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; rod-and-reel only, max 5 hooks per rod; eVTR within 24 hours.
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-gold flanks with yellow spots and the odd head crest. More on the golden tilefish page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Golden tilefish in other states14 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask5
What is the size limit for golden tilefish in Virginia?
No size limit.
How many golden tilefish can you keep in Virginia?
8 per person.
When is golden tilefish season in Virginia?
Open year-round.
What is the Virginia record golden tilefish?
58 lb, Norfolk Canyon (2017).
How current is this Virginia golden 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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