Spearfishing in Nassau, Best time to fish in Nassau (calendar) These are household words to tropical travelers looking to escape winter's blast. These Are The Best Restaurants In Nassau! Well, Bonefish may not look like much at first, but theyre one of the hardest challenges an angler can face. A good place to target tarpon is in the canals and water channels which head into the island, where the biggest silver kings like to lurk. It's no surprise that the Bahamas boast some of the best big game action on the planet, and the Nassau nook of the archipelago is no different. V. A. T. (10%) will be applied to all tours during Checkout. Some anglers swear by it and use it when the traditional fishing ways arent catching anything, they will switch over to this method. Also Sawfish and huge Tarpon. Make sure the charter captains are licensed boat captains. Can, Cover image credit: icemanphotos/Shutterstock.com The month of April is a great time of year to travel! Experiences taking safety measures. To catch the crown jewel of the Bahamas, the splashing action and bubble trail of an artificial lure is usually a more popular option. As you now know there are a variety of fishing options. Nassau Paradise Islands picture-perfect turquoise waters and sunny skies await. The boat may troll up to 10 knots for this catch. Photo credit: ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock.com Make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. So if you have your heart set on catching a deep-sea tuna or marlin, this is the time to head out. Theyre fierce fighters and having one fight you on an 8 wt rod is enough to get anyones blood pumping. View our latest travel deals and start planning your escape today. There is a reason why the Bahamian waters are one of the few seas still teeming with marine life. All Rights Reserved. document.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on December 28, 2022 You can expect to find Nassau grouper, hogfish, yellowtail snapper, and many other types of fish. Permit fishing at Abaco is unheralded because most fly fishers go there strictly for the bonefishing, but it may be the best place in the Bahamas for a flats grand slam. Add to that the possibility of landing Tarpon and Permit, and youve got a party. Bring a light sweater in case theres a chilly sea breeze, a towel, and flat, non-slip shoes. Photo - Pat Ford Great Abaco also has some of the most underrated permit fishing in the Bahamas. Choose from trolling for large trophy fish or getting in on the action with light tackle in more shallow waters. The countrys clear, sandy flats are the perfect breeding ground for super-sized fish. He has poles and bait. The marlin effortlessly launches itself out of the water displaying its strength as you stand your ground in your vessel. And you might get lucky and end up reeling in marlin, sailfish, bluefin and blackfin tuna, and Mahi Mahi on your deep-sea fishing. Be sure about the type of fishing you want to do in Nassau. The picture-perfect turquoise waters of The Bahamas are abundant with marine life, providing the perfect environment to test your angling skills. You may not think you need one but a long standoff with a 200 lbs. Go to Snorkeling Snorkeling. Fishing: The Bahamas vs. Cancun Fishing in The Bahamas. You can go after a slew of species and crustaceans in these clear waters, including Snapper, Grouper, Hogfish, Lobster, and even sea snails (Conch). . The government of the Bahamas makes sure that their fisheries are well protected by law and before you hit the water, its important to understand the rules. 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. The reason for this is because the tuna push baitfish up to the surface of the water thus inviting the birds to swoop down to feed. document.getElementById( "ak_js_4" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey there , need to talk to the local fisherman for the real story , I like what you saying , only you dont know half. 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. If you are looking for a company that provides packed/boxed lunches, some charters will do it at a nominal fee. S. You dont want to get stuck on a tuna charter, when all you wanted to do was fish bonefish. We specialize in snorkeling, fishing, and turtle swim tours in Nassau! Copyright 2023 Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board. With Hunter Charters, you're a mere 15 minutes from catching marlin, sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and more! Picture: An illustration of how beautiful and silver the Bonefish is. Marlins are known for their size with the females growing up to four times as large as the males. Youll find Tuna around the deepwater canyons that are scattered all around the 700 Bahamas islands. Filters 1. While not the easiest fish to catch, Bahamian experts recommend an early morning rise as success is more likely at daybreak. 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. If you want to do some reef fishing which you will catch a ton of fish in a hour. Due to its popularity as a commercial fish, the population of the red snapper has declined. Spearing lobster is legal in The Bahamas. Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish - Take Your Pick! Save. This time of year is also good for long fishing trips because the ocean is calm and the weather predictable. Bonefish are among the most famous fish in The Bahamas, and they are prominent all day long. To make the most of your trip, be sure to ask your guide to show you a nice secluded fishing spot. Fishing in the Bahamas is a rite of passage for any ambitious angler. For an accurate catch the spear fisherman has to know where he should be looking, which will often involve a series of dives as he gets down to look under ledges or into holes. run into any issues of plagorism or copyright You must have JavaScript enabled to use this form. Your captain will also let you know what the fishing regulations are and how much of your catch you can keep. All Rights Reserved. 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. The Blue Marlin bite is so good that theyre on the countrys coat of arms and currency. They usually have yellow-tipped fins and narrow light-yellow bands above their side fins. These experiences are best for fishing charters & tours in Nassau: Private Boating Adventure for Snorkeling or Fishing in Nassau - 38ft boat; Half-Day 27ft Private Fishing Charter in Nassau; Half day Deep sea/light tackle fishing charters; 3/4 day deep sea /light tackle fishing; Private Speedboat Adventure for Snorkeling or Fishing in Nassau . Below are a few tips when planning for your fishing trip: Expert Tip: Your safety is very important. The largest red snappers can live for up to 20 years. Check for any changes with the Bahamas Department of Marine Resources at https://www.bahamas.gov.bs. Turning off the engine and allowing the fish to come to you may also help. Accept a coveted Custom Shootout invitation. What will the conditions be like? Best Spearfishing Locations. Out on the flats, your guide knows just what to look for. Thank you for reading the blog, Im glad you liked the post. Youll also be battling Mahi Mahi by the dozen and some of the biggest Wahoo youre ever likely to find. 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. Yellowfin are the most popular catches, but you can also get Blackfin or Skipjack on the line. If you see birds diving into the water to find food, you know youve hit gold. Keep in mind that 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. Most fishing charters in Nassau Paradise Island provide everything you need to catch a fish, and some even provide lunch. Today we have 11:33 hours of daylight. 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. Spring and summer are the most active times on the Bahamian reefs. Going out with professionals also means that you dont have to bring your gear. Feb 16, 2023. Those trophy fish wont catch themselves! 2023 FishingBooker.com. A favorite among families, reef or dry-ground fishing is far less wearing than the demands of bonefishing and easier on the pocket than deep-sea fishing. If you are looking for the adventure of a lifetime, fishing in Nassau might very well be it. Below is a detailed breakdown of the different types of game fishing you can do which should set you on your way. Try reef fishing and enjoy a day on the water with friends and family. Unwavering in their pursuit, even the most seasoned anglers will be challenged to bring one in. All levels of fishing abilities, including children are encouraged. The second dorsal fin has yellow coloring. (Outdoor man style). I hope the info helps, enjoy your vacation! Looking to reel in the catch of the day in luxury? I will be sure to tell my wife that we should try and look into fishing at the Bahamas since it would be relaxing! A school of breeding fish is called a spawning aggregation. A great tip to locating tuna is to look out for the birds. Marlins can reach weights of more than 1,000 pounds. Those seeking a true sense of . Make sure the boat has proper safety equipment. In fact, its the national fish of The Bahamas and is even featured on our Coat of Arms! 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. info@nassausnorkeling.com 1-242-698-4847 1-242-426-0661. Its always advised to be gentle with them when you get one on the line and to release them unharmed. It is also a promotional event for the resort and the Abacos. Unfortunately, the only captain in Freeport listed on FishingBooker seems to focus on inshore and nearshore fishing. 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. I guesss Ill look into where I want to stay first and then dig in to finding a captain. An offshore trip? They spook at the first sign of danger and hit 40 miles per hour as they escape across the flats. Below are a few guidelines to help you quickly identify the difference: The Bahamas is one of the few countries which still has an many of sharks in its waters. After that, you can switch to bottom fishing for Grouper. Bahamas Fishing Charters YellowTail Charters has 30yrs experience specializing in Fishing Nassau Deep Sea Shelfs, Reefs, Snorkeling and Nassau Island tours. Journey to the remote island of Inagua for some of the best birding and ecotourism The Bahamas has to offer. Anglers can use this to their advantage. Bahamians are doing their best to keep their marine life safe and we should do the same. Aside from bonefish, other common catches in The Bahamas include tarpons, barracudas, permit, jack, shark, grouper, and mutton snapper. However, youll find some on Exuma, Andros, and even Long Island. All Rights Reserved. Typically, inshore fishing is carried out just a few miles from the shore. The bigger the fish the more rewarding the challenge. Anglers of all skill levels love the challenge of reeling in remarkable predators that outweigh them. 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. You'll be fishing on a 45' Hatteras luxury sportfishing vessel capable of holding your fishing crew or the entire family. Plan your perfect day in Paradise. A day out on a boat should be fun. First Strike Charters combines a grand voyage with the excitement of landing the big one. If an adrenaline rush on the water doesnt cut it for you, then your next adventure should be underwater. 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. Historically aggregations had tens of thousands of fish, but today these numbers have dwindled significantly. It was a perfect day all around. Thats why its on the $100 note. Youll find the best snapper and grouper action when the water is warmer, during spring and summer. 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. Reef Fishing Fly Fishing Deep Sea Fishing The Bahamas is well known for its deep sea fishing and record-breaking catches. Just 50 teams represent the U.S. custom boat manufacturers in this all charity event. Is this a good time of year for that? Once you hear that reel scream, strap yourself into the fighting chair and fish on! 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. Always do your research! In the Bahamas, you will arrive to find the most beautiful blue waters perfect for swimming and fishing. Safety is also important. It is for this very reason that fishing of grouper fish is banned during spawning season in efforts to minimize endangerment. Since many fish feed in the early morning hours, fish action will be at its peak! Commonly, inshore fishing is defined as fishing in water that is less than 90 feet which would require the use of a small vessel. 37.6K ratings. During low tide, many of the flats dry out, causing fish to group together in the entrance to the channels in deeper waters. Interesting fact: All groupers are born female, and some will change to male when they reach breeding age. Inshore vs. offshore fishing in Nassau And you might get lucky and end up reeling in marlin, sailfish, bluefin and blackfin tuna, and Mahi Mahi on your deep-sea fishing. Try your hand at light-tackle fishing or take a half-day boat charter. The Bahamas boasts world-famous fishing flats with miles of shallow water along the shore and mangroves. I will be staying in Freeport, what are the odds I can find a charter to put me on dorado or wahoo?? You know you have a good fight ahead. Just 20 miles off the shores of the Nassau you will find Lemon, Hammerhead, Bull, Blacktip, Tiger and Reef sharks. Most of the year, you can find calm seas here in The Bahamas and fishing grounds less than a quarter-mile from Nassau Paradise Island. Your fishing options are plentiful off the shores of Nassau. If you are wanting to catch big wahoo, the best time to fish in the Bahamas would be the winter season, between December and March. And the tell-tale movement of a fish a silver glimmer or a bit of kicked up sand. You may never have more than this limit on your boat, regardless of how many days youre in The Bahamas. Are you ready to reel in the fishing adventure of your dreams? Check to see if they will give you an additional discount if you book direct, as most will. So where do you begin when you come to the Bahamas? Until you have successfully hooked your first barracuda, you have not yet experienced deep-sea fishing. document.getElementById( "ak_js_6" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); How about Cobia? This beautiful sailfish gets its name from its large dorsal fin which resembles a sail, and which often stretches the entire length of its back. Year-round fishing, paired with some of the most favorable conditions, makes The Bahamas an ultimate fishing destination. More time on the water means youll have more chance of making a catch. June and July are the months to participate. Both experienced spearos and beginners are wowed by the beauty of the archipelagos marine life. You can fish from any beach there. Experience the boating capital of The Bahamas in the one-of-a-kind island chain known as The Abacos. Get all the fishing intel you need to start catching more, and bigger, fish. Inshore: Consistent fishing in Nassau year-round, even with significant seasonal changes. If you find that this has happened, you can submit a request for them to remove the content here. Dec 14, 2020. These silvery fish are close to impossible to see in the crystal-clear waters of the flats and channels, which makes the experience all the more exciting. 59. Youll find the best snapper and grouper action when the water is warmer, during spring and summer. What did you catch? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Replied on February 16, 2023 Inshore fishing: What fish to expect in Nassau? Offshore fishing: What fish to expect 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. The male, or bull is characterized from its distinctive blunt head or the cow with the more rounded head, either way, mahi mahi typically weigh in between 15 and 30 pounds. The Bluefins are celebrated for their tender and flavorful meat. Bahamas Billfish Championship is the best-known tournament in the country, with hundreds of anglers coming to compete every year. document.getElementById( "ak_js_7" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Youre right, theres some decent Cobia around Andros, both on the flats (excellent for Tarpon as well) and offshore. Safe to say, the fishing heres pretty good. 4-12 hour fishing trips for family and friends. Since many fish feed in the early morning hours, fish action will be at its peak! Per boat, you cannot exceed ten tails of crawfish or lobster. With Hunter Charters, you're a mere 15 minutes from catching marlin, sailfish, Mahi Mahi, and more! Below are a few considerations to help you gauge whether you have found the right captain. Another superstar of big game fishing in the Bahamas is the mighty Tuna. Weve talked up the Bahamas enough, now lets jump into what makes them so unique. One of the oldest fishing tournaments in existence, this is a major visitor attraction during the month of August. 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. Whether youre looking for big game like blue marlin, tuna, sailfish or wahooor prefer trolling for Want to enjoy world-class sport fishing in the blue Bahamian seas? Bahamians take great care of their diverse marine life, so there are strict rules you need to abide by in order to spearfish here. The yellowfin tuna is the most common of the tuna species found in the Bahamas. Lobsters season opens August 1st and runs until March 31st. Specializing in offshore deep sea fishing, the company has five boats to take you to some prime Bahamas fishing spots. 100% of all cash donations, 20% of boat entry fees, and all proceeds from the raffle and silent auction go straight to charity. When fishing on the flats, expect to find bonefish, permit, and tarpon. Island living will easily seep into your bones, and trust us when we say that the fishing action here is intoxicating. If one is caught, it required to be released. Good for avoiding crowds. Explore the beautiful crystal clear waters of Nassau, The Bahamas by boat with Te'vaughn Adventures Charter and Fishing Taking safety measures. So whatever your game, there might be a tournament in the archipelago for you! Unlimited access to the best fishing spot finder in the game. The fish is usually blueish-black to cobalt blue on top with a silverish-white underside. All fishing parties are to abide by local Bahamian fishing laws. Each sign-up is offered a package of six cocktail parties, a beach party, dinner Junkanoo parade as well as an exciting Awards Presentation. The fierce predators are drawn to floating wood, fronds, or seaweed where the smaller fish congregate for a feed. Not only that, but some of the best fishing tournaments on the planet take place here during the high season. Some anglers will choose to get their fishing trip in earlier because the temperature is highest in the afternoon. The waters surrounding Nassau Paradise Island are home to many different species of fish. Whether youre here to hook into a colossal Marlin or chase Ghosts across the flats, theres an expert who can make it happen. As for fishing, its great wherever you depart from . Nassau, on the island of New . In contrast to hand line fishing, spearfishing is one of the introduced forms of recreational fishing. The water is typically shallow in these areas, making it easier to spearfish. The right vessel for you when fishing in Nassau will ultimately come down to your budget. Most companies will at minimum provide the bait, tackle/equipment, and ice some will also include bottled water. A telling sign that you may be in the presence of a school mahi mahi are the frigate birds swooping into the water diving for food. Its this inexplicable thrill that keeps fishermen returning for fishing in Nassau, Bahamas. 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. Unless youre a citizen of the Bahamas, youre going to need a valid fishing license before you cast your line. You can choose to have your catch grilled and prepared at the Green Parrot restaurant, have it mounted and sent home, or donate to a family in need. Its rarity is due to the Bluefin being over-fished commercially for decades making a catch that much more difficult, but that much sweeter. These large predators are the only warm-blooded fish of its species. Many Snapper and Grouper varieties are available year-round, so the chances are you wont end up empty-handed. Clear sunny skies, ocean breezes, and turquoise waters: the postcard-perfect destination begets outstanding conditions for game fishing. 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. Tempting the Bluefin with the right bait is the key to a successful catch. Leg Two, Abaco Diamond Series. The pectoral fins of bluefin tuna do not reach past the beginning of the second dorsal fin. The second dorsal fin is a mix of grey and yellow in color. 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. 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. Theres no shortage of those in the Bahamas! The largest of all tuna species, Bluefin tuna can weigh more than 500 pounds and stretch more than six feet in length. Dubbed one of the fastest fishes in the ocean, ploughing through 100 meters of water in under five seconds, Sailfish angling is some of the most rewarding big game fishing out there. Cover image credit: BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock.com The Bahamas, an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, is known and loved for a host of things including its unique cuisine. Action is at its best from OctoberMay when the waters are cooler and the weather is dry. 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. Actively hunting for sharks is currently illegal in The Bahamas. They enter the scene in June and stay around through July. This event caters to fishing enthusiasts wishing to visit the Abacos and enjoy the hunt of the blue marlin and Tuna. 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. The Bahamas Rotary Tuna Classic, Annual Tournament features prizes and a grand trophy for the largest tuna. A side of the islands most people don't explore. Amenities can so often be overlooked. Check what is included with your charter fee. The idea is catching more, and bigger fish. Hi Zane, Do you want to do an inshore trip? There are also many places in the country where spearfishing is forbidden, so choose your spot carefully. 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. You can choose to have your catch grilled and prepared at the Green Parrot restaurant, have it mounted and sent home, or donate to a family in need. See also: Where to Stay in Nassau. All rights reserved. During the warmest months, youll witness and enjoy the full onslaught of Tuna, Marlin, and Sailfish. View our latest travel deals and start planning your escape today. Expert Tip: If you are unsure of which charter is best, why not try Sandals preferred charter company, Island Routes. 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. Any lobsters harvested in The Bahamas during their open season cannot be transported by private vessel into state waters during Floridas closed season. Though not the biggest of its species, the average adult measures approximately 40 inches in length and weighs in at about 45-50 pounds. You will compete among the most elite fleet of sport boats assembled in one location. Holiday-makers from the US uncovered the riches of these coastlines long ago, but not everyone has fully explored what we think makes coming here so special. document.getElementById( "ak_js_16" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); With havin so much content and articles do you ever Most companies will also be happy to make recommendations of where you can take it to be cooked for you. Close proximity to the U.S. makes this a fast and easy destination for anglers, with regular and direct access to islands like Grand Bahama, Abaco, Andros, and Nassau.