Montego Bay Fishing Charters

The best out of 13 charter fishing deals in Montego Bay - enter dates to check availability

Montego Bay: 13 fishing charters available
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(152 reviews)
Montego Bay
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $850
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(25 reviews)
Montego Bay
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $800
Excellent
4.1 / 5
(6 reviews)
Montego Bay
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $700
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
Montego Bay
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $800
Good
2.3 / 5
(5 reviews)
Montego Bay
Booked out!
Your dates are popular โ€“ we've run out of trips with this charter! Check out more below.
Excellent
4.5 / 5
(18 reviews)
Montego Bay
trips from US $750
Excellent
4.9 / 5
(31 reviews)
Falmouth
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $800
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(2 reviews)
St.Bran's Burg
trips from US $890
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(3 reviews)
Falmouth
Booked out!
Your dates are popular โ€“ we've run out of trips with this charter! Check out more below.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
Florence Hall Village
 Instant Confirmation
trips from US $850

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Montego Bay

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Montego Bay are: Full list of top fishing charters in Montego Bay

The average price for a private 4 hour Montego Bay fishing trip is US $837, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $1,346 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in Montego Bay that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Montego Bay are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in Montego Bay are:

The top 3 types of fishing in Montego Bay are:

Many fishing charters in Montego Bay provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Montego Bay are:

Who are the top awarded captains in Montego Bay?

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Montego Bay are:
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $755
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,000
  • 6-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,135
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,400
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ US $1,571

Fishing in Montego Bay

The thing that makes Montego Bay fishing special is the simple fact that you can fish in 1,000 feet of water less than a mile from the shore. The town faces directly onto the Cayman Trench and has easy access to some of the deepest waters in the Caribbean. Originally named “Fairweather Gulf” by Christopher Colombus, the area is also protected from the strong southeasterly trade winds which sweep across much of the southern coast of the island.

Known For

Deep waters, calm seas, and a stunning view to enjoy while you fish? Sounds too good to be true! Unfortunately, the area has suffered from a long history of overfishing and no longer boasts the huge hauls of decades past. There still is a decent population of a variety of pelagic and reef species if you come at the right time. 

What can I catch?

With waters this deep, it should come as no surprise that the main focus of most Montego Bay fishing is Marlin. Blue and White Marlin can both be found offshore, tagging each other out over the course of the year. Monster Blue Marlin are rarely seen in Montego Bay, with most fish weighing in around the 100-150 lb mark - even the island record is “only” 590 pounds. But what they lack in size, they make up for in number, and in breeding season you can expect multiple hits even on a half day trip.
 
And it’s not just Marlin you will find offshore. The waters are home to plenty of other big game species, including Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Yellowfin Tuna. Down in the depths you will find several species of Grouper and Snapper, as well as big Amberjack and Barracuda patrolling the deep-water banks and rocks. 

When should I go?

All the species mentioned so far can theoretically be caught year-round. However, with declining populations of many of the area's key species, you will be hard-pressed to find a decent specimen when they are not at peak season. 
 
Blue Marlin are found in their biggest numbers in the fall and from August to October you can often get multiple hits even on a half day. The biggest fish are said to be caught in June. Older females as large as 300 pounds can be caught this time of year, although the odds of catching a fish are much lower. White Marlin are at their best in February and March and as soon as they drift on the Mahi Mahi move in to take their place. 
 
Essentially, you can head out can any time from the beginning of spring to the end of fall and expect to catch something exciting, as long as you’re not bothered about what exactly it is. If you do visit Jamaica in the winter (and seeing as it’s peak tourist season, chances are you will) you can still get in some productive bottom fishing, dropping lines a thousand feet or more to target the weird and wonderful creatures which dwell in the deepest waters of the Cayman Trench.

How much will it cost?

Montego Bay charters vary in price, and you really do get what you pay for. You can find a half day trip for $500 but it may end up being more of a booze cruise than a fishing trip. If you are serious about catching big fish you can find some great boats with professional crews starting at around $700-$800 for a four-hour trip.
 
Full day trips usually cost around double the half days and mostly target the same waters. If all you want is to catch some big fish on a budget then you might have more fun fighting Amberjack and Grouper on a half day than chasing elusive Marlin on a full day. The more high-end charters will head further offshore on a full day, though, fishing in as much as a thousand fathoms for the big Blue Marlin who reportedly shy away from the Jamaican coast.

 

Rules & Regulations

There is no specific sportfishing license in Jamaica, so you'll be covered by the boat’s fishing license aboard registered Montego Bay fishing charters. Sportfishing is not very well-regulated in Jamaica and what few strict restrictions there are normally apply to the harvesting of conchs and other commercial activities, rather than the protection of Billfish. Marlin can be kept and sold, so ecologically-aware anglers are advised to agree what will happen to any fish caught before your trip. All other catch is either kept by the boat or split between the crew and the clients.

Types of Fishing

Most charters in the area do not supply live bait. You can catch it on the trip, fish with lures, or bring along fly tackle (depending on the species). If you are planning on deep sea fishing Montego Bay then you will be almost exclusively trolling. Many of the cheaper boats are in need of an upgrade and the gear they use may have seen better days. The more established charters do have proper equipment, though, and their crews are much more versatile in the techniques they employ. This is here the more high-end options start looking better value.
 
Deep dropping is a big deal in Montego Bay, which should come as no surprise considering how quickly the ocean floor drops. Electric reels are a necessity when fishing for deep-water fish like big Groupers and Tilefish, which are popular among charters in the area. You will usually be using cut bait to tempt in these greedy bottom species, kicking back with a Red Stripe and a cigar and bringing up your hooks every so often to check the bait. It may not sound like the most exciting way to fish, but it sure is a nice way to spend the day.
Montego Bay
Excellent
4.6 / 5
Based on 28443 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

Montego Bay Fishing Seasons

January

The big game bite may not be at its best in January but you can catch some great bottom fish like Grouper and Amberjack then head to the Air Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival for some awesome live music.

February

Montego Bay is home to some of the world's most beautiful sailboats in February, as the Pineapple Cup stops off on its way to Havana. As if that enough, this is also peak White Marlin season!

March

The Montego Bay Yacht Club's Easter Regatta brings pleasure cruisers from all over and the White Marlin are still biting hard, making March an awesome time to visit.

April

There's a lot going on in Montego Bay in April. Carnival fever hits the town in a whirlwind of color and music. It's easy to escape the crowds if you choose to, though, with plenty of big Mahi Mahi waiting offshore.

May

Offshore you have Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Yellowfin Tuna, as well as a variety of weird and wonderful bottom fish. The tourist high season is over, too, so you won't have to fight for fishing space.

June

Although the biggest numbers of Blue Marlin arrive later on, the largest fish are said to be caught in June. With a bit of luck, you could find yourself hooked on a 300-pounder. Are you up for the gamble?

July

July is the calm before the storm when it comes to big game fishing. The Reggae Sumfest provides plenty of action on land though, commonly heralded as "the greatest reggae show on earth" and certainly great fun.

August

August kick off the Blue Marlin season, with huge numbers of fish flocking to the area to breed. They may be no bigger than 150lbs but they still put up a serious fight, making this a great month offshore.

September

September is tournament season in Montego Bay, with the Montego Bay Yacht Club International Marlin Tournament and Jamaica International Blue Marlin Team Tournament drawing huge crowds to the area.

October

Although September is peak time for tournament fishing, October is often actually more productive for Blue Marlin. This is no secret, though, and you will want to book well in advance this time of year.

November

The Blue Marlin bite winds down in November but you can still get in some good catches offshore. Otherwise, you can drop some lines down into the deep for the chance of some tasty bottom fish.

December

Montego Bay is a great destination for the holiday season. Warm weather, a relaxed atmosphere, and plenty of tasty reef fish lurking in the deep. Even if you don't catch anything it will be a wat to spend the day.

Montego Bay Fishing Calendar

Loading Fish Calendar!
Please Wait...

What anglers said about fishing in Montego Bay

This is the best excursion in Montego Bay, Jamaica! Great for adults and families.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
This is the best excursion in Montego Bay, Jamaica! Great for adults and families.
Just Hook It Charters Ltd.
Just Hook It Charters Ltd.
Off season for most fish, however we were on fish and were successful. Fresh Tuna is great! Always pay attention to what is in season!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Off season for most fish, however we were on fish and were successful. Fresh Tuna is great! Always pay attention to what is in season!
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
We were told that because of the heat, the afternoons are better for catching fish when you get a little wind. We intend to go back before we leave and will book an afternoon trip.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
We were told that because of the heat, the afternoons are better for catching fish when you get a little wind. We intend to go back before we leave and will book an afternoon trip.
Just Hook It Charters Ltd.
Just Hook It Charters Ltd. Johns Creek, GA
You are always search for schools of fish and following birds not a lot of structure holding fish..
Excellent
5.0 / 5
You are always search for schools of fish and following birds not a lot of structure holding fish..
Just Hook It Charters Ltd.
Just Hook It Charters Ltd. Fulton, NY
Donโ€™t go with a low budget outfit under $600 for 1/2 day. Make sure you are clear on what you want: trolling vs deep dive. If you want to keep the fish, make sure that is allowed and that the crew will clean it. Avoid outfits that offer snorkeling and drinking if you really want to catch fish.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Donโ€™t go with a low budget outfit under $600 for 1/2 day. Make sure you are clear on what you want: trolling vs deep dive. If you want to keep the fish, make sure that is allowed and that the crew will clean it. Avoid outfits that offer snorkeling and drinking if you really want to catch fish.
Reel Magic Sports Fishing
Reel Magic Sports Fishing Kingston, Kingston
Go on Captain Criag's Magic Reel trip! We didn't catch much the day we went, it was rough and a bit rainy, but we had a fun and memorable trip.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Go on Captain Criag's Magic Reel trip! We didn't catch much the day we went, it was rough and a bit rainy, but we had a fun and memorable trip.
Reel Magic Sports Fishing
Reel Magic Sports Fishing Syracuse, New York
Take care of the Capital we donโ€™t tip the Captain in the states just the mate
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Take care of the Capital we donโ€™t tip the Captain in the states just the mate
Reel Magic Sports Fishing
Reel Magic Sports Fishing Ronkonkoma, New York
Go the full 8 hour charter if you can, it may take the first 4 hours to find & get on the fish!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Go the full 8 hour charter if you can, it may take the first 4 hours to find & get on the fish!
Reel Magic Sports Fishing
Reel Magic Sports Fishing Kingston, Kingston
The crew of Reel Magic were great with our first timers. Bring sun screen and a good attitude. The rest will be fantastic!
Excellent
4.7 / 5
The crew of Reel Magic were great with our first timers. Bring sun screen and a good attitude. The rest will be fantastic!
Reel Magic Sports Fishing
Reel Magic Sports Fishing Montego Bay, Saint James

How did anglers rate fishing charters in Montego Bay?

Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
This was a great trip. Excellent crew, great boat, fun time, great fishing. Very professional. We even got there early and Captain Tyrone met us in the parking lot of the Yacht Club and we were pushing off just a few minutes later. I would recommend this boat and crew to all!!!
Kent  T.
Kent T.
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(25 reviews)
Captain tried hard and gave us a an extra hour but just couldn't get a fish in the boat. Tyrone was friendly as could be and his mate really does explain things and gives great local information!
Joey  W.
Joey W.
Rampage Offshore Company Limited
Rampage Offshore Company Limited
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
We had a great time on this boat. It was a choppy slow day but we still managed to catch a fish. The captain and crew were great.
Cody  W.
Cody W.
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Captain and crew were very experienced and professional, very easy to to work with! Highly recommended!
Shawn  J.
Shawn J.
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
What an amazing day! We arrived early for the trip and were on the water in minutes. Our lines were in the water quickly , and we were on our way. The crew was great, snacks were good. We had fish on and caught dinner for several nights. Tuna dinner! Highly recommend this trip and look forward to next year!
Roger  S.
Roger S.
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Captain and crew know their stuff. Just when we caught a couple of small tuna one of our people starting getting seasick. The Captain and crew were very caring and did what they could to provide comfort. I would recommend this trip, we caught a few and I know we would have caught much more if we didnโ€™t have to cut the trip short,
James  G.
James G.
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(25 reviews)
Tyrone and CoCo were awesome! The water was pretty rough-5 to 7ft rollers and my wife did not want to go anymore. Not only did Tyrone take her back to the dock but we dropped her back off at the hotel and went back out on the boat for a 1/2 day. Very knowledgeable and truly want you to have fun and catch fish! Tyrone was also very responsive via Fishing Booker and even sent pictures for my wife to see the bathroom. Will definitely be back to see Tyrone!
Jason  H.
Jason H.
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Cap'n Tyrone and Coco were top notch. My son was able to catch a dolphin fish. It was a light day, but hopefully another day would bring more action. It was fun watching Coco in action making sure rods, reels and bait were all being handled.
Patrick  L.  P.
Patrick L. P.
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
I have to say, I have fished all over the world (Columbia River, the Nile, Key West, etc.), and this trip knocked all of those locations out of the game. The Captain and his first mate work the boat like if it was an extension of your rod! Not only do they know how to reel a fish, more importantly they know how to spot fish. We caught 7 yellowtails and one giant Marlin. Parker fishing is the best!!!
Michael  B.
Michael B. Kingston, Kingston
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Captain Tyrone and his crew were fantastic. Super flexible in what we were trying to do, very patient with a range of differently experienced fishers. My wife caught her first fish and we had some luck with tuna. Regardless, it wouldโ€™ve been a great experience and I recommend it.
Mitchell  R.
Mitchell R. Austin, TX
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Had a fantastic day on the water. The Captain certainly know how to handle his boat and his first mate was an old hand at rigging lines. We didn't have any luck this day but would most certainly go out again. The covered deck was a godsend from the sun.
Brian  G.
Brian G. Paradise, Newfoundland And Labrador
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(25 reviews)
Capโ€™n Tyrone and best mate Conscience showed my son and I a great day on the water. We caught a nice sized Mahi Mahi, had it fileted by Tyrone and prepared right at the dock and montego bay yacht club. Highly recommend !
John  V.  V.
John V. V. Raleigh, NC
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
We got skunked but they put in a lot of effort to get us a fish. Very pleased with our trip out!
Eric  S.
Eric S. Arlington, Texas
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Fantastic morning out on the water! We had a group of 6 and the boat had plenty of space. We all got to reel in fish and the action was great! I would highly recommend going with Captain Tyrone and Coco. Thanks guys for the great trip!
Austin  W.
Austin W. Lewistown, MT
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
Captain Tyrone and First Mate Coko were superb friendly and instructive We caught Mahi Maui and Tuna Would definitely book again!
Rob  H.
Rob H. Kingston, Kingston
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
I had a great time, everything was very professional and alot of fun. I sure would book again. Bring a glove so you won't get a blister.
Ron  E.
Ron E. Central City, SD
Parker Fishing
Parker Fishing
Fishing charter in Montego Bay
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(25 reviews)
This was the first time I've had the chance to fish for anything like this and it was a blast. Although we only caught one fish that day, it was not for lack of effort by Captain & crew. (This is why it is called "fishing", not "catching"). Shout on to Coco, who worked his tail off in the efforts to make this a memorable experience. Would most definitely return! The Renauds
Kevin  R.
Kevin R. Lancaster, NY

Top Fishing Techniques in Montego Bay

Top Targeted Species in Montego Bay

Nearby Fishing Destinations