MOBJACK BAY

• USNOR
• Latitude: 37.4278
• Longitude: -76.4008
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

Mobjack Bay is an estuary and tributary off the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, located in the state of Virginia, USA. The bay serves as an intersection for several rivers: the East, North, Ware, and Severn Rivers, which converge into Mobjack Bay before flowing into the Chesapeake Bay. It is not a commercial harbor but rather a region noted for its natural beauty, marine activities, and recreational boating.

Description:

1. Geographical Location:

   • Latitude: Approximately 37.35° N
   • Longitude: Approximately 76.30° W
   • Nearby Landmarks: Gloucester County and Mathews County

2. Accessibility:

   • The bay is accessible via the Chesapeake Bay, with entrance channels akin to natural inlets.
   • Primary access for small recreational boats and the local fishing industry.

3. Size and Depth:

   • Mobjack Bay cover approximately 70 square miles of water.
   • The water depth varies, with some areas being shallow and others deeper, accommodating a variety of small to medium-sized vessels.

4. Surrounding Environment:

   • Mobjack Bay is mainly residential and rural, surrounded by wetlands, forests, and farmland.
   • It is part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including oyster beds and various fish species.

Specifications:

1. Navigational Information:

   • Navigational Aids: Bouys, markers, and occasionally lights guide vessels, but usage of detailed navigational charts (such as NOAA charts) and local knowledge is essential.
   • Tides and Currents: Regular tidal flows with significant influence from the Chesapeake Bay, necessitating awareness of tide schedules for navigation.

2. Facilities:

   • Marina and Docking: Several small marinas and private docks provide mooring options for local and transiting boats.
   • Boat Services: Limited to small boat services, repair facilities, and fueling stations available in the surrounding counties.

3. Restrictions and Regulations:

   • Protected Areas: Portions of the bay may be subject to environmental protection regulations to preserve sensitive habitats.
   • Local Ordinances: Boating speed limitations, fishing regulations, and pollution controls are enforced to maintain environmental integrity.

4. Activities:

   • Recreational Boating: Popular for kayaking, sailing, and small motorboat activities thanks to the calm and scenic waters.
   • Fishing and Crabbing: The bay is known for its blue crabs, striped bass, and other fish species, attracting fishing enthusiasts.
   • Tourism: Ecotourism and wildlife observation are growing interests in the area.

Environmental Considerations:

• Water Quality: As part of the Chesapeake Bay, Mobjack Bay has ongoing water quality monitoring and restoration efforts to address pollution and habitat degradation.
• Wildlife: Home to a variety of aquatic and bird species, protected areas along the bay support biodiversity.
• Climate Influence: Subject to coastal weather patterns, with impact from seasonal storms and occasional hurricanes.

While Mobjack Bay does not function as a major commercial port, its significance lies in its contribution to local livelihoods through recreation, small-scale fishing, and tourism, as well as its environmental importance within the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.