The refuge is located on the Lower James River, which is tidally influenced with an amplitude of three feet and slightly brackish. Presquile NWR has a great amount of tidal swamp forest, bisected by two large tidal creeks, Deep Creek and Little Creek, and numerous coves that provide for excellent fishing opportunities. Freshwater fishing would be permitted only from watercraft (motorized boats, canoes, kayaks) in accordance with State regulations on Deep Creek and Little Creek. No land-based fishing would be allowed. These creeks are tributaries to the James River, which surrounds Presquile NWR. Species include white perch, blue catfish, striped bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish and American eel. In addition, a small viable sturgeon population occurs in the lower James River. Atlantic sturgeon is endangered; thus, fishing for Atlantic sturgeon is prohibited.