Reel Release Sportfishing offers some of the most diverse and action-packed fishing charters in the Chesapeake Bay and Virginia Beach, led by Captain Robert “Robbie” Bryan, who has fished these waters for more than 14 years and was raised in Virginia Beach, giving him deep local knowledge of where the fish are hiding. Robbie specializes in fishing the bay and offshore wrecks, and is sponsored by Shimano, Grundens, Dexter, and Costa.
Trips run aboard a 30-foot Privateer pilot house, a 1992 vessel freshly upgraded in 2024, powered by a 350-400 HP diesel Caterpillar engine that gets guests to the fishing grounds quickly and safely. The boat comfortably fits up to 6 guests, with a shaded dining area, 8 cup holders, a baitwell, rod holders, an ice box, an audio system with inside and outside speakers, sun decks fore and aft, and a cozy cabin for resting; children, pets, and even glass bottles are welcome aboard.
The most popular option is the full-day trip (May 20-September 30), targeting Cobia, Red Drum, Flounder, Sheepshead, Tautog, Spadefish, Spanish Mackerel, and Bluefish. An evening wreck-fishing trip (6-8pm) targets Flounder, Sea Bass, Trigger Fish, Spadefish, Tautog, Mahi Mahi, and King Mackerel 15-50 miles offshore, while a quick sunset trip is well suited for families wanting to watch dolphins play and catch Spanish Mackerel. Starting in October, inshore trips inside Lynnhaven Inlet target Speckled Trout, Puppy Drum, and Flounder.
Every trip includes rods, reels, tackle, lures, bait, and a fishing license covering everyone aboard, along with coolers of ice for lunch and the day’s catch, fish cleaning, and bagged fillets. Mates work for tips (20% customary). Beyond fishing, Reel Release also offers dolphin tours, sunset cruises, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and even real estate tours for those wanting a different kind of day on the water.
For anglers looking for a diverse, well-equipped Chesapeake Bay and Virginia Beach fishing charter, Reel Release Sportfishing offers a highly reviewed operation with Captain Robbie Bryan.
