Virginia Beach Afternoon Family Fishing Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fourhour afternoon inshore fishing trip for familiesTargets Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Red Drum, and BluefishCaptain Pat provides expert guidance for all skill levels
Picture this: you and your family out on the calm inshore waters of Virginia Beach, lines in the water, everyone learning something new, and nobody stressed about catching the "big one." Captain Pat's 4-hour afternoon charter aboard the Alanna Kay is exactly that kind of trip. This isn't about bragging rights at the dock – it's about getting everyone comfortable with a rod in their hands while targeting some of the most reliable species Virginia's coast has to offer. With room for up to 6 anglers, this family-friendly charter keeps things relaxed but productive, focusing on Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Red Drum, and Bluefish in the protected waters where beginners can actually enjoy themselves.
Captain Pat knows these inshore waters like the back of his hand, and that local knowledge makes all the difference when you've got kids or first-timers aboard. The afternoon timing hits a sweet spot – you're not dealing with early morning seasickness, and the fish are often more active as the day cools down. The Alanna Kay operates in Virginia Beach's calmer inshore zones, which means less choppy water and more time actually fishing instead of hanging onto the rail. Pat's approach is hands-on but patient, walking everyone through the basics of reading the water, setting the hook, and fighting fish without overwhelming newcomers. The smaller group size means everyone gets personal attention, and there's plenty of deck space for kids to move around safely between bites.
This charter runs a mix of bottom fishing and light tackle approaches depending on what's biting and who's on board. Captain Pat typically sets up with medium-action spinning rods that aren't too heavy for younger anglers but still have enough backbone to handle a decent Cobia or Red Drum. You'll be working with live bait, cut bait, and some artificial lures – nothing too technical, but effective for the species you're targeting. The boat's equipped with quality tackle, so you don't need to worry about bringing gear unless you've got a lucky rod you can't fish without. Pat likes to move around to different spots throughout the trip, hitting structure, drop-offs, and grass beds where these inshore species like to hang out. The beauty of inshore fishing here is the variety – one minute you might be bouncing bottom rigs for Black Sea Bass, the next you're casting at a school of Spanish Mackerel breaking the surface.
Redfish are the bread and butter of Virginia Beach inshore fishing, and for good reason. These copper-colored fighters typically run 18-30 inches in these waters, with the occasional bull drum showing up to really test your drag system. They're most active during the warmer months from late spring through fall, often feeding in shallow grass beds and around structure. What makes them perfect for family trips is their willingness to eat a variety of baits and their scrappy fight that's manageable for most anglers. Cobia are the wildcards that can turn an ordinary day into something special. These brown sharks-lookalikes can push 30-40 pounds and are known for their curious nature – they'll often come right up to the boat to check you out before deciding whether to bite. Peak Cobia season runs from late spring into summer, and they're absolute bulldogs when hooked.
Spanish Mackerel are speed demons that provide non-stop action when you find them. Usually running 1-3 pounds, they're perfect for keeping kids engaged since they bite aggressively and fight way above their weight class. They show up in schools during the warmer months, often feeding on the surface where you can see the commotion. Bluefish are the opportunists of the bunch – they'll eat almost anything and fight dirty with those sharp teeth and powerful runs. Virginia Beach Blues typically range from 2-8 pounds, and they're known for their aggressive strikes and stubborn fights. Black Sea Bass round out the lineup as the reliable bottom dwellers, usually found around structure and willing to bite year-round. They might not be the flashiest fish, but they're excellent table fare and always seem to save the day when other species aren't cooperating.
Captain Pat's afternoon family charters fill up fast, especially during the summer months when Virginia Beach fishing is at its peak. This trip strikes the perfect balance between productive fishing and family-friendly fun, making it a top choice for visitors and locals alike. The 4-hour window gives you enough time to hit multiple spots and try different techniques without wearing out the younger anglers. Remember that deposits are non-refundable, so make sure your dates work before booking. Whether you're introducing kids to saltwater fishing or just want a laid-back afternoon on the water, this charter delivers the kind of experience that keeps families coming back year after year. Don't wait until the last minute – Virginia Beach's inshore fishing season waits for no one, and Captain Pat's calendar tends to book solid during prime time.
The Provincial is a beautifully restored 42-foot sport fishing boat that's perfect for your family's inshore adventure. Originally built in 2005 and given new life in 2022, she's powered by twin 375HP Cummins engines that'll get you to the fishing grounds with ease. Captain Pat knows these Virginia Beach waters like the back of his hand, and this boat is equipped to help you find those Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Red Drum, and Bluefish. The fish finder will locate your targets while the GPS keeps you on course. With air conditioning to beat the heat, a flybridge for great views, and an icebox to keep your drinks cold, the whole family stays comfortable. There's even a bed and toilet onboard for longer trips. The multimedia system keeps everyone entertained between bites, and with room for up to 6 people, it's sized just right for families. Whether you're teaching the kids to fish or looking to land your next keeper, The Provincial has everything you need for a great day on the water.
Centropristis StriataBlack sea bass are steady producers and perfect for bottom fishing around wrecks, reefs, and hard structure in 20-80 feet of water. Most run 1-3 pounds, though we catch some nice 4-5 pounders on the deeper spots. They're most active from late spring through fall when they move inshore to feed and spawn. What guests love about sea bass is the consistent action - where you catch one, there's usually more. They fight hard for their size and are some of the best eating fish in the ocean with sweet, white meat. During spawning season, males turn bright blue with a hump on their head, which is pretty cool to see. My advice: use a two-hook bottom rig with squid or clam, and don't be surprised if you get doubles. Keep your bait on the bottom and give it occasional twitches to attract their attention.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBluefish are scrappy fighters that show up in good numbers during summer and fall around Virginia Beach. Most blues we catch run 2-8 pounds, though bigger ones occasionally show up. They hunt in schools along beaches, around inlets, and near structure in 10-40 feet of water. When they're feeding, it's pure chaos - they'll attack anything that moves and create what we call a "bluefish blitz." Kids love the aggressive strikes and steady action they provide. The smaller ones make good table fare when prepared fresh, though they're oily fish. Look for diving birds to locate feeding schools, then get ready for non-stop action. Pro tip: use wire leaders since their razor-sharp teeth will cut through regular line instantly. Cut bait like bunker chunks work great, but they'll hit spoons and plugs too.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are one of our favorite spring targets here in Virginia Beach. These brown, shark-looking fish usually run 30-50 pounds and can hit 6 feet long, so they pack a serious punch. You'll find them cruising near buoys, channel markers, and around structure in 15-50 feet of water from May through September. They're curious fish that often swim right up to the boat, making for some exciting sight fishing opportunities. The fight is what gets people hooked - they're strong, stubborn, and make long powerful runs. The meat is firm and delicious, often compared to shark or mahi. Here's a local trick: when you spot one, don't cast right at it. Instead, lead them by 10-15 feet and let your jig or live bait sink down as they approach. They love a good bucktail jig in any color.
Sciaenops OcellatusRed drum are probably our most popular inshore target around Virginia Beach. These copper-colored beauties typically run 20-35 inches and love hanging out in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near structure in 1-4 feet of water. That distinctive black spot near their tail makes them easy to identify. Spring through fall gives you the best action when they're feeding actively on crabs, shrimp, and small baitfish. What makes reds special is their strong, bulldogging fight - they'll strip line and make powerful runs that get everyone excited. Plus, they're excellent table fare with mild, flaky meat. My go-to tip: when you're working the shallows, look for nervous water or tailing fish, and cast your bait well ahead of them since they spook easily in skinny water.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are perfect for families since they're fun to catch and great on the dinner table. These silvery speedsters with yellow spots typically run 1-3 pounds and 12-20 inches long. They school up near the surface around structure, jetties, and open water from late spring through early fall. When they're feeding, you'll see birds working above them. The bite is fast and aggressive, making them exciting for kids and beginners. They're also some of the best eating fish we catch - mild, not too fishy, and perfect for grilling or frying. The key is using light tackle with small shiny spoons or jigs. Keep your lures moving fast since these fish are built for speed. Once you find a school, work it quickly because they move constantly and won't stick around long.
Virginia Beach, VA