Saltwater Recreational Hook & Line Fishing Regulations
February 28, 2023: The Commission voted to terminate Recreational Cobia Mandatory Reporting Program (RCMRP) at the Tuesday, February 28th Commission meeting. Anglers no longer need a recreational permit to target cobia in Virginia waters. We encourage voluntary cobia reporting (especially release data) using the Virginia Saltwater Journal (www.vasaltwaterjournal.com) to help assist with stock assessment data. Otherwise, the 2023 recreational regulations remain the same: season open June 15-September 15; 1 fish per person, 2 fish per vessel possession limit; and a prohibition on gaffing. The minimum size is 40" total length with one allowed on a vessel >50" total length.
Recreational Shellfishing & Non-Hook & Line Fishing
Shark Identification Information (shark regulations vary by species, shark species can be difficult to differentiate, please visit this link to learn more on how to properly identify the species of sharks).
Recreational Saltwater Fishing License Requirements
Get your Saltwater Fishing License Online!
Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licensing Agents
No Cost Recreational Species Permits - for selected species like cobia a no cost permit may be needed by an angler in addition to their regular paid license. Use the web link to the left to obtain your free permit. Note that these permits may only be available during the time of year a specific recreational fishery is occuring.
Saltwater License Development Fund website with Recreational Fishing Information
Charter Boat, Commercial Fish Pier or Rental Boat Business in Virginia Tidal Waters
Virginia Recreational Assessment Program
Registering for a Trophy Fish Citation
What You Should Do When You Catch a Tagged Fish
Virginia Game Fish Tagging Program
Boat ramps funded and managed by the Department of Game & Inland Fisheries
VA Stranding Team Hotline
(757) 385-7575 [ Website |
What to do about a stranded marine animal? ]
Harmful Algal Bloom Hotline
(888) 238-6154 [ Website |
Report Form
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Saltwater Recreational Finfish Landings Statistics from NMFS