Virginia Beach Inshore Fishing for Puppy Drum & Trout
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Fourhour inshore charter targeting puppy drum and speckled troutFishing takes place in sheltered Lynnhaven Inlet waters near Virginia BeachAccommodates up to four guests with all experience levels welcome
When you're looking for consistent action and the chance to put some solid fish in the boat, this 4-hour Virginia Beach inshore charter with Hookz Sportfishing hits all the right spots. We're talking about targeting two of the most sought-after species in these waters – puppy drum (red drum) and speckled trout – in the fish-rich areas around Lynnhaven Inlet. This isn't some crowded party boat deal either. With just 4 anglers max, you'll get the personal attention and prime fishing spots that make the difference between a good day and a great one. Whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who's never held a rod, these protected inshore waters give everyone a real shot at some memorable catches.
Your day starts in the calm, productive waters of Lynnhaven Inlet and the surrounding marsh systems that make Virginia Beach such a top-rated inshore fishing destination. These aren't the rough offshore waters where you're fighting seasickness – we're fishing the protected creeks, grass flats, and oyster bars where the fish actually live and feed. The beauty of inshore fishing here is that you're working structure-rich environments where puppy drum cruise the shallow flats looking for crabs and baitfish, while speckled trout hang around grass beds and drop-offs waiting to ambush their next meal. You'll be sight-casting to cruising reds in knee-deep water one minute, then working a grass line for specks the next. The variety keeps things interesting, and with Captain's local knowledge of these waters, you're always fishing the spots that are producing.
This charter focuses on light tackle techniques that let you feel every fight and really connect with the fish. We're talking spinning reels loaded with braided line, paired with medium-light rods that have enough backbone for the bigger puppy drum but still let you appreciate the finesse game when targeting trout. Live bait is king out here – fresh shrimp, finger mullet, and mud minnows that we'll present on jig heads or under popping corks depending on conditions. When the fish are aggressive, artificial lures like soft plastics, spoons, and topwater plugs can absolutely light them up. There's nothing quite like watching a redfish blow up on a topwater lure in two feet of water. The captain provides all rods, reels, tackle, and bait, so you just need to show up ready to fish. We'll adjust techniques throughout the day based on tides, weather, and what the fish are telling us.
Puppy drum, or red drum as they're officially known, are the bread and butter of Virginia Beach inshore fishing. These bronze-backed fighters typically run 18-27 inches in these waters – perfect slot-size fish that fight way above their weight class. They're most active during moving tides, especially around structure like oyster bars and creek mouths where they hunt for blue crabs and shrimp. Spring through fall offers the most consistent action, but these fish can be caught year-round when you know where to look. What makes reds so special is their willingness to feed in shallow water where you can see them coming. That bronze back and distinctive black spot make them easy to identify, and once hooked, they'll make drag-screaming runs that'll test your nerves and tackle.
Speckled trout are the other half of this world-class inshore slam. These beautiful fish are covered in distinctive spots and have prominent canine teeth that help them grab baitfish and shrimp. Virginia Beach specks typically range from 14-20 inches, with some trophy fish pushing over 24 inches. They're structure-oriented fish that love grass beds, channel edges, and areas with good current flow. Early morning and late afternoon tend to be prime time for trout, though they'll feed throughout the day in the right conditions. Speckled trout are renowned for their delicate bite and acrobatic fights – they'll jump, shake their heads, and use every trick in the book to throw your hook. Customer favorite techniques include working soft plastics under popping corks or drifting live shrimp through likely spots.
This Virginia Beach inshore fishing charter delivers exactly what serious anglers are looking for – consistent action, quality fish, and the kind of personalized service that keeps customers coming back season after season. With the small group size and Captain's intimate knowledge of Lynnhaven Inlet's best fishing spots, you're getting access to some of the most productive redfish and trout waters on the East Coast. These aren't the kind of fishing trips where you're hoping to get lucky – the combination of proven techniques, quality tackle, and prime fishing locations stacks the deck in your favor. Whether you're looking to introduce someone to the sport or add another great day on the water to your fishing resume, this trending inshore charter hits all the marks. Don't wait around hoping for the perfect conditions – the best trips book up fast, especially during peak season.
Jump aboard Hookz Sportfishing's 25-foot Southern Cross and get ready to chase puppy drum and speckled trout through Virginia Beach's prime fishing waters. This sweet ride packs a 300 Suzuki that'll get you to the fish fast, while the wireless trolling motor lets you sneak up on those finicky spots without spooking your targets. The cobia tower gives your captain eyes on the water to spot feeding fish, and the Garmin fish finder takes the guesswork out of locating schools below. With plenty of storage for your gear and catch, plus full Coast Guard safety equipment, this stable platform handles Lynnhaven Inlet's waters like a champ. The VHF radio keeps you connected, and there's room for up to 4 anglers to spread out and work the flats comfortably. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just learning the ropes, this boat puts you right where the red drum and trout are biting.
Sciaenops OcellatusRed drum, or "puppy drum" when they're smaller, are the perfect inshore target around Virginia Beach. These copper-colored fighters typically range from 18-27 inches in our waters, with that distinctive black eyespot near the tail. They love super shallow flats - sometimes so shallow their backs show above water - around oyster beds, grass lines, and creek mouths. Spring through fall offers the best action, but they're catchable year-round in deeper channels during winter. What guests love most is their aggressive strikes and strong runs that test your drag. They're also great eating with mild, sweet meat. Local trick: look for nervous water or "pushing" baitfish - that's usually reds feeding underneath.
Salmo TruttaSpeckled trout are what we're really after in these Virginia waters - sleek, spotted fish that typically run 14-24 inches and pack serious fight for their size. You'll find them cruising grass flats and shallow areas around Lynnhaven, especially during spring and fall when they're most active. They love structure like oyster bars and drop-offs where they ambush shrimp and small baitfish. What makes trout fishing so popular is their willingness to hit both live bait and artificials, plus they're excellent table fare with delicate, flaky white meat. My go-to tip: work your lure slow and steady just above the grass - trout will come up to take it, and you'll avoid getting hung up in the weeds.
Virginia Beach, VA