Virginia · Fishing
Fishing in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach fishing runs the gamut from urban lake bass to tidal marsh species, and the six spots listed here reflect that range.
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Virginia Beach fishing runs the gamut from urban lake bass to tidal marsh species, and the six spots listed here reflect that range. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge gives you the most variety on paper — largemouth bass, striped bass, flounder, and red drum all show up in its lake waters — and it sits at just 5 feet of elevation, meaning you're fishing flat coastal terrain where wind matters more than any climb. Pleasure House Creek and Scopus Marsh are tidal or marsh-adjacent, so species and access shift with the tides in ways that a freshwater lake like Little Creek Reservoir or Sherwood Lake #2 simply don't. Ashville Park Lake 7 rounds out the freshwater side. None of these are remote backcountry destinations — most require little more than a valid Virginia fishing license and a short walk — but that accessibility cuts both ways: pressure can be real on weekends, especially at the more well-known spots. If you're coming from out of town, the mix of tidal and still-water options means you can usually find something fishable regardless of weather or season.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a fishing license to fish these spots?
Yes, a valid Virginia freshwater or saltwater fishing license is required depending on where you fish. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Pleasure House Creek involve tidal or coastal waters, so a saltwater license applies there. Check the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources website for current license options and fees before you go.
What species can I realistically expect to catch?
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge lists largemouth bass, striped bass, flounder, and red drum. The freshwater lakes — Little Creek Reservoir, Sherwood Lake #2, and Ashville Park Lake 7 — are more likely to hold largemouth bass and panfish. Scopus Marsh and Pleasure House Creek are tidal environments where red drum and flounder are reasonable targets depending on the season.
What time of day is best for fishing here?
For the tidal spots like Pleasure House Creek and Back Bay, fish around moving water — the hour before and after a tide change tends to be more productive than slack water. For the freshwater lakes, early morning and late afternoon are the most consistent windows for bass, particularly in warmer months when midday sun pushes fish deeper.
How difficult are these spots to access?
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is rated moderate difficulty, which in this context reflects the distance you may need to walk or bike to reach fishing areas rather than any technical terrain — the elevation is just 5 feet. The urban lakes like Ashville Park Lake 7 and Sherwood Lake #2 are generally easy walk-up access. Check current refuge entry requirements for Back Bay, as access rules and seasonal closures can apply.
What gear should I bring?
For the freshwater lakes, a medium-action spinning rod with bass lures or live bait covers most situations. For Back Bay and the tidal spots, bring gear suited for red drum and flounder — heavier tackle, cut bait or soft plastics, and a net. Sun protection and bug repellent are worth packing year-round in this coastal environment, especially at the marsh and refuge locations.
