Can I Keep?Tautog Regulations in Virginia (2026)
Tautoga onitis
Recreational tautog rules in Virginia saltwater, as published by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Last checked November 7, 2026.
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Recreational Tautog rules in Virginia
- Where
- All waters
- Size limit
- B. The minimum size of tautog harvested for recreational purposes shall be 16 inches in total length.
- Bag limit
- A. It shall be unlawful for any person fishing with hook and line, rod and reel, spear, gig, or other recreational gear to possess more than four tautog.
- Season
- B. The recreational fishing season shall be closed from May 16 through June 30.
- When fishing is from a boat or vessel where the entire catch is held in a common hold or container, the possession limit shall be for the boat or vessel and shall be equal to the number of persons on board legally eligible to fish multiplied by four.
Commercial rules
Show 1 commercial rule
- Where
- All waters
- Size limit
- A. The minimum size limit of tautog harvested for commercial purposes shall be 15 inches in total length.
- Season
- The commercial fishing season shall be closed from January 22 through the last day of February and May 16 through October 31, and it shall be unlawful for any person to possess tautog for commercial purposes during this period.
- A. It shall be unlawful for any registered commercial fisherman to take, catch, or possess any tautog without obtaining a valid Tautog Commercial Permit.
Quick answers
What is the tautog size limit in Virginia?
B. The minimum size of tautog harvested for recreational purposes shall be 16 inches in total length..
How many tautog can I keep in Virginia?
A. It shall be unlawful for any person fishing with hook and line, rod and reel, spear, gig, or other recreational gear to possess more than four tautog..
When is tautog season in Virginia?
B. The recreational fishing season shall be closed from May 16 through June 30.. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
Compare Tautog limits in other states →
More reef fish in Virginia
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Source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission. Most anglers need a Virginia saltwater license or registry: get one here.