The Best Bait for Catching Fish in York River, VA

The Best Bait for Catching Fish in York River, VA

river side in york image by Mike Shannon from Fotolia.com

York River is an estuary in eastern Virginia. The river is about 40 miles long and provides anglers with gamefish such as croaker, flounder and cobia. Other fish species include catfish, spot and striper. There is river access, including a boat launch dock and fishing pier, at Croker Landing in York River State Park.

Minnows and Squid Trailers

The Gloucester Point Bridge area at York River is a hot spot for flounder, especially from mid-May to June. Tackle needed for flounder fishing largely depends on the size you are targeting, but effective bait includes minnows and squid trailers, according to "Virginia Game & Fish Magazine." These lures are best for calmer and protected waters on the river; you might need heavier ones for bigger currents.

Live Eel

The river's lower portion has excellent croaker fishing during late spring and early summer. Live eel is effective bait in this section for catching big fish; use a smaller short-shank hook for live eel. Other types of bait you can use include shrimp, squid, crabs and bloodworms.

Fresh Menhaden

Located on the east entrance of the river, York spit is a popular spot for cobia fishing during the summer and well throughout September. Anglers often fish from an anchored boat, using fresh-cut menhaden as bait throughout the season, according to "Virginia Game & Fish." Live eels are also quite effective, along with other live bait offerings of croaker, spot or mullet.

Article Written By Rona Aquino

Rona Aquino began writing professionally in 2008. As an avid marathon runner and outdoor enthusiast, she writes on topics of running, fitness and outdoor recreation for various publications. Aquino holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and English from the University of Maryland College Park.

Write for Trails.com
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