Cape Henry 3-Hour Trolling & Dolphin Watching

Reel in the Fun: Virginia Beach Inshore Adventure

Get ready for a laid-back afternoon on the water with Nauti Dog Sportfishing's 3-hour inshore trip. We'll be cruising around Cape Henry, where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic, on the hunt for some of Virginia Beach's feistiest fish. This trip's perfect if you're looking to wet a line without committing to a full day – great for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting to squeeze in some fishing between beach time.

What to Expect on the Water

As soon as we push off from the dock, you'll feel that salty breeze and see why Virginia Beach is such a killer spot for inshore fishing. We'll be light trolling, which means dragging lures behind the boat as we cruise – it's a chill way to cover water and find where the fish are biting. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in our wake or pelicans diving for their lunch. Your captain's got years of experience in these waters, so they'll be pointing out all the cool stuff you might miss. Whether you're a seasoned angler or holding a rod for the first time, we'll make sure you're comfortable and having a blast.

Techniques & Gear Rundown

Light trolling's our go-to method for this trip. We'll set up a spread of lines off the back of the boat, each with lures that mimic the baitfish our targets love to munch on. The captain will be watching the fish finder like a hawk, looking for those telltale marks that show where the blues and Spanish are hanging out. When we find a hot spot, it's game on! We provide all the tackle, so no worries if you don't have your own gear. We use light to medium spinning setups that are easy to handle but still have enough backbone to wrangle in a big blue. Pro tip: when a fish hits, let it run for a second before setting the hook – these guys are known for their acrobatics, so be ready for some drag-screaming action!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Bluefish are the brawlers of the inshore scene. These guys are pure muscle and attitude, known for their powerful runs and chompers that'll make short work of most lures. They usually show up in good numbers from spring through fall, with the biggest ones (we call 'em "choppers") arriving in late summer. Blues travel in schools, so when you find one, chances are good there's more around. They're not picky eaters, which makes them a blast for anglers of all skill levels. Size-wise, most inshore blues run 2-5 pounds, but don't be surprised if you tie into a 10-pounder that'll really test your drag.

Spanish Mackerel are the speedsters of the Chesapeake. These sleek, torpedo-shaped fish are known for their blistering runs and their tendency to hit lures at full tilt. We usually start seeing them in late spring, with the action peaking in July and August. They're not as big as bluefish, typically 1-3 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in pure excitement. When a school of Spanish is fired up, it's non-stop action that'll have your arms aching in the best way. Plus, they're excellent on the grill if you're looking to bring home dinner.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the waters where the bay meets the ocean. One minute you're in calm, protected waters, the next you're feeling the Atlantic swells. It's this mix that brings in such a variety of fish and makes every trip unique. Our guests love the laid-back vibe of these afternoon trips – it's just enough time to scratch that fishing itch without taking up your whole day. Plus, with the captain handling all the technical stuff, you can focus on the fun part: reeling 'em in. And let's be real, there's nothing like the look on a kid's face when they land their first fish – it's the kind of memory that sticks with you.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking for a taste of what Virginia Beach fishing is all about, this 3-hour inshore trip is your ticket. It's the perfect mix of action, scenery, and straight-up fun. Whether you're a local looking for a quick fishing fix or a visitor wanting to add some adventure to your beach vacation, we've got you covered. Remember, we're limited to 4 guests per trip, so it's nice and personal – no fighting for rod time here. All the gear's provided, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a snack). Don't let your Virginia Beach trip go by without getting out on the water. Book your spot now, and let's go catch some fish!