What's New
The following regulation changes are new for 2012. More details can be found in sections that follow this summary.
General
- In a continuing effort to save money and streamline operations, the Watercraft Owners Guide is now included with the Fishing Guide.
Licenses
- A Facility Use Permit has been established, effective January 1, 2012 (see Fishing License Information & Fees).
- Persons 65 years of age or older do not need a saltwater fishing license but they do need to annually register with Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VRMC) by accessing the website at www.mrc.virginia.gov/FIP or calling 1-800-723-2728.
Game/Sport Fish Regulations
- The Virginia Marine Resources Commission has enacted a ban on the possession of river herring, effective January 1, 2012, due to the collapse of the stock over the past 40 years and in order to comply with an Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission fishery management plan directive.
Trout Regulations
- Hawksbill Creek in Page County and the South Fork Powell River in Wise County have been designated Heritage Waters.
- Urban Water stockings have been increased to 5 and will take place between November 1 and March 31.
- Thompson WMA Pond in Fauquier County will be stocked as a category A water provided water levels are sufficient to accomplish the stockings (see Catchable Trout Stocking Plan PDF).
