In January 2026, Mike Rogerson of Virginia Beach was certified as the new Virginia State record holder for Atlantic bluefin tuna by the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament. The record-setting bluefin weighed in at 832.6 pounds. The fish measured 108 inches … Continued
In Virginia, flounder fishing is popular from early spring through late fall. For many anglers, the saltwater fishing season begins on the Eastern Shore of Virginia when the first flounder are caught from seaside inlets and creeks. Summer flounder enter … Continued
In Virginia, bloodworms are considered to be a top saltwater fishing bait for a variety of fish species. They are popular for catching spot, croakers, white perch, striped bass, catfish and other fish. Bloodworms are saltwater invertebrates that are found … Continued
Effective July 5, 2022, no shortfin mako sharks may be landed or retained in any U.S. Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS) fishery until further notice, according to NOAA Fisheries. NOAA’s final rule establishes a shortfin mako shark retention limit of … Continued
Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) recently announced that three Free Fishing Days have been established for Recreational Fishing in Virginia Saltwater areas during the first weekend in October, 2021. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, October 1, 2, and 3, 2021, … Continued
The American eel is an effective but often misunderstood bait for saltwater fishing. Eels are covered with a heavy coating of slime which is makes them difficult to rig and fish with. Despite their challenges, eels are a top bait … Continued
Pre-season maintenance is necessary to keep rods and reels, tackle, and other gear in working condition. This article describes a few basic saltwater fishing equipment maintenance tasks that should be addressed between the end of year and spring before the … Continued
A 708-pound bluefin tuna, caught on February 16, 2020 by Jake Hiles, of Virginia Beach, has been certified as the new Virginia State Record by the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament’s Director Lewis Gillingham. Hiles catch surpasses the previous state record … Continued
In December, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) adjusted the 2021-2023 recreational cobia management measures to comply with the ASMFC Cobia Fishery Management Plan. 2021 management measures include: a season of June 15-September 15 a 1 fish per person, 2 … Continued
The 2019 Stock Assessment and Fishery Evaluation Report for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species, better known as the SAFE Report, is now available online. The latest SAFE report provides the public with information on the status of Atlantic HMS stocks and … Continued