Virginia Junior Expert Angler Awards Program

Sponsored by the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament

A proud program of the Virginia Marine Resources Commission

Catch the Experience - Earn Your Citation

Are you 15 or younger and love fishing in Virginia’s saltwater? You could earn your very own Junior Expert Angler Citation Plaque - just by catching and releasing some of our amazing saltwater species.

Whether you’re fishing off a pier, the beach, or from a boat leaving a Virginia port, your saltwater adventure could land you official recognition from the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament.

Anglers may earn only one Junior Citation award for each species per year.

How to Qualify

To earn your Junior Expert Angler Award, here's what you'll need to do:

  • Be 15 or younger on January 1st of the year you're fishing

  • Catch and release qualifying saltwater species with rod and reel

  • Fish must be caught in Virginia Marine waters, the Chesapeake Bay, or the Atlantic Ocean (and boats must launch and return to Virginia)

  • Get a witness to each catch and complete the Junior Citation Form (Word)

  • Submit your form by December 31st of the same year

  • There's no entry fee - just fun and recognition

Special Youth Size Limits

Here's what you need to land (and release) to qualify:

Fish Species

Youth Citation Length

Atlantic Puffer

8 inches

Oyster Toad, Spot, Pinfish, Hogfish

10 inches

Bluefish, Croaker, Kingfish

12 inches

Sea Robin

14 inches

Speckled Trout, Gray Trout, Spadefish

16 inches

Red Drum, Houndfish, Tautog, Sheepshead

18 inches

Flounder

2 inches over current regulation

Cobia, Amberjack

36 inches

Sharks

42 inches

All other species follow standard state regulations.

Ready to Claim Your Award?

Download and fill out the Junior Citation Form (Word). Be sure to include:

  • Name and address

  • Date of birth

  • Each catch's species, date, and witness name

Mail your completed form to:
Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament
Building 96, 380 Fenwick Road
Ft. Monroe, VA 23651

By Email:
Send a scanned copy or digital version of the completed form to:
Matt.Hargis@mrc.virginia.gov

Questions?

Contact:
Matt Hargis
Virginia Saltwater Tournament Director
Email: Matt.Hargis@mrc.virginia.gov
Phone: (757) 491-5160

Hook them, release them, and be recognized

Whether it’s your first time fishing or you’re already a weekend regular, the Junior Expert Angler Award is your chance to show your skills, enjoy the outdoors, and be part of Virginia’s saltwater fishing legacy.