Powered by RedCircle
This week, host Luke Barton checks in with Capt. Russ aboard Top Notch Sportfishing and Capt. Robbie Bryan with Reel Release Sportfishing. This episode dives deep into fall offshore and nearshore action across the Lower Chesapeake Bay. Capt. Russ shares his latest trips targeting mahi-mahi, tilefish, and swordfish offshore of Virginia Beach, while Capt. Robbie discusses phenomenal sea bass and triggerfish action on the nearshore wrecks, as well as updates on the upcoming tautog and striped bass seasons. Along the way, the captains offer invaluable insight on seasonal transitions, gear prep, and fishery management trends anglers should keep an eye on.
Conditions Recap
Warm late-season water temperatures continue to hold steady offshore, creating a mix of summer and early-winter patterns. The bay and nearshore waters remain in the upper 60s, while offshore edges are seeing 70–72 degrees depending on current flow. Weather windows have been scarce, with stiff winds limiting offshore runs, but when conditions allow, the fishing has been exceptional. The transition into November will bring cooling water, pushing some species deeper and setting the stage for tautog and, weather permitting, striped bass action around the Eastern Shore.
Offshore Report – Capt. Russ
Capt. Russ, owner and builder of his 58-foot Carolina-style Top Notch Sportfishing vessel, shared a detailed look at his recent offshore adventures targeting mahi-mahi, tilefish, and swordfish. Despite bumpy seas and challenging October winds, his crew found steady action around the NOAA buoys, pulling in a dozen mahi up to 20 pounds using slow-trolled cut albacore. Russ emphasized the importance of preparation—having pre-cut bait, spare leaders, and quick D-hookers ready to keep the bite hot when schools appear around structure.
After trolling tapered off, the team transitioned to deep-drop tile fishing, catching fish up to 17.5 pounds. Using precise throttle control to back into waves and keep lines vertical, Russ ensured his anglers could fish comfortably and avoid tangles. Tilefish limits came quickly, setting the stage for some daytime swordfishing.
Swordfishing, as Russ explains, is an art form of patience and precision. His crew deployed squid baits down 1,000–1,200 feet using 10-pound breakaway weights, watching for the telltale tap of a swordfish bite. Two swordfish were hooked—one fought to the boat but released for being under the 47-inch minimum. Russ noted that J-hooks perform better for deep dropping than circle hooks, and preparation is key, from properly rigged baits to pre-tied leaders and reliable electric reels.
As temperatures continue to cool, Russ expects bottom fishing and swordfishing to remain strong, with the possibility of Wahoo, dolphin, and tuna returning if warmer water edges push back in. He advises checking temperature charts such as Rutgers C-Temp and keeping an eye out for edges where 71–72° water meets cooler currents.
Nearshore & Bay Report – Capt. Robbie Bryan
Capt. Robbie Bryan reports exceptional nearshore wreck fishing out of Virginia Beach, with sea bass and triggerfish dominating the bite between weather fronts. When conditions allow, the action has been fast and furious—hundreds of sea bass in the 2–4 lb. range, plus multiple citation-class fish topping 5 lbs. per trip. Triggerfish catches have also been outstanding, with some days producing 30–40 fish on squid or cut bait.
Robbie emphasized preparation as the key to success. His crew rigs both sea bass and triggerfish setups ahead of time using small J-hooks and 30–40 lb. leader, switching quickly if triggerfish bites start showing up on baits. Squid remains the go-to, but he’s also had success on fish bites, finger mullet, and even cut-up Gulp when bait runs low.
As temperatures drop, sea bass will begin to push out to deeper wrecks, and tautog will take center stage both inshore and offshore. Robbie expects the tog bite to strengthen through late fall into December, especially as dogfish move in and other species migrate south.
The conversation also touched on evolving fishery regulations and citation trends, including the potential impact of slot changes in the cobia fishery and pending management decisions affecting the Chesapeake Bay’s trophy striped bass season. Robbie underscored the importance of conservation-minded practices—keeping only what you’ll eat and protecting breeder-class fish to sustain healthy future stocks.
