Top rated 4-hour dolphin and whale watching cruise from Virginia Beach. Book your marine wildlife adventure today with expert guides.

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Top rated sandbar and waterfront restaurant trip in Virginia Beach. Land sea adventure perfect for families. Book your premium guided experience today.

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Guest favorite 3-hour sunset cruise departing 4 PM from Fisherman's Wharf. Book your Chesapeake adventure.

Bay Sunset Trip

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World class afternoon inshore charter targeting sea bass and flounder. Book your Virginia Beach adventure.

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Top rated morning inshore charter targeting stripers and spadefish in Virginia Beach. Book today!

Morning Striper

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Target cobia, drum, and mahi on this premier full day Atlantic charter from Virginia Beach. Book now.

Ocean Drum Hunt

Full Day Drum Cobia Charter Casting Horizon VA

The transition into late spring has brought excellent conditions and highly productive waters to the Virginia Beach area. As we wrap up May, water temperatures are steadily rising, and the peak fishing season is officially in full swing across the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

What's Biting Right Now
Over the past couple of weeks, our charters aboard the Sea Hunt Gamefish 27 have seen consistent catches on both nearshore and offshore wrecks. The water clarity has been fantastic, making it a great time to target structure-oriented fish and visual feeders.

Spadefish: We are seeing strong numbers of spadefish schooling up. The clear water conditions have allowed our guests to watch these fish track and hit the lines right beneath the boat.

Black Sea Bass & Flounder: Bottom fishing remains our primary focus, and the strategy is paying off. Black sea bass are holding tight to the wrecks, and we are pulling consistent keepers off the ocean floor. Flounder are also making a solid showing as they settle into their summer patterns.

Triggerfish & Sheepshead: We are picking up healthy numbers of triggerfish and sheepshead around the hard structures using precise bottom drops.

Gear and Techniques
We are sticking to what we do best: precise wreck fishing. The custom-made flutter jigs have been highly effective this month. Dropping these specialized lures down into the structure is triggering aggressive strikes from sea bass and triggerfish. For the spadefish, presenting fresh bait in the clear upper water column has been the winning strategy.

Captain's Log
Captain Mike and Captain Chad have been alternating trips to keep the boat running daily and the local knowledge fresh. "The water clarity this week has been exceptional," notes Captain Chad. "When you can see the spadefish swimming and actively feeding right under the hull, it makes for a fantastic day on the water for the families and anglers fishing with us."

Looking Ahead to June
As we move into June, we expect red drum (redfish) and cobia activity to increase steadily depending on the trip. The wrecks will continue to hold solid numbers of bottom fish, ensuring plenty of tight lines for our half-day and full-day charters.

Our calendar is filling up quickly as families plan their summer trips. If you want to get out on the water and experience the best bottom fishing Virginia Beach has to offer, check our availability and reserve your date departing from Fisherman's Wharf Marina.

Spadefish and Black Sea Bass Dominate the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Wrecks

Welcome to Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA, your premier destination for highly productive and meticulously structured fishing charters in Virginia Beach. Operating out of Fisherman's Wharf Marina, we specialize in fishing the rich waters of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Our operation is uniquely led by two retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officers, Captain Mike Aderholt and Captain Chad Formentera. With over 40 years of combined maritime experience and a deep-rooted knowledge of East Coast fisheries, we deliver safe, memorable, and successful days on the water for both seasoned anglers and families. Unlike standard operations that rely heavily on trolling, we focus on specialized bottom fishing and advanced wreck fishing. Our captains use custom-made flutter jigs—crafted by a fellow military retiree—designed to effectively target the most sought-after species near the ocean floor. Depending on the season, our charters target Black Sea Bass, Triggerfish, Spadefish, Flounder, Tautog, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Grouper, Red Drum, Speckled Trout, and Striped Bass. We operate a meticulously maintained 2017 Sea Hunt Gamefish 27, a top-tier center console powered by twin 250 HP Yamaha outboards. This vessel provides a fast 58-knot cruise speed, meaning less time in transit and more time dropping lines. To ensure a personalized and uncrowded environment, all our trips are strictly limited to six guests. While we utilize a single-boat system, our two captains rotate trips, guaranteeing that you always fish with a focused guide who is ready to put you on the fish. Beyond our core half-day and full-day fishing trips, Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA also offers a variety of customizable experiences. For those looking to relax and take in the local scenery, we provide family-friendly dolphin and whale watching eco-tours, evening sunset cruises, and private boat tours to local sandbars and waterfront restaurants. We supply everything you need for a great trip, including top-tier rods, reels, specialized tackle, bait, ice, and safety gear. Your Virginia saltwater fishing license is completely covered under our commercial permits, and we even clean and fillet your catch at the dock. Book with Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA today and experience the discipline, local expertise, and community-focused atmosphere that sets our veteran-led crew apart.

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Black sea bass caught on fishing charter in Virginia Beach VA

Grey triggerfish caught fishing in Virginia Beach VA

Black sea bass caught while fishing in Virginia Beach VA

Spadefish catch held on fishing boat in Virginia Beach VA waters

Summer flounder caught fishing in Virginia Beach VA displayed on boat deck

Large catch of fish laid out on dock in Virginia Beach VA

Fishing charter group holding branded caps on boat in Virginia Beach VA

White fishing boat with twin Yamaha outboard engines docked at marina in Virginia Beach VA

Large catch of fish displayed on wooden dock in Virginia Beach VA with boat and outboard motor

Large catch of fish displayed on fishing boat dock in Virginia Beach VA

Summer flounder caught fishing in Virginia Beach VA displayed on boat

Spadefish catch displayed on fishing boat in Virginia Beach VA

Spadefish caught while fishing in Virginia Beach VA

Fishing catch of multiple fish displayed on dock in Virginia Beach VA

What to Do in Virginia Beach When You’re Not FishingWhile we pride ourselves on delivering the ultimate angling experience at Casting Horizon Fishing 

The transition into late spring has brought excellent conditions and highly productive waters to the Virginia Beach area. As we wrap up May, water tem

Unleash your inner angler and create unforgettable memories on the legendary waters of Virginia Beach with Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA. Don’t let the big one get away—reserve your unforgettable adventure today!

Experience the best family-friendly fishing trips in Virginia Beach and the Chesapeake Bay with Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA. Guided by retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officers Capt. Mike and Capt. Chad, our trips are built on decades of maritime discipline and unmatched local expertise. Whether you are planning a relaxed coastal outing to introduce your kids to the sport or a highly targeted wreck fishing trip, our expert local guides provide a safe, engaging, and rewarding day aboard our 27-foot Sea Hunt center console. We handle all the logistics, from providing premium gear to covering your saltwater fishing licenses, so you can focus entirely on enjoying your time on the water. We specialize in precise bottom fishing using custom flutter jigs to target highly prized species like black sea bass, spadefish, flounder, tautog, and red drum near the ocean floor. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, our flexible services also include scenic sunset cruises, sandbar hopping, and local dolphin-watching eco-tours departing right from Fisherman's Wharf Marina. Secure your preferred date and get ready for a memorable, professionally guided experience on the Atlantic coast. Book your fishing trip today and let our veteran captains put you right on the fish.

Find detailed answers to frequently asked questions about our Virginia Beach fishing charters, covering everything from what's included and licensing to common safety concerns, so you can book with complete confidence.

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. <h2>Aboard the 27-foot Sea Hunt Gamefish</h2>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.

Expertise And Discipline on The Water

Chesapeake Bay Fishing Charters FAQs What’s included in a Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA fishing charter in Virginia Beach?When you book a trip with Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA, we provide a fully inclusive experience so you can focus entirely on the fish. Your trip includes an expert U.S. Navy veteran captain, all premium rods, reels, specialized bottom-fishing tackle, custom flutter jigs, bait, ice, and all necessary safety equipment. Your Virginia saltwater fishing license is also completely covered under our commercial permits. What is the best time of year to fish in Virginia Beach with your charter?Our peak season runs from May 1st through the end of November, driven by favorable weather and high concentrations of spadefish, black sea bass, flounder, and red drum. However, we run trips year-round. The winter and shoulder season months offer highly productive, specialized fishing for speckled trout and striped bass (striper) across the Chesapeake Bay. How much does a full-day fishing charter cost in Virginia Beach?Our full-day fishing charters in Virginia Beach cost $1,400 and comfortably accommodate up to 6 guests. This comprehensive 8-hour trip allows us to target deeper wrecks and offshore structures in the Atlantic Ocean for premium species. We also offer morning and afternoon half-day trips for $700 if you prefer a shorter day on the water. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for a Chesapeake Bay charter?No, you do not need to bring your own gear. We supply top-tier rods, reels, and specialized tackle designed specifically for our bottom dropping and wreck fishing techniques. If you have a favorite rod you prefer to use, you are welcome to bring it, but we have everything required on board to ensure a successful catch. Is fish cleaning and filleting included in your Virginia Beach fishing trips?Yes, fish cleaning and filleting are fully included in the price of your trip. At the end of your time on the water, your captain will carefully clean, fillet, and bag your legal catch right at the marina so it is ready for your cooler and the kitchen. Where does Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA depart from in Virginia Beach?All of our fishing trips and customized boat tours depart from Fisherman's Wharf Marina, located at 524 Winston Salem Ave, Suite 300, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. We recommend arriving a few minutes before your scheduled start time to meet your guide and stow your belongings before we head out. What kind of boat do you use for your Atlantic Ocean wreck fishing charters?We operate a meticulously maintained 2017 Sea Hunt Gamefish 27 center console. Powered by twin 250 HP Yamaha outboards, our vessel cruises at a fast 58 knots, meaning less travel time and more time dropping lines. It features a spacious deck layout optimized for wreck fishing and is fully equipped with advanced electronics and USCG-approved safety gear. Do you offer family-friendly boat tours or dolphin watching in Virginia Beach?Yes, beyond our dedicated fishing charters, we offer highly customizable, family-friendly boat tours. You can book a 4-hour eco-tour for dolphin and whale watching for $450, a 2 to 3-hour evening sunset cruise for $600, or a full-day private boat tour to visit local sandbars and waterfront restaurants for $1,200. What should I bring on my half-day Chesapeake Bay fishing trip?We recommend bringing food, snacks, and plenty of water or sports drinks for your group. You should also pack sun protection like polarized sunglasses, a hat, and lotion-style sunscreen (please avoid spray sunscreen to protect the fiberglass deck). Wear comfortable, non-marking shoes, and leave a cooler in your vehicle at the marina to transport your fresh fillets safely home. Do I need to buy a Virginia saltwater fishing license before my trip?No, you do not need to purchase an individual fishing license. Our commercial charter boat permits legally cover the Virginia saltwater fishing licenses for all 6 guests on board. Simply show up at the dock ready to drop lines.

Fishing The Chesapeake Bay And Atlantic Ocean

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Experience productive morning angling on the Sea Hunt Gamefish 27 departing from Fisherman's Wharf Marina in Virginia Beach. This morning half day fishing charter targets black sea bass, spadefish, and flounder around local wrecks and coastal structures. Perfect for all skill levels from families to seasoned anglers. Your booking accommodates up to six guests and covers all custom flutter jigs, premium tackle, live bait, ice, and fish filleting services at the dock. Virginia saltwater fishing licenses are fully included in the price. Contact your guide to confirm your exact launch time between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM.

Black Sea Bass

Grey Triggerfish

Southern Flounder

Spadefish

Casting Horizon

4 hrs 

Morning Half Day Chesapeake Bay Striper and Spadefish Fishing Charter

Optimize your afternoon with a targeted bottom fishing excursion in the Atlantic Ocean and southern Chesapeake Bay. Departing at 2:00 PM from Fisherman's Wharf Marina, this afternoon half day fishing charter specializes in wreck fishing near the ocean floor using custom-made flutter jigs. Target species include triggerfish, tautog, sheepshead, and black sea bass. The trip is ideal for any skill level, accommodating up to six passengers on our twin-engine center console. All licensing, bait, gear, and fish cleaning are included in the $700 rate. Get in touch with the guide to finalize launch details.

Afternoon Half Day Virginia Beach Sea Bass and Flounder Fishing Charter

Maximize your time on the water with our comprehensive full day fishing charter departing from Fisherman's Wharf Marina in Virginia Beach. This immersive trip targets deeper wrecks and offshore structures in the open Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. Expect to target prominent species like cobia, mahi-mahi, black drum, red drum, and large tautog. Designed for all skill levels, this trip accommodates up to six guests aboard our 27-foot Sea Hunt Gamefish center console. The $1400 price covers premium tackle, custom lures, live bait, ice, fish filleting, and all necessary licensing. Launch is typically between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM.

8 hrs 

Full Day Atlantic Ocean Drum and Cobia Fishing Charter

Discover the abundant marine wildlife of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. This 4 hour eco guided trip departs from Fisherman's Wharf Marina and can be booked flexibly throughout the day. Your group of up to six guests will scan the waters for migratory whales, local dolphin pods, and coastal birds from the secure deck of our 27-foot Sea Hunt vessel. Excellent for all ages and skill levels, this family-friendly tour includes an experienced captain, safety equipment, and fuel in the $450 rate. Wildlife sightings are highly dynamic and dependent on seasonal animal activity.

Virginia Beach Dolphin and Whale Watching Guided Trip

Experience the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia as the sun goes down over the water. Departing from Fisherman's Wharf Marina at 4:00 PM, this private 2 to 3 hour sunset guided trip offers a relaxed, non-fishing cruise through the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Ideal for families, couples, and groups of up to six passengers seeking a comfortable evening on the water. Relax aboard our spacious Sea Hunt center console while a veteran captain handles the navigation. Safety gear, fuel, and cooler space with ice are fully included in the $600 rate. Bring your own preferred beverages and snacks.

3 hrs 

Chesapeake Bay Sunset Guided Trip

Enjoy a private, non-fishing recreational experience across the scenic waterways of Virginia Beach and the Chesapeake Bay. This full day guided trip launches at 8:00 AM from Fisherman's Wharf Marina and features custom routing to local sandbars and dockside restaurants. Perfect for families and groups of up to six guests looking to relax, swim, and dine by the water. Your charter takes place aboard our stable, comfortable 27-foot center console powered by twin 250 HP Yamaha engines. Fuel, safety equipment, and a licensed captain are included in the flat $1200 rate. Food and restaurant expenses are separate.

Meet your Captain Mike Aderholt

Articles by Mike Aderholt

The Ultimate Virginia Beach Shore-Side Guide

Spadefish and Black Sea Bass Dominate the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Wrecks

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