Fishing in The Caribbean
Waypoints

Fishing in The Caribbean: Top Fish to Catch and Cook in the USVI and BVI

British Virgin IslandsU.S. Virgin Islands

When fishing in the Caribbean on your yacht charter vacation, where can you catch and eat your own fish? 

The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) and British Virgin Islands (BVI) stand out as premier destinations. They’re home to a range of delicious fish species, from the meaty yellowfin tuna to the flavorful mahi-mahi.

The fishing adventures are as plentiful as the fish themselves, spanning offshore big-game fishing, inshore reef excursions, and shallow-water pursuits. You might find yourself reeling in a tasty wahoo in the deep waters off St. Thomas’s North Drop or catching a succulent snapper near Anegada’s pristine flats.

But the experience doesn’t end when you land your catch. To really enjoy the fish of the Caribbean, you’ll have the opportunity to prepare and savor your fresh fish right on your yacht, creating a true sea-to-table experience. From grilling mahi-mahi steaks to preparing a zesty tuna ceviche, the culinary possibilities are as exciting as the fishing itself.

With today’s blog, we’ll introduce you to the edible fish of the Caribbean, exploring inshore and offshore species, and even share a few cooking tips for our favorite tropical fish dishes.

What Kinds of Fishing to Expect in the Caribbean

Before we dive into the details for fishing in the USVI and BVI, let’s first talk about the three types of fishing to expect: offshore fishing, inshore fishing, and shallow-water fishing.

Offshore fishing

Offshore fishing in the Caribbean offers big-game experiences, targeting species like blue marlin, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna. You’ll venture into deep waters, often miles from shore, using heavy tackle and techniques like trolling. 

Inshore fishing

Inshore fishing focuses on areas closer to land, including reefs, bays, and coastal waters. Here, you can expect to encounter a range of species such as snapper, kingfish, and bar jack, using methods like bottom fishing and light tackle casting. 

Shallow water fishing

Shallow water fishing, also known as flats fishing, takes place in crystal-clear waters less than 3 feet deep. This style often involves sight-casting to species like bonefish, permit, and tarpon, requiring stealth and precision. 

Fishing in the US Virgin Islands (USVI)

The USVI, comprising St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, provides plenty of top-notch places to fish. Let’s start with a quick overview of the highlights from the islands:

  • North Drop (St. Thomas): The North Drop is a legendary fishing ground renowned for its exceptional blue marlin fishing
  • South Drop (St. Thomas): Located off the southern coast of St. Thomas, the South Drop is an excellent spot for catching tuna and wahoo, as its deep waters and strong currents create an ideal environment for these fast-swimming species
  • Fish Bay (St. John): Found on the south shore of St. John, Fish bay is ideal for inshore fishing. Its calm, protected waters and diverse marine habitat make it a perfect spot for catching a variety of species like snapper and grouper.
  • Lang Bank (St. Croix): An underwater plateau extending east from St. Croix, Lang Bank has a unique underwater topography that attracts a wide range of fish species, from bottom-dwellers to pelagics, offering the chance to catch anything from snappers to marlin in a single trip.

A unique feature in these waters, particularly in the USVI, are the FADs. These man-made structures create artificial ecosystems that attract a variety of fish species, from small bait fish to large predators. Fishing around FADs can be incredibly productive and adds an interesting dimension to the offshore fishing experience. 

Fishing in the British Virgin Islands (BVI)

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) boasts impressive fishing grounds that span from serene shallow flats to the challenging deep blue. 

This archipelago of over 50 islands allows for an exceptional range of fishing experiences, catering to both the patient fly fisher stalking permit in crystal-clear shallows and the offshore enthusiast trolling for wahoo along the edges of underwater seamounts. 

With each island offering its own microenvironment, the BVI stands out as a destination for anglers seeking variety and quality in their Caribbean fishing adventure.

Best locations for fishing in BVI

  • North Drop: The North Drop, located off the northern coast of the British Virgin Islands, is a prime location for blue marlin fishing.
  • Anegada: With its vast, shallow flats and crystal-clear waters, Anegada, the northernmost island of the BVI, is excellent for bonefish and permit fishing. 
  • The Baths (Virgin Gorda): The complex underwater structure created by these massive rocks provides an ideal habitat for a variety of reef-dwelling species.
  • Jost Van Dyke:  The island’s coastline, dotted with reefs and rocky outcroppings, attracts a variety of species like snapper, grouper, and jacks,

Catching And Cooking The Most Delicious Fish of the Caribbean

One of the most rewarding aspects of fishing in the Virgin Islands is the opportunity to enjoy your catch right on your boat. 

The waters surrounding the USVI and BVI are teeming with a delicious fish species. To inspire your next Caribbean yachting adventure, we’re highlighting below some of the tastiest fish you can catch in these waters, along with tips on where to find them and how to prepare them. 

Offshore Species

Yellowfin Tuna

Found at the North & South Drop, shelf areas, and FADs, yellowfin tuna are best caught from August to February. 

Trolling with lures, ballyhoo, or feathers is effective. They’re perfect for sashimi or lightly seared steaks with a soy-ginger marinade.

Mahi-Mahi (Dolphin Fish)

Mahi-Mahi frequent the North & South Drop, shelf areas, and FADs, with peak season from October to January. 

Target areas near floating debris, and once caught, try grilling with a tropical fruit salsa for a true taste of the Caribbean.

Wahoo

Present year-round but best from September to May, wahoo are found around shelf areas and FADs. 

Troll at high speeds with lures or ballyhoo, then prepare your catch as fish tacos for a delicious meal.

Blackfin Tuna

These smaller tuna are found year-round near shelf areas and FADs. 

Use smaller lures or feathers, and once caught, try pan-searing the steaks with a sesame crust for a flavorful dish.

Skipjack Tuna

Available all year around shelf areas and FADs, skipjack tuna respond well to fast retrieval of lures. They’re excellent for making a traditional Caribbean-style fish broth.

Inshore Species

Yellowtail Snapper

Found near reefs and bank areas all year round, yellowtail snapper can be caught using fry or cut bait. They’re delicious when whole roasted with herbs and lemon.

Kingfish

Kingfish inhabit reefs and mid-shelf areas year-round, with the best fishing from February to May. Use ballyhoo, fry, or skirts as bait. 

Once caught, kingfish can be delicious when grilled or pan-seared with simple seasonings. Try cutting it into chunks for a quick and easy ceviche, perfect for a light appetizer onboard.

Cero Mackerel

These fish are found near shore and around reefs all year. Use lures, feathers, fry, or ballyhoo to catch them, then try grilling with a spicy jerk seasoning for a Caribbean twist.

Shallow Water Species

Snook

Snook can be found in mangrove lagoons, bays, and along beaches with sharp drop-offs throughout the year. They respond well to live shrimp, small fish, or baitfish imitation lures. 

To prepare, try fileting and pan-frying with a light breading.

Mahogany Snapper

Found around reefs, channels, and in shallow waters all year, mahogany snapper can be caught using baitfish, squid, or fry. Bake whole with garlic and lime for a flavorful dish.

Catching and Cooking Your Own Meal

When deciding whether the fish you’ve caught is the one you’re going to cook, prioritize sustainability by choosing smaller fish within legal limits. Plus, be sure to adhere to local regulations and release protected species.

Now, for the delicious part. Caribbean cuisine celebrates the natural flavors of fresh fish with simple yet vibrant preparations. Try grilling your catch with a zesty jerk seasoning, pan-frying it with a light dusting of local spices, or preparing a refreshing ceviche. 

The islands’ culinary traditions often incorporate ingredients like scotch bonnet peppers, fresh lime, and coconut milk. 

Though the scotch bonnet peppers might be best saved for those with a high tolerance for heat, know that these local ingredients combine to create dishes that complement the tropical setting.

Fishing regulations and permits in the USVI and BVI

Here’s what you need to know about the local regulations for fishing in the USVI and BVI.

Licensing:

Key Regulations:

  • Both the USVI and BVI have implemented catch-and-release policies for certain species, including bonefish and tarpon.
  • Size and catch limits apply to many species in both island groups. Always verify current limits before fishing.
  • In the BVI, tourists are prohibited from taking any spiny lobsters.

Before Your Trip:

  • Familiarize yourself with protected species regulations in both island groups.
  • Check for any seasonal restrictions or closed areas.
  • Understand the proper handling and release techniques for catch-and-release species.

Book Your Next Caribbean Yachting Adventure With Waypoints

Ready to cast your line in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean? We’re happy to help take care of fishing gear for our charter guests. With charter bases in the BVI and USVI, we’ve got the first-hand experience to guide you in creating an unforgettable Caribbean fishing adventure tailored to your preferences. 
Speak with our Waypoints Yacht Charter Specialists today to plan a yacht charter that lets you take full advantage of the exceptional fishing opportunities the USVI and BVI have to offer.