It’s time to have fun on the water. Everyone is excited about the upcoming fishing and boating season. The month of June offers both a variety of fish, as well as a variety of entertainment.
The only cloud in the sky is the current fuel prices. But remember, we had higher fuel prices a few years ago and still had a great time on the water. This is only a temporary spike in prices until the situation with Iran is resolved. Until then, throttle down and slow your roll. The fish will be there even if it takes you longer to get there.
Water temperatures throughout the region are slightly above average this month at +0.7 degrees. This equates to an expedited migration of fish. On the bay, temps entering June are in the mid-60s, while the lower rivers are boasting 70 degrees or more.
Bluefish are the big news lately. Right on schedule, they made their first substantial appearance in the lower bay in May. The specimens caught have been large Taylors and small Choppers up to 30-plus inches in length. With an early run of menhaden into the bay, the bluefish have followed them and are off to an early start.
With striped bass populations in bay waters at a low, the bluefish may be the answer to a great spring/summer season.
Speckled trout and red drum fishing is on the rise this month. Reds are becoming more plentiful in the shallows of the lower rivers and creeks. Sizes are mixed and anglers are finding a few 18-26 inch fish to take home.
Virginia continues the “Catch and Release Only” season for specks until June 30.. They are moving into the grass flats and marsh guts of the tributaries. The Eastern Shore, Tangier Sound and the western shore’s shallow flats and marshes are also holding fish. The lower Rappahannock River and its feeders are holding fair numbers of trout at this time, as is the Great Wicomico River and smaller bayside tributaries.
Topwater baits and soft plastics are both enticing bites. With water temps on the rise, you can increase retrieve speeds as they are now feeding more actively.
Croaker and spot are making strong runs into the bay. By the end of May, they were filling into the middle bay nicely.
White perch have moved back down into the lower creeks. They are fun to catch using both bottom rigs donned with worms or with small Mepps or similar spinners.
Entertainment this month—You can travel by land or boat to the Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department Extreme Boat Docking and Pig Pickin’ at Buzzard’s Point Marina.
Take the family to a beach where you can pull the boat up and relax. Motor to a local restaurant for lunch. If you want to let someone else drive, consider a Chesapeake S.A.L.T. Experience such as our “Taste of the Bay” cruise to Tangier Island or a bourbon or wine tasting cruise. We partner with the Tides Inn Resort in Irvington.
Enjoy this month of great weather and activities.
Until next time, Fair winds.
Click here for the updated 2026 Fish Sizes and Limits chart
