Can I Keep?King mackerel Regulations in Virginia (2026)
Recreational king mackerel rules in Virginia saltwater, as published by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
27 in minimum
Bag limit
3 per person
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational King mackerel rules in Virginia
- Where
- All waters
- Size limit
- B. Minimum size limit for king mackerel is established at 27 inches in total length.
- Bag limit
- A. It shall be unlawful for any person fishing with hook-and-line, hand line, rod and reel, spear, gig, or other recreational gear to possess more than 15 Spanish mackerel or more than three king mackerel.
- Possession
- B. When fishing from a boat or vessel where the entire catch is held in a common hold or container, the possession limits shall be for the boat or vessel and shall be equal to the number of persons on board legally eligible to fish multiplied by 15 for Spanish mackerel or multiplied by three for king mackerel.
Quick answers
What is the king mackerel size limit in Virginia?
B. Minimum size limit for king mackerel is established at 27 inches in total length..
How many king mackerel can I keep in Virginia?
A. It shall be unlawful for any person fishing with hook-and-line, hand line, rod and reel, spear, gig, or other recreational gear to possess more than 15 Spanish mackerel or more than three king mackerel..
Compare King mackerel limits in other states →
More offshore & pelagic in Virginia
- Atlantic sharpnose shark
- Atlantic tarpon
- Bluefish
- Bonnethead shark
- Cobia
- Hammerhead sharks (great, scalloped, smooth)
- Recreationally permitted sharks
- Recreationally prohibited sharks
- Spanish mackerel
All Virginia saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Most anglers need a Virginia saltwater license or registry: get one here.