Seventy Miles Out: A 17‑Hour Deep‑Drop for Tilefish and Sea Bass off Virginia Beach

VIRGINIA BEACH FISHING FIELD GUIDE

Seventy Miles Out: A 17‑Hour Deep‑Drop for Tilefish and Sea Bass off Virginia Beach

A 17‑hour Rudee Tours deep‑sea fishing trip that travels up to 70 miles offshore to target blueline tilefish, sea bass, grouper and more — this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.

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Seventy Miles Out: A 17‑Hour Deep‑Drop for Tilefish and Sea Bass off Virginia Beach.

Duration
17 Hours
Location
Virginia Beach
Operator
Rudee Tours
Category
Fishing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set out from Virginia Beach for a long‑haul, full‑day chase of deepwater species: Rudee Tours runs roughly 17‑hour deep‑drop trips that travel as far as 70 miles and fish depths averaging more than 300 feet for blueline tilefish, black sea bass, golden tilefish, blackbelly rosefish, grouper and other bottom dwellers.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Deep water beyond the shelf: Norfolk Canyon and the 70‑mile run
THE ROUTE

Deep water beyond the shelf: Norfolk Canyon and the 70‑mile run

These trips push offshore — as far as 70 miles — into waters that average more than 300 feet in depth, concentrating effort around deep canyons and bottom structure where tilefish and sea bass hold.

Tilefish, sea bass and other prized deep‑water species
THE TARGETS

Tilefish, sea bass and other prized deep‑water species

Anglers fish for blueline tilefish, black sea bass, golden tilefish, blackbelly rosefish, grouper and similar bottom species; targeted species can vary with current regulations.

All gear provided, plus creature comforts for a long day
THE ON‑BOARD SETUP

All gear provided, plus creature comforts for a long day

The operator provides equipment and an experienced crew; there is a snack bar and microwave aboard, and anglers are welcome to bring sandwiches and meal‑type food (no glass), plus a large ice chest for fish.

What the day feels like

What the trip feels like

This is a long, committed day on the water — roughly 17 hours in total — that combines transit time with sustained bottom fishing: the crew runs offshore to deep structure, sets up deep‑drop rigs and works the rails for species that live well below the surface. Expect variable conditions; trips are sometimes canceled for high winds, though runs still depart in rain.

Deep water beyond the shelf: Norfolk Canyon and the 70‑mile run

THE ROUTE

Deep water beyond the shelf: Norfolk Canyon and the 70‑mile run

These trips push offshore — as far as 70 miles — into waters that average more than 300 feet in depth, concentrating effort around deep canyons and bottom structure where tilefish and sea bass hold.

Tilefish, sea bass and other prized deep‑water species

THE TARGETS

Tilefish, sea bass and other prized deep‑water species

Anglers fish for blueline tilefish, black sea bass, golden tilefish, blackbelly rosefish, grouper and similar bottom species; targeted species can vary with current regulations.

All gear provided, plus creature comforts for a long day

THE ON‑BOARD SETUP

All gear provided, plus creature comforts for a long day

The operator provides equipment and an experienced crew; there is a snack bar and microwave aboard, and anglers are welcome to bring sandwiches and meal‑type food (no glass), plus a large ice chest for fish.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who should consider this trip — and who should think twice.

1
Seasoned anglersIdeal for anglers who want to target larger bottom species on long offshore hauls and can handle extended time at sea.
2
Novice anglersSuitable for newcomers because gear and guidance are provided, but expect a full‑day commitment and basic sea‑time.
3
Adventure seekersA good match for travelers seeking a remote, high‑reward fishing experience far from shore.
4
Those sensitive to weather or long daysNot ideal for people who cannot tolerate long hours at sea or rough conditions; trips can be canceled for high winds and the day remains long even in calm weather.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The outing is approximately 17 hours long and covers extensive offshore transit; be prepared for a full‑day commitment.

What to Bring

Dress appropriately for cooler conditions offshore (spring, fall, winter can be cooler); bring a large ice chest for your fish. You may bring your own food and drink (no glass); a microwave and snack bar are available on board.

On‑board provisions

There is a snack bar and a microwave aboard, but operators recommend bringing sandwiches and meal‑type food for the long day.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the trip?

The trip is approximately 17 hours in duration.

How far offshore will we go and how deep will we fish?

The vessel can run up to 70 miles offshore and fish depths that average more than 300 feet.

What species will we catch?

Typical targets include blueline tilefish, black sea bass, golden tilefish, blackbelly rosefish, grouper and other bottom species; targeted species vary with current regulations.

What should I bring for the trip?

Dress for cooler conditions offshore, bring a large ice chest for your fish, and bring food and drink if you prefer (no glass). A microwave is available on the boat.

Will the trip run in bad weather?

Trips may be canceled for high winds, but departures still occur when it is raining.

Is gear provided?

The operator provides gear and an experienced crew to guide anglers on the deep‑drop fishery.