Trophy Cobia & Redfish Fishing | SE Virginia

Published Date: July 3, 2025
Fishing

Cape Coral
$5 - $1,200 price range

Summary

Get ready for some serious fishing action in Southeast Virginia's lower Chesapeake Bay. We're talking trophy cobia and monster redfish, folks. Our captains know these waters like the back of their hand and they'll put you right on the fish. We use top-notch gear and proven techniques to give you the best shot at landing a beast. Sight-casting for cobia is a real rush - you'll be scanning the water, ready to make that perfect cast when one cruises by. And when a big red takes your bait, hold on tight! These brutes can really test your arms. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the game, we'll make sure you have a great day on the water. With room for up to 6 guests, it's perfect for a group of friends or family looking to make some fishing memories.

Trophy Cobia & Redfish Fishing | SE Virginia

Big Fish, Big Smiles

Three people enjoying a fishing cruises, fishing, hunting, tours adventure in Chesapeake

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Snook fish caught in Chesapeake

A lone fisherman enjoying a day on the waters of Chesapeake

Trophy Cobia & Redfish: Virginia's Hidden Gems

Ready for some serious rod-bending action? Our Trophy Cobia/Redfish half-day trip in Southeast Virginia's lower Chesapeake Bay is where the big boys come to play. We're talking monster cobia and bull reds that'll make your arms ache and your fishing stories legendary. Our seasoned captains know every nook and cranny of these waters, and we're itching to put you on the fish of a lifetime. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's got something for everyone. So grab your shades and let's hit the water – it's time to make some waves!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: You're standing on the bow, scanning the crystal-clear waters of the Chesapeake. Suddenly, your captain yells, "Cobia at 2 o'clock!" Your heart races as you cast your line, watching it land perfectly in front of a massive, brown shadow. That's the kind of adrenaline rush you can expect on our half-day adventures. We'll be sight-casting for cobia one minute and battling bull reds the next. Our trips are limited to 6 anglers, so you'll have plenty of elbow room and personal attention from the crew. We provide top-notch gear, but feel free to bring your own if you've got a lucky rod. Just remember to pack some snacks and drinks – fighting these bruisers works up an appetite!

Techniques & Tactics

When it comes to hooking into these beasts, we've got a few tricks up our sleeves. For cobia, we're all about sight-casting. We'll cruise the shallows, keeping our eyes peeled for those tell-tale brown shadows. Once spotted, it's all about making the perfect cast and enticing that bite. Live eels, bucktails, and large soft plastics are our go-to baits. For redfish, we might switch it up with some bottom fishing using cut bait or live spot. And don't be surprised if we throw in some trolling for Spanish mackerel to keep the rods bent between the big bites. Our captains are always happy to share their knowledge, so whether you're looking to improve your casting or learn some new knots, we've got you covered.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"I've fished all over, but the cobia run in the Chesapeake is something special. The captain put us right on the fish, and I landed my personal best – a 50-pounder!" - Mike S.

"The redfish action was non-stop. We hooked into several over 40 inches, and the fight was incredible. Can't wait to come back next season!" - Sarah T.

"As a beginner, I was worried about keeping up, but the crew was so patient and helpful. Landed my first cobia and now I'm hooked for life!" - Tom R.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Cobia: These bruisers are the main event in the summer months. Known locally as "crab eaters," cobia can grow over 100 pounds and put up a fight that'll test your stamina. They're curious fish, often following rays, turtles, or even your boat. When you hook one, be ready for long, powerful runs and some acrobatic jumps. The best part? They're delicious on the grill.

Redfish: Also called red drum, these copper-colored beauties are a year-round target, but the trophy "bull reds" show up in force during the fall. They love to hang around structure and can often be found tailing in shallow water. When you hook into a big one, you'll know it – they pull like a freight train and don't give up easily. The "slot" sized fish (18-26 inches) make for great eating, while the big boys are catch-and-release, providing an unforgettable battle and photo op.

Spanish Mackerel: These speedy swimmers are a blast to catch and a tasty bonus to our trips. They show up in the bay during the warmer months, usually in schools. Trolling small spoons or casting light jigs into feeding frenzies can result in non-stop action. Their acrobatic fights and delicious, oily flesh make them a favorite among locals.

Black Drum: The redfish's bigger, uglier cousin, black drum can grow to over 100 pounds. They're bottom feeders with a taste for crabs and clams. While not as glamorous as cobia or reds, hooking into a big black drum is like trying to pull a Volkswagen off the ocean floor. They're most active in the spring and fall, and the smaller ones are excellent table fare.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, we could go on all day about the heart-pounding action and trophy fish waiting for you in the Chesapeake, but why read about it when you could be living it? Our half-day trips are perfect for squeezing in some serious fishing without eating up your whole day. Plus, with our experienced captains and top-notch gear, you've got the best shot at landing that fish of a lifetime. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak cobia and redfish seasons, so don't wait. Grab your fishing buddies, give us a call, and let's get you out on the water. Trust us, once you feel that first big hit, you'll be glad you did. See you on the boat!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black drum are the big boys of the drum family, often weighing 5-30 pounds but sometimes topping 90. These grunting bottom-feeders love hanging around oyster beds and mudflats in our estuaries. Spring's your best bet, when they school up to spawn. They're not the prettiest fish, but man, can they pull! Smaller ones under 15 pounds make great eating, with a nice flaky texture. For bait, you can't beat fresh crab or clams – black drum crush 'em with those powerful jaws. If you're fly fishing, go heavy with a 9-weight rod and dark, weighted flies. Get 'em on the bottom and be ready for a fight. Here's a local tip: when the water's warm, listen for their croaking sounds. You might just hear your next catch before you see it. Just remember, the big ones are tough and not great eating, so consider letting those trophies go.

Cobia

Cobia are some of the coolest fish we target around here. These bruisers can hit 6 feet and 100 pounds, with most adults in the 30-50 pound range. They're lone wolves, cruising near the surface around buoys, wrecks, and reefs in 30-70 feet of water. Summer's prime time as they migrate through. We often spot them finning at the surface - that dorsal makes 'em look like sharks at first glance. Once hooked, be ready for a fight. These guys pull hard and don't give up easy. Cobia meat is top-notch too. Firm, white fillets that grill up beautifully. To land one, I like tossing big bucktail jigs. Four to eight ounces usually does the trick. Color doesn't matter much, but I've had luck with white. The key is a slow retrieve - let that jig dance enticingly. When you feel that thump, hold on tight and get ready for some fun!

Redfish

Redfish, or red drum, are a real prize in these parts. They typically range from 28 to 33 inches, but we've seen some monsters pushing 45 inches and 50 pounds. You'll find them in shallow water, often just 1 to 4 feet deep, hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and old structures. Summer's prime time for big reds, but they're around year-round. Folks love chasing them for their strong fight and excellent eating. That signature black spot near the tail? It's not just for show – it helps fool predators. These fish aren't picky eaters. They'll hit everything from small flies to big topwater plugs. For a local trick, try sight-casting with a weedless jig in super shallow water. You might even see their backs above the surface! What makes redfish special is how they stick close to home. The ones you catch were likely born nearby. It's always a thrill when a big red takes your bait – get ready for a battle that'll test your gear and your arms.

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish mackerel are speedy little rockets that show up in our waters from late spring through fall. You'll find these silvery, spotted fish cruising in schools near the surface, often around structure or following bait. They typically run 1-2 feet long and a few pounds, but can get bigger. These guys are a blast to catch - they hit hard and make blistering runs. Light tackle is the way to go for maximum fun. Try trolling small spoons or casting jigs around pier pilings and buoys. Live bait like small menhaden works great too. Mackerel fishing really heats up in July and August when the water warms. Look for diving birds to find feeding schools. They're not picky eaters, so matching the hatch isn't critical. Beyond the fun fight, Spanish macks are excellent eating. Grilled fresh with some lemon - can't beat it. Here's a local tip: if you see slicks on the water, that's often a sign of mackerel chopping up bait below. Toss a lure in there and hold on!

About the Salty's Revenge

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Suzuki

Maximum Cruising Speed: 50

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Get ready for an action-packed half-day charter targeting trophy cobia and citation redfish in Southeast Virginia's lower Chesapeake Bay. Our seasoned captains know all the prime spots where these prized gamefish lurk during the summer migration. We'll cruise the bay's rich waters, keeping a keen eye out for the telltale signs of cobia on the surface. When we spot them, get set for some heart-pounding sight-casting action. Or we might switch gears to pursue those massive bull redfish that call these waters home. Our boat is decked out with top-notch gear to give you the best shot at landing that fish of a lifetime. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, we'll make sure you're in on the action. Bring your A-game and get ready to battle some of the Bay's most sought-after species. With room for up to 6 guests, it's a perfect outing to share with friends or family. Just remember to bring your camera – you'll want proof of the monsters you reel in on this trip!

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