Heading to Coastal Virginia for a bit of fishing? You’re not alone: visitors and locals alike flock to our shores for prime opportunities for catching trophy fish. Common local catches include Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Roundhead, Croaker, Speckled Trout, Puppy Drum, Red Drum, Cobia, Striped Bass, Summer Flounder, Spadefish, Mullet and Spot.
Be sure to learn more about these requirements before heading to the water. Virginia has strict fishing regulations and saltwater fishing licensing requirements.
Looking for a spot to fish? Virginia Beach has many options, from boat launches and piers to surf fishing and charters. Check out our list below for information on the best spots to fish in Virginia Beach!
Fishing Piers in Virginia Beach
The Virginia Beach Fishing Pier
The Virginia Beach Fishing Pier can be found between 14th and 15th Streets, right off the Boardwalk at the Oceanfront. The 70-year-old pier is open to the public from 6 AM to 12 AM in the summer and 8 AM to 8 PM in the spring and fall.
It costs $10 for adults and $5 for kids under 12-years-old. Each person may bring two fishing rods or two crab nets. The Pier offers bait, ice, tackle, and rod rentals at $10 a rod. You may also purchase season or weekly passes for the pier. Visit their Facebook page for more information.
The VB Fishing Pier also has a restaurant called Ocean Eddie’s. Ocean Eddie’s has been serving delicious seafood to the community since the 1980s.
Sandbridge Little Island Fishing Pier
The Sandbridge Little Island Fishing Pier is located within the Little Island Park, offering beach access, picnic areas, grills, and a playground. From April 15th through October 31st, the pier is open from 5:30 AM to 9 PM and is available from 7 AM until the posted closing time the rest of the year.
Fishing fees are $8 per resident and $10 per non-resident. Children under the age of 10 may access the pier for free with an accompanying adult. Visit their website to learn more about weekly and annual fishing passes.
Sea Gull Pier on the Chesapeake Bay
Unfortunately, due to construction, the Sea Gull Pier is closed until 2024.
Surf & Shore Fishing in Virginia Beach
For years, locals have flocked to the surf and rocks of Rudee Inlet to catch flounder, spot, croaker, and more. Or find a less crowded place away from the boardwalk and check out First Landing State Park’s fishing scene. First Landing offers excellent fishing opportunities right off the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay.
Looking for a less crowded fishing hole, check out some of Virginia Beach’s lakes and rivers! Go fishing on Lake Windsor at Mt. Trashmore, or check out the Lynnhaven River at Pleasure House Point Natural Area near the Lesner bridge.
Most local fishing spots require a fishing license, so be sure to have it handy and follow regulations!
Charter Fishing in Virginia Beach
Try a fishing charter if you’re looking to be out on the open water or looking for a bigger catch! Charters are available for water excursions that take guests out for a little deep-water fishing. If you’re looking to go out with a group, most offer private charters. Common catch includes Tautog, Triggerfish, Seabass, Cobia, Mahi Mahi, etc. There are many charter fishing boats in Virginia Beach – whether you’re new to deep sea fishing or are an old pro, you’re sure to have a blast off the shores of Coastal Virginia!
