Norfolk's 8HR Nearshore Fishing Adventure

Published Date: July 18, 2025
Fishing

Norfolk
$450 - $3,900 price range

Summary

Ready for a full day of fishing just off the Norfolk coast? This 8-hour trip gets you into prime waters where the action is hot. We'll leave the dock at 7 AM, giving us plenty of time to hit multiple spots. You'll get to try both bottom fishing and trolling, targeting a mix of species that hang out near shore. It's perfect whether you're bringing the family for a fun outing or you're an experienced angler looking to land something big. With room for up to 6 guests, there's space for your whole crew. The Prowler Fishing Charter team knows these waters inside and out, so you're in good hands for a solid day of fishing. Grab your hat and sunscreen – we'll take care of the rest!

Norfolk's 8HR Nearshore Fishing Adventure

Reels in Action

A lone fisherman in Norfolk catches the 'Best, great' catch of the day.

Togging time!

Fishing adventure in Norfolk with 2 people

Best VA Tuna catches this year

Early morning trophy catch!

4 bluefish and spanish mackerel caught in Norfolk, Virginia

Spanish mackarel in Norfolk VA

Nearshore Fishing: Norfolk's Hidden Gems

Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready to hit the sweet spot between coastal comforts and offshore action? Our 8-hour nearshore trip out of Norfolk, VA is just the ticket. We're talking prime fishing grounds that are close enough to see the skyline but far enough to escape the crowds. Whether you're looking to bend a rod with the family or gunning for that personal best, we've got you covered. Let's dive into what makes this trip a local favorite!

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You're stepping onto our boat at the crack of dawn, coffee in hand, as we push off at 7 AM sharp. The air's got that salty kick, and the anticipation's building. We're not wasting time with long runs – we'll be dropping lines within minutes of leaving the dock. This trip's all about variety. We'll mix it up between bottom fishing for those structure-loving fish and trolling for the speedsters cruising by. It's perfect for groups up to 6, so bring your crew and let's make some waves!

Rods, Reels, and Rigging

Alright, let's talk shop. We're not messing around with lightweight tackle here. We're rigged up with sturdy rods and reels that can handle anything from a feisty Spanish mackerel to a bruiser black drum. For bottom fishing, we're dropping bait rigs loaded with squid or cut bait. When we switch to trolling, we're pulling a spread of lures that'll make any game fish's mouth water. Don't sweat the gear – we've got you covered with top-notch equipment. Just bring your A-game and maybe a lucky hat!

Target Species

Let's talk about what's swimming out there. Redfish, or as the locals call 'em, "reds," are like the bulldogs of the bay. These copper-colored bruisers can hit 40 inches and put up a fight that'll make your arms burn. They love hanging around structure, so when we're bottom fishing, keep that rod tip up!

Spanish mackerel are the speedsters of the nearshore waters. These sleek, silver missiles can smoke a reel when they hit. We usually catch them trolling, and when a school's around, it's non-stop action. They're also delicious on the grill, so be ready to take some home for dinner.

Bluefish are the wild cards. These chompers have teeth that'll slice through mono like butter, so we rig up with wire leaders. When they're in a feeding frenzy, it's like someone rang the dinner bell – pure chaos on the water. They're a blast to catch and great for smoking if you're into that.

Black sea bass might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers and taste. These bottom dwellers are suckers for squid and put up a decent scrap for their size. When we find a good structure, it's often fish-after-fish action.

Last but not least, we've got black drum. These big boys can tip the scales over 50 pounds. They're like their redfish cousins but with a more subtle coloration. When you hook into one, it's like trying to pull a Volkswagen off the bottom. Patience and a strong back are key here!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, I've been running these waters for years, and I still get pumped every time we head out. There's something special about nearshore fishing in Norfolk. Maybe it's the way the sun paints the water as we're setting out, or how you can see the city skyline fade as we hit our spots. But I think what really hooks people is the variety. One minute you're battling a bottom-dweller, the next you're chasing surface action. It's like a buffet of fishing experiences, all packed into one trip.

Time to Get Your Fish On

Alright, let's cut to the chase. If you're itching to feel that rod bend and reel scream, it's time to lock in your spot. We're running trips daily, but the prime dates fill up fast – especially when the bite's hot. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to wet a line with the family, this trip's got something for everyone. Don't let another season slip by without getting out on the water. Give us a call, book your trip, and let's make some fishing memories that'll have you coming back for more. Trust me, once you've tasted nearshore fishing Norfolk-style, you'll be hooked!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black drum are the bulldogs of the bay. These hefty fighters can top 80 pounds, though most are in the 5-30 pound range. Look for them around oyster beds, bridge pilings, and shallow flats. They love crabs and clams - fresh peeler crab is like candy to them. Spring is prime time as they gather to spawn, but you can catch them all summer. They put up a stubborn, head-shaking fight. The smaller ones under 15 pounds are great eating, with sweet, white meat. Bigger ones get tough and wormy, so it's best to release those gently. Here's an insider tip: on calm days, listen for their distinctive "drumming" sound. It's how they communicate, and it can lead you right to them.

Black Sea Bass

Black sea bass are the unsung heroes of bottom fishing. These tasty, hard-fighting fish hang around wrecks and reefs from spring through fall. Most run 1-3 pounds, but citation-sized 5+ pounders aren't uncommon. Drop squid, clams, or cut bait to the bottom and get ready for action. They hit hard and pull even harder. Light tackle makes it extra sporty. The meat is white, flaky, and delicious - perfect for fish tacos. Spring and fall are prime time when bigger fish move closer to shore. Here's a pro move: use a fish finder rig with a long leader to keep your bait off the bottom and away from snags. The bigger bass often suspend above the structure.

Bluefish

Bluefish are the bad boys of the Chesapeake. These chomping machines have a mouthful of teeth and an attitude to match. They show up in waves starting in spring, with bigger ones up to 20 pounds arriving in summer. Blues attack anything that moves - they're not picky eaters. Find them busting bait on the surface or around structure. Throwing topwater lures into a blitz is pure adrenaline. Just hang on tight - they fight like crazy and often jump. Use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs. Smaller "snapper" blues make great eating, but the big ones can be oily. Here's a local secret: chunk fresh bunker or mullet on a fish finder rig to tempt the biggest blues lurking below the surface chaos.

Redfish

Redfish are a blast to catch near Norfolk. These copper-colored bruisers usually run 20-30 inches and put up a great fight. Look for them in shallow flats and around oyster bars, especially on incoming tides. They love to crush crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. Fall is prime time as big schools move into the shallows to feed. Redfish are fun for all skill levels - they'll smash topwater lures but also take live bait. For a real thrill, sight-cast to tailing reds in skinny water. Just remember to release the big breeders over 27 inches. Smaller ones make great eating though. My top tip: on calm days, cruise the flats and look for their copper backs or tails breaking the surface. Cast a gold spoon or scented soft plastic and hold on tight!

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish mackerel are speedy silver bullets that'll test your drag. These toothy critters average 2-4 pounds but can top 8. They show up in Norfolk waters from late spring through fall, chasing bait schools near the surface. Look for birds diving to find feeding frenzies. Macks love flashy lures like small spoons or Gotcha plugs. Troll or cast into the school and retrieve fast. Light tackle makes for sporty action as they zig-zag and leap. The best part? They're delicious on the grill. Just be careful of those razor-sharp teeth when unhooking. Pro tip: Use a long-handled dehooker and leave them in the water. For guaranteed action, chum with chopped bait to bring them right to the boat.

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