Can I Keep?Monkfish (goosefish) Regulations in Virginia (2026)
Lophius americanus
Recreational monkfish (goosefish) rules in Virginia saltwater, as published by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Bag limit
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to take, harvest or possess…
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Recreational Monkfish (goosefish) rules in Virginia
- Where
- All waters
- Bag limit
- A. It shall be unlawful for any person to take, harvest or possess any amount of monkfish in Virginia waters that exceeds 50 pounds of tails or 166 pounds of whole fish, except as described in subsection B of this section.
Quick answers
How many monkfish (goosefish) can I keep in Virginia?
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to take, harvest or possess any amount of monkfish in Virginia waters that exceeds 50 pounds of tails or 166 pounds of whole fish, except as described in subsection B of this section..
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Source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Most anglers need a Virginia saltwater license or registry: get one here.