World-Class Inshore Fishing in Virginia Beach

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Chesapeake Bay
$600 - $900 price range

Summary

Hop aboard Captain Jeff's 25' Parker center console for an afternoon of inshore fishing in Chesapeake Bay. This 4-hour trip out of Virginia Beach targets seasonal favorites like redfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia, flounder, sheepshead, and spadefish. It's perfect for anglers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. The afternoon slot often means calmer waters and less boat traffic, setting the stage for steady action. Everything you need is provided – gear, bait, licenses, and bottled water. With room for up to four guests, it's a great way to spend time on the water with family or friends. The bay's rich ecosystem offers diverse fishing opportunities, and Capt. Jeff knows just where to find the hot spots. Remember to bring cash for the final payment on trip day. Book your preferred time in advance to lock in your spot on this local Virginia Beach fishing adventure.

World-Class Inshore Fishing in Virginia Beach

Chesapeake Bay Catches

Anglers holding 5 big blackfin tuna fish caught in VA

All Line up! Fresh Catch

Trophy catch, Chesapeake style

Photo of a 36-inch Cobia fish caught while fishing in Gloucester County

Chesapeake bite was hot today

Reeling in Cobia in VA waters

Afternoon Fishing Frenzy in Chesapeake Bay

Looking to escape the midday heat and catch some of Virginia Beach's top inshore species? Captain Jeff's got you covered with this 4-hour afternoon charter that'll have you reeling in redfish, sheepshead, and more. Cruise the calm waters of Chesapeake Bay aboard a sweet 25' Parker, with all the gear you need to land the big ones. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's perfect for groups up to four looking to make the most of their afternoon on the water.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as you step aboard Captain Jeff's 25-foot Parker center console, you'll know you're in for a treat. This boat's built for comfort and fishability, with plenty of deck space to cast and fight fish. We'll motor out into Chesapeake Bay, where the afternoon conditions are often prime for fishing - less wind, fewer boats, and fish that are ready to bite. Depending on the season, we might be trolling for Spanish mackerel, bottom fishing for sheepshead, or sight-casting to big redfish. The captain's got all the latest gear and knows exactly where the fish are holding, so you can focus on the fun part - catching 'em!

Techniques & Tactics

On this trip, we'll use a mix of fishing techniques to target different species. For Spanish mackerel, we might troll small spoons or jigs behind the boat. When we're after redfish, we'll often use light tackle and artificial lures, sight-casting to schools in shallow water. Sheepshead require a bit more finesse - we'll drop live fiddler crabs or clams right next to structure where these tough-fighting fish hang out. The captain will show you the ropes, so don't worry if you're new to these methods. By the end of the trip, you'll be working those rods like a pro!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Redfish: Also known as red drum, these copper-colored beauties are a favorite among Chesapeake Bay anglers. They can grow to over 50 pounds, though most catches are in the 5-15 pound range. Redfish love to cruise in shallow water, often tailing as they search for crabs and small fish. The thrill of spotting a school of reds and making that perfect cast is hard to beat.

Spanish Mackerel: These sleek, torpedo-shaped fish are built for speed. They typically show up in Chesapeake Bay during the warmer months, chasing bait schools and providing fast-paced action. Spanish mackerel hit lures hard and make blistering runs, making them a blast to catch on light tackle. They're also excellent eating fish, so be sure to keep a few for dinner!

Sheepshead: With their distinctive black and white stripes and human-like teeth, sheepshead are one of the bay's most unique-looking fish. They're notorious bait-stealers, so hooking one takes a bit of skill and patience. But once you get the hang of it, you'll be addicted to the fight these tough little fish put up. They typically hang around structure like pilings and bridges, so we'll focus our efforts in those areas.

Spadefish: These disc-shaped fish might look a bit goofy, but they're no joke when it comes to fighting. Spadefish often school up around structure in the bay, and when you find them, the action can be non-stop. They're not the biggest fish we'll target, but pound-for-pound, they're some of the strongest swimmers out there.

Cobia: The king of Chesapeake Bay, cobia are the trophy fish many anglers dream about. These powerful fish can grow over 100 pounds and put up an epic battle on rod and reel. While they're not as common as some of our other target species, hooking into a big cobia is always a possibility during the summer months. We'll keep our eyes peeled for these bruisers cruising near the surface.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing Chesapeake Bay in the afternoon. The water's usually calmer, the sun's not as intense, and the fish are often more active. Plus, you can sleep in and still have time for a full day of fun before your trip. Captain Jeff's got years of experience on these waters and knows how to put clients on fish, even when conditions are tough. With all gear provided and licenses covered, it's a hassle-free way to experience some of Virginia Beach's best inshore fishing. And let's be honest - there's nothing like watching the sun start to set over the bay as you reel in that last fish of the day.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking for a top-rated afternoon fishing trip in Virginia Beach, this Chesapeake Bay charter is hard to beat. With a mix of exciting species, comfortable boat, and experienced captain, you've got all the ingredients for an awesome day on the water. Whether you're a local looking for a quick fishing fix or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Virginia Beach angling, Captain Jeff will make sure you have a blast. Remember, afternoon trips tend to book up fast, especially during peak season. So if you're ready to tangle with some redfish, spadefish, or maybe even a trophy cobia, don't wait to reserve your spot. Grab your friends or family (up to four total), and get ready for some serious rod-bending action in Chesapeake Bay!

Learn more about the species

Cobia

Cobia are one of the most sought-after fish in Chesapeake Bay during summer. These powerful battlers average 20-40 pounds but can top 100. Look for them around buoys, channel markers, and other structure, often swimming near the surface. Cobia season peaks in June and July when they migrate into the bay. They're aggressive predators and will hit live eels, big bucktail jigs, or even topwater lures. The fight is epic - expect long runs and acrobatic jumps. Sight-fishing for cruising cobia is a rush. A local trick is to look for rays, as cobia often follow them to scavenge leftovers. Patience and a ready rod are key, as these fish can appear suddenly. The firm, white meat makes excellent steaks or sushi.

Redfish

Redfish, also called red drum, are a favorite inshore target in Chesapeake Bay. These copper-colored beauties with the trademark tail spot average 3-10 pounds in the bay, but can get much bigger. Look for them in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near creek mouths, especially on falling tides. They love to root around for crabs and baitfish, often revealing their location with a swirl or tail on the surface. Reds put up a great fight, with strong runs and head shakes. Live or cut bait works well, but artificials like gold spoons or scented soft plastics can be deadly too. A stealthy approach is key in shallow water. Listen for them crunching crabs or slurping bait. Once hooked, these guys are excellent table fare.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are one of the craftiest fish in Chesapeake Bay. These striped convict-looking fish average 2-5 pounds but can reach over 10. You'll find them around docks, pilings, and rocky areas, using those human-like teeth to crunch barnacles and crabs. Spring and fall are prime seasons as water temps change. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, so you've gotta be quick on the hook set. Use small hooks with fiddler crabs or pieces of clam for best results. A light touch helps feel those subtle bites. The fight is solid, and the meat is sweet. Pro tip: scrape some barnacles off pilings to chum them up. It takes some practice, but landing a big sheepshead is super rewarding.

Spadefish

Spadefish are a unique catch in Chesapeake Bay, usually 1-3 pounds but sometimes up to 9. Look for their distinctive disk shape around structures like pilings, reefs, and wrecks in 10-30 feet of water. They school up in summer, making for fun light tackle action. Spadefish put up a scrappy fight on light gear and are tricky to hook. Use small hooks with bits of clam or jellyball for bait. A neat trick is to chum with pieces of clam to get a school fired up. Patience is key - let them nibble before setting the hook. While not the biggest fish, spades are a blast to catch and good eating too. Their firm white meat is excellent fried or grilled.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish mackerel are a favorite catch in Chesapeake Bay, typically running 1-3 feet long and 2-6 pounds. These speedy swimmers travel in big schools near the surface, making for exciting sight fishing. Look for them around inlets and along beaches from spring through fall. They hit hard and fight well on light tackle. To catch 'em, troll small spoons or cast jigs into feeding frenzies. Spanish macks are also prized for their tasty, oily flesh. For best results, use a fast retrieve and keep your bait moving - these fish love to chase. A local secret is to watch for diving birds, which often mark schools of Spanish mackerel feeding on baitfish. Get ready for some fast action when you find a school!

About the

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha 300 engine

Maximum Cruising Speed: 36

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 300

Ready for an afternoon of inshore fishing fun? Join Captain Jeff for a 4-hour trip on Chesapeake Bay, leaving right from Virginia Beach. You'll be cruising on a spacious 25' Parker center console, perfect for up to four people to fish comfortably. The afternoon brings calmer waters and less boat traffic, giving you prime conditions to catch some local favorites. Depending on the season, you might reel in redfish, Spanish mackerel, cobia, flounder, sheepshead, or spadefish. Don't worry about gear or licenses - it's all included, along with bait and bottled water to keep you hydrated. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying fishing for the first time, Captain Jeff will make sure you have a great time on the water. Remember to bring cash for the final payment on the day of your trip. Pick your preferred afternoon and book soon to lock in your spot!