Featured Tuna Charters in Virginia Beach
Expert captains ready to take you on your next tuna adventure.


Playin Hookey Charters
Virginia Beach Fishing Charter that runs out of Rudee inlet. Sportfishing, family fishing, inshore fishing, offshore fishing, swordfishing, tuna fishing, seabass, Tautog, Cobia, flounder, group charters.


Knot Tell'n Fishing Charters
Fishing Charters in Virginia Beach. Offshore Deep Sea fishing in Virginia for Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Blue & White Marlin. We also fish Inshore for Cobia & Red Drum And Much More.


Matador Virginia Beach Charter Fishing
The legendary half day Virginia Beach Tuna Fishing Trip. This is the stuff dreams are made of here folks! Great fishing less than 50 statute miles ENE of Rudee Inlet. Just so that i don't have to
Best Time to Catch Tuna
Tuna can be caught year-round in Virginia Beach. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Tuna
Virginia Beach serves as a jumping-off point for offshore Tuna fishing, providing access to the productive waters of the Gulf Stream. Targeting Tuna here is a seasonal affair, with the best opportunities typically occurring from late spring through fall. Yellowfin and Bluefin Tuna are the primary targets, and both can be caught through trolling or chunking techniques. Focus your efforts on areas where temperature breaks and current convergences concentrate baitfish. A local tip is to monitor sea surface temperature charts closely, as even slight variations can significantly impact Tuna distribution. Be prepared for long runs offshore and ensure your vessel is properly equipped with safety gear and reliable electronics. Also, be aware of evolving regulations regarding Tuna size and bag limits, as these can change frequently to manage the fishery.
How to Catch Tuna
Tuna Fishing Regulations in Virginia
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
3 per person per trip for bluefin tuna (with sub-limits based on size class); yellowfin, bigeye, and albacore tuna have a combined limit of 3 per person per trip.
Size Limit
Bluefin tuna have specific size restrictions that vary throughout the year. Consult current regulations.
License Required
Virginia Saltwater Fishing License and Highly Migratory Species (HMS) permit
Regulations for tuna fishing, especially bluefin, are subject to frequent in-season adjustments by NOAA Fisheries. Anglers must have an HMS permit and report catches.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Virginia state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use when targeting tuna in Virginia Beach?
Tuna in Virginia Beach respond well to a variety of baits. Popular choices include live bait like spot or bluefish, as well as artificial lures such as trolling skirts and diving plugs.
What are the regulations for bluefin tuna in Virginia?
You can fish for bluefin tuna year-round in Virginia. The bag limit is 3 per person per trip, but there are specific size restrictions that vary throughout the year, so be sure to check the current regulations before heading out.
Do I need a special permit to fish for tuna in Virginia Beach?
Yes, in addition to a Virginia Saltwater Fishing License, you will need a Highly Migratory Species (HMS) permit to target tuna.
Besides bluefin, what are the bag limits for other tuna species?
For yellowfin, bigeye, and albacore tuna, the combined limit is 3 per person per trip.
More Tuna Fishing in Virginia
Other Species to Fish in Virginia Beach
Ready to Catch Tuna in Virginia Beach?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.


