The Avid Angler
TROPHY BLUE CATFISH
The James River is known as one of the greatest fisheries for giant blue catfish in North America. Specifically targeting cats of 30 lbs. plus, we utilize a 10 rod spread to go after citation (trophy) sized blue cats. Blue cats are a dynamic and mobile fish, constantly on the go. Utilizing two different launch locations, we can follow the bite along the 60 mile waterway that holds these fish. Please see our FAQ’s for specific details.
Targeting citation sized blue cats is a slower bite, typically setting up on a fishing spot for 45 minutes to an hour. With that in mind, 3/4 or full day trips are best.
As stated, targeting citation sized blue cats is a slower bite. A “good day” on the water is landing two 30 pounds plus sized fish. With this in mind, we like everyone to have an opportunity to reel in a large blue cat. We recommend group sizes of 2 or 3 individuals.
All blue cats caught over 15 pounds are released. The larger fish have too much mercury to be consumed and we need to maintain the fishery by releasing the larger fish. There are no limits set on the amount of fish kept below 15 pounds.
No. There is no preferred launch time that will produce a better bite than any other time. Night fishing begins in June and runs through mid-September. Specific start dates are based on temperature.
We strongly recommend not to bring a cooler on board. The cooler takes up extra deck space & usually gets in the way. Storage with ice is on the boat to keep you food & drinks cold & fresh. If you are going to keep fish, leave a cooler in your vehicle to keep the fish cold.
Blue catfish begin to spawn around the middle of June. The spawn typically lasts until the end of July. During this spawning period, we do not target the citation sized blue cats. The bite is almost non-existent.
STRIPED BASS
The York River offers the opportunity to catch “schoolie” sized Striped Bass (20-32 inches). The bite is typically very good from late Spring to mid-November.
Striped Bass are a heavily regulated fish. There are 2 fishing seasons in Virginia, May 16-June 15 and October 4 – December 31. Limits are one per person per day. Any striped bass caught out of season are strictly catch and release. The fall striped bass season tends to produce larger fish than the spring season. Please see our FAQ’s for specific details.
Virginia regulations allows one fish per person, per day. Limits are typically caught on a half day trip. After limits are reached, we will continue to fish and catch and release. The half day trip is our most popular for Striped Bass charters.
Groups of 4 is the perfect size. This allows for adequate space on the boat and maximizes the amount of fish that can be kept.
Yes. The area we fish is active with many other species. Smaller blue catfish, spotted gar & sometimes even a ray are a bi-catch while targeting stripers. With all the different species in the water, some days can get pretty busy!
The spring season sizes are 20 – 28 inches. The fall season is 20-36 inches.
We strongly recommend not to bring a cooler on board. The cooler takes up extra deck space & usually gets in the way. Storage with ice is on the boat to keep you food & drinks cold & fresh. If you are going to keep fish, leave a cooler in your vehicle to keep the fish cold.
