Trout regulations in Virginia

· Freshwater · 2026 season

Is it a keeper? A trout is a keeper today if it measures at least 7 inches, with a daily limit of 6.

Trout size limit, season and daily limit

Where	Season	Size limit	Daily limit
Virginia inland waters (statewide; special waters differ)	Open year-round	7 inch minimum	6 per person per day

Notes

A 2026-10-31 check against the official source found a discrepancy in this species' zones and aliases. Read the official wording before keeping the fish: https://dwr.virginia.gov/fishing/trout/special-regulation-trout-waters/

Exact Virginia Marine Resources Commission wording

Season: Open year-round
Size: 7 inch minimum size
Limit: 6 per day
Inland waters — as printed: “Trout: Creel 6 per day; Length: 7 inch minimum size”

Source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission, captured 2026-09-21 (2026 season).

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About the trout

Freshwater fish from subfamily Salmoninae

Trout is a generic common name for numerous species of carnivorous freshwater fishes belonging to the genera Oncorhynchus, Salmo, and Salvelinus, all of which are members of the subfamily Salmoninae in the family Salmonidae. The word trout is also used for some similar-shaped but non-salmonid fish, such as the spotted seatrout/speckled trout.

Frequently asked

What is the size limit for Trout in Virginia?

7 inch minimum in Virginia state waters.

How many Trout can you keep per day in Virginia?

6 per person per day.

When is Trout season in Virginia?

Open year-round.

Is my Trout a keeper today?

A trout is a keeper today if it measures at least 7 inches, with a daily limit of 6.