Trophy Redfish Hunt | Virginia Beach Flats

Inshore Virginia Beach Fishing Charters

Looking for some serious red drum action without dealing with the crowds or rough seas? My 4 and 6-hour inshore charters out of Virginia Beach are built for anglers who want to get after it properly. We're talking about hitting the best shallow water spots where the reds hang out, using light tackle that'll give you a real fight, and spending enough time on the water to make it count. Whether you're bringing the family or rolling deep with your fishing buddies, these extended trips give everyone plenty of shots at some quality fish.

What to Expect on the Water

We launch early and head straight to where the action is - the inshore flats, grass beds, and structure around Virginia Beach that hold the most fish. I've been working these waters for years, so I know exactly where to find the reds based on tide, weather, and season. The 4-hour trip is perfect if you want solid fishing without burning the whole day, while the 6-hour charter is for crews that really want to maximize their time and hit multiple spots. We keep it comfortable with up to 4 anglers max, so everyone gets plenty of room to fish and I can give each person the attention they need. No packed boat nonsense here - just quality fishing with space to move around.

Light Tackle & Sight Fishing

This is where inshore fishing really shines. We're using light spinning tackle and baitcasters that let you feel every head shake and run these reds make. Depending on conditions, we might be sight fishing in clear shallow water where you can actually see the fish before you cast - that's about as good as it gets. Other times we're working structure with live bait or throwing artificials around oyster bars and grass lines. I provide all the gear, but if you've got a favorite rod setup, bring it along. We typically run everything from soft plastics to topwater plugs, live shrimp, and cut bait depending on what's working best that day.

What Anglers Are Saying

"Capt was great put us on the fish" - Jim. "We had a great time. I had a 5 year old, and a 11year. Which is a slight challenge. Preston done great with them. And they had a great time. Would definitely go back out." - Craig. "Booked a last minute bday trip for my husband and his buddies (all but one experienced) and they had a blast! Captain was knowledgeable and made sure everyone had a great time! They caught 27 and said they'd definitely book again! Thanks captain Preston!" - Natalie.

Target Species Breakdown

Red drum are the main show here in Virginia Beach, and for good reason. These copper-colored bruisers are some of the hardest fighting fish you'll find in the shallows, and they're here year-round with peak action from spring through fall. The smaller ones in the 20-30 inch range are perfect table fare and fight way above their weight class, while the bigger bulls can push 40+ inches and will test your drag system for sure. What makes reds so special is how they feed - they're opportunistic predators that cruise the flats looking for crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. You'll see them tailing in skinny water, crashing bait schools, or just cruising along structure. The bite can be subtle or absolutely violent depending on their mood, but either way you'll know when you're hooked up. Virginia's inshore waters are some of the best red drum habitat on the East Coast, with the perfect mix of grass beds, oyster bars, and sandy flats that these fish love.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're ready to get serious about inshore fishing, these extended charters are exactly what you need. The extra time on the water means we can hit multiple spots, adjust tactics if needed, and really dial in what's working best that day. I'm running these trips year-round with the best action typically from April through November, but even winter fishing can be solid on the right days. Bring your crew, your camera, and get ready to put some quality reds in the boat. These Virginia Beach inshore waters don't disappoint, and neither will this charter. Let's get you hooked up with some real fishing instead of just getting wet.