Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is the heart of Tidewater saltwater fishing — a 3-mile oceanfront on the Atlantic, Rudee Inlet, Lynnhaven River, Back Bay, and the Sandbridge beaches to the south. Red drum, speckled trout, cobia, flounder, and Spanish mackerel are all within reach from shore, pier, or boat.
Where to fish
The waters around Virginia Beach offer some of the best fishing in the Tidewater region. Whether you are surf fishing the Atlantic, working the Chesapeake Bay shoreline, or fishing a tidal river, there are productive spots close by.
Key species
Red drum, speckled trout, summer flounder, striped bass, cobia (in season), Spanish mackerel, croaker, spot, bluefish, and black drum are the most-targeted species in the Virginia Beach area. Check the species guides and current VMRC regulations before you go.
Getting started
Pick up a Virginia saltwater fishing license (unless fishing from a licensed pier), check the tide and conditions pages for live data, and look for local bait-and-tackle shops for the latest report. Tight lines.