Ready to hit the wrecks and reefs off Norfolk, VA for some serious action? Goin' Anyways SportFishing has you covered with our 10-hour weekend charter. We're talking flounder, black sea bass, mahi, and more – all waiting to bend your rod in the deep blue. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, our crew's got the know-how to put you on the fish. We provide all the gear and guidance you need, so just bring your game face and let's make it happen.
Picture this: You're cruising out of Norfolk as the sun's coming up, salt spray in your face, and the anticipation building. We're headed for some prime wreck spots where the big ones hang out. Our 10-hour trip gives us plenty of time to hit multiple hotspots and really dial in the bite. You'll be dropping lines over sunken structures that act like fish magnets, attracting everything from tasty flounder to hard-fighting sea bass. And when the mahi are running? Hold onto your hats – it's non-stop action that'll have you grinning from ear to ear.
Alright, let's break down how we fish these wrecks. We use a mix of bottom fishing and jigging techniques to cover all bases. For bottom fishing, we'll set you up with sturdy rods and reels, typically spooled with braided line to feel those subtle bites. We'll show you how to rig up with sinkers and circle hooks – perfect for nabbing those structure-hugging flounder and sea bass. When we're after mahi or cobia, it's all about the jigs. We'll teach you how to work those lures to mimic injured baitfish and trigger those predatory instincts. Don't worry if you're new to this; our crew's got eyes like hawks and will call out when to set the hook.
Norfolk's wrecks have been firing lately. We've been seeing some monster flounder coming over the rails – we're talking doormat-sized fish that'll have you reaching for the camera. The black sea bass action has been hot too, with plenty of keeper-sized fish to fill the cooler. And let's not forget about the mahi – when we hit it right, it's like fishing in a sea of gold and green. Cobia have been making appearances too, and trust me, hooking into one of those bruisers will test your arms and your drag.
Black Sea Bass: These guys are the bread and butter of wreck fishing. They're aggressive feeders and love to hang around structure. You'll find them hugging the wrecks year-round, but the biggest ones show up in late spring and fall. They put up a scrappy fight on light tackle and make for some excellent eating. Pro tip: when you hook one, reel fast – they'll try to duck back into the wreck if you give 'em half a chance.
Flounder: Norfolk's wrecks are home to some seriously big fluke. These flatfish are ambush predators, lying in wait on the sandy bottom near structure. They're most active in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. The key to landing a big one is patience and a slow retrieve. When you feel that telltale thump, give it a second before setting the hook – flounder like to grab their prey sideways before swallowing it.
Mahi-Mahi: When the Gulf Stream eddies push in close, we can get into some epic mahi action. These fish are like lightning in the water – bright, fast, and acrobatic. They travel in schools and are suckers for anything flashy. Peak season is usually mid-summer through early fall. Once you hook one, get ready for some aerial displays that'll have you whooping and hollering.
Cobia: These are the tanks of the wreck fishing world. Cobia are curious fish that often swim right up to the boat, giving you a shot at sight-casting to them. They're mostly here from late spring to early fall, and they grow big – we're talking 50+ pounders. When you hook one, it's game on. They'll test your stamina with long, powerful runs, so make sure your drag is set right and hang on tight.
There's something special about wreck fishing off Norfolk that keeps folks coming back for more. Maybe it's the thrill of dropping your line into the unknown, knowing that anything from a tasty sea bass to a barn door flounder could be down there. Or perhaps it's the way the ocean stretches out endlessly, making you feel like you're the only boat for miles. Our regulars tell us it's a mix of the quality fishing, the knowledgeable crew, and those moments of pure excitement when a big one hits and the reel starts screaming. Plus, there's nothing quite like heading back to port with a cooler full of fresh fillets and a day's worth of fish stories to tell.
Look, if you're itching to get out on the water and experience some of the best wreck fishing Norfolk has to offer, don't wait. Our weekend charters fill up fast, especially during peak season. We've got room for six anglers, so grab your buddies or make it a family day out. Remember, we provide all the gear, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a snack or two). Whether you're looking to stock the freezer or just want to feel the rush of battling ocean predators, our 10-hour trip is the ticket. So what are you waiting for? Give Goin' Anyways SportFishing a call and let's get you hooked up with some Norfolk wreck action. Trust me, once you fish these waters, you'll be planning your next trip before we even hit the dock.
Black Drum are the heavyweights of our local waters, ranging from 5 to 30 pounds with some real monsters pushing 90. You'll find them in brackish estuaries and around oyster beds, often in fairly shallow water. Spring's the prime time to target them as they school up to spawn. These fish put up a stubborn fight and make that signature drumming sound that gives them their name. While the bigger ones can be tough eating, smaller Black Drum under 15 pounds are excellent table fare. For bait, nothing beats a fresh peeler crab or clam. Here's a tip: when you're fishing the flats, look for their tails sticking up as they root around for food. Cast just ahead of them and hold on tight!
Black Sea Bass are a popular target on our wreck trips, typically weighing 2-4 pounds but can reach up to 8. These plump, dark-colored fish hang out near structure in 30-120 foot depths. We find them around wrecks, rocky bottoms, and artificial reefs from late spring through summer. Anglers love Black Sea Bass for their tasty white meat and the fun, spirited fight they put up. They'll hit both bait and lures, but I've had the best luck using squid strips or clam on a two-hook bottom rig. One local trick: when you hook one, keep reeling - there's often a whole school down there ready to bite. Just watch out for their sharp dorsal spines when unhooking them.
Cobia are one of the most sought-after fish in our waters. These powerful swimmers can grow up to 6 feet and 100 pounds, though most we catch are in the 30-50 pound range. They show up in our area from late spring through summer, often hanging around buoys, wrecks, or other structure in 30-70 foot depths. Cobia put up an incredible fight and are excellent eating, which makes them a favorite among anglers. We usually spot them near the surface, so sight fishing is common. Live eels or large bucktail jigs work well. Here's a local trick: if you see rays, look for cobia following them - they often travel together. When you hook one, be ready for a long, hard-pulling battle. It's an experience you won't forget!
Spadefish are one of the more unique catches we see around Norfolk. These disk-shaped fish typically run 3-10 pounds and about 18 inches long. You'll spot them hanging around structures like reefs, wrecks, and even mangroves in shallower coastal waters. They're schooling fish, often in groups of hundreds. Spadefish put up a surprisingly good fight for their size, which makes them fun to catch. They're tricky to hook though - you've got to finesse them. I like using small pieces of clam on a circle hook. Here's a pro tip: once you find a school, toss some bits of clam to get them feeding, then slowly work your bait through the group. Be patient and you'll hook up eventually.
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