Tuna

Venturing offshore from Cape Charles puts you in striking distance of some thrilling tuna fishing. While not as consistent as further south, the Virginia coast sees runs of bluefin, yellowfin, and occasionally bigeye tuna. The warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are when the action heats up as tuna follow the Gulf Stream's currents and bait migrations. Focus your efforts around underwater canyons and seamounts like the Norfolk Canyon, where nutrient-rich upwellings attract baitfish and, in turn, tuna. Trolling with spreader bars and ballyhoo is a common tactic, but chunking can also be effective. Local knowledge is invaluable; consider chartering a boat with a captain familiar with the area's hotspots. Keep an eye on water temperature breaks, as these often concentrate tuna. Remember that regulations can change quickly, so always check the latest NMFS guidelines before heading out.