Virginia · Fishing regulations

Fishing regulations in Virginia.

Virginia is unusually well-rounded — limestone trout in the Shenandoah Valley, native brook trout in Shenandoah NP, smallmouth on the New and James, and a Chesapeake striped bass coast.

Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources · License: Anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid fishing license to fish in Virginia. Resident and non-resident licenses are sold online through the VDWR and at most sporting goods retailers. Annual, multi-day, and lifetime licenses are typically available. Senior, military, and youth discounts apply in most cases. A trout license is required to harvest trout. A separate Saltwater Recreational License covers tidal/coastal waters. License costs and exact age thresholds change — verify with the VDWR before purchase.

Freshwater

Largemouth and smallmouth bass plus striped bass, walleye, and catfish on Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna, Buggs Island, and the New River. Trout fishing in the Blue Ridge — Mossy Creek, the Rapidan, the Jackson, and many small mountain streams. Year-round seasons.

Rivers

The Jackson River below Gathright Dam is a tailwater trout fishery. Mossy Creek is a limestone trophy spring creek with permit access. The New River has wild brown trout in the Giles County section. The James and Shenandoah hold smallmouth.

Saltwater

Striped bass (rockfish), spotted seatrout, red drum, flounder, and cobia in the Chesapeake. Offshore for tuna, mahi, billfish, and tilefish. Saltwater Recreational License required for tidal waters.

Special

Mossy Creek requires a free permit through VDWR for the trophy section with daily rod limits. Rapidan River is a native brook trout sanctuary in Shenandoah NP. Jackson River navigation rights are complex on lower stretches.

Popular species

Smallmouth bass · Largemouth bass · Striped bass · Brown trout · Brook trout · Rainbow trout · Spotted seatrout · Red drum

State agency

Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources

Agency site →

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