Jamaica fishing charters are all about having fun. Whether you're heading out to the deep bluewaters offshore or trying your luck fishing the southern shallows, you can expect a day of music, laughter, and plenty of drinks. But this fun-loving attitude doesn't mean Jamaican fish are anything short of spectacular. 'The Rock' enjoys awesome sportfishing all year round, with Marlin, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and more. Throw in a can-do attitude and stunning views of the island itself, and you're set up for a fishing trip you'll never forget.
Known For
Most of the fishing in Jamaica happens out in the deep waters of the Cayman Trench. The instant drop-off here means you can be dropping lines into 3,000 feet of water just half a mile from shore.
Jamaica is busiest in the winter, but the fishing can be even better during low season. There are several deep sea fishing tournaments that you can enjoy, notably the Jamaica International Blue Marlin Team Tournament and the Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament. Both of these run during the fall, so you can find great deals as well as awesome angling!
Types of Fishing
Jamaican captains have an 'irie' attitude to every charter they run. Want to spend all day focusing on one fish? Can do. What about switching things up with some swimming or a lunch break? Sure thing! There's something for everyone, but here are a few of your options of how to spend the day.
Deep Sea Fishing
With a revolving door of big game legends waiting just a few miles from shore, the deep sea fishing Jamaica has to offer is perfect for any angler. If you're new to sportfishing, you can book a half day offshore and catch some hard-fighting Tuna and Mahi Mahi in time for a delicious lunch. More seasoned sportfishers can put their skills to the test against tons of Blue and White Marlin which hunt offshore.
Most big game charters leave from northern towns like Montego Bay, Falmouth, Ocho Rios, and Port Antonio. The water here is deepest and the marinas are better suited to mooring large sportfishing boats. This is also where the country's top tournaments run in the fall.
Reef Fishing
Many of Jamaica's reefs have suffered from overfishing, but they can still be a great way to switch things up if you somehow get bored of the bluewater bite. The shallower reefs hold Yellowtail Snapper, Rainbow Runner, and Barracuda, while deep dropping in more remote spots can win you Amberjack, deep-water Groupers, and more.
The biggest bottom fishing area is Pedro Bank, which runs along the whole south coast of Jamaica. Kingston and Port Royal are good starting points for fishing here. In the north, Buckner Bank is an easy 15 miles from Montego Bay and is home to a great range of species.
Not Fishing
The beauty about fishing charters in Jamaica is that there's so much else you can combine with the fishing itself. Lots of boats have snorkeling gear and will take you to the shallowest reefs to see rays and tropical fish. You can also add a beach cookout to your trip with many charter companies. Spend a few hours bringing in tasty fish then hit a remote beach to grill it up and enjoy some local beers or tasty rum punch.
Fishing Techniques
The sport fishing Jamaica is best at focuses on trolling around weedlines for surface-feeding big game species. Billfish don't get as big here as in other parts of the Caribbean, but they easily make up for it in sheer numbers. If you're a fan of light tackle Marlin fishing, Jamaica is the place for you!
When fishing the reefs, you can also have fun taking Yellowtail Snapper or Rainbow Runner on light tackle, but you'll really need to break out the heavy line when deep dropping for Amberjack or Grouper. Some boats have electric reels that will let you go after even bigger game like Swordfish!
Need to Know
Local Rules
Fishing licenses are covered by the boat on all Jamaica fishing charters. You don't generally need a license to fish from shore, although you do need a letter of approval if you're planning on shore fishing in Jamaica's marine parks.
The catch is usually split with the boat at the end of the trip and crews will often keep Billfish to eat or sell. If you want to release your fish, make sure you make it clear to the captain when you book. They won't normally mind releasing healthy Billfish, but they will need to plan and rig accordingly.
Budget
A half day offshore will normally cost around $700-$800 for a party of 6. Full days are a little cheaper by the hour, costing roughly $1,200-$1,300. Large party boats are also available for more money. Charters generally include beer, rum punch, and water. You can also add lunch for a small fee on most charter trips.
Getting There
Flights run internationally to airports in Kingston, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios. You can transfer internally to Port Antonio and Negril. If you want to explore Jamaica by road, government-run 'route taxis' connect many towns. Licensed route taxis always have red license plates with 2 white letters, one of which is 'P,' followed by 4 white numbers. Rates are fixed, so find out how much they cost before you travel. If you don't like the idea of sharing a taxi, most hotels can also arrange a private driver for you.
Jamaica is a stunning island with a truly unique culture. The food's delicious, the weather's great, and the fishing's outstanding. Despite the occasional scare story, Jamaica can be a hassle-free vacation destination with a little common sense. Leave your fancy camera at home and focus on the fishing – the memories will be better than any picture can put into words!