The Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) has made several changes to fishing regulations for 2024, including:
- Commercial spot fishery: The season will be open from April 15 to December 8, 2024
- Recreational striped bass: The spring and fall slot limit is 19–24 inches, but the bag limit and seasons are the same as 2023
- Hard crab pots: Hard crab pots can be placed in tidal waters on Sundays from March 17 to November 30, 2024, but peeler crabs cannot be harvested using crab traps or peeler pots
Individuals must obtain a saltwater recreational fishing license which entitles them to use rod and reel (hook and line), spear or gig, and hand line, cast net, dip net or two eel pots; other rules may apply to these specific gears. For detailed fish identification information, download our Angler’s Guide Fish ID
All regulations are subject to change. It is the angler’s responsibility to know and abide by all current regulations and laws. Check for new regulations before you go fishing.
Regulation Cards are available at most tackle/bait shops and available below.
2024 Finfish Regulation Card
2024 Striped Bass Regulation Card
2024 Recreational Fishing Regulations Sheet

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