05/29/2026
New Atlantic tarpon regulations take effect June 1, 2026, in Virginia waters.
Recreational possession is prohibited, and any Atlantic tarpon caught must remain in the water. The regulation also prohibits gaffing or spearing, requires circle hooks when fishing with bait, and prohibits commercial harvest, landing, possession, sale, barter, or trade.
For more information, read the full regulation here:
https://www.mrc.virginia.gov/regulations/MRC_Scanned_Regs/FINFISH/FR1420_05-26-26.pdf