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 Roanoke. Right now in May, activity is Excellent.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Blue Catfish
Roanoke, Virginia, might not be the first place that comes to mind for blue catfish, but the Roanoke River and Claytor Lake (a short drive) offer surprisingly good opportunities. The Roanoke River holds a decent population of blues, especially in the deeper holes and around structure like fallen trees and bridge pilings. Claytor Lake, while further, is known for bigger specimens. Anglers targeting blues in these waters typically use cut bait, such as gizzard shad or skipjack herring, fished on the bottom with heavy tackle. Summer and fall are excellent times to fish for blues, as they become more active in the warmer water. Be prepared for a fight, as these fish can grow to impressive sizes. For river access, look for public access points along the Roanoke River Greenway. On Claytor, several marinas offer boat rentals and access. Be aware of strong currents in the river, especially after heavy rains. Targeting blue catfish in this region requires patience and persistence, but the rewards can be well worth the effort.
Plan a Trip to Roanoke
See what's biting in Roanoke, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Blue Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Blue Catfish in Roanoke.
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 Roanoke, Virginia?
There is no limit on the number of blue catfish you can keep in Virginia's freshwater systems.
Is there a size restriction for blue catfish in the Roanoke area?
No, you can keep blue catfish of any size in Virginia.
What are some good baits for catching blue catfish near Roanoke?
Cut bait, such as gizzard shad or bluegill, is a popular and effective choice. Other options include chicken liver and nightcrawlers.
Do I need a fishing license to catch blue catfish in Roanoke?
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 Roanoke
Ready to Catch Blue Catfish in Roanoke?
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