Springtime Fishing Frenzy in the Chesapeake Bay - Tautog, Drum, and More Biting in Virginia

The fishing scene around the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia, for Wednesday, April 9, 2025, is heating up with springtime action in full swing. Today’s sunrise was at 6:38 AM and sunset will be at 7:34 PM, providing plenty of daylight for anglers to explore the waters. The tides at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel included a high tide this morning at 7:04 AM (2.53 ft) and will peak again at 7:20 PM (2.63 ft), while low tides occurred at 12:39 AM and 1:04 PM, giving a good mix of fishing opportunities throughout the day. Weather conditions today are favorable for fishing with mild spring temperatures in the 60s and 70s, light winds, and partly sunny skies. These conditions, combined with water temperatures nearing 60°F in some tributaries, have fish actively feeding and moving into shallower waters. Recent catches show a promising variety of species. The tautog bite is strong, especially at structures like the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel (CBBT) and the Kiptopeke concrete ships, where several keepers were snagged on crab bait. Black drum are beginning to arrive in the area, with catches reported along coastal beaches, and red drum are expected to follow soon. Speckled trout numbers are increasing in tributaries like Rudee and Lynnhaven Inlets, while blue catfish continue to be a reliable target, particularly in the upper portions of the bay. These are being caught using bloodworms, cut bait, and frozen shrimp. For lure choices, anglers are having success with paddletails, jerkbaits, and live or cut crab for drum and tautog. Red shad darts are excellent for targeting hickory shad in the lower Susquehanna River, where the evening bite has been especially productive. If you’re looking for hot spots today, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel remains a top choice for tautog and drum, with its abundant structure attracting fish. Kiptopeke State Park is another great location, especially for anglers looking to target fish near the concrete ships. For speckled trout and slot red drum, Rudee and Lynnhaven Inlets are delivering steady action. With spring in full swing, now is the perfect time to dust off your gear and head to the water. Whether you’re chasing drum, trout, or catfish, the Chesapeake Bay offers plentiful opportunities for anglers to reel in some great catches. Tight lines! This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.