How to Fish for Lobster in Virginia

The waters of Virginia attract a bevy of people to the state, and though it is less popular, some will come for the commercial or sport fishing of lobster. It is important to know the difference, as the commercial lobster fishing consists mainly of traps or pots set in deep water. Sport fishing, on the other hand, is mainly done in areas where there have been offshore shipwrecks. Knowing the ins and outs of catching lobster in "The Old Dominion" can chart you on the right course to a successful catch.

Things You'll Need

  • Saltwater fishing license
  • Lobster measuring gauge
  • Dive gear
  • Tickle stick
  • Heavy gloves
  • Catch bag
  • Boat
  • Baling twine
  • Bait
  • Rope
  • Bricks
  • Lobster pots
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a saltwater fishing license from the state of Virginia. A valid license is required for anyone from 16 to 65 and can be obtained through the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Residents will pay a smaller fee than nonresidents. Temporary five-day and 10-day licenses are also available, along with the option to purchase a lifetime license. Those exempt from a license include anyone fishing on private property or from a licensed recreational boat or charter boat.

    • 2

      Learn the rules and regulations of harvesting, landing or possessing lobsters within the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is illegal to possess a lobster less than 3 3/8 inches in carapace (body shell), or any female over 5 1/2 inches. It is also unlawful to possess a V-notched female lobster or any lobster with a speared outer shell. A full list of regulations should be obtained when you obtain your saltwater license.

    • 3

      Talk to charter operators, other fishermen or people who are familiar with areas to find the best places for catching lobster. For example, according to the Pelican Dive Charter, the remnants of the wreck of the Santore --- a cargo carrier spread along the bottom of the Chesapeake Bay in more than 60 feet of water --- is a popular dive spot for catching lobster with just your scuba gear, tickle stick, thick gloves and a catch bag. Ask those who know the area to recommend places that aren't frequented by tourists and other fishing groups.

    • 4

      Prepare your lobster pots by baiting them with fish heads. Use baling twine to keep the bait inside the cage. Put heavy bricks or stones in the pot before using the rope to tie a line from a buoy to the pot and lowering it into the water, which the Commercial Fishing website suggests should be anywhere from 240 to 600 feet deep along the continental shelf slopes. In this area the buoys or markers are used to denote where pots or lobster traps are set.

    • 5

      Check the lobster pots every couple days, if possible. Leave them underwater for no more than 10 days at a time. If you believe the catch is sufficient, use heavy gloves and a tickle stick to get the lobster out of the pot.

    • 6

      Measure the lobster by first grabbing it by the top of its carapace. Put the measuring gauge in front of and between the lobster's eyes, then slide the gauge toward the tail until it stops to mark the forward point for gauging. Push the other side of the gauge down in the back of the carapace. It should extend beyond the line of hair just before the tail begins to get an accurate measurement.