Deep Sea Fishing In The Bahamas

Deep Sea Fishing In The Bahamas

Deep Sea Fishing In The Bahamas

The Bahamas is considered to be one of the best sport fishing destinations in the world. I’ve had the pleasure of doing a lot of fishing there over the years and have to agree that not only is it great for fishing, it is outstanding for catching! Whether you enjoy bottom fishing while at anchor, or trawling for a fast fish, you are guaranteed to experience the ultimate in deep water angling. Don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat.

Where To Go

You only need to head a short distance offshore of New Providence Island to be in deep water. Just 4 miles away it drops over to 6000 feet. You can have your hooks wet within 15 minutes of leaving the dock. Grand Bahama Island is famous for having some of the biggest game fish, with yellowfin tuna averaging 35 pounds. Anglers come from all over the world to fish the Abacos with guides from Treasure Cay Marina and Green Turtle Cay. The Exumas and Andros offer the diversity of deep sea fishing and world class bonefishing. Bimini is widely considered the top spot in the world for sailfish, marlin, and swordfish.

When To Fish

There is something to fish for just about every month of the year, though spring and summer are generally thought to be best. Fishing for wahoo and bonefish is best from November through February, blue marlin run in June and July, summer is also best for the blackfin tuna. Check with locals to find out if certain species are off limits.

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The Fish

Blue & White Marlin, Sailfish, Blackfin Tuna, Dolphin (also known as Dorado or Mahi Mahi), Wahoo, Snapper, Grouper, Kingfish, Mackerel, Yellowtail, and the most sought after fish, the Yellowfin Tuna.

The Rules

When you arrive in the Bahamas by boat be sure to file for your fishing permit and remember that only 6 rods can be in use at a time. If you are going on a fishing charter, you won’t need to worry about a permit. Bag limits for migratory fish, like tuna, wahoo, kingfish, and dolphin are 18 for the boat. Grouper and snapper limits are 20 fish or 60 pounds, and grouper must be at least 3 pounds. Nassau grouper is off season from December 1st until February 28th. Turtles are protected.

The Tournaments

There are fishing tournaments year round starting in January:

  • The four day Bahamas Wahoo Championship at the Hawk’s Nest Resort & Marina on Cat Island.
  • Next up is the Mid-Winter Wahoo at the Bimini Big Game Resort & Marina in February.
  • The Bacardi Billfish Tournament is held in March at the Port Lucaya Resort & Yacht Club on Grand Bahama.
  • The White Marlin Open is held at Treasure Cay Resort & Marina in the Abacos, in April.
  • The Bahamas Billfish Championship run from April through June and consists of four tournaments at different locations.
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In November, anglers can participate in the Bimini Big Game Fishing Club All Wahoo Tournament.

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