How to Go Bahamas Deep Sea Fishing: The Complete Guide for 2024

Jan 19, 2025 | 9 minute read
Reading Time: 9 minutes

The Bahamas‘s deep sea fishing scene is where legends are made and records are broken. This tropical playground, with its over 700 islands, boasts an incredibly rich angling history and brims with big game excitement to this day. If you’ve ever dreamed of battling ocean giants, The Bahamas is the place to be. After all, you’re in the middle of the ocean!

A group of three women and a man standing aboard a fishing charter in the Bahamas on a sunny day and showing off their catch of different Mahi Mahi and Wahoo
Photo courtesy of Hook Um Fishing Charters

From the Gulf Stream’s cobalt depths to pristine reefs, these waters cater to every deep sea fishing style imaginable. The catch itself isn’t the most important part, however. The sheer variety of species and the adrenaline of finding them is the true allure. Here, every trip promises a story worth telling.

In this guide, we’ll chart the bluewaters around this archipelago. We’ll uncover top the top species and spots, and share insider tips for landing your dream catch. Think you’re ready to conquer The Bahamas? Let’s get going! 

Top Bahamas Deep Sea Fishing Catches

Few places rival The Bahamas for fishing thrills. Blue Marlin may be the headliner, but the action doesn’t stop there. Towering Bluefin Tuna, slippery White Marlin, and a lineup of other monster game fish promise battles you’ll brag about for months. Let’s see which species can make your fishing dreams come alive…

Blue Marlin

A view froma camera that's partially underwater of a woman crouching on the side of a boat wearing a bikini as she tries to pull in a Marlin on the end of her line, which is visible underwater
Photo courtesy of Chase N Dreams Bimini

Blue Marlin capture the imagination like no other fish. These ocean giants can grow beyond 1,000 pounds, delivering unmatched drama and excitement. They patrol the Gulf Stream, hunting bait fish in the deep blue, so Bimini and The Exumas are great starting places to launch from.

The prime time for Blues runs from April until October, aligning with their peak activity in warm waters. They prey on ballyhoo and mullet, making high-speed trolling the go-to technique to lure them in. Hooking one marks the start of an epic battle, as you can expect aerial acrobatics, sudden dives, and a relentless fight that pushes your endurance to the limit.

Landing a Blue Marlin is a defining moment for any angler, whether a seasoned pro or a first-timer. The tension of the line and the fish’s raw power as it breaks the surface make sure that each bite is epic.

Mahi Mahi

Two men in sunglasses standing aboard a fishing charter and showing off their large Mahi Mahi catch with deep waters visible behind them
Photo courtesy of 5 G’s Fishing Charters

Also known as Dorado, Mahi Mahi are a true tropical fish, thanks to their neon hues and explosive aerial antics. They’re a constant presence in The Bahamas, peaking from spring through summer when the waters heat up. The Exuma Sound, Andros’s Tongue of the Ocean, and the FADs around Cat Island are particularly popular hunting grounds for these beauties.

You’ll often find Mahi Mahi darting around floating debris and offshore reefs. High-speed trolling with vivid lures or live ballyhoo typically gets their attention fast. Hook one and the real fun begins… Sprints, leaps, and head-turning dives that will keep you on your toes!

Most catches tip the scales at 20–60 pounds, though larger fish can surprise even seasoned local anglers. Beyond their ability to fight, they’re also a treat on the dinner table. In The Bahamas, chasing Dorado is all about the ultimate reward—a story to savor with every bite!

Wahoo

A man in a Panama hat smiling as he sits on the side of a fishing charter on a clear day, holding a large Wahoo
Photo courtesy of Secret Cays

Wahoo are the ocean’s speed demons. These lightning-fast predators can hit 60 miles per hour, promising a heart-pounding experience for any angler. In The Bahamas, the best action happens near the deep drop-offs around the Gulf Stream, especially during the colder months from November to March, with Bimini and Walker’s Cay proving to be popular hotspots. 

To hook a Wahoo, you’ll have a true need for speed. Trolling with rigged mullet, ballyhoo, or shiny chrome-headed lures at high speeds gets their attention. Not only can these fish grow to up to 120 pounds, but they’re notorious for their blistering runs, screaming drag, and absolute refusal to quit. If you match the latter, you’re in for some serious action, as these fish push you to the limit!

Beyond the fight, they’re prized for their delicate, white meat. Just like Mahi Mahi, they’ve earned their spot on many anglers’ dinner tables. 

Tuna 

A man wearing a baseball cap with a GoPro on top of it smiling as he holds a Blackfin Tuna aboard a deep sea fishing charter in the Bahamas on a sunny day
Photo courtesy of Secret Cays

Tuna fishing in The Bahamas can be described as three things: intense, rewarding, and surprising. Yellowfin, Blackfin, and Bluefin Tuna patrol these waters, luring anglers from far and wide. 

Yellowfin are celebrated for their power and endurance and are a top catch during summer. Hanging around in the Gulf Stream’s deeper sections, these fish often weigh over 100 pounds and deliver fast, thrilling runs.

Blackfin Tuna are smaller but no less energetic. They live closer to shore and strike with almost equal force and fight. Medium-speed trolling with rigged ballyhoo works well for targeting Blackfin, especially in the warmer months when they’re most active. 

As for Bluefin Tuna, well… These fish really need no introduction. They’re the true trophies of The Bahamas’s deep sea fishing scene. Showing up in the cooler months, some monsters can reach over 1,000 pounds! It goes without saying that hooking one will be a test of both your skills and your gear.

How to Go Deep Sea Fishing in The Bahamas

First of all, deep sea fishing in The Bahamas is as much about the top targets as it is about the technique. It’s absolutely essential to understand the methods that will maximize your chances of success. Whether you’re trolling the Gulf Stream or bottom fishing near the reefs, knowing the right approach can make all the difference. Let’s break down the most popular techniques to help you land your dream catch:

Trolling

A view out the back of a deep sea fishing charter in the Bahamas with trolling rods set up with lines in the water on a clear day
Photo courtesy of Chase N Dreams Bimini

Trolling is the cornerstone of deep sea fishing in The Bahamas. This technique involves towing baited hooks or lures behind a moving boat, covering vast stretches of water to locate roaming fish. The beauty of trolling lies in its adaptability—it’s effective for catching Marlin, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Tuna, and more.

For Marlin and Wahoo, high-speed trolling is the go-to strategy. These ocean giants respond well to bait presented at speeds of 8–10 knots. The key is finding the perfect balance between speed and bait movement to entice a strike. Heavy-duty rigs with barracuda strips, rigged mullet, or ballyhoo are effective. 

As for Mahi Mahi, try a range of brightly-colored lures near floating debris or weed lines. These fish tend to travel in schools, so hooking one can often lead to a flurry of action. 

Bottom Fishing

A young woman holding a fishing rod with both hands aboard a fishing charter in the Bahamas, with clear waters visible behind her on a bright day
Photo courtesy of Wahoo Charters

Bottom fishing is a classic Bahamian method for catching Snapper, Grouper, and more. This technique involves dropping baited hooks to the ocean floor, targeting fish that thrive around reefs, wrecks, and live bottoms. 

To bottom fish effectively, a sturdy setup with a weighted sinker is essential for keeping your bait on the seafloor. Species like Snapper are abundant around these structures, while Grouper often lurk in crevices. Live bait, such as squid or pilchards, works wonders, but cut bait can also do the trick. As the bait drifts, watch for the telltale pull—a strong, sudden strike that signals a Snapper or Grouper has taken the bait.

Drift Fishing

This method offers a more relaxed yet equally effective alternative to trolling. Drift fishing harnesses the ocean’s currents to carry your bait to prime spots. This technique works best around wrecks, reefs, and tidal zones teeming with species like Barracuda, Snapper, and Amberjack. By letting the current do the work, you can focus on presenting your bait naturally and positioning your boat strategically.

Drift fishing works well with live bait, such as pilchards, or cut fish, especially when paired with a circle hook. This setup allows for lifelike bait movement, enticing fish to strike without unnecessary resistance. Unlike trolling, drift fishing doesn’t require constant movement, allowing you to remain in productive areas longer. The gentle drift also means your bait stays in the strike zone longer, increasing your chances of success.

Bahamas Deep Sea Fishing Spots

An aerial view of small islands in the crystal clear waters of the Bahamas on a sunny day

With over 700 islands and cays, The Bahamas boasts a million and more spots for you to wet your line offshore. And while the waters here are rich with fish, booking a Bahamas deep sea fishing charter with a local captain is always the smartest move. They bring expertise, top-notch equipment, and insider knowledge to put you right where the action is—which leads us on to the top spots: 

  • Bimini. The birthplace of Atlantic sportfishing, Bimini offers exceptional access to the hunting grounds of Blue Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, White Marlin, and Wahoo. Its proximity to the Florida Straits attracts anglers seeking world-class big game fishing.
  • Walker’s Cay. Another prime location, this spot is famous for its Blue and White Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Sailfish, and Mahi Mahi. Anglers flock here for its reputation as one of the top sportfishing destinations in The Bahamas.
  • Nassau. The capital of The Bahamas combines cultural appeal with excellent fishing. Wahoo dominate the local waters, while Sailfish, Marlin, and Tuna remain available throughout the year.
  • Freeport. Red-hot offshore action attracts anglers to this spot on Grand Bahama Island. The waters here offer the chance to catch Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and a plethora of other species.
  • Chub Cay. Located in the Berry Islands, Chub Cay holds a special place for anglers pursuing the famous Grand Slam of Blue Marlin, White Marlin, and Sailfish. Come here for your chance to write your name into the history books!
  • Treasure Cay. This peaceful spot in the Abaco Islands provides excellent fishing for Yellowtail Snapper, Mahi Mahi, and Tuna. The laid-back vibe appeals to those after both relaxation and productive fishing.
  • Eleuthera. This island pairs stunning landscapes with world-class deep sea fishing opportunities. The offshore waters are brimming with Sailfish, Blue Marlin, and Snapper most of the year.

Bahamas Deep Sea Fishing Seasons 

Four young male anglers standing on a dock in the Bahamas after a successful fishing charter showing off their haul of Mahi Mahi and Wahoo
Photo courtesy of Fishing 242 Charters – 32′ SeaVee

In The Bahamas, spring marks the start of the warm season and brings life into the waters. As the temperatures rise, so does the fishing action for Mahi Mahi and Sailfish when the Gulf Stream moves closer to shore. Things heat up—literally and figuratively—in time for summer. This is peak season for Blue Marlin, White Marlin, and Tuna, as the Gulf Stream draws in some of the biggest fish out there. 

Fall is a fantastic time for both big game and bottom fishing. While the summer heat may subside, Wahoo and Yellowfin Tuna roam the open waters, while Snapper and Grouper move closer to shore. As the weather cools, the latter species become more active and Wahoo hit their stride. Winter fishing provides a great opportunity to escape the weather in the US!

Bahamas Deep Sea Fishing Tournaments 

But that’s not all! If you’re looking to test your skills properly during your trip, align your visit with one of The Bahamas’s world-class fishing tournaments. The Walker’s Cay Invitational in May is a must for any serious angler, while The Bahamas Billfish Championship is another top event in Bimini, Exumas, and Abacos. The BattleGround Bahamas in Nassau is a serious competition for Yellowfin Tuna, while the annual Chub Cay Billfish Tournament calls for anglers to attempt the “Grand Slam!”

Bahamas Deep Sea Fishing Regulations

An infographic featuring the flag of the Bahamas and text saying "Bahamas Fishing Regulations, What You Need to Know" above a vector of a boat against a blue background

Fishing in The Bahamas requires you to be mindful of local regulations. If you’re not a Bahamian citizen, you’ll need a fishing license, which can be obtained upon arrival at a port of entry. However, if you’re fishing with a charter, your guide will handle the paperwork, allowing you to focus on reeling in your catch.

Be sure to respect catch limits and size restrictions, as The Bahamas takes its fisheries seriously. Many species, including Sharks, are strictly protected, so targeting these apex predators is illegal. Also if you’re spearfishing, remember to follow strict rules about where and when you can fish. 

Again, any professional guide will be up-to-date with all the latest rules, so we suggest you hit one up and follow their lead!

Deep Sea Fishing in The Bahamas: The Caribbean at Its Finest

A view from behind of a man struggling as he lays on the side of a fishing boat trying to pull in a Marlin which is visible just underneath the water's surface on a clear day
Photo courtesy of Chase N Dreams Bimini

The Bahamas are calling you for a deep sea fishing adventure like no other! Whether it’s the fight, the thrill, or the memories you’re after, you’ll always find something unforgettable in these pristine waters. Book your charter, cast your line, and let the fun begin!

Have you ever been deep sea fishing in The Bahamas? What’s your favorite spot? Any fish stories you’d like to share? Let’s talk in the comments below!

Author profile picture

Lisa traded the lecture hall for the vast expanse of the world's waters, transforming her love of teaching into an insatiable passion for angling and storytelling. She would sail through oceans, lakes, and rivers, reeling in the world’s fish stories one catch at a time.

Comments (0)
Leave a reply
NameRequired
Your comment Required