Meet Captain Mike Aderholt

Expertise And Discipline on The Water

At Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA, we believe that the foundation of an unforgettable day on the water starts with trust in your leadership. Retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officers Captain Mike and Captain Chad bring a lifetime of maritime service and disciplined structure to every charter outing. This rigorous background ensures that our operations are led by guides who understand the vital importance of safety, organization, and reliability above all else. When you are aboard with our veteran crew, your day is managed with the calm, steady professionalism honed through decades of service to our country, allowing you to relax completely knowing you are in the steadiest hands on the Virginia Beach coast.

With over 40 years of combined experience navigating the dynamic waters of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, your captains possess an intimate, instinctual understanding of the local fishery. They do not just read migratory charts; they have spent decades tracking the shifting patterns across Virginia Beach wreck structures and the lower bay. Their dedication to mastering these waters has led to our specialization in precise bottom dropping using custom-made flutter jigs. This unique level of specialization is born from years of perfected local knowledge, designed explicitly to produce results when targeting prized species like black sea bass, spadefish, and red drum on their preferred, structured terrain.

Beyond their exceptional operational credentials, Captain Mike and Captain Chad are friendly, patient, and good-natured educators who genuinely love sharing their passion for angling. Their approach is encouraging and Structured, making them exceptional guides for introducing families and young anglers to the sport in a supportive environment. They take great pride in sharing the 'why' behind the methods we use, ensuring you leave the dock not just with a cooler of fillets, but with new skills and confidence. Deeply rooted in the local community at Fisherman's Wharf Marina, our captains are more than just guides; they are your dedicated local experts who have made mastering these waters their life’s work.

Aboard the 27-foot Sea Hunt Gamefish

Your comfort, speed, and fishing stability are supported by our carefully selected vessel, a meticulously maintained 2017 Sea Hunt Gamefish 27 center console. Powered by powerful twin 250 HP Yamaha outboards, this boat is capable of cruising at a fast and reliable 58 knots. This impressive speed minimizes your travel time to and from the offshore wrecks, ensuring you spend the maximum amount of your trip doing what you came to do: lines in the water.

Designed specifically for the heavy bottom dropping and wreck fishing we specialize in, the Gamefish 27 offers a stable platform with a spacious deck layout that accommodates groups of up to six comfortably. The vessel is fully equipped with advanced Garmin electronics, including GPSMAP technology for precise structure pinpointing and scanning. Along with top-tier fish boxes and live wells, the boat features essential amenities for a family-friendly trip, including cushioned bow seating and a private, enclosed head.

Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA Available Trips

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Expertise & Attributes

40 Years of Experience

fishing Attributes

Master Guide

Nature / Wildlife Views

Saltwater Fishing

Deep Sea Fishing

Good with New Anglers

Good with Families

Good with Kids

Gear & Equipment

Available Fishing Gear

Lures

Reels

Rods

Good to Knows

What’s Included in Your Charter Trip

Full Licensing Coverage: You do not need to buy a Virginia saltwater fishing license. Our commercial charter permits cover every guest on board for the entire duration of the trip.

Expert Captain & Crew: A USCG-licensed 25-Ton Master Captain and retired Navy Chief with extensive knowledge of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic structures will guide your trip.

Premium Fishing Gear: We provide top-tier rods, reels, and terminal tackle. You will have full access to our specialized bottom-fishing setups and custom-made flutter jigs designed specifically for wreck fishing.

Bait & Fresh Ice: All necessary live, dead, or artificial bait is supplied, along with ample ice to keep your catch fresh throughout the day.

Safety Equipment: Our Sea Hunt Gamefish 27 is fully outfitted with up-to-date, USCG-approved safety gear, including life jackets, communication systems, and first-aid supplies.

Fish Cleaning & Filleting: At the end of the trip, your captain will fillet, clean, and bag your legal catch at the marina so it is completely ready for the kitchen.

What to Bring Along

Snacks and Meals: Bring along your favorite food, sandwiches, and snacks to keep your energy up. For full-day trips, a hearty lunch is highly recommended.

Hydration and Drinks: Pack plenty of water, sports drinks, or soda. Light alcohol (such as beer or canned beverages) is permitted for guests of legal age, but glass bottles are strictly prohibited on board for safety.

Sun & Element Protection

Sunscreen: Bring lotion-style sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Please avoid spray sunscreen, as it makes the boat deck slick and stains the marine upholstery.

Polarized Sunglasses: Essential for cutting down water glare and helping you spot fish or structure under the surface.

Hats and Face Coverings: A wide-brimmed hat or lightweight fishing neck gaiter provides critical defense against prolonged sun exposure.

Clothing & Footwear

Non-Marking Shoes: Wear closed-toe shoes or boat deck shoes with light-colored, non-marking rubber soles. Dark-soled shoes can leave permanent scuffs on the fiberglass.

Weather Layers: Temperatures on the open water can feel significantly cooler than on land, especially during morning departures. Bring a windbreaker, light jacket, or rain gear just in case.

Logistics & Personal Items

A Shore Cooler: Leave a large cooler inside your vehicle at Fisherman's Wharf Marina. While we keep your fish iced on the boat, you will need a cooler to transport your fresh fillets safely home.

Seasickness Prevention: If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking a preventative medication (like Dramamine or Bonine) the night before and an hour before step boarding.

Camera or Smartphone: Fully charge your device to capture high-resolution photos of your catch and the local scenery.

Cash for Gratuities: While not mandatory, it is customary in the maritime charter industry to tip your captain or crew 15% to 20% for excellent service, hard work, and fish preparation.

DEPOSIT: A deposit is required for all bookings and will be applied at checkout

BALANCE: The remaining balance is due on the trip date as either Credit or Cash.

GUEST CANCELLATION: In the event that you must cancel your booking, you must do so 7 days prior to your trip date to receive a refund on your deposit. Rescheduling is encouraged and dependent on guide availability.

GUIDE CANCELLATION: In the rare event that your guide must cancel due to inclement weather, health, or equipment issues, you will have the option to reschedule your charter for a later date or receive a refund on your deposit.

TIPPING: Tips to your guide are greatly appreciated for your quality trip.

BOAT

Casting Horizon

Boat Type: Motorboat (engine-powered)

Boat Guest Capacity: 6

Boat Length: 27

Manufacturer Name: Sea Hunt Boats

Model Year: 2017

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Maximum Cruising Speed: 58

Boat Registration: Not Given

Features: GPS, Fish Finder, Ice-Box, Livewell / Live Bait Tank