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.