Chesapeake Bay Fish Species

Fish Season Calendar

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Guide's Targeted Fish Species In July

Black Drum

Black Drum
Out of Season

Bluefish

Bluefish

Good Odds

Cobia

Cobia

Excellent Odds

Redfish

Redfish
Out of Season

Sea Bass

Sea Bass

Excellent Odds

Sheepshead

Sheepshead

Good Odds

Spadefish

Spadefish

Good Odds

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel

Excellent Odds

Striped Bass

Striped Bass
Out of Season

Tautog

Tautog
Out of Season

Poor Odds
Average Odds
Good Odds
Excellent Odds

Class Act Charters - Top Species in July

Common Questions


What are the most common fish species found in Chesapeake Bay?

The most common fish species in Chesapeake Bay include striped bass (rockfish), bluefish, croaker, flounder, redfish, speckled trout, and drum.


When is the best time to catch striped bass in Chesapeake Bay?

The best time to catch striped bass in Chesapeake Bay is during their migration periods, typically from April to June and from October to December.


What techniques are used to catch bluefish in Chesapeake Bay?

Captain Neal Hudgins often uses trolling, casting, and chumming techniques to catch bluefish in Chesapeake Bay, depending on the season and fish activity.


Can I catch flounder in Chesapeake Bay year-round?

Flounder fishing is most productive from late spring through early fall, with peak season typically occurring from May to September.


What is the best bait for catching croaker in Chesapeake Bay?

Croaker are attracted to a variety of baits, including bloodworms, squid, shrimp, and cut bait. Captain Neal can provide the best bait options for your trip.


Are redfish common in Chesapeake Bay, and when is the best time to catch them?

Yes, redfish are common in Chesapeake Bay, especially in the warmer months. The best time to catch redfish is from late spring through early fall.


What is the typical size of speckled trout caught in Chesapeake Bay?

Speckled trout in Chesapeake Bay typically range from 14 to 24 inches, with larger specimens sometimes exceeding 30 inches.


Do you offer trips specifically targeting drum fish in Chesapeake Bay?

Yes, Class Act Charters offers trips specifically targeting drum fish, especially during their peak seasons in the spring and fall.


Can we expect to catch multiple species on a single fishing trip in Chesapeake Bay?

Absolutely! Chesapeake Bay's diverse ecosystem allows anglers to catch multiple species in a single trip, making for an exciting and varied fishing experience.


What is the limit for keeping fish caught in Chesapeake Bay?

Fish limits vary by species and season. Captain Neal Hudgins will inform you of the current regulations and ensure that all catches comply with local fishing laws.


A Class Act Charters Fishing Charter targets the top Chesapeake Bay Fish species including Black Drum (Also Called Drum, Drummer), Bluefish (Also Called Elf, Tailor, Shad), Cobia (Also Called Black Salmon, Crab Eater, Lemon Fish, Sergeant Fish ), Redfish (Also Called Red Drum, Channel Bass, Spottail Bass), Sea Bass (Also Called Black Seabass), Sheepshead (Also Called Convict Fish, Sheephead ), Tautog (Also Called Blackfish, Oyster-fish, Chub, Black Porgy), Spanish Mackerel (Also Called Atlantic Spanish Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel). We primarily Fish the Chesapeake Bay, Piankatank River, Tangier Sound, Fishing Bay, Mobjack Bay, York River.