Fishing Charters in Virginia
Browse fishing charters in Virginia that can help you catch blue catfish.


Nauti Dog Sportfishing
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Experience Virginia Beach fishing charters like never before! Captain Kaleb Underwood and Nauti Dog Sportfishing offer thrilling fishing adventures!


Backlash Sportfishing
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach Fishing Charters Welcome to Backlash Sportfishing- Virginia Beach Fishing Charters, with Captain Steve Richardson aboard the Beautiful Custom Built 56' Carolina Style Custom Boat. The


It’S A Shore Thang Charters
Cape Charles, Virginia
Shore Thang Charters. Fishing charters. Fishing guide. inshore fishing. offshore fishing. Chesapeake Bay. Virginia. boat guide. boat trip. fishing trip. redfish. mackerel. black drum. rockfish. mahi mahi. tuna.


Beach Bum Charters
King George, Virginia
Fishing charter service for the Potomac River Chesapeake bay. Beach Bum Charters LLC King George Va. We also offer beach trips, and sunset cruises.


Island Queen Inland Charters
Chincoteague, Virginia


Citations Only Guide Service
Colonial Heights, Virginia


Shenandoah Lines Fly
Crozet, Virginia
Explore Shenandoah Lines’ fly fishing services in Central VA, including half and full day guided trips, casting lessons, and fly tying classes.


Virginia River Guides
Lexington, Virginia
We are confident in the quality, diversity, and beauty of the waters we fish. Come see us and fish the legendary rivers of Virginia. We float and wade the James, Jackson, and Maury rivers.


Virginia Fly Fishing Guide John Roberts Flyfishing
Lexington, Virginia
John Robert's Fly Fishing Adventures located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia offers the best trout fly fishing in Virginia. John Roberts is your guide offering 50+ years of flyfishing expertise on Virginia Streams.


Takedown Sportfishing
saltwater fishing boat cruise charter boat cobia stripers rockfish flounder tog tautog spadefish triggerfish sheepshead saltwater charters offshore charters fishing


Headboat Fishing


Gettin Bendy Charters
Best Time to Catch Blue Catfish
Blue Catfish can be caught year-round in Franklin. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Blue Catfish
The Blackwater and Nottoway Rivers near Franklin, Virginia, offer excellent opportunities for catching blue catfish. These rivers hold a healthy population of blues, with fish reaching impressive sizes. The best time to target them is typically from spring through fall, with the warmer months being particularly productive. Look for deeper holes, channels, and areas with current breaks. Cut bait is the most effective approach, with gizzard shad, bream, or even commercially prepared catfish baits working well. A sturdy rod and reel are essential, as these fish can put up a strong fight. A popular access point is the Franklin City Boat Ramp on the Blackwater River, providing easy access to prime catfishing waters. Be aware of the current and potential snags when fishing from a boat. Night fishing can also be very productive, especially during the summer months. Always check Virginia's fishing regulations for size and creel limits on blue catfish.
How to Catch Blue Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Blue Catfish in Franklin.
Blue Catfish Fishing Regulations in Virginia
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Anglers are encouraged to harvest blue catfish to help control the population in certain areas.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Virginia state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the bag limit for blue catfish in Virginia?
There is no bag limit for blue catfish in Virginia, so you can keep as many as you catch.
Is there a size limit for blue catfish in Virginia?
No, there is no size limit for blue catfish in Virginia.
What are some good baits for catching blue catfish near Franklin, VA?
Popular baits include cut bait (shad, herring, or other oily fish), chicken liver, and nightcrawlers. Some anglers also use commercially prepared catfish baits.
Do I need a license to fish for blue catfish in Franklin, VA?
Yes, you need a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license to fish for blue catfish.
More Blue Catfish Fishing in Virginia
Other Species to Fish in Franklin
Ready to Catch Blue Catfish in Franklin?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


