Some of the best fishing grounds on the Mid-Atlantic Coast are found in the local waters surrounding Chincoteague Island. There are several different ways you can go fishing while vacationing in Chincoteague, including fishing from the surf on Assateague Island, from a public pier on Chincoteague, launching your boat at a public boat ramp, renting a boat, or on a Charter Boat. You can purchase fishing supplies from a local Bait and Tackle Shop. On a Charter Boat, all your needed fishing supplies are typically included.
Check the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries website for regulations.
Click on the following Chincoteague fishing reports for current information on the local action:
Captain Steve’s Daily Fishing Report
Capt. Bob’s Daily Fishing Report
Tide Information
Surf Fishing can be done on Assateague Island, a Virginia saltwater license is required for fishing on the beach. Fishing is prohibited on the Lifeguard beaches or designated surfing zones. Obtain an after-hours fishing permit from the visitors center for nighttime fishing.
In general, the species you can expect to catch include:
Spring: Flounder (the largest flounder are typically caught at this time), Striped Bass, and Drumfish in the bay and surf.
Summer: Flounder, Trout, Croaker, Sea Bass, Kingfish, and Spot in the bay and surf. Blue Fin and Yellow Fin Tuna offshore.
Fall: Striped Bass and Drumfish in the bay and surf.
Boating is one of the more enjoyable pastimes on Chincoteague. If your interests are fishing, water-skiing, or just wanting to enjoy the water on a peaceful summer evening, the options are here for you to use your boat or rent one. With the purchase of a City Boat Sticker, anyone wishing to put in their boat will have access to 3 Town supported public boat ramps. Boat ramp stickers can be purchased at the Town Office, Police Station, and from the Harbormaster. Guided scenic/nature boat tours are also available.
Public Boat Ramps:
Clamming is another water pastime that is also plentiful on the Eastern Shore. The favored method is raking while wadding in generally shallow water. The best times are during the low tides. Another way is walking in the sand at low tide and ‘signing’ them. That means looking for the little keyhole indentations in the sand. By digging just under the surface of the sand, you will find the clams. Some of the Scenic Tour Boats offer clamming excursions.
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