Spearfishing

Virginia Spearfishing
Regulations 2026

Allowed species, endorsement requirements, and freshwater vs. saltwater rules for spearfishing in Virginia. Virginia allows spearfishing in tidal waters with a recreational fishing license. Freshwater spearfishing is restricted to non-game fish only.

Saltwater Allowed Freshwater Allowed

2026 Spearfishing Quick Facts Verified 2026

Resident Fee

$23.00

Tidal fishing license for marine; freshwater license for freshwater.

Non-Resident Fee

$40.00

Annual license

Saltwater

Allowed

With restrictions

Freshwater

Allowed

Game fish may be banned

Species Regulations

Allowed & Prohibited Species in Virginia

Allowed Species

Carp, suckers (freshwater); flounder, sheepshead, striped bass in tidal

Prohibited Species

Game fish in freshwater; protected marine species

Step-by-Step

How to Get a Spearfishing License in Virginia

Purchase a Fishing License

All spearfishing in Virginia requires a valid fishing license as the base credential. Purchase through Virginia Marine Resources Commission online, at license agents, or by phone. Spearfishing license fee: $23.00.

Know the Rules

Review the specific allowed and prohibited species for the waters you intend to spearfish. Saltwater spearfishing is permitted with appropriate licensing. Check for any marine protected area restrictions at your planned dive site.

Check Location-Specific Rules

Marine protected areas, state parks, and wildlife management areas may have additional restrictions or prohibitions on spearfishing. Always verify the specific rules for your dive location with Virginia Marine Resources Commission before entering the water.

Requirements

Virginia Spearfishing Requirements

Appropriate Virginia fishing license required.

Important Notes

Virginia-Specific Regulations

Virginia allows spearfishing in both freshwater and Chesapeake Bay/Atlantic saltwater; a valid Virginia Freshwater Fishing License or Combined Fishing License is required depending on the waters. In saltwater, spearguns, pole spears, and Hawaiian slings are legal for most finfish including flounder, cobia, and tautog subject to standard size and bag limits enforced by the VA Marine Resources Commission (VMRC). Freshwater spearfishing in Virginia is limited to non-trout species in non-designated trout waters, and striped bass may not be taken by spear during their spawning season in Virginia rivers.

Source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission (mrc.virginia.gov). Regulations verified 2026. Always confirm current species rules and location restrictions directly with Virginia Marine Resources Commission.

Virginia