Private 3 Hour Inshore Fishing Trip
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Threehour inshore fishing trip targeting multiple species near shoreFamilyfriendly charter accommodates up to six guests with smooth ridesProfessional guidance provided for all experience levels including beginners
You know that feeling when you want to get on the water but don't want to deal with a long boat ride or rough seas? That's exactly what this 3-hour inshore trip delivers. We keep things close to shore—within 5 miles of the Virginia Beach coastline—so you get more time fishing and less time getting there. This customer favorite works perfect for families with kids who might get restless on longer trips, or anyone looking to squeeze some solid fishing action into their day without breaking the bank.
Right off the bat, you'll notice how smooth this ride stays compared to those deep-sea marathons. We're targeting the inshore waters where Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and Ribbonfish love to cruise, plus we'll keep our eyes peeled for those prized Redfish and Cobia that can really make your day. The boat handles up to 6 anglers, making it ideal for family outings or small groups of friends who want their own private charter experience. No need to worry if you've never held a rod before—we'll get you set up and casting like you know what you're doing. The Virginia Beach inshore zone stays productive year-round, with different species moving through depending on water temperature and baitfish patterns.
We'll spend most of our time trolling, which means dragging lures behind the boat at just the right speed to trigger strikes from aggressive feeders. This top-rated technique works especially well for Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish that patrol these waters looking for easy meals. You'll see us running spoons, small diving plugs, and sometimes live bait depending on what's working that day. When we spot birds working or see fish busting on the surface, that's when we switch gears and break out the casting rods. Those moments when Redfish or Cobia show up near structure or cruising the flats—that's pure gold. We'll position the boat so you get clean shots at these fish, and trust me, when a bull red takes your bait in shallow water, you'll understand why people get hooked on this sport.
Spanish Mackerel run hot in Virginia Beach waters from late spring through early fall, typically weighing 1-3 pounds of pure fight. These fish hit hard and fast, making long screaming runs that'll test your drag system. They school up around baitfish, so when you find one, you're likely looking at multiple hookups. Kids especially love them because they're aggressive biters and put up a great scrap without being too overwhelming to handle.
Bluefish are the bulldogs of the inshore world, ranging from "snapper" blues around a pound up to chopper blues pushing 10+ pounds during peak season. They'll eat almost anything you throw at them when they're feeding, but they can also disappear just as quickly. These fish travel in schools and create some of the most exciting topwater action you'll see, especially when they trap baitfish against the surface.
Redfish are the crown jewel of inshore fishing here, with fish ranging from slot-size keepers around 18-27 inches up to bull reds that can stretch over 40 inches and weigh 30+ pounds. They're year-round residents but get most active during spring and fall transitions. What makes reds special is their fight—they use that broad tail and powerful body to make long, steady runs that'll make your arms burn.
Cobia are the bonus fish that can turn a good day into a legendary one. These chocolate-colored bruisers cruise the shallows looking like sharks, often following rays and other bottom-disturbing fish. A typical Virginia Beach cobia runs 20-40 pounds, and they're known for their curious nature—sometimes swimming right up to the boat before deciding whether to eat. When they do hit, get ready for a battle that combines power, speed, and stamina.
This world-class inshore experience gives you everything you want in a fishing trip without the commitment of an all-day adventure. Three hours is the sweet spot—long enough to get into fish and try different techniques, but short enough that kids stay engaged and nobody gets worn out. The fact that we stay close to shore means calmer seas, easier fishing conditions, and quick access to multiple productive spots. Whether you're introducing someone new to fishing or you're a seasoned angler who wants to target specific inshore species, this trip delivers consistent action and memories that'll have you planning your next Virginia Beach fishing adventure before you even get back to the dock.
Step aboard our beautifully restored 54' Jim Smith sportfishing boat for your Virginia Beach inshore adventure. This classic 1987 convertible was completely rebuilt in 2015 and packs serious power with twin 660HP Cummins engines that'll get you to the fishing grounds fast while cruising smoothly at 26 knots. Built for comfort and fishing success, she's loaded with everything you need for a great day on the water. The fish finder will help us locate schools of Bluefish and Spanish Mackerel, while GPS and radar keep us on course. Stay cool with full air conditioning between fishing spots, grab cold drinks from the onboard fridge, and take advantage of the spacious flybridge for better visibility when we're hunting Cobia and Redfish. With room for up to 6 anglers, an onboard head, and icebox for your catch, this boat delivers both performance and comfort for your 3-hour inshore trip. Whether you're trolling the shallows or casting near structure, you'll have a solid platform that handles Virginia Beach waters with ease.
Pomatomus SaltatrixBluefish are the workhorses of our inshore trips - aggressive, hard-fighting fish that rarely disappoint. These blue-green predators typically range from 2-10 pounds with razor-sharp teeth and an attitude to match. We find them in schools from the surf zone out to 40 feet, often feeding in a frenzy that churns the water white. Summer into fall is prime time when they're actively hunting baitfish along the coast. Guests love bluefish because they hit hard, fight strong, and provide consistent action when other species are finicky. The smaller "cocktail blues" are excellent table fare with mild, flaky meat. Here's my tip: when we find feeding birds diving on baitfish, there are usually bluefish underneath. Use wire leaders or they'll bite through your line, and watch your fingers when unhooking - those teeth are no joke.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are some of the most exciting fish we encounter on our inshore trips. These brown, shark-looking fish average 30-50 pounds and can reach 6 feet long - they're powerful swimmers that'll give you a real workout. You'll typically find them around structure like buoys, wrecks, and channel markers in 20-50 feet of water. Late spring through early fall is prime time when they're cruising the surface or holding near structure. What guests love about cobia is their aggressive nature and excellent table fare - the meat is firm and mild, perfect for grilling. They're usually loners, not schooling fish, which makes each one special. My go-to tip for cobia is using a bucktail jig around structure. Don't worry about color - they'll hit almost anything, but make sure your drag is set right because they'll make long, powerful runs.
Sciaenops OcellatusRedfish are one of our most popular inshore targets here in Virginia Beach. These copper-colored fish typically run 20-30 inches and are famous for that distinctive black spot near their tail. You'll find them cruising the shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near structure in 1-4 feet of water. Spring through fall offers the best action when they're actively feeding in the shallows. What makes redfish special is their strong, steady fight - they don't jump much but they'll pull drag and test your tackle. The meat is excellent too, with a mild, sweet flavor that's perfect on the grill. Here's a local tip: when sight fishing for reds, cast well ahead of where they're heading and let your bait settle before they arrive. These fish spook easily in shallow water, so a quiet approach pays off.
Scomberomorus MaculatusSpanish mackerel are perfect for keeping your rod bent and the action steady. These silvery speedsters typically run 1-2 pounds and 12-18 inches, covered in distinctive yellow spots along their sides. We find them schooling near the surface in 15-40 feet of water, especially around structure and baitfish. They show up strong from late spring through early fall when water temps are right. What makes Spanish mackerel great for families is their willingness to bite and steady action - when you find a school, everyone gets in on the fun. They're also excellent eating with mild, flaky meat that's perfect fried or grilled. The key to Spanish mackerel success is speed - troll shiny spoons or small jigs at a good clip. When you hook one, keep the boat moving because the rest of the school usually follows, giving everyone a shot at the action.
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