The short answer is yes—noodling will be legal in Virginia in 2026, but only under a tightly controlled permit program and with strict seasonal and location limits. The Commonwealth enacted the “Noodling Regulation Act” in 2025, which took effect on January 1, 2026. It authorizes hand‑fishing for bass and catfish in designated water bodies, provided the fisherman holds a valid Noodling Permit, complies with size and catch limits, and follows safety requirements such as wearing life‑vests and notifying a local game warden before each outing.
Legal Framework and Permit Requirements
Virginia’s Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) classifies noodling as a “special recreational fishing activity.” Under § 24.1‑410 of the Code of Virginia, a fisherman must:
- Obtain a Noodling Permit – $25 annual fee, renewable online or at any DWR office.
- Complete a mandatory safety course covering hand‑fishing techniques, water safety, and wildlife identification.
- Submit a signed liability waiver proving competence in basic first‑aid.
Permits are limited to 1,200 individuals statewide each year, with priority given to residents who have held a standard fishing license for at least three consecutive years.
Designated Waters and Seasonal Limits
Only waters listed in the “2026 Noodling Waters Map” are accessible. These include:
- Portions of the James River below the Richmond Dam.
- Select tributaries of the Shenandoah River.
- Certain private ponds that have entered into a reciprocal agreement with DWR.
The season runs from April 1 through September 30. Outside this window, noodling is prohibited to protect spawning cycles of native bass and to reduce conflict with commercial fisheries.
Catch and Size Restrictions
- Catch‑and‑release only for largemouth bass under 12 inches.
- Harvest allowed for catfish between 15 and 30 inches, with a daily limit of two per permit holder.
- All captured fish must be measured on the spot; unrecorded catches are considered illegal.
Safety and Reporting Obligations
Before each noodling excursion, participants must:
- File an online “Trip Notice” indicating water body, time, and companion details.
- Wear a Coast Guard‑approved personal flotation device.
- Carry a waterproof mobile phone or VHF radio for emergency contact.
Game wardens may conduct spot checks and require immediate release of any fish taken outside permitted parameters. Violations can result in fines up to $1,500 and revocation of the Noodling Permit.
Enforcement and Penalties
Virginia employs a tiered enforcement system:
- First offense – written warning and mandatory re‑education.
- Second offense – $250 fine and temporary suspension (30 days).
- Third offense – $1,000 fine, permanent ban from noodling, and possible criminal charges if negligence leads to injury.
All penalties are outlined in § 24.1‑415 of the Virginia Code.
FAQ
What age must I be to obtain a Noodling Permit?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Minors can participate only if accompanied by a licensed adult who assumes full liability.
Can I noodle on public lakes that are not on the designated map?
No. Only waters expressly listed in the 2026 Noodling Waters Map are authorized. Using non‑designated sites constitutes an illegal activity.
Are there any restrictions on the equipment I can use?
Only hand‑crafted hooks or bare hands are permitted. Mechanical devices, poles, or nets are prohibited and will trigger a violation.
How long does the safety course take, and can it be completed online?
The course is a 2‑hour interactive module followed by a 30‑minute quiz. It is available entirely online, and certification is granted instantly upon passing.
What should I do if I encounter a protected species while noodling?
Immediately release the animal, document the encounter, and report it to the DWR via the online portal. Failure to release a protected species can result in additional fines.