Virginia · Hampton Roads
BLACK SEA BASS FISHING
IN VIRGINIA BEACH
Virginia Beach is a solid destination for black sea bass fishing, with good fishing in May, June, July, August. Book a charter and target black sea bass with local experts.
About Black Sea Bass Fishing in Virginia Beach
A tasty bottom dweller found on reefs, wrecks, and hard bottom structure.
Virginia Beach is a solid destination for black sea bass fishing, offering good fishing in May, June, July, August. The best months to target black sea bass here are May, June, July, August.
Scientific name: Centropristis striata
Black Sea Bass Seasonal Calendar — Virginia Beach
Month-by-month availability for black sea bass in Virginia Beach, VA.
How to Catch Black Sea Bass in Virginia Beach
Techniques & Bait
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
Recommended Tackle
Your captain will provide all tackle and gear suited to the target species and local conditions.
Best Nearshore Fishing Spots in Virginia Beach
Top spots where local captains target black sea bass and other nearshore species.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Pilings
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel spans 17.6 miles across the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, and its massive concrete pilings create one of the greatest artificial reef systems on the East Coast. Sheepshead, tautog, flounder, spadefish, and cobia hold tight to the pilings year-round, with trophy tautog fishing drawing anglers from across the mid-Atlantic. The four man-made islands provide additional structure that concentrates baitfish and predators alike.
CBBT Third Island
The Third Island of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is widely considered the most productive fishing location along the entire span for cobia, sheepshead, and large red drum. The island's riprap and surrounding concrete rubble field creates a massive habitat zone that attracts diverse species from spring through fall. Sight-casting to cobia cruising the island's perimeter during summer is a signature Virginia Beach experience.
Cape Henry Wreck
The Cape Henry Wreck lies in approximately 35 feet of water near the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, just off the Cape Henry shoreline. The wreck attracts flounder, tautog, sheepshead, and black sea bass that use the structure for shelter and ambush feeding. Its proximity to shore makes it a reliable half-day target for small boats running out of Rudee Inlet or Lynnhaven.
First Island Reef
The First Island of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel sits at the southern end of the span near Virginia Beach, surrounded by productive rock and rubble habitat. Tautog, sheepshead, triggerfish, and spadefish congregate around the island's riprap from April through November. The island's location at the bay mouth means it receives both bay and ocean species on different tidal stages.
Other Species in Virginia Beach
More fish you can target while visiting Virginia Beach.
Black Sea Bass Fishing in Virginia Beach — FAQ
Black Sea Bass fishing in Virginia Beach is productive during May, June, July, August, September, October.
Black Sea Bass fishing charters in Virginia Beach are typically nearshore trips. Prices vary by trip duration and group size. Most charters include all gear, bait, licenses, and fish cleaning.
Consult your local charter captain for the most effective baits and techniques in the area.
No — when you book a charter in Virginia Beach, your captain provides all required Virginia fishing licenses as part of the trip.
Black Sea Bass regulations in Virginia include minimum size limits and bag limits that vary by season. Your captain will know the current regulations and ensure compliance.
While targeting Black Sea Bass in Virginia Beach, you may also catch Striped Bass, Cobia, Fluke, Yellowfin Tuna, Redfish. Many charter trips target multiple species for the best action.
Ready to Catch Black Sea Bass in Virginia Beach?
Compare verified charter captains, check availability, and book your black sea bass fishing trip today.
Get Charter Quotes