Stewardship
Pier etiquette and invasive species
Shared water works when everyone follows a few unwritten rules — and when nobody moves live fish, bait, or plants between waterbodies.
Pier etiquette
Give people room, do not cast over someone else's line, keep your area clean, and land fish quickly so the rail opens back up. If someone hooks a big fish, reel in and help.
- Never leave rigged hooks loose on the deck
- Take all line and bait packaging with you
- Ask before using someone's net
Do not move species between waters
Introduced species have permanently changed several regional fisheries. Never transport live fish, bait, or plant material from one waterbody to another, and clean, drain, and dry gear between trips.
Report what you should
Some species carry specific reporting or handling expectations in Virginia. Check with DWR and VMRC for current guidance on invasive and managed species.