In October, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) unanimously voted to raise the saltwater recreational license fees. The increase, which is the third since 1993, is a result of continuing budget shortfalls. According to VMRC, the increase will allow for … Continued
Preliminary results from an ongoing long-term survey conducted by researchers at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) suggest an average class of young-of-the-year striped bass was produced in Virginia tributaries of Chesapeake Bay in 2014. Striped bass from the … Continued
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) has begun work on a red drum benchmark stock assessment. The assessment will evaluate the health of the Atlantic coast red drum population and inform the management of the species. Most of the … Continued
Boaters and fishermen are being advised to remain alert during bridge construction at Lynnhaven Inlet in Virginia Beach. Crews are currently removing about 60,000 cubic yards of sand from a proposed equipment staging area at Crab Creek and using it … Continued
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has adjusted the General category (commercial handgear) Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) retention limit to four large medium or giant BFT (i.e., four BFT measuring 73″ or greater) per vessel per day/trip effective June 1 … Continued
In Virginia, anglers can fish without a license during free fishing days, June 6, 7, and 8, 2014. The annual program allows part-time fishermen to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends without having to spend money for a … Continued
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) recently closed the Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) Angling category fishery for large medium and giant “trophy” BFT (measuring 73″ or greater) in the southern area. The closure became effective 11:30 p.m. local time, Friday, … Continued
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass Management Board approved a combination of state and regional proposals for the 2014 summer flounder recreational fishery in accordance with Addendum XXV to the Summer Flounder, Scup … Continued
Mariners in Virginia are expected to experience king tides around New Years Day, 2014. King tides can impact fishermen, boaters, property owners, and others. By definition, a king tide is the highest predicted high tide of the year at a … Continued
In December, 2013, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission increased the size limit on eels used as bait by recreational anglers from six to nine inches. The possession limit was reduced from 50 to 25 eels per person per day. The … Continued