Game Fishing Regulations for Virginia

Game Fishing Regulations for Virginia
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries has existed since 1916, regulating, among other things, game fishing in the state. The regulations the agency upholds involve such facets of fishing as licensing, legal limits and laws involving trout fishing.

Landowner's Rights

In Virginia, an individual who owns land in the state does not require a fishing license to fish on his property. Someone fishing as a guest on private property does not need a license.

Minimum Length

There is no length limit imposed for game fish such as bluegill, crappie and rock bass, but there are creel limits that state the maximum number of these fish an angler can keep. Other species have strictly enforced length regulations such as trout and blue catfish.

Special Trout Streams

Virginia has regulations regarding special trout streams that put restrictions on the number of trout an angler can keep from such waters. There are also different minimum length rules in effect for these waterways from the statewide 7 inches for trout caught elsewhere.

Artificial Baits

It is unlawful to fish for game fish in Virginia with artificial organic baits made to simulate such fish foods as fish eggs.

Daily Trout Permits

Trout fishing
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Bugeater

Virginia has some waters it sets aside for a pay-as-you-go type of trout fishing. The state stocks these waters with trout and anglers pay a daily fee for a special permit, in addition to having to possess a fishing license, for a chance to catch them.

Article Written By John Lindell

John Lindell has written articles for "The Greyhound Review" and various other online publications. A Connecticut native, his work specializes in sports, fishing and nature. Lindell worked in greyhound racing for 25 years.

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