Offshore fishing is very popular in the nearby waters. Most anglers that fish in the waters of the Atlantic focus on shark and tuna fishing although this is only part of the action to be had. As Spring gives way to Summer, the weather improves and many anglers head out in search of fish off the Virginia coast. Bluefish signal the start of the season, appearing on the 20 fathom line in May. On their heels are the Mako, Blue and Thresher Sharks. Not long after, the bluefin tuna arrive to local waters. Further offshore, early season warm water eddies sometimes bring yellowfin tuna, dolphinfish and even marlin within range as early as Memorial Day. By July, catches of bluefin and yellowfin tuna increase and chunking for tuna becomes a popular technique. This pattern continues while the weather holds and catches of tuna are common thru Halloween.
Some anglers are equipped to venture outside the inlet. Inshore fishing can include near-shore structure off the coast. A myriad of shoals, sleughs, channels, shipwrecks and artificial reefs may hold numerous species of fish throughout the season.
Offshore anglers may also want to see our sections on: