All Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licenses and vessel registration are issued by the Department of Wildlife Resources.
Recreational Species Permits - Certain recreational fisheries in Virginia, such as the February black sea bass season, require a no-cost permit for participation. Permittees may be required to report harvest to the commission. As of 2023, a species permit is no longer required to target cobia in Virginia.
Highly Migratory Species Permits - Federal permits are required for private and charter vessels to fish for Atlantic tunas, billfishes, swordfish, and sharks.
For-Hire Licenses - Information relating to operating a charter boat, commercial fish pier, or rental boat business.
The Commonwealth of Virginia takes pride in its wealth of natural resources and access opportunities for the public. Whether you're fishing from a public access pier or one of our 23 artificial reefs, we hope to see you out there. Read more here about where to fish in Virginia and how to be a responsible steward of the resource.
Circle Hooks
Handling and Release
Fishing Line Recycling Program
Virginia Saltwater Angler's Guide
A free publication by the VMRC to help recreational saltwater anglers become better fishermen, including a guide on what fish to catch in Virginia (and where, when, and how to catch them).
Virginia Stranding Team Hotline - (757) 385-7575
If you encounter a stranded, injured, or entangled sea turtle or marine mammal, call the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Team. Do not approach the animal.
Harmful Algal Bloom Hotline - (888) 238-6154
To report a potentially harmful algae bloom, call The Virginia Department of Health or report online.
US Coast Guard Boating Safety
Dedicated to reducing loss of life, injuries and property damage by improving the knowledge, skill and abilities of recreational boaters
