Agency News

March 12, 2024: In preparation of the upcoming 2024 Crabbing Season, VMRC wanted to share some clarifications for the harvesting of crabs for commercial purposes in Virginia:
Seasonal Restrictions on Crab Potting:
Pursuant to 4 VAC 20-270-40, it is illegal for any person to knowingly place, set, fish, or leave any hard crab pot in any tidal waters of Virginia from December 17, 2023, through March 16, 2024.
Commercial Crabbing Restrictions on Sundays:
In accordance with 4 VAC 20-270-20, the harvesting of crabs for commercial purposes on Sundays is prohibited. However, there are exceptions and clarifications to this regulation:

  1. Nothing in this regulation precludes the placing or setting of hard crab pots in the tidal waters of Virginia on Sundays from March 17, 2024, through November 30, 2024.
  2. The prohibition does not apply to the harvest of peeler crabs using crab traps or peeler pots.
  3. Floats, pens, or onshore facilities for soft crab shedding operations are exempt from this regulation.
  4. Individuals licensed to harvest peeler crabs via peeler pots may harvest one bushel of male crabs on Sundays strictly for baiting purposes. It is essential to note that these crabs may not be sold.
Any questions can be addressed to Deputy Chief of Fisheries Joe Grist at (757) 247-2200.



March 05, 2024: The VMRC is currently accepting applications for experimental gear permits, including the experimental Spanish mackerel gillnet permit. This opportunity extends until March 15, 2024. To access the application, please click HERE. Should you have any inquiries or require further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to Jennifer Farmer via email at Jennifer.Farmer@mrc.virginia.gov. We look forward to receiving your applications and assisting you throughout the process.

February 28, 2024: Results of the February VMRC Meeting can be found under [ Draft Minutes ]

February 1, 2024: Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and the Potomac River Fisheries Commission are hosting a virtual-only public hearing on February 1, 2024, at 6:00 PM to solicit feedback from recreational summer flounder anglers regarding recreational management measures for 2024-2025. Click here to see potential management options, submit written comments, and get connection information for the webinar.

January 29, 2024: The Commonwealth of Virginia is seeking qualified individuals for nominations to the Mid- Atlantic Fishery Management Council (www.mafmc.org). Nomination application kits will be made available upon request and are due to the Marine Resources Commission, c/o Joseph Grist, by close of business Friday, February 9th, 2024. [ Notice ]

January 24, 2024: The Commission has voted to open a special recreational black sea bass season from February 1-29, 2024. Interested in participating? You can read more about permitting and reporting requirements here and you can acquire your free permit here.

January 24, 2024: Results of the January VMRC Meeting can be found under [ Final Minutes ]

January 11, 2024: Effective 12:01 A.M., Monday, January 15, 2024, the Virginia commercial croaker fishery will open. The season will remain open until December 31, 2024. [ Notice ]


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Page updated: 1:11 PM Tuesday, March 12, 2024