Ready for a full day of non-stop action on the wrecks off Norfolk? You're in for a treat. Our 10-hour trip takes you right where the big ones lurk, giving you plenty of time to land that cooler-filling catch. We're talking flounder, sea bass, mahi, cobia - the works. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, we've got you covered with all the gear and know-how you need. So grab your sunscreen and let's hit the high seas for some serious fishing.
Picture this: You're cruising out of Norfolk as the sun's coming up, salty breeze in your hair. We'll head straight for the prime fishing grounds where wrecks create underwater hotspots. These aren't your average fishing holes - we're talking sunken ships and artificial reefs that attract fish like nobody's business. You'll be dropping lines all day, feeling the thrill of each hit and the satisfaction of reeling in one after another. Our crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, so we'll make sure you're always on the fish. Between catches, soak in those sweeping ocean views and keep an eye out for dolphins or the occasional whale sighting. It's a full day on the water, so pace yourself and enjoy the ride.
Fishing the wrecks is a whole different ballgame from your typical day on the bay. We're talking deep water and structure fishing, where precision is key. We'll be using heavy-duty rods and reels, spooled with braided line to feel those subtle bites. Depending on what's biting, we might be dropping jigs, live bait, or cut bait right into the strike zone. The key is to work your bait close to the structure without getting snagged - it's a delicate dance, but we'll show you the ropes. We've got all the gear you need, from circle hooks to fish finders. Just bring your A-game and be ready to haul in some monsters from the deep.
The wrecks off Norfolk have been on fire lately. Anglers have been pulling up monster black sea bass, some pushing the 5-pound mark. We've seen coolers full of tasty flounder, and the occasional doormat that'll make your eyes pop. When the water warms up, mahi start cruising through, lighting up the surface with their electric colors. And let's not forget about cobia - these bruisers can top 50 pounds and put up a fight that'll leave your arms shaking. Every trip is different, but that's the beauty of it - you never know what you might hook into next.
Black Sea Bass: These bottom-dwelling bruisers are a staple of wreck fishing. They might look mean with those big eyes and bucket mouths, but they taste amazing. Sea bass love structure, so we'll find them hanging around the wrecks all year round. They put up a decent fight for their size, and when you get into a school, it's non-stop action. The bigger ones, called "knot-heads" by local anglers, can push 5 pounds or more.
Black Drum: These cousins of the redfish are like underwater bulldozers. They use those hard mouths and pharyngeal teeth to crush crabs and mollusks around the wrecks. We usually target them in the spring and fall, but you can find them year-round. The smaller ones, called "puppies," are great eating, while the big ones can top 80 pounds and give you the fight of your life.
Spadefish: Don't let their small size fool you - spadefish are a blast to catch. These silvery, disk-shaped fish school up around wrecks and love to hit small jigs or pieces of clam. They're seasonal visitors, showing up in big numbers during the summer months. Pound for pound, they're one of the hardest-fighting fish in the ocean, and they're not bad on the dinner plate either.
Sheepshead: With their human-like teeth and zebra stripes, sheepshead are some of the oddest-looking fish you'll catch. But man, are they fun to target. These structure-loving fish require finesse and patience to hook, as they're notorious bait stealers. We find them around the wrecks year-round, but spring and fall are prime time. They're excellent eating, with firm, white meat that's a favorite among locals.
Cobia: When cobia show up, it's game on. These sleek, powerful fish are like the muscle cars of the ocean. They start cruising our waters in late spring, hanging around wrecks and buoys. Sight-casting to cobia is an adrenaline rush like no other - they'll chase down a well-presented bait with explosive speed. They grow big, fight hard, and taste amazing. Landing a cobia is often the highlight of many anglers' seasons.
There's something special about wreck fishing that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the mystery of what's lurking around those submerged structures. Or the thrill of battling a fish from the depths, not knowing what's on the other end until you see color. Our regulars tell us it's the variety that hooks them - one minute you're reeling in tasty sea bass for dinner, the next you're locked in a tug-of-war with a bull red. Plus, there's nothing like spending a full day on the water with good company, swapping stories and maybe a little friendly competition. Whether you're after a cooler full of fillets or just the pure joy of fishing, our wreck trips deliver time and time again.
Alright, let's cut to the chase - if you're itching for a day of world-class wreck fishing, we've got you covered. Our 10-hour trips give you the time to really explore what Norfolk's offshore waters have to offer. Remember, we're limited to 6 anglers per trip, so don't sleep on booking your spot. Whether you're a local looking for your next big catch or a visitor wanting to experience the best fishing in Virginia, this is the trip for you. Grab your buddies, pack some snacks, and get ready for a day you won't forget. The fish are out there waiting - let's go get 'em!
Black drum are hefty fighters, often weighing 5-30 pounds but can top 90. You'll find them in brackish waters and estuaries, especially around oyster beds and mudflats. Spring's the best time to target them as they school up to spawn. Anglers love the challenge - these guys have powerful jaws that can crush shellfish, so they put up quite a fight. For bait, fresh crab is hard to beat. Here's a tip: when you're fishing the flats, look for "tailing" drum. That's when their tails break the surface as they root around for food. Cast ahead of them and slowly drag your bait into their path. Just remember, the bigger ones over 15 pounds tend to be tough and not as tasty, so consider releasing those lunkers.
Black sea bass are a favorite target around here, usually running 2-4 pounds but can get up to 8. You'll find them hanging around wrecks, reefs, and rocky bottoms in 60-120 feet of water. Late spring through summer is prime time as they move inshore to spawn. Anglers love 'em for their strong fight and excellent table fare. To catch one, try a two-hook bottom rig with squid or cut bait. Here's a local trick - when you feel that telltale nibble, wait an extra second before setting the hook. These guys have a knack for stealing bait, so give 'em time to really take it. Once hooked, they'll put up a good scrap until they break the surface. Just watch out for those sharp spines when you're handling 'em.
Cobia are hard-fighting fish, often mistaken for sharks with their long, dark bodies. They average 30-50 pounds but can top 100. You'll find them around buoys, wrecks, and other structures in 30-70 feet of water. Late spring through summer is prime time as they migrate along the coast. Anglers love cobia for their powerful runs and excellent table fare. To catch one, try sight fishing with large bucktail jigs or live eels. Here's a local tip: look for them shadowing big rays or manta rays near the surface. When you spot one, cast well ahead of its path and let the bait sink. These guys can be finicky, so be patient and ready for explosive strikes. Once hooked, hang on tight - cobia are known for long, stubborn fights.
Sheepshead, nicknamed "convict fish" for their black and white stripes, typically run 1-8 pounds. You'll find them around any structure with barnacles - docks, bridges, reefs. They're year-round targets but really bunch up in early spring for spawning. Anglers love the challenge of hooking these bait-stealers with their human-like teeth. They're also excellent eating. For bait, fiddler crabs are hard to beat. Here's a tip: when you feel a nibble, wait a second before setting the hook. These guys are notorious for stealing bait, so give them time to really take it. Use a small, strong hook and fish as close to the structure as you can without snagging. It takes some practice, but landing a big sheepshead is always satisfying.
Spadefish are unique targets, usually 3-10 pounds and disk-shaped. You'll spot them around structures like reefs, wrecks, and buoys in shallower coastal waters. They're most active in warmer months. Anglers enjoy the challenge - these guys are known for their strong, unpredictable fights despite their size. They also tend to school up, so when you find one, you've often found many. For bait, try small pieces of clam on a circle hook. Here's a local trick: once you spot a school, cast past them and slowly drag your bait through. Be patient - they might take a few passes before striking. When they do bite, set the hook quickly. These guys have small mouths and can be tricky to hook, but the fight is worth it.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Volvo
Maximum Cruising Speed: 24
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 230