Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report: Stripers, Mahi, and the Elusive Channa
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Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report: Stripers, Mahi, and the Elusive Channa
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About this listen
The waters are heating up and so is the action! With temperatures now approaching 70°F along the coast, we're seeing that mid-May transition in full swing. The striped bass season opened just a few days ago on May 16th, and folks are already reporting good catches. Remember your regulations - in Virginia waters you've got until June 15th, with a 20-28 inch slot size and a one fish per day limit[5].
Those big mahi are starting to show up offshore, along with some nice yellowfin tuna. King mackerel have been making a strong appearance lately too[1]. If you're heading out deeper, don't forget your deep dropping gear - that's been producing consistently.
Inshore, flounder fishing is picking up nicely in the coastal bays[2][4]. They're daytime feeders, so no need for those early morning runs. Try around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel with squid, live bait or cut bait for best results.
Gray trout (weakfish) are active throughout the Bay now. The smaller ones are hitting bottom baits while the lunkers are taking trolled offerings or live spot. Fresh squid, peeler crabs, and shrimp have all been producing[4].
For you catfish hunters, blue cats are biting well in the Potomac and Rappahannock[3]. Always a reliable target when other fish get finicky.
The wild card this season is those Chesapeake Channa that are in a feeding frenzy right now. They're holding near grass beds and structure in the tidal rivers and creeks. If you're looking for a challenge, try throwing paddletails around vegetation[2][5].
Hot spots this week: The St. Mary's River has been giving up some nice puppy drum, with a few being caught by anglers live-lining small spot at night[3]. Also, check out the CBBT pilings for flounder and the mouth of the Rappahannock for a mixed bag of species.
Bait-wise, bloodworms, squid and cut fish are your best bet for panfish, while larger lures and live baits are working for the predators.
That's all for now, folks. Remember to wet those lines often and release what you don't need. This is Artificial Lure saying tight lines until next time!
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