Bluefish

Bluefish Fishing in Virginia

Toothy, aggressive schooling fish of the Atlantic coast that blitz bait in the surf and bays.

Waters
1
State
Virginia
Water
Saltwater
Methods
Fly, Spin & Bait

Peak Months in Virginia: May to Oct

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F
M
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M
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Highlighted months are the best fishing. Most fish are in the water year-round; other months are slower.

Bluefish
Image: Duane Raver, USFWS · Public domain

Licenses & Regulations

Most anglers need a Virginia fishing license; age cutoffs and exemptions are set by the state. Seasons, limits, and tackle rules vary by water, so check current regulations before you go.

Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources

Plan by Month

Best Flies, Lures & Bait for Bluefish

Month

4 picks for October.

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Rod & Reel

Bluefish Setup

Fly

9 ft 9 wt rod, intermediate line, wire or 40 lb bite tippet.

Spin / Cast

7 to 9 ft medium-heavy spinning rod, 4000 to 5000 reel, 20 lb braid with a wire leader.

Virginia

Where to Catch Bluefish

1 of 1 waters

Virginia

Shops to Stock Up

Recommended

Gear for Bluefish

Jigs

Spro Bucktail Jigs

Durable hair jigs for stripers, fluke, and anything that eats baitfish.

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Reels

Penn Battle III Spinning Reel

A metal-bodied reel built to survive saltwater and big runs.

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Spoons

Acme Kastmaster Spoon

A dense spoon that casts a mile and flutters on the fall.

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Metal Jigs

Deadly Dick Deadly Dick Metal Jig

A small, heavy casting jig for fast-moving albies and mackerel.

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Bluefish Fishing by State