Fishing on Chincoteague & Assateague Island

Fishing on Chincoteague & Assateague Island

Chincoteague Island Fishing Guide

Chincoteague Island is one of the premier fishing destinations on the Mid-Atlantic Coast, offering a wide variety of fishing experiences—from surf fishing on Assateague Island to offshore adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Chincoteague provides everything you need for a great day on the water. Here’s your guide to fishing in Chincoteague, including important regulations and tips to help you make the most of your fishing experience.

Best Fishing Spots on Chincoteague Island

1. Surf Fishing on Assateague Island:

• Where to Fish: The beach on Assateague Island offers excellent surf fishing, especially during the spring and fall when Striped Bass and Drumfish are abundant. During summer, you can expect to catch Flounder, Trout, Sea Bass, and more.

• Fishing Regulations: A Virginia Saltwater Fishing License is required for surf fishing on Assateague. Make sure to avoid fishing in lifeguarded areas or designated surfing zones. For nighttime fishing, you must obtain an after-hours fishing permit from the Toms Cove Visitor Center.

2. Toms Cove and Swan Cove (Wildlife Refuge Areas):

• Where to Fish: Toms Cove and Swan Cove are designated fishing areas within the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. They offer great opportunities to catch a variety of species in a more tranquil setting.

• Fishing Regulations: Anglers 16 and older must have a valid Virginia Saltwater Fishing or Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing License. Additionally, you must register (for free) with the Virginia Fisherman Identification Program (FIP). Only 3 surf fishing poles per licensed angler are allowed, and these poles must be attended at all times.

3. Public Piers on Chincoteague:

• Where to Fish: Chincoteague Island has several public piers, offering a great spot for shore fishing. The piers provide easy access to deep waters where you can fish for species such as Croaker, Kingfish, and Spot.

• Fishing Regulations: The Town of Chincoteague purchases a fishing license for the Veteran’s Memorial Park fishing pier, meaning an individual license is not required to fish from this pier. For other piers, you’ll need a valid Virginia Saltwater Fishing License.

4. Charter Boat Fishing:

• Where to Fish: Charter boats offer an exciting way to explore offshore fishing opportunities for Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna, as well as species like Sea Bass and Croaker in the bay.

• Fishing Regulations: All fishing supplies are typically provided when you book a charter boat, but make sure to confirm with your captain. Charter captains will help ensure that all state fishing regulations are followed.

Boating and Boat Ramps

Boating is a popular activity on Chincoteague Island, whether for fishing, water skiing, or a leisurely cruise. There are several public boat ramps available for launching your boat:

• Curtis Merritt Harbor (Curtis Merritt Harbor Drive)

• East Side Ramp (East Side Road)

• Memorial Park (Memorial Park Drive)

• Town Dock (Main Street)

• Fir Landing (Deep Hole Road)

To use these ramps, you’ll need to purchase a City Boat Sticker from the Town Office, Police Station, or Harbormaster.

Fishing Regulations Overview

To ensure the sustainability of the fishing resources around Chincoteague Island, several key regulations must be followed:

• Licensing: Anglers 16 years and older must have a valid Virginia Saltwater Fishing License. All anglers must also register for the Virginia Fisherman Identification Program (FIP).

• Fishing Limits: Each licensed angler is allowed up to 3 surf fishing poles, and these must be attended at all times. Additionally, certain species have size and possession limits that must be observed.

• Prohibited Activities: Pneumatic bait launchers and alterations to fish that obscure their species or length (such as cleaning or filleting) are prohibited.

• Protected Species: Many species of fish, as well as animals, are federally protected. Ensure you are following state and federal regulations regarding these species.

Seasonal Fishing in Chincoteague

The fishing action varies with the seasons. Here’s what you can expect to catch throughout the year:

• Spring: This is the best time to catch large flounder, along with Striped Bass and Drumfish in the bay and surf.

• Summer: Expect a variety of species, including Flounder, Sea Trout, Croaker, Kingfish, and Spot in the bay and surf. Offshore, Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna are common catches.

• Fall: Striped Bass and Drumfish are still abundant in the bay and surf, making it another great time to fish.

Other Fishing Tips

• Clamming: If you’re looking for a unique fishing-related experience, consider clamming. You can try raking in the shallow waters at low tide or ‘signing’ clams by looking for small keyhole-shaped indentations in the sand. Some scenic tour boats even offer clamming excursions.

• Fishing Supplies: Local Bait and Tackle Shops can supply everything you need, from rods and reels to bait and accessories. Make sure to stock up before heading out.

• Tide Information: Knowing the tide schedule is crucial for planning your fishing trips. The best fishing times are often during low tide, so check local tide information regularly.

Conclusion

Fishing on Chincoteague Island offers a variety of experiences for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you prefer surf fishing on Assateague, casting off a public pier, or going deep-sea fishing on a charter boat, the island provides numerous opportunities to reel in the catch of the day. Just be sure to familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and respect the island’s natural resources to ensure the best experience for everyone. Happy fishing!