Fishing and Charters in Jamaica

Deep-sea fishing is extremely popular among Jamaica's visitors, and the island's annual fishing tournaments are renowned. Travelers visiting Jamaica, however, will need to plan ahead if they intend to set sail during their island adventure in order to make the most of their fishing experiences.

Fishing

The waters that surround the Caribbean islands are home to several types of fishing because of the vast differences in the underwater landscapes of the region. Some fish favor the shallow island edges; others are the bright fish of the coral reefs that have grown over centuries along the edges of some volcanic islands. Jamaica is home to the large sport fish of the deeper waters that sportsmen travel from around the world to capture.

Jamaica's Northern waters are well-known for deep-sea and sport fishing. Anglers can hook an impressive number of fish, including mahi mahi, wahoo, blue and white marlin, sailfish, tarpon, barracuda, and bonito. Jamaica also hosts two international fishing tournaments, the Jamaica International Fishing Tournament and Jamaica International Blue Marlin Team Tournament. Both tournaments take place in the early fall, September and October, so travelers interested in fishing may want to take this into consideration.

Bonefish are the region's shallow water fish and are said to be the best fighters of all fish, pound-for-pound. Their species includes Jamaica's popular tarpon, wahoo and barracuda. Bonefish can be caught from the beach or a small boat in many of the area's shallow waters. Fishing from the shore can be less costly for budget-conscious travelers because there is no need for boat rental.

Jamaica's deep sea and game fishermen will have the most to enjoy with Jamaica's plentiful populations of marlin, wahoo, mahi mahi, and sailfish. There are many varieties of these deep-water fish just off the shores where the sea floor drops down, so visitors may fish as close to a quarter of a mile from the islands.

Although reef fishing is not widespread in Jamaica, live bait such as conch or squid is the best bet for reef fishermen looking to catch some very interesting fish. The most common fish in these areas are grouper, mutton snapper, yellowtail snapper, and jack crevalle.

So, when you're visiting Jamaica, let the urge for adventure take you out to the water's edge to find out if you can hook one of the feisty bonefish, or let it draw you out onto the deep ocean where mighty game fish fight to the end.

Charters

Due to the popularity of fishing in Jamaica, many major hotels are home to deep-sea fishing facilities and have plenty of boat charter options, especially on the northern side of the island. Sport fishing boats are not for the budget-minded traveler, running between $350 and $700(USD) for a half-day excursion with four to six passengers. A full day can run as much as $1,300(USD), but both full and half day excursions often include captain, crew, bait, tackle and often snacks and beverages.

Fish Jamaica provides party-style fishing charters in the Treasure Beach area along Jamaica's southwest coast.  Unlike many other chartering companies, the rates are on a per person basis.  Included in the price is all the necessary fishing and safety gear and bait.

Sailing out of West and Wild Marina in Falmouth, Jamaica Charter Boats provide half day, three-quarter day and full day deep sea fishing excursions ranging from $650 - $1300 (US). Also offered are Luminous Lagoon trips, sunset trips, waterway cruises, bachelor and bachelorette parties as well as private or shared charters.

Guests can participate in a number of water sports aboard Luminous Lagoon Tours' "Anticipation."  Half and whole day fishing charters is an option that includes bait and tackle. 

Not only does Montego Bay Deep Sea Fishing offer half and full day fishing charters aboard their two boats the "Fansea Lady" and "Fantasea," but they also have full vacation packages.  Those who want to center their entire Jamaican vacation around fishing can purchase a package that includes fishing trips and stay at the Cariblue resort.  For those who choose to stay at a different hotel, Montego Bay Deep Sea Fishing offers free shuttle service from your hotel to the dock.

No Problem Sport Fishing sails the "E-Zee" fishing boat, a 39-foot Phoenix Sport Fisherman.  Trips last three or more hours, and sail between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios; longer trips even make a stop at Dunn Falls.  Food and drinks are included.

Two boats make up the Ocho Rios Fishing Charters and Boat Rentals fleet, which take guests out both for fishing charters and island tours.  "Dancing Reels" is a 32-foot Proline Walk Around, and the fastest fishing charter in Ocho Rios; "Ocean Alley 2" is a 47-inch Custom operating with all of the most modern technology.  The crew provides your fishing license, and all of your bait and tackle, and will even clean and scale your catches for you.

Not all charter companies are strictly about fishing.  Resort Divers Deep Sea Fishing offers drop line and deep sea fishing, as well as snorkeling and diving excursions, sunset cruises, glass bottom boat cruises, waterskiing, banana boat outings, and waverunners.  Sea Shell Charters is another company that has expanded beyond fishing trips.  Half day deep sea fishing tours are available, as well as glass bottom boat tours, lobster cruises, and snorkeling trips.

Guests at the Sea Wind Resort Hotel have the opportunity to participate in morning or afternoon deep sea fishing trips.  Prices depend upon the trip and number of guests, but are typically discounted for those staying at the resort.

In Negril, Stanley's Deep Sea Fishing offers three types of fishing tours, as well as the option of creating a specialized tour that fits your personal needs.  Typical charters are four, six, or eight hours long, and include all equipment and drinks.

There are many wonderful sights that can only be seen from aboard a boat. Chartering a boat can grant you unparalleled access to the fishing, diving, and sailing experiences afforded by the gorgeous waters off the coasts of Jamaica.