Virginia · United States

James River VA fishing forecast

74 Good of 100

James River VA is a freshwater fishing spot in Virginia, United States. Anglers here target Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Smallmouth Bass. The most productive months are typically March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October.

Quick answer
Best monthsMarch, April, May, June
Top speciesBlue Catfish, Channel Catfish, Smallmouth Bass
Score now74/100
Local rulesUnited States — Federal Waters
Pressure trend
Pressure stable — fish feeding on their usual rhythm
Next solunar peak
major 23:26

Current conditions

Sea surface temp26.8 °C
Wind9 km/h from NW
Pressure1008 hPa
Cloud cover43%

Last updated Jun 19, 2026 (UTC). Conditions refresh through the day.

What the score means at James River VA

James River VA currently scores 74 out of 100 (Good). Water temperature is 26.8 °C. 7 forecast signals are active in this score. As a rough guide, a score above ~65 reflects conditions experienced anglers would typically fish; below ~45, consider waiting for a better window or targeting different species. The score blends live weather and ocean signals and can change through the day.

Bite windows

Moon
Waxing Crescent · 23% lit
Solunar day rating
70 / 100

Best months for James River VA:

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

About this spot

Water type
River · Freshwater

Rivers are flow-driven. Fish the seams, eddies, and structure where current breaks, where fish hold to conserve energy and ambush bait.

What you can catch

Best months by species at James River VA

Blue CatfishIctalurus furcatus
Channel CatfishIctalurus punctatus
Smallmouth BassMicropterus dolomieu

Months reflect typical catchability by species at this latitude; local seasons and closures apply.

Local regulations

U.S. federal fisheries authority
United States — Federal Waters

Licensing:

  • saltwater-recreational — residents Federal Recreational Fishing License may be required in addition to state license when fishing federal (EEZ) waters., non-residents Same as residents. Many states require their own license even in federal waters.

FishRadar regulations are summaries only. Federal and state waters rules overlap — always verify current federal and state agency rules before fishing.

Check James River VA before you go

Live scores update through the day. Get the full forecast, bite windows, and your own saved spots in the FishRadar app.

Download on the App Store
Scan to install on your phone Scan to install on your phone

Nearby spots

Explore 5 more fishing spots within 165 km of James River VA.

Frequently asked questions

What fish can you catch at James River VA?

Anglers at James River VA target Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, and Smallmouth Bass.

When is the best time to fish James River VA?

The most productive months at James River VA are typically March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October.

What is the fishing forecast for James River VA right now?

James River VA currently scores 74 out of 100, based on live ocean and weather conditions — see the full breakdown on this page.

Do you need a licence to fish James River VA?

Fishing at James River VA follows the local rules for Virginia, United States. Bag limits, size limits, seasons and licence requirements are summarised in the Local regulations section above, with a link to the official authority.

Fishing guides for this spot

Scores and conditions are forecasts for guidance only and can change rapidly. Always check local rules and current conditions, follow all fishing regulations, and prioritise your safety on the water.