Top-Rated Blue Catfish & Striper Fishing Trip

Reel in Catfish & Stripers on Tidal Rivers

Ready for some action-packed fishing on Virginia's tidal rivers? Captain William Draughon's got you covered with this half-day trip chasing blue catfish and striped bass. We'll hit the Chicahominy, York, and James Rivers, targeting the honey holes where these hard-fighting fish are biting. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip's perfect for groups up to 4 looking to fill the cooler and make some memories.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll start bright and early, meeting up at the launch to get you geared up and on the water. Capt. William knows these rivers like the back of his hand, so we'll head straight to where the fish are active. You'll be using top-notch gear and fresh bait to maximize your chances of hooking into some nice blues and stripers. The focus here is on numbers and action - we're after the smaller, more plentiful fish that'll keep your rod bent all day long. It's perfect for families or groups who want steady action without the long waits between bites you might get when trophy hunting.

Fishing Techniques & Gear

For blue cats, we'll likely be using bottom fishing techniques with cut bait or stink bait. We might drift fish or anchor up, depending on where the cats are holding. When we switch gears for stripers, we could be casting lures, trolling, or live-lining bait fish - Capt. William will read the conditions and choose the most effective method for the day. All the gear you need is provided, from rods and reels to terminal tackle. Just bring a positive attitude, some snacks, and be ready to reel!

Species You'll Want to Hook

Blue Catfish: These whisker-faced fighters have taken over Virginia's tidal rivers, and for good reason - they're a blast to catch and tasty on the table. We'll be targeting the smaller "eater" size blues, typically in the 2-10 pound range. These fish fight hard for their size and are often found in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. Blue cats feed aggressively year-round but really turn on in the warmer months. They love stinky baits and will often hit as soon as your line reaches the bottom.

Striped Bass: Also known as rockfish, these sleek predators are prized for their hard strikes and powerful runs. In the rivers, we'll be after the resident population of "schoolies" - typically 18-24 inches and perfect for the table. Stripers are structure-oriented, so we'll target bridge pilings, drop-offs, and creek mouths. They're most active in the cooler months, but you can catch them year-round with the right tactics. When a school of hungry stripers moves through, get ready for some rod-bending action!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Capt. William's trips are known for consistent action and a laid-back, fun atmosphere. You're not just a client - you're part of the crew for the day. He's got a knack for putting folks on fish and making sure everyone has a great time, whether you're an experienced angler or it's your first time holding a rod. The ability to keep your catch is a huge bonus - there's nothing like bringing home fresh fish for dinner. Plus, the scenery on these tidal rivers is gorgeous, with a good chance of spotting eagles, ospreys, and other wildlife while you fish.

Top Catches This Season

While this trip focuses on numbers of smaller fish, don't be surprised if you hook into something with some serious shoulders. The rivers are also home to some monster blue cats (50+ pounds) and trophy stripers. Just recently, a group landed a 30-pound blue cat that gave them a run for their money on lighter tackle. Another highlight was a school of stripers blitzing on bait fish, where every cast resulted in a hookup for about 20 minutes straight. It's memories like these that keep folks coming back season after season.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're looking for a fun, action-packed day on the water that's perfect for families, friends, or even a solo fishing adventure, Capt. William's Blue Catfish & Striped Bass trip is hard to beat. With all gear provided, easy-to-catch fish, and the ability to bring home your catch, it's a value-packed experience that delivers on both fun and results. Remember, deposits are non-refundable, so pick a date and lock it in. The fish are biting, and Capt. William's ready to put you on 'em - don't miss out on your chance to experience some of Virginia's best river fishing!