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

Welcome to Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA! Based out of Fisherman’s Wharf Marina in Virginia Beach, we offer fun, family-friendly fishing adventures on the beautiful waters of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying fishing for the very first time, we’re here to help you create lasting memories on the water. Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA is proudly owned and operated by retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officers Captain Mike Aderholt and Captain Chad Formentera. With many years of boating and fishing experience, our goal is simple: provide a safe, enjoyable, and successful day for every guest who steps aboard. We target a variety of local fish throughout the year, including Black Sea Bass, Flounder, Spade Fish, Tautog, Sheepshead, Triggerfish, Red Drum, Speckled Trout, Striped Bass, Bluefish, and more. We use a mix of simple fishing techniques that give anglers of all skill levels a great opportunity to catch fish and have fun. Our boat is a comfortable and well-maintained Sea Hunt Gamefish 27 powered by twin 250 hp Yamaha outboards, allowing us to get to the fishing grounds quickly so you can spend more time fishing and less time traveling. To ensure a personal experience, we limit our trips to six guests. In addition to fishing charters, we also offer sandbar trips, and private sightseeing adventures for families, couples, and small groups looking to enjoy the beauty of coastal Virginia. We provide all fishing equipment you need for your trip, including rods, reels, tackle, bait, ice, and all required safety equipment. Your Virginia saltwater fishing license is covered under our charter.At Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA, we’re committed to creating a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where families, friends, and anglers of all ages can enjoy a great day on the water. We look forward to fishing with you!

EPSG:4269

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.

Black sea bass caught during fishing charter in Virginia Beach VA

Black container filled with grey triggerfish and black sea bass caught during Virginia Beach fishing trip

Black Sea Bass and Grey Triggerfish caught during fishing charter in Virginia Beach VA

Large catch of black sea bass laid out on wooden dock in Virginia Beach VA after successful fishing charter

Large catch of black sea bass displayed on fishing charter boat dock in Virginia Beach VA

Large catch of fish displayed on marina dock in Virginia Beach VA after successful fishing charter

Grey triggerfish caught during fishing trip in Virginia Beach VA

Fresh caught fish in cooler from Virginia Beach fishing charter

Fishing charter boat docked at marina with blue cabin lighting at sunset in Virginia Beach VA

Black sea bass caught on fishing charter boat in Virginia Beach waters

Grey triggerfish caught during fishing charter in Virginia Beach VA

Fishing boat with blue LED lighting docked at marina in Virginia Beach VA at sunset

Drop Your Lines at Virginia's Beach Wrecks

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!

Family-friendly fishing trips in Virginia Beach and the Chesapeake Bay Area with Casting Horizon Fishing Charter VA. Guided by retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officers Capt. Mike and Capt. Chad. Whether you are planning a relaxed coastal outing to introduce your kids to the sport or a highly targeted wreck fishing trip. our guides provide a safe, engaging, and rewarding day aboard our 27-foot Sea Hunt Game Fish 27 center console. We handle all the logistics, from providing gear,&nbsp;bait and your saltwater fishing licenses, so you can focus entirely on enjoying your time on the water. We will be targeting mainly black sea bass, spadefish, flounder,&nbsp;trigger fish, tautog, and other bottom fish species. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, our flexible services also include scenic cruises, sandbar hopping, and local tours departing right from Fisherman's Wharf Marina. Secure your preferred date and get ready for a memorable experience on the Atlantic coast. Book your fishing trip today.

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, your day on the water is led by two highly experienced captains whose backgrounds are built on discipline, professionalism, and a lifelong connection to the sea. Captain Mike Aderholt and Captain Chad Formentera are both retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officers and U.S. Coast Guard-licensed 25-Ton Master Captains. Their military careers instilled a deep commitment to safety, preparation, and leadership that now serves every guest who steps aboard. Whether you are new to fishing or a seasoned angler, you can fish with confidence knowing your trip is guided by professionals who have spent decades navigating challenging waters and leading crews in demanding environments. Together, Captain Mike and Captain Chad bring more than 40 years of combined experience fishing the Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries, and the Atlantic waters off Virginia Beach. Raised on the Chesapeake Bay, Captain Mike developed his passion for fishing at an early age and has spent a lifetime learning the seasonal movements of local species. Captain Chad, originally from California, honed his skills fishing the productive waters of Long Beach and San Diego before relocating to Virginia in 2016, where he quickly developed extensive knowledge of Chesapeake Bay and East Coast fisheries. Their combined expertise allows them to consistently put anglers on fish while sharing valuable insights into local techniques, conditions, and fish behavior. Beyond their extensive experience, both captains are passionate educators and advocates for the fishing community. Captain Mike serves as a certified powerboat safety and sailing instructor for the U.S. Navy MWR program, helping others develop confidence and skills on the water. Captain Chad is an active member of the Virginia FilAm Fishing Association, where he mentors fellow anglers and supports local fishing initiatives. Their patient, approachable style makes them excellent guides for families, first-time anglers, and experienced fishermen alike. Every trip is designed to be safe, enjoyable, and educational while creating lasting memories on the water. Aboard the 27-foot Sea Hunt Gamefish, guests enjoy a fast, comfortable, and highly capable fishing platform designed specifically for Virginia Beach fishing charters. This meticulously maintained 2017 center console is powered by twin 250 HP Yamaha outboards, reaching speeds of up to 58 knots to maximize fishing time and minimize travel. The spacious deck comfortably accommodates up to six guests and is equipped with advanced Garmin GPS and fish-finding electronics, premium live wells, and large fish boxes. Family-friendly amenities include cushioned seating and a private enclosed head, ensuring a comfortable experience whether you are targeting Black Sea Bass, Red Drum, Spadefish, or other Chesapeake Bay favorites. Combined with the knowledge of Captains Mike and Chad, this vessel delivers a safe, productive, and memorable Virginia Beach fishing charter experience.

Expertise And Discipline on The Water

Meet Captain Mike and Captain Chad

Planning a trip? Here are the top things to do in Virginia Beach, including family activities, museums, the ViBe arts district, and local seafood spots.

Explore VB

The Ultimate Virginia Beach Shore-Side Guide

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

Bay Sunset Trip

Chesapeake Bay Sunset Trip | Casting Horizon VA

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

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

Morning Striper

Morning Striper Charter Chesapeake Bay VA

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

Afternoon Bass Hunt

Afternoon Sea Bass Flounder Charter Virginia Beach

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

Beach Sandbar Fun

Sandbar Restaurant Trip Virginia Beach Casting Horizon

Meet the Captain's

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. 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, Tours Adventures Locations on Virginia Beach

Fishing The Chesapeake Bay And Atlantic Ocean

Great For Top Anglers

Best Spots

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

Reports

Navigate