The dolphin, also known as dolphinfish or Mahi Mahi, is one of Virginia’s most popular offshore fish species. Along the Virginia Coast, dolphin are caught from May thru October using a variety of techniques. Dolphin are known for their brilliant … Continued
This article describes unusual and odd looking saltwater fish that are caught or seen by fishermen in Virginia. Northern Puffers The northern puffer is an odd looking fish that is caught in Virginia waters. Also known as swelling toad, blow … Continued
June 3, 4, and 5, 2016 have been designated as Free Fishing Days in Virginia. No fishing license of any kind will be required for rod and reel fishing in freshwater or saltwater, except in designated stocked trout waters, on … Continued
Since early spring, anglers have been concerned about the possible early closure of the 2016 Virginia cobia season in federal and possibly, state waters. In early March, NOAA Fisheries announced that the recreational harvest of Atlantic migratory group cobia (from … Continued
The ASMFC Summer Flounder, Scup and Black Sea Bass Management Board recently approved Addendum XXVII to the Summer Flounder and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan. The Addendum continues the use of regional management for the 2016 summer flounder and … Continued
NOAA Fisheries (NMFS) has established an annual fee of $29 for registration of anglers, spear fishermen, and for-hire fishing vessels to register under the National Saltwater Angler Registry Program. NMFS completed its biennial review and determined that the annual registration … Continued
The striped bass was the most popular recreational saltwater fish in 2014, according to NOAA Fisheries’ annual report, Fisheries of the United States 2014. Recreational anglers caught 24 million pounds of striped bass in 2014, making it their top catch. … Continued
Despite its small size, the Norfolk spot is one Virginia’s most popular saltwater fish species. Although spot begin arriving in late spring, the best fishing usually occurs in late summer through fall. In Virginia, spot are caught in nearshore waters … Continued
The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) and the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) have established specifications for the summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, and bluefish fisheries. ASMFCs actions are final and apply to state waters (0-3 miles from … Continued
NOAA Fisheries recently announced that the agency will transition from a telephone survey to a mail survey to gather data on fishing trips (effort) of Atlantic and Gulf Coast saltwater recreational anglers. The major change during the transition will involve … Continued