making them a favorite among anglers.

To catch tautog, anglers typically use live or artificial bait such as crabs, clams, or jigs. When fishing for tautog, it’s important to look for areas with good structure such as wrecks, jetties, and rock piles. They are often found near the bottom, so fishing with a bottom rig is recommended.

Some popular locations to catch tautog in Virginia Beach include the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and the Back River Reef.

Spanish Mackerel Inshore / Nearshore

Spanish mackerel are a popular inshore species to catch in Virginia Beach. They can be found in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries from June to November, with peak season from August to October. Spanish mackerel are known for their fast runs and excellent flavor, making them a favorite among anglers.

To catch Spanish mackerel, anglers typically use live or artificial bait such as small jigs, spoons, or topwater plugs. When fishing for Spanish mackerel, it’s important to look for schools of baitfish, as these areas are likely to attract feeding Spanish mackerel.

Some popular locations to catch Spanish mackerel in Virginia Beach include the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and the CBBT islands.