Bluefish
Considered an excellent sportfish the Bluefish
leaps when caught then fights to the end. They generally prefer the
open waters of the Chesapeake Bay, however, are common around the mouths
of tidal rivers, and along surf beaches and piers. Smaller Bluefish
can be found in rivers and brackish water. Adults usually travel in
groups and can be quite aggressive when they feed. It's not uncommon
to see the surface of the water erupt into a churning froth as a school
of Bluefish chase and devour bait fish. Circling Gulls are a good indicator
Blue fish are feeding. Casting any lure or bait into the general feeding
area will virtually guarantee a strike. Small bluefish can be eaten,
large adults are usually released when caught.
| Common Names |
Bluefish, Snappers,
Sea Wolf |
| Scientific Name |
Pomatomus saltatrix |
| Average
Size |
1 - 3 feet |
| Average Weight |
3 - 15 lbs. |
| Minimum Size Limit* |
None* |
| Possession Limit* |
10* |
| Season |
Mid April - July
October - December |
| Lure |
Spoons, tube eels,
surface plugs, feathered lures, plastic worms |
| Bait |
Cut bait, minnows |
| World Record |
31.8 lbs. |
| Virginia Record |
25.25 lbs. Bluefish
Rock, Chesapeake Bay, Gayle E. Cozzens, 1986 |
| Citation Size |
16 lbs., Citation
for release 36 inches or longer |
* All regulations
are subject to change throughout the year. Always check with
the Virginia Marine Resource Commission for new regulations before
you go fishing @ 757-247-2200 or www.state.va.us/mrc/homepage.htm |
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