Red Drum (Redfish) (also known as Red Drum, Channel Bass, Spottail Bass) in Virginia. Minimum legal size, daily bag limit, possession limit, slot rule — verified against the VMRC guide, 2026.
In Virginia, the minimum legal size for Red Drum (Redfish) is 18 in and the daily bag limit is 3 per person. A slot limit applies: Slot: 18 in minimum to 26 in maximum total length (it is unlawful to keep red drum under 18 in or over 26 in). There is no closed season in VA.
Slot: 18 in minimum to 26 in maximum total length (it is unlawful to keep red drum under 18 in or over 26 in).
No closed season
Same statewide. STATE WATERS (Chesapeake Bay, tidal tributaries, Atlantic to 3 mi). Slot is codified in the Virginia Administrative Code (4VAC20-1400-30).
These limits are pulled from the VMRC recreational saltwater fishing regulations. Last verified June 2026.
Always check the official guide before keeping any fish. Regulations change. Virginia Marine Resources Commission updates its guide annually and occasionally mid-year. Fines for over-bag or undersized fish are significant.
Virginia requires a saltwater fishing licence for anglers aged 16–64 in tidal waters; unlicensed anglers aged 16+ must instead register free with the Fisherman Identification Program (FIP). Virginia saltwater licences.
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