Va. Code Ann. § 28.2-1502

All ungranted shores of the sea, marsh and meadowlands shall remain the property of the Commonwealth. Such ungranted marsh and meadowlands which have been used as a commons by the people of the Commonwealth shall continue as a commons for the purpose of fishing, fowling, hunting, and the taking and catching of oysters and other shellfish. All ungranted shores of the sea may be used as a commons for the purpose of fishing, fowling, hunting, and the taking and catching of oysters and other shellfish. The Commission shall manage all ungranted shores of the sea, marsh and meadowlands as provided in Article 2 (§ 28.2-1503 et seq.) of this chapter.