Can I Keep?Blueline tilefish Regulations in Virginia (2026)
Caulolatilus microps
Recreational blueline tilefish rules in Virginia saltwater, as published by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Blueline tilefish rules in Virginia
- Where
- All waters
- Bag limit
- B. The recreational harvest, landing, and possession limit for blueline tilefish for any person fishing from a private or rental vessel shall be three fish.
- Season
- It shall be unlawful for any person fishing recreationally to harvest or possess any blueline tilefish from January 1 through May 14 and from November 16 through December 31.
- The recreational harvest, landing, and possession limit for blueline tilefish for any person fishing from a for-hire vessel that has been issued a valid federal Tilefish Charter/Party Permit but does not have a current U.S. Coast Guard certificate of inspection shall be five blueline tilefish per person per trip.
- The recreational harvest, landing, and possession limit for blueline tilefish for any person fishing from a for-hire vessel that has both a valid federal Tilefish Charter/Party Permit and a current U.S. Coast Guard certificate of inspection shall be seven blueline tilefish per person per trip.
Commercial rules
Show 1 commercial rule
- Where
- Ocean
- Bag limit
- Possess aboard any vessel in Virginia waters any amount of blueline tilefish in excess of 300 pounds whole weight or 273 pounds gutted weight.
- C. It shall be unlawful for any person to transfer at sea to another person or vessel any harvest of tilefish or grouper.
Quick answers
How many blueline tilefish can I keep in Virginia?
B. The recreational harvest, landing, and possession limit for blueline tilefish for any person fishing from a private or rental vessel shall be three fish..
When is blueline tilefish season in Virginia?
It shall be unlawful for any person fishing recreationally to harvest or possess any blueline tilefish from January 1 through May 14 and from November 16 through December 31.. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
Compare Blueline tilefish limits in other states →
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All Virginia saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Most anglers need a Virginia saltwater license or registry: get one here.