Virginia state waters, out to 3 miles
VMRC 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
Past 3 miles: federal waters Different rule
Private boats need a Private Recreational Tilefish Permit north of the VA/NC border; rod-and-reel only, max 5 hooks per rod.
NOAA GARFO / MAFMC 2026 · checked 2026-09-20
Virginia state record
VMRC Saltwater Fishing Tournament, 2025 brochure · checked 2026-09-04
How to tell it
Blue line under the eye on a long tan body; deep mud bottom. More on the blueline tilefish page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Blueline tilefish in other states14 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask5
What is the size limit for blueline tilefish in Virginia?
No size limit.
How many blueline tilefish can you keep in Virginia?
3 per person (5 uninspected / 7 inspected for-hire).
When is blueline tilefish season in Virginia?
May 15 - Nov 15. As of Sep 21, 2026 it is open.
What is the Virginia record blueline tilefish?
23 lb 5 oz, Norfolk Canyon (2009).
How current is this Virginia blueline tilefish rule?
Source: VMRC 2026, last checked Sep 20, 2026. A watchman re-reads the agency's pages nightly. Rules change mid-season by proclamation; the official rulebook is the final word.
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