Big trout will often feed over the tubes at the HRBT, where suspended fish can be taken during a slack tide by anglers casting jigs trimmed with fresh crab. When the tide is moving, crawl a cut or whole peeler crab slowly across the bottom. Trout approaching double digits are also taken off Ocean View on the Norfolk side of the complex, and Fort Wool on the Hampton side.

Anglers may keep seven gray trout per day measuring at least 12 inches. Citation minimums are 9 pounds for creeled fish and 30 inches for releases.

COBIA
When big cobia reach the Hampton area in late May, many of them congregate in the relatively shallow waters between Grandview and Buckroe beaches, most within range of small-boat anglers. Boatless anglers scored regularly on fish in the 50- to 100-pound range before Hurricane Isabel demolished this area's piers.

Bluefish Rock is a perennial hotspot for big cobia, especially early in the season. Most are taken on live bait, with eels and croaker the most popular choices. Though action peaks in June and early July, trophy cobia can be found in this area throughout the summer.

"Cobia fishing was good during the first week in June last year," said Captain Hogg, who had his best catches at Bluefish Rock and off Grandview. Although many anglers use chunks of menhaden for bait, Hogg prefers to fish live bait in a chum slick of menhaden chunks and oil. "Eels were best during the first part of the run, then they seemed to prefer croaker, about 8 inches long. Cutting off the dorsal fin of the croaker makes it easier for a cobia to swallow the bait."

Like most of the bay, York Spit was slower than usual last year, but still gave up some big fish. The largest was a whopping 65-inch, 103 1/2-pounder (just 1 pound under the state record) caught on a live eel.

When gearing up for cobia, you'll want to prepare for some long, hard battles. Either spinning or baitcasting outfits will work fine as long as you don't skimp on quality. These fish are strong and make long horizontal runs that require a fast-taper rod with enough backbone to slow them down. Most anglers use 20- to 40-pound-test line attached to an 80- to 100-pound leader about 2 to 4 feet long. Use a 5/0 to 8/0 hook for cut bait, and a slightly smaller short-shank hook when using live bait.

Anglers are allowed one cobia measuring at least 37 inches. Citation minimums are 55 pounds for creeled fish and 50 inches for releases.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION
A good map or chart is invaluable in locating fishing locations, as well as boat ramps and marinas. ADC's waterproof Chartbook of the Chesapeake Bay is available at most area tackle shops, or by calling GMCO Maps & Charts at (888) 420-6277.

For fishing information or charters, call Captain Chandler Hogg at (757) 876-1590, or visit his Web site at www.captainhoggscharters.com.

For information on the latest fishing regulations, call (757) 491-5160. The Virginia Marine Resources Commission's Web site contains a wealth of information for anglers, including current fishing regulations, details of the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament, and boat ramps. Visit the site at www.state.va.us/mrc.

In addition to a multitude of fishing opportunities, the Hampton area is rich in history, culture, dining and entertainment experiences. For more information, including places to stay, contact the Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau at (800) 487-8778, or visit their Web site at www.hamptoncvb.com.