New Providence, The Bahamas. In contrast to hand line fishing, spearfishing is one of the introduced forms of recreational fishing. It marks the start of the peak season for travel in many parts of the world and also signifies the end of the winter season. Offshore fishing in Nassau is far from the shore, typically 20-30 miles out, in waters hundreds of feet deep. You want to be sure your captain knows whats in season and what isnt, quantity restrictions, whether you can keep a certain fish or not and what the boundaries of any protected waters may be. This tournament is not-for-profit. There is a short trip from the airport. Inshore: Smaller varieties such as yellowtail, kingfish, redfish (drum and sheepshead), snapper, and grouper. 242 - 436 - 7817 . 2017 All rights reserved. They took us to the best fishing spot, my kids caught a ton of fish. Start by going after Yellowtail Snapper near the surface. You may only us a pole spear or Hawaiian sling. Your first day beyond the beach begins by heading out to sea to deep sea fish at some of the best fishing spots off Nassau Paradise Island with First Strike Charters. The picture-perfect turquoise waters of The Bahamas are abundant with marine life, providing the perfect environment to test your angling skills. Unfortunately, the only captain in Freeport listed on FishingBooker seems to focus on inshore and nearshore fishing. Though one of the most popular fish in the Bahamas, catching one, may prove difficult due to their strength and size, but is extremely rewarding. document.getElementById( "ak_js_18" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I will be in Paradise Island next week and want to fish for something I can prepare for dinner You can only use the Hawaiian sling or a pole spear, not spearguns. document.getElementById( "ak_js_14" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I really appreciate your tip on how you can fish interrupted a lot of places in the Bahamas since most of them are uninhabited. Below is a detailed breakdown of the different types of game fishing you can do which should set you on your way. Thankfully, there are a good number of places that have already earned a stellar reputation among fellow anglers, making things a bit easier for everyone. Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis, Paradise Island. document.getElementById( "ak_js_21" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_22" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Bordering the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, Sea of Cortez, and the Caribbean Sea, angling in Mexico speaks for itself. Turning off the engine and allowing the fish to come to you may also help. Marlins can reach weights of more than 1,000 pounds. Nassau Paradise Islands picture-perfect turquoise waters and sunny skies await. S. As a result, you'll be limited to catching two per day. Born Free Fishing Charters offers half-day and full-day charters. If you havent caught one before, youll recognize it as sushi, the Japanese delicacy. document.getElementById( "ak_js_15" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on January 22, 2019 Some of the best spots include the areas between the islands, not too far from Bimini. The water is typically shallow in these areas, making it easier to spearfish. Also, be clear about what type of fishing you want to do. Year-round fishing, paired with some of the most favorable conditions, makes The Bahamas an ultimate fishing destination. Try reef fishing and enjoy a day on the water with friends and family. Born Free Fishing Charters offers half-day and full-day charters. Why? Telling the captain what type of fish you are hoping to catch, and the quantity can help the charter plan accordingly. View our maps and read detailed fishing reports from nearby anglers. The largest red snappers can live for up to 20 years. Get some squid from the grocery store and you are on your way. First Strike Charters combines a grand voyage with the excitement of landing the big one. Most bonefish charters offer morning and afternoon tours. Where to go for the best fly fishing in The Bahamas? Those trophy fish wont catch themselves! Posted by: Nassau Paradise Island on August 29, 2022. All levels of fishing abilities, including children are encouraged. Call. In fact, its the national fish of The Bahamas and is even featured on our Coat of Arms! So whatever your game, there might be a tournament in the archipelago for you! Estuaries and bays are also considered attractive inshore fishing spots. Youll learn the best times to cast your line, what kind of fish you might catch, what to bring on board, and which fishing charters are offered in Nassau Paradise Island. This time of year is also good for long fishing trips because the ocean is calm and the weather predictable. Nassau Paradise Islands brilliant blue waters are perfect for exploring, and whether you choose to stay above the surface or dive below, its sure to be an unforgettable experience! $75 per person for 1 hour . Copyright 2023 Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board. During this time, fish swim into the mangroves for shelter and are less accessible. The water is warmer and the fish are more aggressive. Offshore: Includes 74-mile open radar (allows for travel and fishing at night), XM Satellite Radio & Weather, Chirp Sonar (technology used specifically for recreational fishing). The best time for fishing is in the morning. Basically, if youre an avid flats fisher, youll be in heaven in the Bahamas. If an adrenaline rush on the water doesnt cut it for you, then your next adventure should be underwater. Whether its bonefishing, spearfishing, deep-sea fishing or reef fishing, anglers cast their lines throughout the year here in the capital city. Find a charter that is familiar with the fishing laws. Not too many countries have fish on their bills, and Marlin definitely deserves this honorary spot. Found offshore and inshore, the barracuda can grow up to six feet in length and a foot wide, with a row of razor-sharp teeth that can intimidate even the most seasoned fisherman. Unlike a day out on the beach, there are a few essentials you should consider bringing on the boat with you before heading out to sea, especially if its a full day excursion. The most fruitful spearfishing is done on reefs or around heads of coral, where the fish tend to hide. 59. Coordinates: 25.058 ,-77.343. A standard size charter will cater for up to six people (known as six packs), while party charters can hold up to 60 people. The great thing about big game fishing in the Bahamas is that most of the top game fish are around at the same time. The Bluefins are celebrated for their tender and flavorful meat. V. A. T. (10%) will be applied to all tours during Checkout. document.getElementById( "ak_js_20" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for reading the article! The right vessel for you when fishing in Nassau will ultimately come down to your budget. As the old saying goes, there are plenty of fish in the sea. Another important upside to fishing with a guide is that fishing licenses are covered in the price of the trip. In The Bahamas, only six tuna species per boat can be caught and kept any extra fish must be caught and released for conservation purposes. Some anglers will choose to get their fishing trip in earlier because the temperature is highest in the afternoon. Learn More Nassau Beyond One Island Make Nassau home base, and sail to Eleuthera & Harbour Island for a day. Distinguished mostly by its silvery sides and chalky-white belly, this game fish varies in color from dark blue to dark green or even gray on its upper body. Get the best fishing experience without any hassles. They enter the scene in June and stay around through July. Size: 3 38 inches carapace length or six inches tail length. Check out this guide to fishing in The Bahamas. Queen triggerfish (or turbot), though beautiful, are not the cream of the crop when fishing in Nassau. Be sure to consult the guidelines set by the government denoting which times of the year fishing for red snapper is permitted when fishing in Nassau, Bahamas. The best time for fishing is in the morning. And its easy to see why! This is the only native form of recreational fishing. Experience the boating capital of The Bahamas in the one-of-a-kind island chain known as The Abacos. Or try fishing the traditional Bahamian way with just a line and reel in your prize catch . If you are travelling with your family, ask if their charters are family or kid friendly, if you are traveling with kids, as it could be a great opportunity for bonding. Tempting the Bluefin with the right bait is the key to a successful catch. You already know that the Bahamas is an amazing vacation destination, but now you know that its unmatched when it comes to fishing too. Deep canyons and troughs in the Bahamas bluewaters are the hallowed fishing grounds for your Marlin chase. You dont want to get stuck on a tuna charter, when all you wanted to do was fish bonefish. They have been known to swim more than 40mph. You might be under the impression that the Bahamians are rather relaxed about the rules of spearfishing. This charity event is limited to just 60 custom inboard teams - 32 or larger - chosen by invitation only to represent the custom boat manufactures in an all-release format. Add to that the possibility of landing Tarpon and Permit, and youve got a party. Looking to reel in the catch of the day in luxury? On top of that, they taste delicious. The sun will be at it's highest point at 12:22 pm. During low tide, many of the flats dry out, causing fish to group together in the entrance to the channels in deeper waters. These are household words to tropical travelers looking to escape winter's blast. To make the most of your trip, be sure to ask your guide to show you a nice secluded fishing spot. All Rights Reserved. Below are a few guidelines to help you make your decision: The size of your group plays a pretty big role in your decision-making process of what charter to choose. If luck is on your side and you nab yourself some jewels of the ocean, ask a local to prepare your fresh catch for you and see what sea to table dining is all about. Check how many years they have been in business. You may not only want to go fishing. This is not true, in fact the opposite. Specializing in offshore deep sea fishing, the company has five boats to take you to some prime Bahamas fishing spots. Will you be looking to catch enough for a meal for two or are hoping to stock up for a rainy day? Bring a light sweater in case theres a chilly sea breeze, a towel, and flat, non-slip shoes. There are many types of Bahamian grouper, but the Nassau grouper is easily distinguished. This will determine the type of fishing charter you should choose. The best season to fish Bahamas is during the months of May to September when you can expect to catch marlin, snapper, dolphin, amberjack, and yellowfin tuna. A day out on a boat should be fun. Not only that, but some of the best fishing tournaments on the planet take place here during the high season. The largest of all tuna species, Bluefin tuna can weigh more than 500 pounds and stretch more than six feet in length. Accommodation: Top-Rated Resorts in Nassau, Bahamas 3. All rights reserved. There are a number of regulations to think of. These rules and regulations have been put in place for a reason and it is these reasons you are still able to enjoy beautiful days at sea creating memories to last you a lifetime. Charities include; Breast Cancer Research Foundation, IGFA, Joe DiMaggios Childrens Hospital and many other organizations in need. Thankfully, there are a good number of places that have already earned a stellar reputation among fellow anglers, making things a bit easier for everyone. When transporting by air to any US destination you should contact the US Fish and Wildlife Service for regulations regarding transport of lobsters, fish and conch. Have you ever been fishing in the Bahamas? Light tackle fishing is a carefully thought-out approach that centers around your own ability as an angler, the species you seek, and the conditions under which you must fish. Always hungry, the barracuda tears through the waters at an average pace of 27 mph which means that there are few fish in the ocean that strike your line with the ferocious force of a feeding barracuda. We offer private boat charters for couples and group fishing, combined with cruising, Bahamas snorkeling, and any other boat activity you need! As you now know there are a variety of fishing options. Nearly 30 cays make up The Berry Islands. When it comes to food, the charters will generally charge extra for anything they have on hand, should you choose to eat or drink it. A great tip to locating tuna is to look out for the birds. or cruising the best Nassau fishing spots and sights. Once you hear that reel scream, strap yourself into the fighting chair and fish on! Born Free Fishing Charters offers half-day and full-day charters. When you know just how amazing fishing in the Bahamas is, it only makes sense that the country is home to dozens of sportfishing tournaments. Most companies will also be happy to make recommendations of where you can take it to be cooked for you. During low tide, many of the flats dry out, causing fish to group together in the entrance to the channels in deeper waters. Not only is it a challenge to find Ghosts, but its equally testing to get them into the boat. The waters surrounding Nassau Paradise Island are home to many different species of fish. More time on the water means youll have more chance of making a catch. beast might have severe consequences on your back. Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish - Take Your Pick! Lobsters season opens August 1st and runs until March 31st. To the reefs! For anglers, there's no greater challenge than battling a legendary predator that outweighs them by five times or more. Go to Snorkeling Snorkeling. With Hunter Charters, you're a mere 15 minutes from catching marlin, sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and more! Aside from bonefish, other common catches in The Bahamas include tarpons, barracudas, permit, jack, shark, grouper, and mutton snapper. You must possess a valid Bahamas cruising permit anytime you are on board your boat or in water when not on a dock, obtained at a designated port of entry. You cannot harvest female stone crabs or crawfish and all species of turtle are illegal to harvest. Those seeking a true sense of . Youll need to be bright eyed and bushy tailed for a day out at sea, so you dont want to get up even earlier to travel halfway across the island to board your vessel. Mid-February may be a little early for Dorado, but Wahoo should show up in the Bahamas in good numbers. Spearfishing equipment consists of flippers, a mask, a snorkel and a "Hawaiian sling" which is the only legally allowed type of spear - spear guns are not permitted. The summer sees an influx of permit and tarpon. To catch the crown jewel of the Bahamas, the splashing action and bubble trail of an artificial lure is usually a more popular option. Another superstar of big game fishing in the Bahamas is the mighty Tuna. These spots add to the unique charm of Nassau's nightlife, showcasing the rich culture and traditions of the Bahamas. Easily tempted with live bait, the grouper makes an excellent choice for local and vacationing fishermen. Offshore: Longer distances and durations (often overnight), larger boats & fish (more ice required). You shouldnt have a problem finding a charter that suits your needs. You can expect to find Nassau grouper, hogfish, yellowtail snapper, and many other types of fish. The day is widely celebrated through the Bahamas as August Monday. The delightful panic that ensues following the first, STRIKE!. . Reef fishing boasts a great variety of delectable fish. Some anglers will choose to get their fishing trip in earlier because the temperature is highest in the afternoon. Inshore: Consistent fishing in Nassau year-round, even with significant seasonal changes. Free cancellation. Red snappers are recognized by their distinctive pinkish color, white underbelly, red eyes, and their prominent snout which tends to be pointed. Please ask your crew for full safety directions for the charter. With Hunter Charters, youre a mere 15 minutes from catching marlin, sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and more! Best Spearfishing Locations. When fishing on the flats, expect to find bonefish, permit, and tarpon. Picture: A local diver spearing himself a Nassau grouper. There are also Hawks Nest Wahoo and Bimini Wahoo Mayhem Fishing Tournament that offers the highest money prizes. Check if the company has a no-fish-no-fee policy, where the company guarantees you will catch fish on your charter, else you are charged $0 for the trip. The richness and intensity of flavors distingui, Photo credit: icemanphotos/Shutterstock.com Cancun and The Bahamas are incredible destinations, both with vibrant cultures, friendly people, unique landscapes, and so much to discover. If you are looking for a company that provides packed/boxed lunches, some charters will do it at a nominal fee. That said, you can still find excellent fishing in the afternoon. Do you want to do an inshore trip? Offshore fishing: What fish to expect Save. Do your due diligence and ask the charter what fishing opportunities they offer. Check to see if they will give you an additional discount if you book direct, as most will. Margaritaville Beach Resort, Nassau, Bahamas, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, https://www.facebook.com/nassauparadiseisland, https://www.instagram.com/nassauparadiseisland/, https://www.tiktok.com/@nassauparadiseisland. Make sure the boat has proper safety equipment. violation? Thank you for reading the blog, Im glad you liked the post. Here Are The Best Places To Travel In April For Couples. Action is at its best from OctoberMay when the waters are cooler and the weather is dry. From the deep waters of the Atlantic, we move to the shallow sandy flats that are the home of Bonefish. Many Snapper and Grouper varieties are available year-round, so the chances are you wont end up empty-handed. Try your hand at light-tackle fishing or take a half-day boat charter. Thats why its on the $100 note. All proceeds going to Leukemia & Lymphoma NI. While the larger males usually weigh about 350 pounds, a female can reach up to 1,800 pounds. With gin-clear waters and endless flats with hard white sand bottoms, the Bahamas are among the best locations in the world for sight fishing and wade fishing. Leg Two, Abaco Diamond Series. All Rights Reserved. Outdoor Activities. Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. Impossible to spot. These large predators are the only warm-blooded fish of its species. Whether youre a first-timer or a seasoned spear-o there are plenty of opportunities to get some great fish including grouper, hogfish, snapper, lobster, or conch. 100% of all cash donations, 20% of boat entry fees, and all proceeds from the raffle and silent auction go straight to charity. Picture: A Caribbean Spiny lobster, one of the top exports of the Bahamas. Until you have successfully hooked your first barracuda, you have not yet experienced deep-sea fishing. Check out this guide to fishing in The Bahamas. Island living will easily seep into your bones, and trust us when we say that the fishing action here is intoxicating. Weve talked up the Bahamas enough, now lets jump into what makes them so unique. The Bahamas is also the host of two qualifying tournaments for the invitation-only Offshore World Championship Series. Look for your prey around reefs and corals, and youre sure to find something good. The blue marlin, however, wins the prize for being stronger and more powerful. The staff is attentive and very helpful. document.getElementById( "ak_js_11" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_12" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Good work but Sharks should not be listed. top of page. Thanks for the article. Per boat, you cannot exceed ten tails of crawfish or lobster. Top Fishing Spots in the Bahamas In an archipelago of over 700 islands, picking one perfect fishing spot will always be the tough part. One of the oldest fishing tournaments in existence, this is a major visitor attraction during the month of August. In the Bahamas, you will arrive to find the most beautiful blue waters perfect for swimming and fishing. Good for avoiding crowds. Still not enough for you? Dating as far back as the 1930s natural rigged bait like Spanish mackerel and horse ballyhoo have been used and are still popular today. So if you have your heart set on catching a deep-sea tuna or marlin, this is the time to head out. Whether its laid-back reef fishing for Snappers and Groupers, premier flats action for Bonefish, Permit, and Tarpon, or a big game bite, such as that of Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, or Billfish, the Bahamas is sure to take your breath away. This is also a great time to target other inshore game fish like Permit and Tarpon. Expert Tip: Use squid as your bait when fishing from the shore. In the Bahamas, Blackfins hunt and feed mainly in the mornings as well as early afternoons. View our latest travel deals and start planning your escape today. This Deep Sea and Bottom fishing tournament has been part of the landscape for more than thirty years. Make sure the charter captains are licensed boat captains. document.getElementById( "ak_js_9" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); The blue marlin is literally our National fish. The Blue Marlin bite is so good that theyre on the countrys coat of arms and currency. Imagine big game battles on the high seas with a tropical paradise as your backdrop. If you love the heat, you may have less competition on the water if you go for an afternoon charter. Bonefish are by far the most sought-after catch when fly fishing in the Bahamas, but you can also find a solid Tarpon bite in the summer months, and Permit follow closely behind. If you want to do some reef fishing which you will catch a ton of fish in a hour. Thanks for reading our blog and reaching out. Today we have 11:33 hours of daylight. As for fishing, its great wherever you depart from . White Marlin are the first ones to show up in mid-spring, usually in April, and you can land specimens that weigh over 100 pounds. Reef fishing boasts a great variety of delectable fish. The Bahamas offers some of the best fishing in the world, so its no surprise that it is also host to world-class spearfishing. With warm breezes, sunny skies, and plenty of fishing charters available for short trips and longer excursions, Nassau Paradise Island is great for experienced fishers and beginner anglers. Blues are ferocious fighters and their aerial spectacles are matched by none, which makes them the ultimate catch of every sportfisherman worth their salt. A long pectoral fin doubled with a tail larger than its body, make for a very strong and fast fish. The angler uses light bait, as well as matching it up in rod, reel and line size accordingly. The fish is usually blueish-black to cobalt blue on top with a silverish-white underside. Your prey are most active during the times of low visibility, usually just before sunrise and at dusk, when the fish come closer to the surface to feed. You might be a seasoned angler looking to catch a sport fish and have it mounted but are unfamiliar with the Bahamas. The second dorsal fin is a mix of grey and yellow in color. Are you ready to reel in the fishing adventure of your dreams? This game fish is known for its long hard runs at speeds of up to 45 mph. Picture: An illustration of how beautiful and silver the Bonefish is. Fortunately, most charter companies in Nassau will provide you with most of the fishing gear you need, but its always best to check when booking your excursion. Also contributing to the Bluefins elusiveness. Photo - Pat Ford Great Abaco also has some of the most underrated permit fishing in the Bahamas. June and July are the months to participate. Ask the charter company if they can make recommendations, as most will be partnered with companies that provide these services. First Strike Charters combines a grand voyage with the excitement of landing the big one. Sailing, fishing, award-winning golf, and quaint colonial island towns are all waiting to be discovered in this sun-drenched destination in the northern Bahamas. Are You A Foodie Heading To The Bahamas? Copyright Hello Paradise - The Official Sandals Resorts Travel & Lifestyle Blog. All fishing parties are to abide by local Bahamian fishing laws. Going out with professionals also means that you dont have to bring your gear. Youll find the best snapper and grouper action when the water is warmer, during spring and summer. Always do your research! Its awesome that Marlin is your national fish because its so loved in the Bahamas, we mentioned it in the article as well. When you book your excursion, ask if there are any necessary items you need to pack. Breezes Resort & Spa Bahamas Courtesy of Breezes Set on the white sands of Cable Beach, located near Nassau on New Providence Island, Breezes Bahamas boasts three pools overlooking the beach,. Fishing spots and baits to use at Lake Cunningham? If you see birds diving into the water to find food, you know youve hit gold. Thats why were here to talk to you today [], Right at the top of Mexicos famous Riviera Maya resort district, youll find the city of Cancun. Tough to trick. Experience the fantastic feeling of sailing with Barefoot Sailing Cruises. Thinking about making a fishing trip part of your Nassau Paradise Island vacation? Do you know any techniques to help protect . Most bonefish charters offer morning and afternoon tours. Some charter boats have restrictions as to how far they can be from shore. Sun and Moon. The crew will have everything you need. The southern side of the island is by far the most celebrated for bonefishing. The locals eat them, but I always fear Ciguatera. I am going to be in Nassau the last week of February/first week of March. After that, you can switch to bottom fishing for Grouper. over the web without my agreement. If you suffer from sea sickness, pack some anti-nausea medication or pick up a pair of sea-band wristbands that help alleviate your reaction to the motion of the ocean. Hand line fishing grew from the simple necessity of catching fish for sustenance - all you need is fishing line, a hook, sinker and bait. You never know, you might be shouting STRIKE, sooner than you think. Id genuinely appreciate it. Yes, the Bahamas are definitely the perfect getaway. You may never have more than this limit on your boat, regardless of how many days youre in The Bahamas. And targeting them on the fly is an unforgettable experience. Finding the right charter means youll be able to focus on your angling skills in safety and in style while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. Be carefulthe US carapace minimum is 3 inches, so pay attention to how you measure your lobster. The second dorsal fin has yellow coloring. The best spearfishing locations in the Bahamas are typically around coral reefs and wrecks. Differentiating itself from the white marlin, blue marlin is larger in size but the most recognizable characteristics are its high dorsal fin and its long pointed bill. Theres no bad time to go Bonefishing in the Bahamas, its just even better than usual during some parts of the year. Atlantis Paradise Island. The eggs are held beneath the tail, so keep your eyes open and be vigilant. Natural bait and artificial bait can all be used when catching marlins. Before putting any money on the table here are a few questions you could ask to make sure you are getting your bang for your buck: Ask if they give discounts for paying in cash, as some will give you an additional 5% or greater discount if you do.