Offshore: Seasonality often dictates what type of fish you will catch. All Rights Reserved. Bonefishing, simply put, is the most famous of all Bahamas fishing, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world. And you might get lucky and end up reeling in marlin, sailfish, bluefin and blackfin tuna, and Mahi Mahi on your deep-sea fishing. Can, Cover image credit: icemanphotos/Shutterstock.com The month of April is a great time of year to travel! Being engulfed in the Indian Ocean means that fishing in fishing in Durban is nothing short of majestic. Discover the beauty of the Great Inagua National Park and spot native Caribbean Flamingos, wild donkeys and more. As the largest and most powerful fish of the Bahamas, the silvery blue marlin represents the national fish and can be found on the Bahamas coat of arms. Hope this helps! Though not the biggest of its species, the average adult measures approximately 40 inches in length and weighs in at about 45-50 pounds. Each sign-up is offered a package of six cocktail parties, a beach party, dinner Junkanoo parade as well as an exciting Awards Presentation. If you find that this has happened, you can submit a request for them to remove the content here. Below are a few Bahamian spearfishing laws you will need to take into consideration: Scuba gear is not allowed under Bahamian law to catch fish. And you might get lucky and end up reeling in marlin, sailfish, bluefin and blackfin tuna, and Mahi Mahi on your deep-sea fishing. Expert Tip: Use squid as your bait when fishing from the shore. Action is at its best from OctoberMay when the waters are cooler and the weather is dry. Its a delicacy not to be missed. Posted by: Nassau Paradise Island on August 29, 2022. So where do you begin when you come to the Bahamas? document.getElementById( "ak_js_16" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); With havin so much content and articles do you ever 4.7. beast might have severe consequences on your back. When fishing in the flats, its important to pay attention to the impact of the tides. The pectoral fins of bluefin tuna do not reach past the beginning of the second dorsal fin. During the warmest months, youll witness and enjoy the full onslaught of Tuna, Marlin, and Sailfish. And the tell-tale movement of a fish a silver glimmer or a bit of kicked up sand. This means superb Snapper and Grouper action. Youll learn the best times to cast your line, what kind of fish you might catch, what to bring on board, and which fishing charters are offered in Nassau Paradise Island. Fishing Renowned as one of the great fishing destinations in the world, The Bahamas is the ideal fishing spot for both first-time anglers and sport-fishing professionals. Offshore fishing in Nassau is far from the shore, typically 20-30 miles out, in waters hundreds of feet deep. Though teeming with marine life, the two main fish you will encounter right from the shoreline are red snapper and grouper. Test your luck and see if you can catch your dinner without losing sight of the shore! Dating as far back as the 1930s natural rigged bait like Spanish mackerel and horse ballyhoo have been used and are still popular today. Born Free Fishing Charters offers half-day and full-day charters. Picture: A local diver spearing himself a Nassau grouper. Try a bit of everything, you wont be disappointed. Yellowfin tuna of the Bahamas can range between 10 to over 400 pounds. Known as the Silver Ghost, the Bonefish are almost invisible to the naked eye and flee at the slightest provocation. Offshore: Includes 74-mile open radar (allows for travel and fishing at night), XM Satellite Radio & Weather, Chirp Sonar (technology used specifically for recreational fishing). What did you catch? If youre on vacation, then you wont want to worry about packing a picnic basket or a cooler box. If you suffer from sea sickness, pack some anti-nausea medication or pick up a pair of sea-band wristbands that help alleviate your reaction to the motion of the ocean. Marlins can reach weights of more than 1,000 pounds. When fishing in the flats, its important to pay attention to the impact of the tides. Below are a few guidelines to help you make your decision: The size of your group plays a pretty big role in your decision-making process of what charter to choose. The Bahamas boasts world-famous fishing flats with miles of shallow water along the shore and mangroves. Stone Crabs must have a harvestable claw of four inches. And its easy to see why! The fierce predators are drawn to floating wood, fronds, or seaweed where the smaller fish congregate for a feed. There are also many places in the country where spearfishing is forbidden, so choose your spot carefully. You will see an incredible range of colors, from browns and grays to shimmering purples, blues, and silver, as this amazing fish dances through the sea and across the waves. The water is warmer and the fish are more aggressive. Coordinates: 25.058 ,-77.343. Inshore: Consistent fishing in Nassau year-round, even with significant seasonal changes. Offshore: Heavy-duty equipment, large heavy bait. Margaritaville Beach Resort, Nassau, Bahamas, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, https://www.facebook.com/nassauparadiseisland, https://www.instagram.com/nassauparadiseisland/, https://www.tiktok.com/@nassauparadiseisland. Thanks for the article. With this definitive guide, you have all the information you need to get out there and catch your first wahoo, mahi mahi, tuna, or even join a tournament to catch your own trophy marlin! Theyre fierce fighters and having one fight you on an 8 wt rod is enough to get anyones blood pumping. Going spearfishing around the Bahamas stunning reefs is an experience you should treat yourself to at least once in your life. Born Free Fishing Charters offers half-day and full-day charters. This charity event is limited to just 60 custom inboard teams - 32 or larger - chosen by invitation only to represent the custom boat manufactures in an all-release format. You must possess a valid Bahamas cruising permit anytime you are on board your boat or in water when not on a dock, obtained at a designated port of entry. Typically, inshore fishing is carried out just a few miles from the shore. Perhaps youll be out with your family or maybe with your buddies looking for a lazy day filled with water activities. Make sure the charter captains are licensed boat captains. Red snappers are recognized by their distinctive pinkish color, white underbelly, red eyes, and their prominent snout which tends to be pointed. Easily tempted with live bait, the grouper makes an excellent choice for local and vacationing fishermen. They're the perfect target for beginner spearfishermen, being a prized fish that isn't that hard to catch. The best spearfishing locations in the Bahamas are typically around coral reefs and wrecks. Breezes Resort & Spa Bahamas Courtesy of Breezes Set on the white sands of Cable Beach, located near Nassau on New Providence Island, Breezes Bahamas boasts three pools overlooking the beach,. I hope you have many more amazing fishing days in the Bahamas, James! Margaritaville Beach Resort, Nassau, Bahamas, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, https://www.facebook.com/nassauparadiseisland, https://www.instagram.com/nassauparadiseisland/, https://www.tiktok.com/@nassauparadiseisland. Do your due diligence and ask the charter what fishing opportunities they offer. The best season to fish Bahamas is during the months of May to September when you can expect to catch marlin, snapper, dolphin, amberjack, and yellowfin tuna. Light tackle fishing is a carefully thought-out approach that centers around your own ability as an angler, the species you seek, and the conditions under which you must fish. Its rarity is due to the Bluefin being over-fished commercially for decades making a catch that much more difficult, but that much sweeter. Natural bait and artificial bait can all be used when catching marlins. The Nassau grouper represents the most important finfish in the Caribbean and is valued as a major fishery resource. The yellowfin tuna is the most common of the tuna species found in the Bahamas. Some anglers swear by it and use it when the traditional fishing ways arent catching anything, they will switch over to this method. There are so many reasons to visit this beautiful part of the Yucatan Peninsula, but here were only interested in one thing fishing. With a preference for warmer waters and warmer temperatures, the marlins generally stay in the tropical areas of the Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the waters of the Caribbean and Central and South America, as well as the coast of Africa near the equator. In The Bahamas, only six tuna species per boat can be caught and kept any extra fish must be caught and released for conservation purposes. However, theyre critically endangered, so we would recommend releasing them whenever possible. So if you have your heart set on catching a deep-sea tuna or marlin, this is the time to head out. While its tempting to go with the lesser expensive option, you might just get what you paid for. The waters surrounding Nassau Paradise Island are home to many different species of fish. over the web without my agreement. (Outdoor man style). Accommodation: Top-Rated Resorts in Nassau, Bahamas 3. Not only is it a challenge to find Ghosts, but its equally testing to get them into the boat. Most bonefish charters offer morning and afternoon tours. Finding the right charter means youll be able to focus on your angling skills in safety and in style while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. If you are wanting to catch big wahoo, the best time to fish in the Bahamas would be the winter season, between December and March. Theres no shortage of those in the Bahamas! Lots of variety, lots of delicious fish, and all that without losing sight of land. When transporting by air to any US destination you should contact the US Fish and Wildlife Service for regulations regarding transport of lobsters, fish and conch. Not only does the sailfish offer a world-class fight, but once hooked their sensitive skin changes colors in response to their nervous systems. Please ask your crew for full safety directions for the charter. Though not the biggest of the game fish, once on your line, mahi-mahi are incredibly fast. You already know that the Bahamas is an amazing vacation destination, but now you know that its unmatched when it comes to fishing too. Google works hard to stop what it considers plagiarized content ranking on search results, although sometimes it does get through and ranks higher than your posts. In fact, its the national fish of The Bahamas and is even featured on our Coat of Arms! Inshore: Smaller varieties such as yellowtail, kingfish, redfish (drum and sheepshead), snapper, and grouper. The silver underside of a bluefins body is marked with white dots and uneven lines. Since many fish feed in the early morning hours, fish action will be at its peak! Bonefish are among the most famous fish in The Bahamas, and they are prominent all day long. Youll learn the best times to cast your line, what kind of fish you might catch, what to bring on board, and which fishing charters are offered in Nassau Paradise Island. This game fish is known for its long hard runs at speeds of up to 45 mph. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Headed down the second week of February. In the past 13 years, Kylie loved to work with various newspapers, magazines and blogs in the Caribbean. . There are a number of regulations to think of. Though one of the most popular fish in the Bahamas, catching one, may prove difficult due to their strength and size, but is extremely rewarding. Whether youre a local forging your way through the waters on your own boat, or a vacationer seeking expert advice, youll be sure to find the type of fishing that suits your needs. The last thing you want is to be living out your worst nightmare in the middle of the ocean. Want to enjoy world-class sport fishing in the blue Bahamian sea? Call. Here Are The Best Places To Travel In April For Couples. A single 500-pound fish can be sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars. Whether you're at a fancy club or a humble conch joint, you'll find locals having a good time and welcoming visitors with open arms. If youre lucky, youll connect with a wonderful group of boaters wholl soon become new friends. Those seeking a true sense of . Youll need to be bright eyed and bushy tailed for a day out at sea, so you dont want to get up even earlier to travel halfway across the island to board your vessel. So the flats are a fly fishers paradise and the bluewaters are a big game battlefield, but what if you just want to reel in something tasty for dinner? The Blue Marlin bite is so good that theyre on the countrys coat of arms and currency. Scuba gear cannot be used while taking lobster. Copyright Hello Paradise - The Official Sandals Resorts Travel & Lifestyle Blog. The most fruitful spearfishing is done on reefs or around heads of coral, where the fish tend to hide. Experiences taking safety measures. The rounded dorsal, pectoral, and anal fins are the notable differentiating characteristics of the white marlin. Buckle up, because well be covering all of Cancuns fishing seasons so you know [], Deeply rooted in history and culture, Durban is also an angling magnate. Check to see if they will give you an additional discount if you book direct, as most will. If you havent caught one before, youll recognize it as sushi, the Japanese delicacy. Fish you can expect to catch when inshore fishing in Nassau, include bonefish, red snapper and the Nassau grouper. While bluefin tuna tend to be bigger than yellowfin tuna, it can be difficult to distinguish between smaller bluefin and yellowfin tuna, especially since their coloring changes slightly after a long fight. Most bonefish charters offer morning and afternoon tours. Commonly, inshore fishing is defined as fishing in water that is less than 90 feet which would require the use of a small vessel. Picture: A Caribbean Spiny lobster, one of the top exports of the Bahamas. I will be sure to tell my wife that we should try and look into fishing at the Bahamas since it would be relaxing! Dive in and explore a brand-new world at Atlantis! When you know just how amazing fishing in the Bahamas is, it only makes sense that the country is home to dozens of sportfishing tournaments. These spots add to the unique charm of Nassau's nightlife, showcasing the rich culture and traditions of the Bahamas. Why? Whether its bonefishing, spearfishing, deep-sea fishing or reef fishing, anglers cast their lines throughout the year here in the capital city. Try reef fishing and enjoy a day on the water with friends and family. You may never have more than this limit on your boat, regardless of how many days youre in The Bahamas. Out on the flats, your guide knows just what to look for. The day is widely celebrated through the Bahamas as August Monday. A day of fishing in Nassau promises to be one of the best experiences you are yet to experience out at sea. The southern side of the island is by far the most celebrated for bonefishing. Spearfishing equipment consists of flippers, a mask, a snorkel and a "Hawaiian sling" which is the only legally allowed type of spear - spear guns are not permitted. And lets not forget about the prime fighters like Amberjack, African Pompano, Mackerel, and Hogfish. The largest of all tuna species, Bluefin tuna can weigh more than 500 pounds and stretch more than six feet in length. Your captain will also let you know what the fishing regulations are and how much of your catch you can keep. However, youll find some on Exuma, Andros, and even Long Island. The Hawaiian word for this fish is Ono which means tasty. If you do catch the fish dont miss the opportunity to get your buddies together to give them a taste of your catch of the day. Bahamas fishing event calendar 2019. Whether youre a first-timer or a seasoned spear-o there are plenty of opportunities to get some great fish including grouper, hogfish, snapper, lobster, or conch. If you are new to the fishing scene, youre about to discover that when fishing in Nassau, you will experience some of the fiercest fishing in the archipelago, with Bonefish as the focus inshore. 1. Inshore: Smaller varieties such as yellowtail, kingfish, redfish (drum and sheepshead), snapper, and grouper. Sportfishing brings in an incredible $500 million every year. Caught a bunch on the West Side of Andros. First Strike Charters combines a grand voyage with the excitement of landing the big one. [email protected] 1-242-698-4847 1-242-426-0661. A perfect destination for a tropical vacation and the favoured escape of Ernest Hemingway, the Bahamian haven of Bimini is actually two islands in one: North & South Bimini. Cancun vs The Bahamas: Which Island is Best for You? So when that time comes in the summer, you better be ready to rumble, because the fish will be! View our latest travel deals and start planning your escape today. Theres a number of ways to entice one of the fastest fish in the ocean, and trolling is the most popular technique. Also contributing to the Bluefins elusiveness. Make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. Best price guaranteed, verified reviews, and secure online booking. The minimum permitted size is 3 3/8 inches or 6 inches of tail of carapace length. A Bahamian summertime favorite! You can expect to find Nassau grouper, hogfish, yellowtail snapper, and many other types of fish. Your private island getaway filled with unforgettable experiences and activities. The crew will have everything you need. To make the most of your trip, be sure to ask your guide to show you a nice secluded fishing spot. You may only us a pole spear or Hawaiian sling. Tight lines! If you are travelling with your family, ask if their charters are family or kid friendly, if you are traveling with kids, as it could be a great opportunity for bonding. Also, be clear about what type of fishing you want to do. This means they need to consume large quantities of food if they are to survive the cold ocean waters. Youll have the choice between half day charters which will get you four hours, a full day which is eight hours and an overnight charter which means youll be spending the night on the boat. Be sure about the type of fishing you want to do in Nassau. Four to eight hours on a boat might not be so much fun if you find there isnt a bathroom on the boat or a fridge to keep your refreshments chilled. Most companies will at minimum provide the bait, tackle/equipment, and ice some will also include bottled water. Below is a detailed breakdown of the different types of game fishing you can do which should set you on your way. As for the Sawfish, the Bahamas are their sanctuary the species was very close to extinction but is now recovering due to the great living conditions they have in the Bahamian waters. Marlins are known for their size with the females growing up to four times as large as the males. Spearfishing is not allowed within one mile of New Providence and/or the south coast of Grand Bahama Island. Holiday-makers from the US uncovered the riches of these coastlines long ago, but not everyone has fully explored what we think makes coming here so special. Well, Bonefish may not look like much at first, but theyre one of the hardest challenges an angler can face. An offshore trip? Theres no reason why a charter wouldnt be able to take you out. Choose a charter that is near where you are staying. A long pectoral fin doubled with a tail larger than its body, make for a very strong and fast fish. Copyright 2023 Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board. The best time for fishing is in the morning. The boat may troll up to 10 knots for this catch. It marks the start of the peak season for travel in many parts of the world and also signifies the end of the winter season. Unless youre a citizen of the Bahamas, youre going to need a valid fishing license before you cast your line. Try your hand at light-tackle fishing or take a half-day boat charter. The largest of all tuna species, Bluefin tuna can weigh more than 500 pounds and stretch more than six feet in length. Some anglers will choose to get their fishing trip in earlier because the temperature is highest in the afternoon. The staff is attentive and very helpful. For example, youre not allowed to wear scuba gear when spearfishing, you can only do so by free diving. One of the oldest fishing tournaments in existence, this is a major visitor attraction during the month of August. Below are a few guidelines to help you quickly identify the difference: The Bahamas is one of the few countries which still has an many of sharks in its waters. You can fish from any beach there. A good place to target tarpon is in the canals and water channels which head into the island, where the biggest silver kings like to lurk. Inshore vs. offshore fishing in Nassau Clear sunny skies, ocean breezes, and turquoise waters: the postcard-perfect destination begets outstanding conditions for game fishing. National Marine Parks are strictly off limits for any kind of fishing. These guys are big, strong, and highly intelligent. You must have JavaScript enabled to use this form. The Bluefins are celebrated for their tender and flavorful meat. Deep canyons and troughs in the Bahamas bluewaters are the hallowed fishing grounds for your Marlin chase. Tidestation: Nassau, New Providence Island, Bahamas. Short trips or long excursions, deep-sea fanatics eagerly attempt to beat over 50 world records set here. Inshore fishing: What fish to expect document.getElementById( "ak_js_5" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for your input, if youd like, youre welcome to share your stories with us. You can only use the Hawaiian sling or a pole spear, not spearguns. They spook at the first sign of danger and hit 40 miles per hour as they escape across the flats. If you require any special drinks or liquor, most companies will be happy to source them for you at an additional fee. Choosing the right charter Unlike a day out on the beach, there are a few essentials you should consider bringing on the boat with you before heading out to sea, especially if its a full day excursion. 1. Fishing in the Bahamas is a rite of passage for any ambitious angler. For anglers, there's no greater challenge than battling a legendary predator that outweighs them by five times or more. If that sounds like your idea of fun, you may want to save yourself the cost of flights and just straight-up move to the Bahamas. All rights reserved. Standard catches are in the 200300 lb ballpark, but there are mammoths out there that weigh thrice that. Go to the slightly deeper waters, and youve got plenty of choices, including Yelloweye, Queen, Mutton, and Mangrove Snapper. Due to its popularity as a commercial fish, the population of the red snapper has declined. All Rights Reserved. Explore the beautiful crystal clear waters of Nassau, The Bahamas by boat with Te'vaughn Adventures Charter and Fishing Taking safety measures. Tip: Stay at Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau, and you will be able to book your own fishing adventure from the comfort and luxury of this all-inclusive resort. Test your luck and see if you can catch your dinner without losing sight of the shore! All levels of fishing abilities, including children are encouraged. Thanks for reading and for your good question. Just 20 miles off the shores of the Nassau you will find Lemon, Hammerhead, Bull, Blacktip, Tiger and Reef sharks. Preferably not flip-flops or sandals. Choose from trolling for large trophy fish or getting in on the action with light tackle in more shallow waters. The delightful panic that ensues following the first, STRIKE!. Specializing in offshore deep sea fishing, the company has five boats to take you to some prime Bahamas fishing spots. For an accurate catch the spear fisherman has to know where he should be looking, which will often involve a series of dives as he gets down to look under ledges or into holes. Double check the boat has a fighting chair. Check if the company has a no-fish-no-fee policy, where the company guarantees you will catch fish on your charter, else you are charged $0 for the trip. If you are looking for the adventure of a lifetime, fishing in Nassau might very well be it. Offshore fishing: What fish to expect Ask the charter company if they can make recommendations, as most will be partnered with companies that provide these services. Specializing in offshore deep sea fishing, the company has five boats to take you to some prime Bahamas fishing spots. The best part, its only a short boat ride away from Miami, so you just need to pick your vacation days, book a charter, and off you go. Are you ready to reel in the fishing adventure of your dreams? Swimming for miles, and sometimes crossing the ocean multiple times increases their nutritional requirements. Bahamas Fishing Charters YellowTail Charters has 30yrs experience specializing in Fishing Nassau Deep Sea Shelfs, Reefs, Snorkeling and Nassau Island tours. Telling the captain what type of fish you are hoping to catch, and the quantity can help the charter plan accordingly. Year-round fishing, paired with some of the most favorable conditions, makes The Bahamas an ultimate fishing destination. Thankfully, there are a good number of places that have already earned a stellar reputation among fellow anglers, making things a bit easier for everyone.